It’s rare and delightful to find a content creator who doesn’t waste a word. This video was informative, relatable, conversational, and entertaining. Top marks.
Hi Shasta...I too have a DCF Pyramid tent (a Jumper Home Mountain House 1.5P. in real tree camo DCF)..It's a lot bigger than the Khufu...3m x 2m x 1.4m vs 2.7m x 1.6m x 1.3m, but it still only weighs 325g (11.46oz). I use a separate Polycro groundsheet with custom reinforced edges and corners, which is 3m x 1.5m, and weighs 119g (4.19oz). I have never needed to use an inner tent (so far), but my inner tent of choice is the Sea to Summit Nano Mosquito Pyramid Net. Including the carry pouch it comes in it only weighs 94g (3.3oz). Adding the extras, the DCF storage bag for my tent is 10g and my 55" four section Mountain Laurel Designs Carbon Fibre tent pole, with custom top cap and hanging hook, weighs 92.58g (3.26oz) and I keep it a Tread Lite Gear DCF pole bag which weighs 5.71g, or a total of 98.18g (3.4oz). So altogether, my fully enclosed, 2 layer tent, weighs just 646.18g (22.79oz). The Khufu does not come with a pole, and I don't think you specified which one you used or how heavy it was, but your fly and inner combined weigh 652g (23oz), which is still heavier than mine, even with my pole and storage bags included. Alas, you can't buy Jumper Home tents, or his other ultralight gear, anymore, as he sadly passed away in a climbing accident, so I feel very lucky to have my one. flic.kr/p/2nnmaNu
Sounds like a great setup. Shame it's not available anymore. Re: poles for the Khufu, it pitches with trekking poles, so no additional pole needed. Thanks!
I spy with my little eye an old Thermarest Trail Pro (in the photo of your first flat tarp!). That was my first sleeping pad and I distinctly remember struggling to get it into my 48 (!) lb pack for a weekend trip. Good memories.
Good eye! I actually owned (and still have) another Thermarest before that one that has a metal valve. I believe it's the first one they made (3/4 length) -- man, I thought that thing was great!
Very informational rich video. I started using a tarp in 1998 and most of that time used the Campmor 8' X 10' silnylon tarp. Then in 2012 I switched to a Mountain Laurel Design silnyon Trail Star. In 2019 I bought the MLD DCF Trail Star. The Trail Star is a great tarp and there are trade offs with the silnylon and the DCF. The silnylon absorbs more water and takes longer to dry, but since the fabric stretches you can get a more taunt pitch in some configurations. The DCF fabric is lighter and since the fabric does not stretch it stays taunt all night, although the edges of the tarp never get really taunt. The main issue with DCF is durability. Today I have 228 nights on the DCF Trail Star and the fabric has some small tears that I've had to patch in five places. Last weekend I was camped with someone who had the silnyon MLD Duomid and really liked it, so I've just ordered one and it should arrive in mid April. I chose the silnyon version because it's more durable than DCF and for someone who backpacks 75 to 100 nights a year the longer life is much more important.
The sil Duomid is roomy too; mine has more space inside than the LG Khufu and they've made it bigger since I bought mine. Thanks for sharing your experiences Brian!
It took until 18:50 for you to say the biggest difference in our outlook on sleeping outside....I live in south Carolina and mosquitoes will drain you completely during the hot humid warm seasons here. Basically 9 months a year! So an inner is required here. I wish I could tarp camp! Kinda jealous....
Guess you'll just have to visit us out west! Bummer to have to always use the inner; worth noting though that both MLD Duomid and LG Khufu do make inner tents. I've actually been using the Khufu inner more often lately as I enjoy the way it 'contains' my gear with the walls, vs. worrying about gear creeping outside the protection of the tarp (in case of midnight rain).
I started with REI Expedition from the 1970's that I still have but it was over 6 lbs with the rain fly. Now with both a Zpacks Triplex for my wife and I and a Duplex for solo camping. Amazing tents.
@@ShastaBubba Yes Triplex is great two person tent with extra room. Just like the Duplex is pretty full with two people, the Triplex is pretty full with 3. Two people and gear and it is really comfortable.
One thing I have against non free standing is where I do most of my camping. As usual I am in the alpine where the ground is often too hard to sink a tent stake. I did go with the hubba hubba and you are right it does come in at 4 lbs. I do tend to shy away from hiking pole pitched tents. Not that the idea is bad. But because i am a klutz. I have had tents that had tent that used tent poles right in the middle of the doorway. I am 6' 3" and often get my legs tangled up at the door then hitting the tent pole. Great video and thanks.
Very good discussion of the pros/cons of different style shelters. After my BA double wall tent developed some leaks I'm now back and forth with the MLD Trailstar and the Zpacks Altaplex. I found the Trailstar is a bit tricky for me to master the pitch but the few times so far I've set up the Altaplex it's been an easy pitch. So far Im pleased with the DCF fabric, the interior room, and especially its light weight. Condensation has been manageable so far. Over time, I'll probably gravitate toward the Altaplex as my go to option.
I've always wanted to try the Trailstar; seems like bombproof storm protection, but guessing a huge footprint. Hard to argue with the simplicity of Zpacks . . . if the funds are available!
Aussie here, love my duo mid. would use a bugnet here in summer because of our mosquitos and flies but I switch to a hammock net and tarp, which weighs the same if not less as I need no pad EDIT: thanks for your explanation, was great to see the comparisons!!!
Your insights are very helpful. I think the Lux minipeak with an inner would be nice if it were a little taller. I want to try to make one. The simplicity of the laavu in silnylon is hard to beat. Nice looking cabin!
Great explanation, love the honesty and direct approach. I've gone through a similar journey and also ended up with a pyramid. In my case the cuben Doumid. Like you, even though I'm happy with this setup I'm experimenting again, this time with a bivy setup.
Thanks so much Tony! What bivy are you trying? I've been really interested in the new one from Enlightened Equipment. So far, I haven't seen a tarp/bivy that would beat your dcf Duomid for weight or space.
ShastaBubba Adventures I am using the MLD bivy. The idea is not so much weight, but if I can simplify my setup and tear down of my campsite. It takes me about 40 minutes to tear down camp, and id like to cut that down.
That was an enjoyable and informative presentation thank you. Having followed a similar progression from freestanding semi-geodesic (Terra Nova Voyager) to trekking-pole-supported mid (Luxe Hexpeak V4A), I too am amazed by how light our shelters have become. About the same weight a day's food ration, or a midsize bottle of water. I'm old enough to remember those canvas monsters, complete with stout wooden poles and separate heavy-duty PVC groundsheet, lacking any bug protection, which we'd take on 'camping expeditions' in my youth. What would we have made of a DCF Khufu? Seen it as proof of aliens, probably.
Lol; yep, my family camped in a 6-man canvas tent that you could stand up in. Hate to even calculate how much that weighed, but I have to admit to a certain nostalgia over the smell of wet canvas.
I went through a similar journey looking for the perfect tent and after 5 years I haven't found one yet. Lol I never could pull the trigger on the dyneema tents because of the cost but soon realized that tracking pole tents were for me. I just did a review on a similar pyramid tent with the inner tent for $96 but since the review the cost went up to $132. Take a look if you get a chance. 👌
Thanks for the comment! The crazy cost of DCF is why I went with the Sil Duomid first (which I actually got even cheaper on Gear Swap), then after a year with it, felt confident enough to spring on the Khufu. Thanks also for your video reviews. When you mentioned the price, I immediately guessed it was the Lanshan you meant. Amazed the durability is there, but glad it's working out for you!
It’s great to come across your channel and listen to both your experiences and evolution. I’ve been involved with UL since the very beginning, even before Ryan Jordan created BPL (the most popular forum at that time “Lightweight Backpacking”, created by Michael Connelly). And like you it’s been an exciting journey, especially the early days, when so many of us were creating our own gear designs. By the way it was Ryan Jordan who first proposed the idea of defining the four different categories of lightweight backpacking: “Lightweight Backpacking”, “Ultralight Backpacking”, and “Super Ultralight Backpacking (SUL)” and Extreme Super Ultralight Backpacking (XUL) (both first pioneered by Glen van Peski, Ryan Jordan, and (Adventure) Alan Dixon). May I make one observation? I have both the MLD Duomid (DCF) and the Locus Gear Khufu (Silnylon). In your video you mention that the Khufu is a little larger than the Duomid. Actually, the Duomid is much larger than the Khufu. A much better comparison would be between the Khufu and the Solomid (which I also have), which are very similar in size.
Thanks so much for your comments; sounds like you have lots of interesting stories to share as well! Regarding the size of the two mids, it's actually rather complicated. At the time I purchased mine, the Khufu was 5cm longer and 10cm wider, which is what led me to say it was "slightly larger" although the Duomid was 12 cm taller, which made it actually larger in terms of cubic area, but that was all in height. NOW, as of 2020, the Duomid has been enlarged by 2 inches in both length and width, making it clearly the larger mid. I hope you'll share more lessons, observations, etc. in future videos!! Thanks again.
Maybe the two shelters have changed significantly since I bought mine. I bought my Duomid in 2009, my Solomid in 2011, and my Khufu in 2012 (back when I was still nuts about ultralight gear!) One of the reasons I got both the Solomid and Khufu was because the Duomid took up too much ground space here in the very steep mountains of Japan. The footprints of the Solomid and the Khufu made a lot more sense for a single person. The Duomid is so big that it feels colder inside than the other two, which retain more body heat in very cold weather. Still, all three shelters do exceptionally well in horrendous conditions. Two years ago my girlfriend, a man we had come across on a mountainside who was suffering from hypothermia, and I rode out the night in a full-force typhoon at 2300 meters in the Duomid. It is not something I ever want to do again, but I know now that these shelters can actually handle the worst possible weather you can imagine.
@@laughing-knees Sounds like an amazing storm!! I too have weathered the most severe storm of my experience in the Duomid before I got the Khufu. Nothing compared to what you described, but it made a believer of me for sure. Thanks for sharing that!
im currently thinking of doing a tarp bug bivy or bug shelter combo i used to just do tarps but i want to take my dog with me and i dont want him wandering off in the night so netting would be nice for that im interested in the yama bug shelters paria makes some cheap ones that arent quite as light which may be nice to test the set up as far as tarps go i figured i could try a few sizes out with a regular blue tarp to find the size before dropping cash on a silnylon or silpoly or dcf just to find out its the wrong size i wanna get stuff like that dialed in on some small trips before taking off on a long trip
Probably don't want dcf on the ground -- either in contact with sharp objects on the ground or with pup claws poking holes. That's why I went with a sil-nylon inner even with the dcf mid from Locus Gear. Tarps are appealing for many reasons, but I have yet to discover a tarp/bivy or net tent combo that was as light as the LG Khufu.
My very favorite SOLO tent is my Tarptent Moment DW. You can set it up in the rain or snow B/C the inner tent is pre-attached to the fly. It CAN be freestanding with the use of the optional Crossing Pole. With the ripstop inner fly I have used it in winter WITH the X-ing Pole modded to run under the fly. It withstands snow load and wind load when guyed and/or used with the X-ing pole. Tarps? I only used them when I couldn't afford a tent. 'Nuff sed. OK, if I want a SUL tent my choice is a Tarptent AEON Li, solo, single wall, Dyneema 'mid tent. Its design solves a few 'mid tent problems such as it gives more interior "sleeping space", better ventilation when closed and needs far fewer guy lines. I am NOT a fan of tents with a pole in the middle. Jus' sayin'...
Hey Eric, thanks for sharing your perspective. Tarptent is a great company and I regret I've never had the opportunity to try their shelters. If I need a two-person setup in the future, I'll definitely go with Tarptent for something that both works and is affordable. BTW, it wasn't very clear in the video, but both mid-style tarps are pitched with the poles in an inverted 'v' . . . 'cause I'm not a fan of a pole in the middle ether!
Thanks for posting. I just have to point out that since there is no getting away from the need for a floor of some sort, if bug protection is desired it is hard to beat the Zpacks tarp tents which have both. The duplex (2person) at 21 oz. That said, I am still looking for something just as good that is lighter or better and found your video.
Thanks for commenting and I agree. I just prefer the option to go without the net tent when possible; which is typically July through October where I live. In other words, the best months for hiking. I just returned from a 7-day trip across the Bob Marshall Wilderness with just the tarp for shelter; although that isn't possible in all parts of the country (or world) due to local conditions. The only option I am aware of that would be lighter (but less protection) is the Zpacks Pocket tarp (would love to try someday). Happy searching!
17:50 How true and how tactfully you presented it. What an excellent video! It could only have been better ('IMO') if you had cut in some video footage of one of those storms you said you had endured in the "Duomid." Still, l loved the video, super informative! Thank you!
You're absolutely right, that shot would have improved the video. Unfortunately, I was too busy cowering in a fetal position, praying the shelter would hold to think about filming! :-) Live and learn. Thanks!
@@ShastaBubba Holly smokes! That's definitely not the storm l had in mind! I fully understand you. Yes, live and learn 😊 I subscribed to your channel, no doubt l'll learn from you. Excellent video in any case, as l said!
That duomid looks pretty nice - except that pole in the middle occupies the best place to sit... I ordered the "spruce green" version of the "Zpacks Duplex" some days ago. It has a 50% stronger canopy, and weighs 610g - which is 60g/~2,1oz more than the regular version. People use the regular version for the "tripple crown" trails, where they probably expect some days with strong winds... So far, i have not heard that it has been a problem...
The pole in the middle is a problem, but not as much as it might seem; however, that's why I always pitch with two poles in the inverted 'V' position -- much roomier that way. I'd love to hear back when you've had a chance to form an opinion of the Duplex. It's certainly a great shelter and lots of folks are happy with it. Enjoy!
I just watched a video on it, and in windy conditions, it needs to be pitched low to the ground, and in the right angle (with the label towards the wind). The guy in this video did actually recommend pyramid tents, specifically mentioning the duomid... I wonder if i bought the wrong tent..? I have been thinking of cancelling my rent and just hiking around with the Duplex. Im getting a disability check, so im basically free to roam the world, as long as i stay here in Norway 6 months each year...
@@EspenFrafalne Pitching low to the ground in windy conditions is pretty universal advice and not a problem unique to the Duplex. Although I haven't owned one myself, the Duplex is clearly one of the most popular shelters made, so . . . I would suggest not overthinking at this point. Give it a try and if you don't like it, you could easily sell the Duplex on one of the gear swaps for 10-20% off and put that money toward another shelter. Happy rambling! Sounds like a great adventure.
I'm curious how you would compare your favorite Kufu mid to the newer designs like the Durston X mids? I would love to see a comparison video of these two types of shelters. Is your favorite still the Kufu mid style?
Thanks for the idea! I was able to score a used X-Mid 2 Pro this year and have been using it all season. The condensation issue hasn't been a problem at all, so it's now become my favorite shelter (vid on this soon!). The Khufu is still the best double wall for the weight though.
Yes, I believe that is the general consensus, with the possible exception of MLDs Trailstar, which has it's peak lower to the ground. Thanks so much for the comment/question!
This is a great video! Thank you. I like your tone and manner and how you explain everything. I'm thinking of getting a mid and I want one in silnylon because of snow. I've had my idea on an MLD mid for a while. Any others to consider? I'm not really familiar with Locus gear
Glad it was helpful! I love my LG Khufu, but if I was planning on getting a sil mid, believe I would go with MLD; bigger now (since redesigned) and more robust zipper. Really, it's a great shelter! Six Moon designs has some options (Lunar Solo, Trekker, Deschutes) that aren't exactly mids, but more shaped tarps and these also hit the 'sweet spot' between lightweight vs. cost.
I'm just now strongly considering switching to a pyramid type tent, mostly for the ease of entering and exiting the tent. I'm also leaning towards getting a net insert with floor, but it adds weight and cost. I've been looking at the Hyperlite ULTAMID 2, an excellent tent but very pricey and quite heavy with a full insert. Thanks to your video I've now discovered a potential alternative with Locust Gear. Lastly, my question is, you've used your pyramid tents in rain without a bathtub type floor, so how do you keep water from flowing underneath? I hike mainly in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California.
I really love my Locus Gear Khufu! The MLD Duomid is a close competitor, but the Khufu is slightly better IMHO due to being shorter, so easier to pitch with the poles in an 'A'. Regarding rain; usually I camp in a place that isn't trampled down from overuse, so the rain just soaks in the ground at the drip edge. Only time that was an issue was when camping in GNP where the tent sites are designated and packed gravel. The rain poured one night, but most stayed outside the edge. My tyvek ground cloth provided just enough protection to keep me dry through the night, but I would have had trouble if I had hiked through the day of rain and had to camp again. Thanks for watching and good luck with your search!
I haven't. When I was considering it, just looked a bit too tiny for me. I did try the SMD Deschutes tarp and found that to be big enough, but far from comfortable. Hard to compare, given incomplete stats on the websites, but looks like the Cricket might be slightly larger, as well as no zipper to fail (and a bit more $, esp. with the seam sealing). Thanks for giving me an excuse to revisit these minimal shelters!
Thanks for the video, I got a six moons skyscape trekker a few months back which is one of those 1.5 wall tent. I was looking at Mountain Laurel shelters, but I was scared to go away from the tarp floors, have you ever had to deal with mud and water splashing you? I guess it just comes down to site selection and setting it lower to the ground. Awesome video.
Thanks Josh! You're right about importance of site selection. One of the benefits of 'stealth camping' (i.e., setting up in a spot that isn't an established campsite) is that the runoff soaks right into the non-packed ground. The worst situation I've been in was in GNP where the designated sites are packed so tightly it's like camping on a parking lot. Rained all night, and although the gathering puddles became an issue in the morning, splashing wasn't a problem.
@@ShastaBubba Agree. Floorless shelters are not ideal in National Parks where you have to camp in a predetermined, designated spot that is often hard, bare, dirt, has puddles, and a well trained population of mice and chipmunks. They also are not ideal on a slope where water may run downhill under the shelter, or on ground that is already wet or covered in snow before you pitch your shelter. To me, they are great in very specific conditions and seasons but are not a good "all-purpose" choice.
A bit late but I believe your view on not having an inner/net tent is very regional specific. If you spend an extensive amount of time in the eastern woodlands without a bug net, in season, you will get Lyme disease. Now once the ticks go dormant no problems, just tarp away, that's what I do, but I know too many backpackers who got Lyme disease multiple times because they chose not to use an inner in season.
Well said and I agree. Any decision regarding shelters needs to take into consideration local conditions, weather, season, etc. I haven't had the pleasure of hiking in the East, but it sure looks beautiful and would love to experience it someday. Thanks!
@@ShastaBubba don't wait. The mountains of the Appalachians may not match the height of the Rockies but the "green tunnels" are a beautiful on their own and then when they open to a vista? It's breathtaking.
I liked your videos so much I just subscribed to your channel and gave you a like. I’m glad I watched your video,. Now I know I don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars in a shelter to be ultra light and competitive and reliable. What is your favorite backpack? Thank you so much for sharing this video. And less you.
Awesome! Thank you! Favorite backpack would be the HMG 3400 Junction (which is discussed as the second pack in the video "Three Great Ultralight Packs" th-cam.com/video/NEtaJ2aNaAs/w-d-xo.html).
I was curious about your experience with the Duomid silnylon material on cold evenings or in cold, rainy conditions. Did you experience noticeable sagging of the material after first pitching it taut when it was dry? I have a Black Diamond Mega Light tent which I have loved but wish it didn't sag so much especially after a night of cold rain. I spoke to Ron at MLD and asked if that's the nature if silnylon. He said that it is but added that there are variations of silnylon material and the coatings that are applied. He said their Pro Silnylon performs better than most. I'd consider DCF but it lacks the compressibility that I need. Thank you for your great review!
I guess Ron must be correct in the different types of silnylon performing differently. In my experience with the Sil Duomid, I don't recall ever having problems either with sag or soaking up extra water (and I was in it during the most severe rainstorm I ever weathered), the issues people usually complain about with sil. As far as compress-ability, the two shelters from the video are vitually the same size in their stuff sacks, maybe the Khufu is even slightly smaller. For me, the only benefit of dcf over sil is weight savings, and it's certainly a valid consideration whether saving a few ounces is worth the extra cash (and the greater durability of sil). Although I love my LG Khufu, after using both for years, I might just have stayed with the sil duomid (which I still own; couldn't bring myself to sell). Thanks for your questions and comment!
@@ShastaBubba I really appreciate your prompt reply and for the information you shared. I use my shelter when I go on multi-day self-support whitewater kayak wilderness trips. Compress-ability is more of a factor and I stuff my Mega Lite into a WP silnylon compression sack. It's not much larger than a 1-liter Nalgene bottle that I pack in the bow of my boat. From what I understand, DFC should be rolled or folded with a little more care than crumpling it up and compressing it. Your experience with MLD Pro Silnylon in a severe rainstorm is encouraging, plus the Duomid has the extra side tie-outs which my tent does not. I also liked your comment on the greater durability of silnylon and reflecting that after using both tents for years, you might have just stayed with the sil Duomid. Very helpful insight for me to hear. I'm starting my own research into lightweight tarp tents as I'm hoping I will still be able to go on a planned desert backpacking trip this spring. My first time since Boy Scouts some 50 years ago! Thank you for your kind help. 👍
Thanks! I haven't tried that, but can tell you that it would be pretty snug and no room for gear (except for the vestibule, which would probably work for protecting packs). You might take a look at the larger options available at MLD for two. Also check out TarpTent for great 2-person options.
A great summary of your own journey and a good overview of some of the notable options in the UL market. I heard you mention Tvyek, did you mention polycro as a lighter (but less tough) option?
Thanks so much David! I did indeed mention polycro (that was when I mentioned getting a hole in my xlite pad when I used polycro), but probably should have unfolded it more to make the point that it's an option.
@@ShastaBubba It was probably me not listening well - I was walking the dog in the forest yesterday and had to avoid a moose. Pro-tip on polycro: it's sold as a way to seal up your windows (to create a temporary double-pane window) in the Fall and Winter and then sold off (at least at Walmart) for 50%, 75%, sometimes 90% off in the Spring. I look for it then and stock up every few years.
Another first time tent buyer here. Does either MLD or Locus Gear offer the option of double entryways as a customized order. I'm still trying to find something like the Duplex with double entryways, but more storm worthy. I'd like to avoid a floating bathtub that flaps around constantly in the wind ( a friend got severely smacked by his battery brick in a fierce windstorm and I'd like to avoid a similar performance myself if possible : ) and also avoid their screen configuration on the ends where condensating water and splashback can get abundantly into the bathtub if the tent somehow gets re-configured in the middle of the night. I do know Aluxe gear offers tipi tents with entryways on both sides but these tents are heavier than MLD and Locus Tents so I'm not yet convinced they're the best option. I have heard that MLD has in the past done special orders where they allow a person to add a second entryway but it was roughly an additional $100. Tents like Gosamer Gear "The Two" seem to have addressed the short comings of the Zpack Duplex but are they as storm worthy as a tipi tent, such as in very high winds? Maybe not?
Great questions! I'm not aware of any double-entry options from either MLD or Locus Gear; however, I believe the larger mids can be set up with the zipper on the foot end, which allows for somewhat easier egress for two. For ultralight weights, the best options I know of are the HMG Dirigo 2 or the new, dcf TarpTent (Stratospire Li)-- both are hyper expensive (although, HMG is now selling through REI, so I think you can use the 20% discount). For the best convergence of double entry, storm worthy, lightweight and reasonable price, I would look at the sil tents (Stratospire 2 and Double Rainbow) from TarpTent. Good luck!
@@austindory7788 No not yet. I´ve only seen a quilt from the same company and the quality really looks good. Just take a look at this picture and see how well the stitches are made. liteway.equipment/image/cache/catalog/products/pyraomm/3555-orange-black-1350x1000.jpg
I should have called it simply the 'inverted V' but slipped the word 'double' in there because it uses both poles. The 'mid' shaped was originally designed to pitch with one pole in the middle; the inverted V uses both poles in an upside-down V, with the point of the V in the peak of the mid. This creates space in the middle to lay in without working around a center pole, but increases the length necessary for the poles, thus requiring some type of extender pole. Locus Gear sells a great carbon-fiber extender for this purpose that works great and only adds a few oz. Thanks for the comment!
@@ShastaBubba two questions remain to me, are the two poles using the DPC of MLD outside or inside the inner mesh, and is the DPC of MLD useable with the Khufu setup (tent+full mesh). so far thx already.
@@ferdinandratte5303 Great questions! First, the two poles sit in between the tarp and the mesh tent; however, you can pitch the Khufu with one pole inside the mesh tent. Second, the pole extender (actually called DPTE) is made by Locus Gear, not MLD, so I don't know how it would work with the Duomid -- probably okay, but might be a bit short, since the Duomid is actually 5 inches taller than the Khufu. MLD only makes (to my knowledge) a 6 inch single-pole adapter for pitching with one pole. In this vid, I was using pole extenders I made myself from old trekking poles. Coincidentally, I'm just now putting the final touches on a long-term review of the LG Khufu, so you will be able to see it much more clearly in that vid (will be posted this Saturday!). Thanks for the questions.
Hey Emily, great question and worthy of a whole 'nother video! Short answer: site selection doesn't really change but site clearing (of sharp objects) is perhaps more important. Re: setup, I stake out the corners first, paying close attention to the third stake to make a right angle from the first two, then erect the poles and finally do the mid-side tie-outs and cinch it all up. When staking the corners, leave them a little loose for a higher pitch; tight for close to the ground (to protect from wind). Hope that's helpful!
@@ShastaBubba Ah thank you! I wasn't leaving enough slack in the corners to get a higher pitch. That should fix it right up. That would be a great video. Thank you for the content, I've subscribed!
Hey there and thanks so much for the kind words. Re: the Duomid, I'm 6' even and never had a problem with the length or height. MLD has added 2" to the length since my version, so it should be no problem for you (website says it now fits up to 6'3" folks). If you were really wanting space, there's the Solomid XL also as an option; which is even longer, but you lose a foot in width.
@@ShastaBubba thanks. Yes, I'm undecided between the Solomon XL and Duomid. I've been using the SoLong6 for several years and love it but want to lighten up a bit more. Been researching tips and found your vids. Rhanks again and keep up the great work!
Zpacks make great tents , however not everyone can throw 500 to 600 bucks on a tent. That is why I think the 3F UL Gear Lanshan 1 at 93 USD is the best value to quality option out there... 800g pack weight. For high altitude alpine expedition applications .. The Mobi Garden 2 plus, at 133USD is by far the best bang for the buck.. Albeit Chinese made . I have tested both in survere weather conditions, and they performed just as well as their premium counter parts.. Z packs ,North face and Hilleburg to mention a few... I also tested the Naturehike Mongar 2 , Which is a clone of the MSR Hubba Hubba. at 75 USD It held up just fine... In conclusion . I understand and appreciate the premium tent makers took the time and effort to design and test their products. However If the same thing is available at a fraction of the price 99% of people will go for that... Unfortunate but that is the way of the world these days..
Thanks for your comment! Not quite sure how I feel about buying Chinese, knowing the designs are possibly stolen and workers poorly treated; however, in all honesty, if I was just starting in backpacking, it would be hard to resist such enormous savings. I'm pretty happy with the mid shape, so glad I got mine before being tempted by these other options. Think I would still lean toward the MLD silnylon duomid or the Tarptent Notch as a compromise between cost and feeling good about US made, but that's just me.
Isn't MLD larger than Locus gear? At 20:30 in the video, you say Locus gear is larger than MLD. I look it up at both brand's website, here is the dimension I found: MLD Duomid: 280cm * 172cm * 140cm Locus Gear Khufu: 270cm * 160cm * 130cm
YES, you are correct! Since this video was made, MLD has tweaked it's design to increase the size of the Duomid, making the current version slightly larger than the LG Khufu. Side note: it always 'seemed' a little bigger to me due to greater height, which meant the walls were steeper. Thanks!
I would love the openness (i.e. 'view') of a tarp, which is why I plan to give it another try, but haven't found a bivy/tarp combo that could beat the weight of the Khufu. What are you using?
@@ShastaBubba the lightest set I use is actually from 2GoSystems, I run their Velar bivy (345grams) and Version 2 Trifecta (the V3 has a weight of 395grams). So you can get tents that weigh a lot less! I also haven't had the opportunity to test this set in actual severe weather but one advantage of the thermal bivy is that you can push a lighter sleeping bag a lot lower in temperatures. One other tarp/poncho that Ive been looking at is the Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape. At 284grams it definitely qualifies as ultralight and is certainly multiuse as well.
If you are looking into a tarp and bivy combo, may i suggest the borah silpoly bivy. The guys at borah are pretty decent and let you modify the bivy somewhat. Then put a tarp over it and weather shouldn't be a problem.
@@ellipse330 I would second that the guys at Borah Gear are great; very accommodating. Good quality and reasonably priced gear. And practically my neighbors!
Come camping in Texas, friend. Waking up with a rattlesnake in your bag and you may develop a new appreciation for netting :-). Otherwise, some interesting thoughts. Thanks
Yep; probably wouldn't want to camp in Florida without the inner tent either. (You mean they're not friendly, cuddly, and taste like chicken?) :-) Thanks!
@@ShastaBubba We'll they do taste like chicken :-) but they crawl into your bag and get comfortable- and they just aren't much on you moving around during the night Ha Ha....I think we all need to take in consideration where we are and prepare for it- you do have some great info though- thanks for the review! Keep it up!
@@larrys639 Thanks Larry, appreciate it and absolutely agree with the notion that one setup doesn't work in all settings. Also . . . good to know that rattlesnakes are cranky bedfellows.
Thanks that was great. When you start having fun with tarps again, check out the TH-cam channel of Papa Hiker - he has a whole lot of classic pitches and does it quickly.
It’s rare and delightful to find a content creator who doesn’t waste a word. This video was informative, relatable, conversational, and entertaining. Top marks.
Thanks! This comment really means a lot to me. :-)
I love your place. The space, the log cabin :)
Thanks so much!
Not only an informative video but the discussion here in the Comments section is "ultra-helpful". Thanks for posting.
Glad it was helpful!
All very useful information and I especially like the cabin site where you filmed!
Thanks! Some day I'll have to make a video just about the cabin because it has it's own story. ;-)
Terrific, i’ll sure tune in. As one who has lived in and purchased several old cabins i always enjoy their histories.
I like your respectful tone a lot - and all the wonderful tips!
Thank you. That's a very nice complement. Appreciate the feedback!
You’re reviews are content rich which makes it easier for us beginning to make better decisions.
Thanks so much! Glad you find them helpful.
Hi Shasta...I too have a DCF Pyramid tent (a Jumper Home Mountain House 1.5P. in real tree camo DCF)..It's a lot bigger than the Khufu...3m x 2m x 1.4m vs 2.7m x 1.6m x 1.3m, but it still only weighs 325g (11.46oz). I use a separate Polycro groundsheet with custom reinforced edges and corners, which is 3m x 1.5m, and weighs 119g (4.19oz).
I have never needed to use an inner tent (so far), but my inner tent of choice is the Sea to Summit Nano Mosquito Pyramid Net. Including the carry pouch it comes in it only weighs 94g (3.3oz).
Adding the extras, the DCF storage bag for my tent is 10g and my 55" four section Mountain Laurel Designs Carbon Fibre tent pole, with custom top cap and hanging hook, weighs 92.58g (3.26oz) and I keep it a Tread Lite Gear DCF pole bag which weighs 5.71g, or a total of 98.18g (3.4oz).
So altogether, my fully enclosed, 2 layer tent, weighs just 646.18g (22.79oz). The Khufu does not come with a pole, and I don't think you specified which one you used or how heavy it was, but your fly and inner combined weigh 652g (23oz), which is still heavier than mine, even with my pole and storage bags included. Alas, you can't buy Jumper Home tents, or his other ultralight gear, anymore, as he sadly passed away in a climbing accident, so I feel very lucky to have my one.
flic.kr/p/2nnmaNu
Sounds like a great setup. Shame it's not available anymore. Re: poles for the Khufu, it pitches with trekking poles, so no additional pole needed. Thanks!
I really like the way you explain things! Thank you very much for this vid!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I spy with my little eye an old Thermarest Trail Pro (in the photo of your first flat tarp!). That was my first sleeping pad and I distinctly remember struggling to get it into my 48 (!) lb pack for a weekend trip. Good memories.
Good eye! I actually owned (and still have) another Thermarest before that one that has a metal valve. I believe it's the first one they made (3/4 length) -- man, I thought that thing was great!
Very informational rich video. I started using a tarp in 1998 and most of that time used the Campmor 8' X 10' silnylon tarp. Then in 2012 I switched to a Mountain Laurel Design silnyon Trail Star. In 2019 I bought the MLD DCF Trail Star. The Trail Star is a great tarp and there are trade offs with the silnylon and the DCF. The silnylon absorbs more water and takes longer to dry, but since the fabric stretches you can get a more taunt pitch in some configurations. The DCF fabric is lighter and since the fabric does not stretch it stays taunt all night, although the edges of the tarp never get really taunt. The main issue with DCF is durability. Today I have 228 nights on the DCF Trail Star and the fabric has some small tears that I've had to patch in five places. Last weekend I was camped with someone who had the silnyon MLD Duomid and really liked it, so I've just ordered one and it should arrive in mid April. I chose the silnyon version because it's more durable than DCF and for someone who backpacks 75 to 100 nights a year the longer life is much more important.
The sil Duomid is roomy too; mine has more space inside than the LG Khufu and they've made it bigger since I bought mine. Thanks for sharing your experiences Brian!
It took until 18:50 for you to say the biggest difference in our outlook on sleeping outside....I live in south Carolina and mosquitoes will drain you completely during the hot humid warm seasons here. Basically 9 months a year! So an inner is required here. I wish I could tarp camp! Kinda jealous....
Guess you'll just have to visit us out west! Bummer to have to always use the inner; worth noting though that both MLD Duomid and LG Khufu do make inner tents. I've actually been using the Khufu inner more often lately as I enjoy the way it 'contains' my gear with the walls, vs. worrying about gear creeping outside the protection of the tarp (in case of midnight rain).
I started with REI Expedition from the 1970's that I still have but it was over 6 lbs with the rain fly. Now with both a Zpacks Triplex for my wife and I and a Duplex for solo camping. Amazing tents.
Thanks Dave. Do you find the Triplex to work well for two?
@@ShastaBubba Yes Triplex is great two person tent with extra room. Just like the Duplex is pretty full with two people, the Triplex is pretty full with 3. Two people and gear and it is really comfortable.
Fantastic video, refreshingly well paced, well-spoken presentation.
Wow, thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it.
One thing I have against non free standing is where I do most of my camping. As usual I am in the alpine where the ground is often too hard to sink a tent stake. I did go with the hubba hubba and you are right it does come in at 4 lbs. I do tend to shy away from hiking pole pitched tents. Not that the idea is bad. But because i am a klutz. I have had tents that had tent that used tent poles right in the middle of the doorway. I am 6' 3" and often get my legs tangled up at the door then hitting the tent pole. Great video and thanks.
It is possible to pitch a tarp with rocks instead of stakes . . . but freestanding is certainly easier in those conditions. Thanks for the comment.
Simple and beautifully presented video. Thank you for going to the trouble of creating this and sharing it with the World. 👍😀
Your welcome and thank you for such a wonderful comment!
Very good discussion of the pros/cons of different style shelters. After my BA double wall tent developed some leaks I'm now back and forth with the MLD Trailstar and the Zpacks Altaplex. I found the Trailstar is a bit tricky for me to master the pitch but the few times so far I've set up the Altaplex it's been an easy pitch. So far Im pleased with the DCF fabric, the interior room, and especially its light weight. Condensation has been manageable so far. Over time, I'll probably gravitate toward the Altaplex as my go to option.
I've always wanted to try the Trailstar; seems like bombproof storm protection, but guessing a huge footprint. Hard to argue with the simplicity of Zpacks . . . if the funds are available!
@@ShastaBubba I like the Trailstar and have to admit I really haven't worked that hard at mastering the pitch. It does have a really big footprint.
Very informative! I've not heard of the cottage outdoor gear outfits you referenced. Thank you for sharing your experience with ultralight shelters.
Glad it was helpful!
Aussie here, love my duo mid. would use a bugnet here in summer because of our mosquitos and flies but I switch to a hammock net and tarp, which weighs the same if not less as I need no pad
EDIT: thanks for your explanation, was great to see the comparisons!!!
Thanks for sharing! Always been curious about the whole hammock camping scene. Happy trails!
Thank you for sharing your experiences and knowledge! I found this very informative and appreciate it greatly :)
You are very welcome and thanks for your kind words!
Your insights are very helpful. I think the Lux minipeak with an inner would be nice if it were a little taller. I want to try to make one. The simplicity of the laavu in silnylon is hard to beat. Nice looking cabin!
Thanks so much. Good luck with your sewing project(s)!
Great video. Keep spreading the trail knowledge!
Thanks friend, appreciate the encouragement!
Great explanation, love the honesty and direct approach. I've gone through a similar journey and also ended up with a pyramid. In my case the cuben Doumid. Like you, even though I'm happy with this setup I'm experimenting again, this time with a bivy setup.
Thanks so much Tony! What bivy are you trying? I've been really interested in the new one from Enlightened Equipment. So far, I haven't seen a tarp/bivy that would beat your dcf Duomid for weight or space.
ShastaBubba Adventures I am using the MLD bivy. The idea is not so much weight, but if I can simplify my setup and tear down of my campsite. It takes me about 40 minutes to tear down camp, and id like to cut that down.
That was an enjoyable and informative presentation thank you. Having followed a similar progression from freestanding semi-geodesic (Terra Nova Voyager) to trekking-pole-supported mid (Luxe Hexpeak V4A), I too am amazed by how light our shelters have become. About the same weight a day's food ration, or a midsize bottle of water. I'm old enough to remember those canvas monsters, complete with stout wooden poles and separate heavy-duty PVC groundsheet, lacking any bug protection, which we'd take on 'camping expeditions' in my youth. What would we have made of a DCF Khufu? Seen it as proof of aliens, probably.
Lol; yep, my family camped in a 6-man canvas tent that you could stand up in. Hate to even calculate how much that weighed, but I have to admit to a certain nostalgia over the smell of wet canvas.
Calm and informative! Thanks for the insights
Glad you found it useful!
I went through a similar journey looking for the perfect tent and after 5 years I haven't found one yet. Lol
I never could pull the trigger on the dyneema tents because of the cost but soon realized that tracking pole tents were for me. I just did a review on a similar pyramid tent with the inner tent for $96 but since the review the cost went up to $132. Take a look if you get a chance. 👌
Thanks for the comment! The crazy cost of DCF is why I went with the Sil Duomid first (which I actually got even cheaper on Gear Swap), then after a year with it, felt confident enough to spring on the Khufu.
Thanks also for your video reviews. When you mentioned the price, I immediately guessed it was the Lanshan you meant. Amazed the durability is there, but glad it's working out for you!
It’s great to come across your channel and listen to both your experiences and evolution. I’ve been involved with UL since the very beginning, even before Ryan Jordan created BPL (the most popular forum at that time “Lightweight Backpacking”, created by Michael Connelly). And like you it’s been an exciting journey, especially the early days, when so many of us were creating our own gear designs. By the way it was Ryan Jordan who first proposed the idea of defining the four different categories of lightweight backpacking: “Lightweight Backpacking”, “Ultralight Backpacking”, and “Super Ultralight Backpacking (SUL)” and Extreme Super Ultralight Backpacking (XUL) (both first pioneered by Glen van Peski, Ryan Jordan, and (Adventure) Alan Dixon).
May I make one observation? I have both the MLD Duomid (DCF) and the Locus Gear Khufu (Silnylon). In your video you mention that the Khufu is a little larger than the Duomid. Actually, the Duomid is much larger than the Khufu. A much better comparison would be between the Khufu and the Solomid (which I also have), which are very similar in size.
Thanks so much for your comments; sounds like you have lots of interesting stories to share as well!
Regarding the size of the two mids, it's actually rather complicated. At the time I purchased mine, the Khufu was 5cm longer and 10cm wider, which is what led me to say it was "slightly larger" although the Duomid was 12 cm taller, which made it actually larger in terms of cubic area, but that was all in height. NOW, as of 2020, the Duomid has been enlarged by 2 inches in both length and width, making it clearly the larger mid.
I hope you'll share more lessons, observations, etc. in future videos!! Thanks again.
Maybe the two shelters have changed significantly since I bought mine. I bought my Duomid in 2009, my Solomid in 2011, and my Khufu in 2012
(back when I was still nuts about ultralight gear!) One of the reasons I got both the Solomid and Khufu was because the Duomid took up too much ground space here in the very steep mountains of Japan. The footprints of the Solomid and the Khufu made a lot more sense for a single person. The Duomid is so big that it feels colder inside than the other two, which retain more body heat in very cold weather.
Still, all three shelters do exceptionally well in horrendous conditions. Two years ago my girlfriend, a man we had come across on a mountainside who was suffering from hypothermia, and I rode out the night in a full-force typhoon at 2300 meters in the Duomid. It is not something I ever want to do again, but I know now that these shelters can actually handle the worst possible weather you can imagine.
@@laughing-knees Sounds like an amazing storm!! I too have weathered the most severe storm of my experience in the Duomid before I got the Khufu. Nothing compared to what you described, but it made a believer of me for sure. Thanks for sharing that!
im currently thinking of doing a tarp bug bivy or bug shelter combo i used to just do tarps but i want to take my dog with me and i dont want him wandering off in the night so netting would be nice for that
im interested in the yama bug shelters paria makes some cheap ones that arent quite as light which may be nice to test the set up
as far as tarps go i figured i could try a few sizes out with a regular blue tarp to find the size before dropping cash on a silnylon or silpoly or dcf just to find out its the wrong size i wanna get stuff like that dialed in on some small trips before taking off on a long trip
Probably don't want dcf on the ground -- either in contact with sharp objects on the ground or with pup claws poking holes. That's why I went with a sil-nylon inner even with the dcf mid from Locus Gear. Tarps are appealing for many reasons, but I have yet to discover a tarp/bivy or net tent combo that was as light as the LG Khufu.
My very favorite SOLO tent is my Tarptent Moment DW. You can set it up in the rain or snow B/C the inner tent is pre-attached to the fly. It CAN be freestanding with the use of the optional Crossing Pole.
With the ripstop inner fly I have used it in winter WITH the X-ing Pole modded to run under the fly. It withstands snow load and wind load when guyed and/or used with the X-ing pole.
Tarps? I only used them when I couldn't afford a tent. 'Nuff sed.
OK, if I want a SUL tent my choice is a Tarptent AEON Li, solo, single wall, Dyneema 'mid tent. Its design solves a few 'mid tent problems such as it gives more interior "sleeping space", better ventilation when closed and needs far fewer guy lines.
I am NOT a fan of tents with a pole in the middle. Jus' sayin'...
Hey Eric, thanks for sharing your perspective. Tarptent is a great company and I regret I've never had the opportunity to try their shelters. If I need a two-person setup in the future, I'll definitely go with Tarptent for something that both works and is affordable.
BTW, it wasn't very clear in the video, but both mid-style tarps are pitched with the poles in an inverted 'v' . . . 'cause I'm not a fan of a pole in the middle ether!
@@ShastaBubba I didn't realize you had two poles in the 'mid tent. That is a very strong setup.
Loved this! Keep em coming! 🙂
Thank you! Will do!
Thank you! Binging your vids now 😊
@@thehikingcommunity4806 Hope you find them helpful!
In Florida inner net is a must for me
Is that due to snakes? Or bugs? Or something even nastier that I'm not yet imagining?
ShastaBubba Adventures all of the above haha don’t want to cuddle with them. :)
Thanks for posting. I just have to point out that since there is no getting away from the need for a floor of some sort, if bug protection is desired it is hard to beat the Zpacks tarp tents which have both. The duplex (2person) at 21 oz. That said, I am still looking for something just as good that is lighter or better and found your video.
Thanks for commenting and I agree. I just prefer the option to go without the net tent when possible; which is typically July through October where I live. In other words, the best months for hiking. I just returned from a 7-day trip across the Bob Marshall Wilderness with just the tarp for shelter; although that isn't possible in all parts of the country (or world) due to local conditions. The only option I am aware of that would be lighter (but less protection) is the Zpacks Pocket tarp (would love to try someday). Happy searching!
17:50 How true and how tactfully you presented it. What an excellent video! It could only have been better ('IMO') if you had cut in some video footage of one of those storms you said you had endured in the "Duomid." Still, l loved the video, super informative! Thank you!
You're absolutely right, that shot would have improved the video. Unfortunately, I was too busy cowering in a fetal position, praying the shelter would hold to think about filming! :-) Live and learn. Thanks!
@@ShastaBubba Holly smokes! That's definitely not the storm l had in mind! I fully understand you. Yes, live and learn 😊 I subscribed to your channel, no doubt l'll learn from you. Excellent video in any case, as l said!
That duomid looks pretty nice - except that pole in the middle occupies the best place to sit... I ordered the "spruce green" version of the "Zpacks Duplex" some days ago. It has a 50% stronger canopy, and weighs 610g - which is 60g/~2,1oz more than the regular version. People use the regular version for the "tripple crown" trails, where they probably expect some days with strong winds... So far, i have not heard that it has been a problem...
The pole in the middle is a problem, but not as much as it might seem; however, that's why I always pitch with two poles in the inverted 'V' position -- much roomier that way.
I'd love to hear back when you've had a chance to form an opinion of the Duplex. It's certainly a great shelter and lots of folks are happy with it. Enjoy!
I just watched a video on it, and in windy conditions, it needs to be pitched low to the ground, and in the right angle (with the label towards the wind). The guy in this video did actually recommend pyramid tents, specifically mentioning the duomid... I wonder if i bought the wrong tent..? I have been thinking of cancelling my rent and just hiking around with the Duplex. Im getting a disability check, so im basically free to roam the world, as long as i stay here in Norway 6 months each year...
@@EspenFrafalne Pitching low to the ground in windy conditions is pretty universal advice and not a problem unique to the Duplex. Although I haven't owned one myself, the Duplex is clearly one of the most popular shelters made, so . . . I would suggest not overthinking at this point. Give it a try and if you don't like it, you could easily sell the Duplex on one of the gear swaps for 10-20% off and put that money toward another shelter. Happy rambling! Sounds like a great adventure.
I'm curious how you would compare your favorite Kufu mid to the newer designs like the Durston X mids? I would love to see a comparison video of these two types of shelters. Is your favorite still the Kufu mid style?
Thanks for the idea! I was able to score a used X-Mid 2 Pro this year and have been using it all season. The condensation issue hasn't been a problem at all, so it's now become my favorite shelter (vid on this soon!). The Khufu is still the best double wall for the weight though.
Thanks for the awesome video!. Very informative. Would you say that the pyramid shape is the best for high winds? Liked and subscribed:)
Yes, I believe that is the general consensus, with the possible exception of MLDs Trailstar, which has it's peak lower to the ground. Thanks so much for the comment/question!
Great information
Thanks! Glad it was useful.
This is a great video! Thank you. I like your tone and manner and how you explain everything. I'm thinking of getting a mid and I want one in silnylon because of snow. I've had my idea on an MLD mid for a while. Any others to consider? I'm not really familiar with Locus gear
Glad it was helpful! I love my LG Khufu, but if I was planning on getting a sil mid, believe I would go with MLD; bigger now (since redesigned) and more robust zipper. Really, it's a great shelter! Six Moon designs has some options (Lunar Solo, Trekker, Deschutes) that aren't exactly mids, but more shaped tarps and these also hit the 'sweet spot' between lightweight vs. cost.
@@ShastaBubba thank you!
I'm just now strongly considering switching to a pyramid type tent, mostly for the ease of entering and exiting the tent. I'm also leaning towards getting a net insert with floor, but it adds weight and cost. I've been looking at the Hyperlite ULTAMID 2, an excellent tent but very pricey and quite heavy with a full insert. Thanks to your video I've now discovered a potential alternative with Locust Gear. Lastly, my question is, you've used your pyramid tents in rain without a bathtub type floor, so how do you keep water from flowing underneath? I hike mainly in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California.
I really love my Locus Gear Khufu! The MLD Duomid is a close competitor, but the Khufu is slightly better IMHO due to being shorter, so easier to pitch with the poles in an 'A'. Regarding rain; usually I camp in a place that isn't trampled down from overuse, so the rain just soaks in the ground at the drip edge. Only time that was an issue was when camping in GNP where the tent sites are designated and packed gravel. The rain poured one night, but most stayed outside the edge. My tyvek ground cloth provided just enough protection to keep me dry through the night, but I would have had trouble if I had hiked through the day of rain and had to camp again. Thanks for watching and good luck with your search!
have you tried the MLD Cricket tarp?
I haven't. When I was considering it, just looked a bit too tiny for me. I did try the SMD Deschutes tarp and found that to be big enough, but far from comfortable. Hard to compare, given incomplete stats on the websites, but looks like the Cricket might be slightly larger, as well as no zipper to fail (and a bit more $, esp. with the seam sealing). Thanks for giving me an excuse to revisit these minimal shelters!
Interesting as always ! Until next time ;) thank you
Thanks so much for your support!
Thanks for the video, I got a six moons skyscape trekker a few months back which is one of those 1.5 wall tent. I was looking at Mountain Laurel shelters, but I was scared to go away from the tarp floors, have you ever had to deal with mud and water splashing you? I guess it just comes down to site selection and setting it lower to the ground. Awesome video.
Thanks Josh! You're right about importance of site selection. One of the benefits of 'stealth camping' (i.e., setting up in a spot that isn't an established campsite) is that the runoff soaks right into the non-packed ground. The worst situation I've been in was in GNP where the designated sites are packed so tightly it's like camping on a parking lot. Rained all night, and although the gathering puddles became an issue in the morning, splashing wasn't a problem.
@@ShastaBubba Agree. Floorless shelters are not ideal in National Parks where you have to camp in a predetermined, designated spot that is often hard, bare, dirt, has puddles, and a well trained population of mice and chipmunks. They also are not ideal on a slope where water may run downhill under the shelter, or on ground that is already wet or covered in snow before you pitch your shelter. To me, they are great in very specific conditions and seasons but are not a good "all-purpose" choice.
A bit late but I believe your view on not having an inner/net tent is very regional specific. If you spend an extensive amount of time in the eastern woodlands without a bug net, in season, you will get Lyme disease. Now once the ticks go dormant no problems, just tarp away, that's what I do, but I know too many backpackers who got Lyme disease multiple times because they chose not to use an inner in season.
Well said and I agree. Any decision regarding shelters needs to take into consideration local conditions, weather, season, etc. I haven't had the pleasure of hiking in the East, but it sure looks beautiful and would love to experience it someday. Thanks!
@@ShastaBubba don't wait. The mountains of the Appalachians may not match the height of the Rockies but the "green tunnels" are a beautiful on their own and then when they open to a vista? It's breathtaking.
@@johnschmalbach8243 Wow, sounds great! Thanks for the nudge.
I liked your videos so much I just subscribed to your channel and gave you a like. I’m glad I watched your video,. Now I know I don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars in a shelter to be ultra light and competitive and reliable. What is your favorite backpack? Thank you so much for sharing this video. And less you.
Awesome! Thank you! Favorite backpack would be the HMG 3400 Junction (which is discussed as the second pack in the video "Three Great Ultralight Packs" th-cam.com/video/NEtaJ2aNaAs/w-d-xo.html).
I was curious about your experience with the Duomid silnylon material on cold evenings or in cold, rainy conditions. Did you experience noticeable sagging of the material after first pitching it taut when it was dry? I have a Black Diamond Mega Light tent which I have loved but wish it didn't sag so much especially after a night of cold rain. I spoke to Ron at MLD and asked if that's the nature if silnylon. He said that it is but added that there are variations of silnylon material and the coatings that are applied. He said their Pro Silnylon performs better than most. I'd consider DCF but it lacks the compressibility that I need. Thank you for your great review!
I guess Ron must be correct in the different types of silnylon performing differently. In my experience with the Sil Duomid, I don't recall ever having problems either with sag or soaking up extra water (and I was in it during the most severe rainstorm I ever weathered), the issues people usually complain about with sil. As far as compress-ability, the two shelters from the video are vitually the same size in their stuff sacks, maybe the Khufu is even slightly smaller. For me, the only benefit of dcf over sil is weight savings, and it's certainly a valid consideration whether saving a few ounces is worth the extra cash (and the greater durability of sil). Although I love my LG Khufu, after using both for years, I might just have stayed with the sil duomid (which I still own; couldn't bring myself to sell).
Thanks for your questions and comment!
@@ShastaBubba I really appreciate your prompt reply and for the information you shared. I use my shelter when I go on multi-day self-support whitewater kayak wilderness trips. Compress-ability is more of a factor and I stuff my Mega Lite into a WP silnylon compression sack. It's not much larger than a 1-liter Nalgene bottle that I pack in the bow of my boat. From what I understand, DFC should be rolled or folded with a little more care than crumpling it up and compressing it. Your experience with MLD Pro Silnylon in a severe rainstorm is encouraging, plus the Duomid has the extra side tie-outs which my tent does not. I also liked your comment on the greater durability of silnylon and reflecting that after using both tents for years, you might have just stayed with the sil Duomid. Very helpful insight for me to hear. I'm starting my own research into lightweight tarp tents as I'm hoping I will still be able to go on a planned desert backpacking trip this spring. My first time since Boy Scouts some 50 years ago! Thank you for your kind help. 👍
@@kerrymarumoto24 You're very welcome. Good luck with your adventures!
Loved seeing the evolution of your shelter choices. Have you ever used the Khufu for two people? I’m curious about room for packs
Thanks! I haven't tried that, but can tell you that it would be pretty snug and no room for gear (except for the vestibule, which would probably work for protecting packs). You might take a look at the larger options available at MLD for two. Also check out TarpTent for great 2-person options.
thanks for the recommendations!
@@ShastaBubba is the MLD duomid bigger then? Or another model? I'm almost always out on trips with another person, looking for a light shelter
A great summary of your own journey and a good overview of some of the notable options in the UL market. I heard you mention Tvyek, did you mention polycro as a lighter (but less tough) option?
Thanks so much David! I did indeed mention polycro (that was when I mentioned getting a hole in my xlite pad when I used polycro), but probably should have unfolded it more to make the point that it's an option.
@@ShastaBubba It was probably me not listening well - I was walking the dog in the forest yesterday and had to avoid a moose.
Pro-tip on polycro: it's sold as a way to seal up your windows (to create a temporary double-pane window) in the Fall and Winter and then sold off (at least at Walmart) for 50%, 75%, sometimes 90% off in the Spring. I look for it then and stock up every few years.
@@DavidThomas-sv1tk Thanks for sharing that tip! "had to avoid a moose" while walking the dog . . . that's life in AK, right?
Another first time tent buyer here. Does either MLD or Locus Gear offer the option of double entryways as a customized order. I'm still trying to find something like the Duplex with double entryways, but more storm worthy. I'd like to avoid a floating bathtub that flaps around constantly in the wind ( a friend got severely smacked by his battery brick in a fierce windstorm and I'd like to avoid a similar performance myself if possible : ) and also avoid their screen configuration on the ends where condensating water and splashback can get abundantly into the bathtub if the tent somehow gets re-configured in the middle of the night. I do know Aluxe gear offers tipi tents with entryways on both sides but these tents are heavier than MLD and Locus Tents so I'm not yet convinced they're the best option. I have heard that MLD has in the past done special orders where they allow a person to add a second entryway but it was roughly an additional $100. Tents like Gosamer Gear "The Two" seem to have addressed the short comings of the Zpack Duplex but are they as storm worthy as a tipi tent, such as in very high winds? Maybe not?
Great questions! I'm not aware of any double-entry options from either MLD or Locus Gear; however, I believe the larger mids can be set up with the zipper on the foot end, which allows for somewhat easier egress for two. For ultralight weights, the best options I know of are the HMG Dirigo 2 or the new, dcf TarpTent (Stratospire Li)-- both are hyper expensive (although, HMG is now selling through REI, so I think you can use the 20% discount). For the best convergence of double entry, storm worthy, lightweight and reasonable price, I would look at the sil tents (Stratospire 2 and Double Rainbow) from TarpTent. Good luck!
As for the double entrance, there is the Liteway Pyraomm. Here´s a link ; liteway.equipment/shelters/pyraomm-tarp
@@pallenielsen2463 This tarp looks quite impressive, do your know anyone that has any real world experience using it?
@@austindory7788 No not yet. I´ve only seen a quilt from the same company and the quality really looks good. Just take a look at this picture and see how well the stitches are made. liteway.equipment/image/cache/catalog/products/pyraomm/3555-orange-black-1350x1000.jpg
Most sertainly it is on my wish list !
Tks for the vid! What exactly is,the " Inverted double V" setup
I should have called it simply the 'inverted V' but slipped the word 'double' in there because it uses both poles. The 'mid' shaped was originally designed to pitch with one pole in the middle; the inverted V uses both poles in an upside-down V, with the point of the V in the peak of the mid. This creates space in the middle to lay in without working around a center pole, but increases the length necessary for the poles, thus requiring some type of extender pole. Locus Gear sells a great carbon-fiber extender for this purpose that works great and only adds a few oz. Thanks for the comment!
@@ShastaBubba two questions remain to me, are the two poles using the DPC of MLD outside or inside the inner mesh, and is the DPC of MLD useable with the Khufu setup (tent+full mesh). so far thx already.
@@ferdinandratte5303 Great questions! First, the two poles sit in between the tarp and the mesh tent; however, you can pitch the Khufu with one pole inside the mesh tent. Second, the pole extender (actually called DPTE) is made by Locus Gear, not MLD, so I don't know how it would work with the Duomid -- probably okay, but might be a bit short, since the Duomid is actually 5 inches taller than the Khufu. MLD only makes (to my knowledge) a 6 inch single-pole adapter for pitching with one pole. In this vid, I was using pole extenders I made myself from old trekking poles.
Coincidentally, I'm just now putting the final touches on a long-term review of the LG Khufu, so you will be able to see it much more clearly in that vid (will be posted this Saturday!). Thanks for the questions.
Do you have any additional tips for the setup and site selection of pyramid shelters? I'm new to them, and would appreciate your thoughts.
Hey Emily, great question and worthy of a whole 'nother video! Short answer: site selection doesn't really change but site clearing (of sharp objects) is perhaps more important. Re: setup, I stake out the corners first, paying close attention to the third stake to make a right angle from the first two, then erect the poles and finally do the mid-side tie-outs and cinch it all up. When staking the corners, leave them a little loose for a higher pitch; tight for close to the ground (to protect from wind). Hope that's helpful!
@@ShastaBubba Ah thank you! I wasn't leaving enough slack in the corners to get a higher pitch. That should fix it right up. That would be a great video. Thank you for the content, I've subscribed!
@@emilyh4724 Glad to help. Thanks for the vid idea and sub!
I'm 6'2" tall. Does the MLD Duomid have enough room for taller people?
Love your vids, keep up the great work!
Hey there and thanks so much for the kind words. Re: the Duomid, I'm 6' even and never had a problem with the length or height. MLD has added 2" to the length since my version, so it should be no problem for you (website says it now fits up to 6'3" folks). If you were really wanting space, there's the Solomid XL also as an option; which is even longer, but you lose a foot in width.
@@ShastaBubba thanks. Yes, I'm undecided between the Solomon XL and Duomid. I've been using the SoLong6 for several years and love it but want to lighten up a bit more. Been researching tips and found your vids. Rhanks again and keep up the great work!
Zpacks make great tents , however not everyone can throw 500 to 600 bucks on a tent. That is why I think the 3F UL Gear Lanshan 1 at 93 USD is the best value to quality option out there... 800g pack weight. For high altitude alpine expedition applications .. The Mobi Garden 2 plus, at 133USD is by far the best bang for the buck.. Albeit Chinese made . I have tested both in survere weather conditions, and they performed just as well as their premium counter parts.. Z packs ,North face and Hilleburg to mention a few... I also tested the Naturehike Mongar 2 , Which is a clone of the MSR Hubba Hubba. at 75 USD It held up just fine... In conclusion . I understand and appreciate the premium tent makers took the time and effort to design and test their products. However If the same thing is available at a fraction of the price 99% of people will go for that... Unfortunate but that is the way of the world these days..
Thanks for your comment! Not quite sure how I feel about buying Chinese, knowing the designs are possibly stolen and workers poorly treated; however, in all honesty, if I was just starting in backpacking, it would be hard to resist such enormous savings. I'm pretty happy with the mid shape, so glad I got mine before being tempted by these other options. Think I would still lean toward the MLD silnylon duomid or the Tarptent Notch as a compromise between cost and feeling good about US made, but that's just me.
Isn't MLD larger than Locus gear? At 20:30 in the video, you say Locus gear is larger than MLD. I look it up at both brand's website, here is the dimension I found:
MLD Duomid: 280cm * 172cm * 140cm
Locus Gear Khufu: 270cm * 160cm * 130cm
YES, you are correct! Since this video was made, MLD has tweaked it's design to increase the size of the Duomid, making the current version slightly larger than the LG Khufu. Side note: it always 'seemed' a little bigger to me due to greater height, which meant the walls were steeper. Thanks!
@@ShastaBubba thanks for the information!
Im largely a bivy and tarp guy myself but tents offer a lot more privacy for no weight gain at all!
I would love the openness (i.e. 'view') of a tarp, which is why I plan to give it another try, but haven't found a bivy/tarp combo that could beat the weight of the Khufu. What are you using?
@@ShastaBubba the lightest set I use is actually from 2GoSystems, I run their Velar bivy (345grams) and Version 2 Trifecta (the V3 has a weight of 395grams). So you can get tents that weigh a lot less! I also haven't had the opportunity to test this set in actual severe weather but one advantage of the thermal bivy is that you can push a lighter sleeping bag a lot lower in temperatures. One other tarp/poncho that Ive been looking at is the Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape. At 284grams it definitely qualifies as ultralight and is certainly multiuse as well.
That weight is comparable to the Khufu/inner combo, so not bad. The Gatewood cape has certainly been around a long time, so many people like it.
If you are looking into a tarp and bivy combo, may i suggest the borah silpoly bivy. The guys at borah are pretty decent and let you modify the bivy somewhat. Then put a tarp over it and weather shouldn't be a problem.
@@ellipse330 I would second that the guys at Borah Gear are great; very accommodating. Good quality and reasonably priced gear. And practically my neighbors!
Come camping in Texas, friend. Waking up with a rattlesnake in your bag and you may develop a new appreciation for netting :-). Otherwise, some interesting thoughts. Thanks
Yep; probably wouldn't want to camp in Florida without the inner tent either. (You mean they're not friendly, cuddly, and taste like chicken?) :-) Thanks!
@@ShastaBubba We'll they do taste like chicken :-) but they crawl into your bag and get comfortable- and they just aren't much on you moving around during the night Ha Ha....I think we all need to take in consideration where we are and prepare for it- you do have some great info though- thanks for the review! Keep it up!
@@larrys639 Thanks Larry, appreciate it and absolutely agree with the notion that one setup doesn't work in all settings. Also . . . good to know that rattlesnakes are cranky bedfellows.
The audio and video synchronization sound wrong, just wanted to share. It would be better if you are able to update the video file.
Thanks; I upgraded my audio equipment and am still working out the glitches :-(
Thanks that was great. When you start having fun with tarps again, check out the TH-cam channel of Papa Hiker - he has a whole lot of classic pitches and does it quickly.
I'll check that out now. Thanks for the tip!