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BlakeMorrow
114
Mar 2, 2017
Again, sorry for stupid questions. Noob at this - how does the Triplex compare to BA copper UL3?
prismatica
26
Mar 2, 2017
BlakeMorrowThe ZPacks Triplex is WAY lighter than the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 (24oz vs 64oz). The Triplex is not self standing, and must be staked out, where the UL3 stands on its own. The Triplex has a single integrated fly, mesh, and bathtub, where the UL3 has a separate rain fly.
Basically, the Triplex is way lighter, but it's a little more complicated to set up, and not everyone will like how crinkled it looks. I've never had an issue staking out my Duplex and the condensation is no worse than my previous double layer tent.
Mrnotables
9
Mar 2, 2017
BlakeMorrowThese tents are a nightmare to erect unless you have the perfect camping pad to do so on. The free standing BA tents, are far more durable and versatile in where you can set them up. The ability to remove the rain fly is essential if you plan on ever hiking anywhere other than southern California.
prismatica
26
Mar 2, 2017
MrnotablesZPacks Duplex owners have used the tents all over the US and the world, including full thru-hikes of the CDT without issue. Check out the testimonials on their site http://www.zpacks.com/shelter/duplex.shtml#testimonials
For more air flow in hotter weather, every side door can be rolled up and easily looped in place. I agree that the ability to remove a rain fly on two layer tents is essential to keep from suffocating, but on a single layer tent, like the Duplex, that has terrific airflow, it's not an issue at all.
Outdoor Gearlab's (admittedly very positive overall) review of the Copper Spur UL2 here http://www.outdoorgearlab.com/Backpacking-Tent-Reviews/Big-Agnes-Copper-Spur-UL2 marks notes that its "Delicate fabrics require special treatment"--so I'm not sure where you're seeing the Copper Spur as being that much more durable than ZPacks tents.
I'm not trying to say the UL2/3 isn't a good buy, but I think you're not giving the Duplex/Triplex a fair shake. Have you had a chance to use one of these tents for a couple nights?
Mrnotables
9
Mar 2, 2017
prismaticaI am pretty familiar with Zpack tents, as they were ultimately my second choice when acquiring my gear. I went with The MSR Hubba Hubba NX ($320 USD from MEC) . Mainly my familiarity with the tent comes from the experience of my fellow hikers and friends. Nothing sums this up better for me than what became a running joke on the trail. That those with Zpack tents suddenly developed a strange fondness for cowboy camping.
The tent is relatively difficult to set up and take down, requiring extensive lining, and a large even surface, with 8 lines to peg out. Good luck finding enough rocks to hold down your lines if you are camping on gravel or sand. Also, those fancy pegs wear out and break.
It suffers from being a single walled tent. Yes there are side vents (doors), however this does not compare to having a full bug-mesh ceiling, and the choice of adding a rain fly. The bath tub is great, but with such low side walls you are not going to get the protection you get in other tents.
In regards to Outdoor Gearlab's comment that the Copper Spur's "Delicate fabrics require special treatment" I would say they said this to differentiate the UL material from normal heavy weight tent materials for the average hiker. As many of the tents they review are not Ultra light tents.

The Zpack tent is great, It's an awesome piece of Lightweight tech, and Cubenfiber is really cool. I deliberated over getting one for months, and if I lived in sunny California, I would have. I just feel that by getting this tent you would always have to have your fingers crossed that the weather doesn't get too bad, and that you don't put a hole in your shiny $600 tent.
prismatica
26
Mar 2, 2017
MrnotablesYeah, I would agree that it is harder to set up, and a little harder to find a spot to put it because the footprint is bigger. I wouldn't say I particularly worry about setup, or the durability, after having had this last year to use it--and once you get used to the setup, there's no beating the weight on this thing.