Zpacks Altaplex

Andrew Rushton

Summit Camper
I’ve now made my final decision on which shelter I’m opting for. After much deliberation I’ve settled on the Zpacks Altaplex and a HMG 8x10 flap tarp to lighten my current set ups considerably. Does anyone have any thoughts on the Altaplex? Or do you use one?
 

Rog Tallbloke

Thru Hiker
Check the pics of @Shewie's Altaplex in the Coniston weekend thread. Looks very good. I had a lie down in it to test the length and it was a fraction tight for my 6' 8" but he had pitched it low at the back. Worth the extra for the camo pattern, but it's a pricey tent new after all the import tax and VAT. Due to rapid expansion Zpacks have had a few QC issues too with new staff's work. Maybe hunt for a good S/H one on BPL's trading forum....
 

DuneElliot

Section Hiker
I don't use the Altaplex but I do have the Duplex and have used it on many happy and wet nights. I've been extremely satisfied with it. I chose it since I have two dogs but generally hike alone. I love the amount of space I have in it for such a light-weight tent.
 

Andrew Rushton

Summit Camper
Check the pics of @Shewie's Altaplex in the Coniston weekend thread. Looks very good. I had a lie down in it to test the length and it was a fraction tight for my 6' 8" but he had pitched it low at the back. Worth the extra for the camo pattern, but it's a pricey tent new after all the import tax and VAT. Due to rapid expansion Zpacks have had a few QC issues too with new staff's work. Maybe hunt for a good S/H one on BPL's trading forum....
Yes I’d heard there’s been a few issues lately. I’d get it sent to my friends place in Belle Vernon Pennsylvania and then he can post it to me as a gift so the price won’t work out to bad. Unless someone has one for sale at a decent price :) I’ll keep my eyes peeled
 

Andrew Rushton

Summit Camper
At 500g and with the space on offer, I'd give this serious consideration if I had Altaplex money burning a hole in my pocket.
https://backpackinglight.com/forums/topic/ultamid-4-and-spirit-quilt-fs-and-priced-to-move/
Review here https://hikinginfinland.com/2013/09/hyperlite-mountain-gear-ultamid.html
The ultamid 4 I think is to big, it’s great in length but to much width. A friend of mine has sent me a ultamid 2 to try out. I set it up on Friday, it seems ok length wise but not sure it’d be ok with the inner net. Would you opt for the Altaplex or HMG? Who’s build quality do you consider to be better? I use one of their porter packs for packrafting and have to say the quality is fantastic.
 

Rog Tallbloke

Thru Hiker
I can't afford either of them and have no experience of either company's products. In terms of size, I like big as it has extra space for hanging up damp clothing, storing firewood, having guests in for drinkies etc.

Edit: Just noticed the 500g is for the 2 not the 4. My bad.
 
Last edited:

edh

Thru Hiker
I chap I walked with for a while on the PCT had one; it stood up to winds when my shelter failed (a B A Copper Spur 1); he did the whole trip and really rated the tent - although he too had a couple of QC issues iirc.
 

Andrew Rushton

Summit Camper
I chap I walked with for a while on the PCT had one; it stood up to winds when my shelter failed (a B A Copper Spur 1); he did the whole trip and really rated the tent - although he too had a couple of QC issues iirc.
That’s the only thing putting me off now is the issues concerning quality
 

craige

Thru Hiker
That would've been my reaction if i wasnt so p'd off :facepalm: still lost about £100 due to import fees and exchange rate changes!
 

Shewie

Chief Slackpacker
Staff member
Whereabouts are you located Andrew? If you're anywhere near Leeds your welcome to take a look at mine, I can't offer an opinion on it yet as I've only used it for one outing.
 

Andrew Rushton

Summit Camper
Whereabouts are you located Andrew? If you're anywhere near Leeds your welcome to take a look at mine, I can't offer an opinion on it yet as I've only used it for one outing.
Do you have the Altaplex Shewie? I’m in Leek near stoke on Trent. I’d be more than happy to drive up as I need to be absolutely certain before splashing the cash. It’d be much appreciated.
 

Shewie

Chief Slackpacker
Staff member
Yeah that's my camo Altaplex in yesterdays thread

I don't have a lawn but we can pitch it up in the park nearby, I'm south Leeds, just off the M1
 
Top