Expert Pick #06
Zpacks Duplex.
19 oz total weight, DCF waterproof and bombproof, launched modern ultralight.
The Verdict.
8.4/ 10
Gavler Meta-Score
“The ultralight community adores it. Mainstream campers find the trekking-pole setup fiddly and the price steep for a non-freestanding tent.”
The Gavler Verdict
Precision Engineering
19 oz Total
The lightest livable 2-person shelter available — Dyneema Composite Fabric eliminates weight without sacrificing waterproofness.
DCF Fabric
Dyneema Composite Fabric is waterproof, abrasion-resistant, and dimensionally stable.
Trekking Pole Setup
Uses your hiking poles as tent pole — saves weight by eliminating dedicated poles.
Technical Specifications
Capacity2 person
Weight19 oz
FabricDCF (Dyneema)
SetupTrekking pole
Seasons3-season
The Scoreboard
Expert Consensus88%
Community Rating84%
The ultralight community adores it. Mainstream campers find the trekking-pole setup fiddly and the price steep for a non-freestanding tent.
Cast Your Vote
Do you think Zpacks Duplex deserves the #6 spot in Best Camping Tents?
Best Price Availability.
Prices checked March 2026
Global Critique
“19 ounces for a real shelter. Zpacks launched the modern ultralight revolution.”
Backpacking Light
“DCF is the future. Durability matches or exceeds nylon despite being lighter.”
UL Hiker
“The tent that changed ultralight camping. Iconic design.”
The Trek
“Steep price for ultralight, but you're paying for innovation and durability.”
Section Hiker
More from Best Camping Tents.
See how other top picks compare in this category.
