You have a knack for reviewing gear! Not many folks get into the more technical aspects of reviewing items and it's much appreciated. Really enjoyed your last two tent reviews the past two days. Excellent detail. And a wealth of knowledge. Keep it up!
As a BPL follower for many years, now (and an erstwhile customer of the old BPL gear shop), I‘m very pleased to see your excellent takes on things making it to the mainstream via RUclips! As a long-time owner and lover of the TarpTent Double Rainbow in standard fabric, I can confirm that all the pros and (few) cons you mention also apply for me. It was my very favorite tent of all (and still is my favorite tent for use without trekking poles) until I got a Zpacks Duplex, but that‘s another story. About the size for 2 sleepers: For sitting up side-by-side, try having the 2nd person sleep with their head at the other end. Solo, it‘s a palace, and I absolutely love having the dual-entry option even when alone, e.g. when wind direction changes overnight or people show up and you want to go out the opposite side for nighttime bladder relief. The views with two open vestibules are also a huge plus, and side entry is the most comfortable of all. The only real con for me is in cold and windy conditions (horizontal blasts of icy wind like I experienced in Norway) because the mesh vents at the bottom can‘t be shut off, for example at the chosen head end.
I experienced the draftiness issue with the end vents as well. I was able to adjust the guylines a little to minimize this, except when a huge gust came in, then it was a little hopeless. I put my jacket hood up and hoped for the best, and even with 30-40 mph winds throughout the night, I was fine.
Backpacking Light Yep - same strategy here, except for also having a beanie on under my Ghost Whisperer‘s hood. At least the wind flow is good against condensation. ;-)
I’m so excited about this tent and glad you reviewed it so quickly. I’ve had Tarptents for over 10 years now and my solo and double rainbows are my favorite tents I’ve ever owned. They’ve done great in the Sierra Nevada.... maybe time for another one :)
Great review thanks. My slightly older silnylon version got put to the test on one occasion. Pitched a Tarptent double rainbow on Mainrange on snow in winds gusting up to 90. Positioned into wind behind rock and then the wind swung 90 Degrees. Built a snow wall onto the tent on that side to seal it and added walking poles plus extra tie outs and was able to put in a couple of really solid snow anchors. Tent stood up beautifully but I would not recommend it or do it again by choice. Was very cold and blowy inside tent. I was cold in in a minus 20 bag. I had brought a bivy bag as a precaution which got me warm and was just as well as when I awoke in the morning the interior of the tent was white from spin drift. The point being that even if the tent can stand up being designed to ventilate means they are less than ideal for such conditions. The tent is otherwise ideal for Australian conditions. Porch mode onto a decent view is just awesome.
Thanks for the thorough and well articulated review! I was thinking about the Zpacks Duplex until I recently learned about this tent, so I have been looking for reviews about it. Nice job!
Just used this tent in a very hot and humid climate with a ton of bugs. It vented very well, no condensation, and no bugs got in. Setup is fast, even with no practice.
Been a Backpacking Light subscriber for a few years, did not know there was a channel on RUclips, guess I never noticed since I'm usually on the Gear Swap mostly consuming heavily but selling a little as well ! This is a really excellent piece on an intriguing shelter, better than most on the tube.
This was an excellent review! Very thorough. Wonder if there's any plans to make a Rainbow Li? Seems like the Double is huge for a single person backpacking.
Great video! Thanks, very informative. You helped me decide between the duplex and double rainbow Li... Kind of petty of me but I'm gonna go with the duplex bc it's still 100% manufactured in the USA (I think).
Please be sure to compare/contrast the Free Duo also with a Duplex using the Flex Poles + Trekking poles together.. I use a Duplex w/Flex poles AND trekking poles and it is totally solid and more flexible than both the Free Duo and the TarpTent Double Rainbow. It is true that a Duplex with flex poles only and no trekking poles at the peaks is not stable.
Great review of the tent! It is insane to me that a tent as big as this (with the poles and struts!) weighs less than my goretex bivy. Yes, technology, budget, and design requirements are very different, but still. Thanks for the entertaining and high quality videos!
I have used the double rainbow for years (hundreds of nights camping in it), and LOVE IT. I wanted to get away form Nylon by going with the DCF material. I just got a tent from a different manufacture. I really miss the porch design on my new tent. I felt the quality of the TarpTents made in the USA were top notch. I wish I knew this tent was in the works, I would have been the first to get one. I will just have to hike and camp more to wear out my new tent, then I can get back to the best tent ever, double rainbow with DCF. Best material and tent design, Wow.
Yes, his comments are burned into my soul, I've needed trauma counseling to deal with it 'til he introduced the Notch Li in 2018. But it's clear that he was willing to wait and see what DCF longevity was going to look like, and based on these initial Li designs, he hasn't exactly been sitting around not thinking about how to build DCF shelters during those years...
@@BackpackingLightUSA yes, i'll call that an educated guess (!). You can't have a DCF shelter like those without making prototypes first. That takes time . Anyway the point remain the it was about the cost versus weight gain not the fabric itself that was the problem.
Great review, thanks! I have added rare earth magnets to my tent and have found that the magnets get covered with iron-containing dust and sand found in pretty much all camp sites. When packing up my tent, I've found bobby pins and nails attracted to the magnets, too. Have you (or anybody else) seen any "iron sand" coating the magnets yet?
Jim Pflugrath I made tyvek peg bags with magnetic closure and have experienced what you describe. The stuff rubs right off with my finger. It’s more curious than annoying at this point so I’m still using those at the moment
I have a Rainbow 1 person and was wondering about DCF. A 1 person LI would be real light. Great design with carbon fiber pole and semi freestanding option. You did a great review job. Sorry to hear about Chinese manufacturing. I’ll take the old way for America.
Top notch review. Leaps and bounds over 99% of those I see! Thanks! Going with the regular double rainbow cause of cost.. hoping the performance is close enough.
They should have added the lightweight white fabric low down in the new notch li (at least on one end so you can sleep with your head against it or away from it depending on how the wind is blowing or if you want or don't want a breeze)
@@kevinguzda1131 UPDATE!! My NEW Double Rainbow Li tent arrived today. It is absolutely luxurious for a tall person. I set it up with my trekking poles in freestanding mode in my bedroom to test the fit. For the test, I inflated my 75" x 25" Therm-a-rest X-lite air mattress and my Sea to Summit Aeros XL pillow to test head/foot-room with my down quilt. (I see so many RUclips videos where other "tall" people get inside a completely empty tent to show the "massive" headroom. But, they never show it with an inflated mattress+pillow and a lofted down quilt. These items can significantly reduce headroom/foot room). The Double Rainbow Li passed my test with flying colors. I can stretch out my feet and lie tall and not come anywhere close to rubbing either end of the tent. I was also able to go from lying completely flat to sitting straight up on my inflated air mattress without rubbing against the roof. And sitting in the middle (atop my mattress) for cooking meals in the porch area is also very roomy. I can sit straight up without slouching and I do not touch the roof of the tent anywhere. Needless to say, I'll be selling my Z Packs Duplex, and My Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL tents. Tarptent's Double Rainbow Li is my dream tent. Once the Sierras open up I'll post a video with more feedback.
Lucky Strike Hikes thanks for the feedback, I should have it soon! Which trekking poles do you use for freestanding mode? I have a pair that go to 54, would hate to buy another pair but would like some that extend to 57 inches..
I will agree that their vestibules need to be re thought out. I have the Dipole Li single and double and both vestibules could use a solid 8 more inches to make cooking in them easy. There are a few other issues on the Dipoles with their vents at the foot and head, but doesn't look to be the same set up with this tent. I am sad to hear that 30 mph winds were handled, but you wouldn't take it much further. I have been looking for a free standing tent for hiking in Ireland and Scotland where the ground is rocky a lot of the time. But they both have high winds and rain.
I really liked my Tarptent (normal, not Lithium) Double Rainbow. But when I had to take a break from backpacking so I sold it years ago. I’m definitely looking to get a new tent…
I'm Torn between this tent and the Aeon Li and I have watched both of your reviews on each! You make both tents seem very compelling and this makes it even tougher to choose. Thanks for the great reviews. Wish i could just get both and not have this decision...LOL. Keep up the great reviews and backpacking videos!
I had a ZPacks Duplex and loved it, and sold it for stupid reasons to buy a tent I thought I'd like more but really didn't...so now it's a decision between this and going back to the Duplex. What are your thoughts between the two and which would you choose? I like the higher walls on the interior doors with this and the porch mode but worry about zippers and failure. Which do you think is more storm worthy? Scotland and N. Europe can have some pretty gnarly wind and storms even in the summer
Finally! I think I have found the tent that suits me! After buying, testing, I sold several. So far, I really like this tent. I haven't tested it in the field yet, but I installed it several times at the park near my house, just to familiarize myself with it and I was pleasantly surprised by the ease of installation, the quality of the design . I have the 1P and I find it very spacious. I have plenty of room to leave my bag inside. I can't wait to use it for my next camping trip which will take place in two weeks :)
Im super excited! I just ordered mine today and I hope it will come in by next week. So I can use it on my section hike to the Pinhoti Trail ❤️🤩 Thanks for the review.
I've had three Henry Shire Tarptents now and I still use my first one, a Squall 2 I picked up in 2004, on a regular basis and it's been through a LOT. I have the basic Rainbow 2, not this Lithium version, and one issue I had was the bug netting at the curve towards the bottom of the doors started to tear away. There was a little too much stress on the netting and I now have a tear several inches long in the netting just inside of the stiching to the zipper on both sides. I haven't used the tent much and I would have liked to use it more since other than that issue the tent is a nice design. I liked that it it could be set up very quickly and it could be set up in heavy rain with little or no rain getting inside the tent while it's being set up. The vents at the top of the vestibules/doors seemed rather small for this type of tent but better than no vents. I literally never used the "porch mode" setup since it offered minimal coverage in a storm and was a bit of a pain in the ass to transition to in the extremely rare occasions where I would want it. For my uses it was always open vestibule doors or batten down the hatches.
Always love your reviews. Definitely the best on youtube. Its unfortunate that tarp tents are manufactured in china. I cant in good conscience help support that country’s government in anyway. Still a good design. Wish they would bring back the manufacturing. I would be willing to pay more. Excellent review 👍
@DJ Ness and the quality is not quite as good! My Zpacks is a great tent but the quality of stitching and finishing pales in comparison to another tent I own that was made in Vietnam--Every single stitch is perfect. The double lines are completely parallel, there were no loose ends....just a beautifully manufactured tent...it's the XMid by the way! Looking forward to receiving my Rainbow Li (1P) as a different option to my trekking-pole-only tents!
Ooo. I didn't know they made the DCF version but have borrowed the old DR from a friend. Never went back after picking up a Nemo Hornet 2, but now I'm thinking about it. Great review! (Also have that pad in regular wide. Love it!)
As I watched this video I kept mentally comparing it with Hilleberg's Enan tent, one I'm thinking of buying. I notice you've not said anything about any Hilleberg tent & not reviewed any. This is simply an observation. Setting up this tent when it's gusty windy would be as difficult as trying to set up any tent except a Hilleberg. I bought the REI Quarter Dome SL! in May 2020 AFTER watching your video. Sadly, when I contacted REI Customer Service about buying some pole clips & plastic clips that are required to attach the fly to the tent I was told they don't have any plastic part for that tent available. I simply wanted some spare plastic parts in case one breaks, I wanted them for inventory. And back in November REI DISCONTINUED manufacturing & selling the REI Quarter Dome series. 5 times here in Northern Nevada I've been out with my REI Quarter Dome SL1 tent at elevations above 8,500' & each time strong gusty winds started blowing as soon as the sun went down. My tent provided shelter from the wind storm, but it did get blown back & forth, all night, every night & I slept very little. I want DURABILITY from my tent & I want it to provide me with shelter from the wind just below or above treeline, hence the reason I'm most likely going to buy the Hilleberg Enan instead of this tent or any other brand of tent.
This is an ultralight dyneema tent and it is 2-person. Your Enan tent is 1 person and weighs a 2 lbs 10 oz. Mentally compare all you want, this is not the tent to compare your Enan to and vice versa, they are for different purposes. This tent is for people who want to go long distances at a minimum weight and have tons of room inside. The Enan is for people who want a rugged tent for 1 person.
Interesting design and great review. I'm not a fan of the tapered width at increased height due to risk of rain intrusion when the doors open, although the porch mode mitigates that some. I ruled out the Dirigo for that reason. Definitely an option for when I go to replace my Duplex. Lots of trades here. Love the free standing feature and space. Did you get an opportunity to also look at the insert?
If you're referring to the clip-in insert, there's not much to it: mitten hooks, and a piece of nylon. It creates a sort of double-wall, and hangs off of the inner a bit. It mostly goes all of the way down to the floor vents he shows later in the vid.
I haven't looked at the insert, but imagine that it works just fine and is plenty useful for condensation-prone conditions. I've made a number of them myself (DIY) for my single wall tents and these add-on panels are terrific. ^rj
@@KrizAkoni I've not had many issues with rain intrusion when I enter/exit, at least not more than I have with other tents. Just leave the "porch mode" flap attached, or attach it rather, prior to enter/exit, and I don't unzip it all the way to the apex vents. The only thing I generally try to pay attention to is when I roll the wet vestibule doors back and clip them. You can get a little drippage during that if you're not paying attention, but I feel this is the same for most DCF or single/hybrid wall tents I've seen -- if you roll the vestibule back, there's little overhang if any. I'll fling the open door around the side, too, which will stick to itself because of dew, haha. I leave the insert in full-time, as I'm generally backpacking East-Coast, or end up in PNW. My SilNylon Double Rainbow has been my favorite tent to date, and I'm now waiting for my Double Rainbow Li to arrive! :D
Shown here: ruclips.net/video/5CEqtQaqJTo/видео.html They shortened the porch-mode flap in the DCF version, but it should still work the same. Henry said it was due to the DCF sheet dimensions.
I really like your reviews: very detailed and factual. But, my god, it always seems to be so cold where you live! Does the snow ever melt where you are? ;-)
Great review! Can anyone tell me how "see-through" the dyneema is on this tent? I'm trying to decide between this one and the Duplex. The duplex seems so translucent and this one less so (at least, from the video), although the specs say that the duplex is made with a slightly heavier grade of dyneema....
Question, I am thinking about purchasing this tent given an issue with my duplex. My pad will slide sometimes and kickout the floor past the fly allowing rain to pour off the fly directly into the tub floor! Do you believe that could be an issue with this tent? Also do you like this tent better than the stratospire?
Hilleberg and Fjallraven are my go-to tents... I know they are NOT in the same category. Hille and FJ are the best tents on the market. :) I must try a Tarptent someday. :) I do not like Zpacks Duplex because of condensation :( Maybe the Stratospire...
I have the sil-nylon version and I'd say this design is the most comfortable, full-featured design out there. But pretty concerned to hear you say this could not survive a storm above tree-line! @4:07
Can you please review the zpacks free duo? Also thanks for the great work that you do. The depth and thought that go into your reviews is just outstanding... Thank you.
Ryan, thank you for another fantastic review! You are by far the most thorough and trustworthy tent reviewer on the net right now. I did miss your dog in this video though! You mentioned in another thread that the DR Li suffers from draft issues at the head and foot, which is something I also encounter in my single Rainbow. I can mitigate it a little by piling rocks / snow / sticks around the tent as a windbreak, but the cold blasts still get under my quilt. I'm very excited about the DR Li but this is a potential deal-breaker for me. I'm wondering if you had any ideas about reducing that draft? Would it be possible to add a couple of velcro strips and bring a removable nylon insert (like the ceiling insert) to cover the vents? I appreciate that this might cause condensation issues, but I guess the vents wouldn't need to be covered completely.
Tim, re: drafts, the DR Li is substantially less so at sleeping level than the Rainbow due to the solid wall door panels which run all the way across the sides and into the corners. Yes, the ends are still mesh for ventilation but the floor ends can clip up to well above the canopy edge if need be.
Interesting questions at the beginning. What if you ask the same question but expand the weight factor to include tents that are 2lbs or around that point? Just a few ounces more. Is this tent worth it still? Not everyone is a thru hiker and maybe there's "light" and "light enough" for those who only spend a few nights out of the year in a tent.
That looks like a great update for my Double rainbow. I'd love to have a lighter tent and partial solid sidewalls (or even full solid sidewalls). I wonder why you didn't show the freestanding option? Also it would be good to mention the Inner Liner, which makes condensation not an issue anymore (for some extra weight). Also it's removable so you can always decide to bring it or not. Can you confirm if it has grommets for vertical trekking pole support (below the connection points of the cross pole)?
I'd like to know as well...about grommets for trekking pole additional support! i saw a photo somewhere that included this but no explanation or other description.
Great video. If you were to pack the pole separate from the tent stuff sack, could you compress the tent small enough to pack in horizontally in your pack? I have the Aeon and have to pack it vertically because the struts are basically attached.
That was one of the first things I checked out. I folded the tent lengthwise into quarters, rolled it up, and it was just rite to pack horizontally in my pack.
Excellent review. Would you say that replacing the main arch pole with an aluminum one would make it sturdier in high winds? Last time I camped in Snowdonia we had gusts up to 60 miles an hour, so the carbon pole might be an issue if I encounter the same type weather.
I'm not sure the Al arch pole in the Li shelter would be a good idea. The different bending geometry may actually mess with the tension in the arch pole sleeve. You'd have to ask Tarptent/Henry Shires about that though to confirm. Sometimes these things are not "ideally" interchangeable... ^rj
I actually talked to Henry at Tarptent regarding this, and you can swap out the carbon poles and struts for the traditional aluminium ones that come with their silnylon version. I bought my double rainbow li with aluminium poles. Just gives me a little added comfort on long hauls. If that carbon arch pole breaks during a long stretch, you'd really be stuck,, especially in four weather. So for me getting the aluminium pole, and strut was the better fit. But you can use either or on this tent as per tarptent,
Ryan would you recommend the sil nylon version of the double rainbow if that was your budget. I like the design and free standing option 42oz is not bad for 300$.
Thanks for the awesome review, but I have a big concern with the several magnets in the closures. If you're backpacking and leave a trail system to go cross country with this in your pack and you're using a map and compass for navigation, how is that not going to skew the compass reading? Some years ago a buddy and I we're backpacking and our compass readings never matched until he remembered his drinking tube clip was magnetic. After he cut that off our readings matched and all was well. If I owned that tent, my first mod would be removing the magnets and figure out another fastening system.
Hi Ryan, very nice review! Your tone of voice and talk "speed" makes digesting all of it very easy. Well done. What type of hardware do you use to do your humidity/temp measurements?
I didn't "choose it" per se, as this was a tent that was simply in our review pipeline. If I wanted the most amount of livable interior room, I'd choose the Double Rainbow Li. If I wanted more stability and condensation resistance in cold, wet conditions, I'd choose the Stratospire 2/Li. ^rj
I’m 6’3”+ and do not see it working for me without condensation issues. I imagine I would be in constant contact with outer wall in some fashion while in this thing. Good review.
If solo, you won't have an issue at all. If shared with another and you're on 20" wide pads, you shouldn't have a problem either. If shared with another and you're on 25" wide pads, and you stay towards the middle, you shouldn't have an issue. If you don't like your partner and want to snuggle up against the vestibule wall, then yeah, maybe...
I'm 6' 4" and mine NEW Double Rainbow-Li just arrived today. It has plenty of head and foot room! I am soooo happy! Finally I can sell my Duplex and my Solong 6 and my Copper Spur. They aren't even close to what this tent can do.
Lucky Strike Hikes I just ordered mine too, I’m 6’3. I’m still nervous won’t be room enough for me and daughter, she will start using 20 inch regular length pad and I will keep my long/wide pad. I can’t wait to get it though..
Kevin Guzda it’ll be tight but doable. I was able to get two people in my ZPacks Duplex using my 25” wide mattress and a buddy’s 20” mattress. It worked. Having said that, my Double Rainbow is much longer and wider than my Duplex. Good luck to you.
I think you answered. Gossamer Gear The Two DCF seems like a complete waste of money to me unless you are very short. It is only 81" in length compared to 88" for the Double Rainbow Li or 90" for the Zpacks Duplex. And, the tent floor of The Two is 7D sil/pu nylon ripstop, not Dyneema. What was Gossamer thinking?!
@@SpaceTravel1776 I ended up buying The Two, TT, and Triplex to compare (and return at a cost of $70 in shipping). The Two is shamefully short - not even a realistic tent for average or taller people. As you noted, the floor is Sil and feels like it is extremely fragile. If it were given to me for free, I wouldn’t use it. While the TT was a nice shelter and well-made, I only kept the Triplex because it had more room. I would’ve considered keeping both if I had the money.
What would your honest advice be about this tent? My two concerns having never used hybrid single wall tents before is condensation and having enough room for two long wide pads and using it comfortably for father/daughter trips. I have a Nemo Dragonfly 2p 48 oz packed weight but it’s too small for trips with her and I use it solo.
Backpacking Light thanks, I’m thinking about getting this Tarptent for my solo tent though. If I did also get a roomier/heavier tent for more room on father /daughter trips would you recommend the Dagger over the BA CS 3. Dagger is about 6-7 oz more both would be big enough, which one would you recommend overall between the two?
The Stratospire Li gives this a run for its money doesn’t it?.....i e just watched the opening minutes where it says you’d be hard pushed to match the double rainbow Li
I've had it in gusts to 30-40 mph with no issues. Yes, I added extra guylines. One each at the mid-point arch pole ends helped a lot. I added 3 to each, and that really stabilized things. I don't know about taking this tent into a winter storm with steady 50+ mph winds above treeline but it should be fine for most of what you'll experience in 3-seasons below the treeline in the CONUS.
Except for DCF, all other styles are made in China for cost control and better workmanship. If they are made in the United States, the price will be at least doubled, and the workmanship will be worse. Top Chinese tent factories accept the best brands in the world every year.
TheTrailDancer Looks like the Nemo Tensor Alpine Insulated I just bought. Loving it so far like crazy! Surely he has the Insulated in such conditions, for the non-insulated version only has an R value a bit over 2, as I recall.
TheTrailDancer Ah, thank you. Yeah, I did here something about the rating system having been changed. Perhaps that accounts for the difference. Or did they change the design?
Backpacking Light Good one! :-) Now if your can only get the Missus to toss out that pricey boxspring bed and buy a 2nd pad, you‘ll be in business. ;-)
Re: Groundcloth/Footprint? Did I miss something or do you not need one with this tent? If you do need one can anyone recommend one? I'd be scared to put my almost $700 tent on the bare ground.
Julie, I always use a footprint, with any dyneema tent. Even though most dyneema tents make the floors of the tent with a stronger dcf (usually 1.0 oz) I like having another layer of protection especially when using a lightweight inflatable sleeping pad. I've talked with many of the owners of these companies, and even though they advertise you don't need a footprint, everyone i spoke to recommended using one. I usually use the zpacks triplex footprint for my Tarptent's; because it fits their dimensions well, especially this tent and the StratoSpire Li. The zpacks flat ground dcf cloth is made from 1.0oz dcf fabric so it really gives you a nice added layer of protection. Most UL PEOPLE will never do this though because of the weight, etc but for me, it's totally worth the 3 or 4 extra ozs. Most of the cottage companies make dcf ground cloth options, but in my experience the ones made of material less than .8oz dcf material developed pinholes, and tears very early on in my hikes.. and that was with taking care and finding good campsites. Ultimately, I landed on the triplex dcf ground cloth by zpacks, and for the cost, and material you get, I found it to be the best choice for me. it costs 120 dollars. But in comparison the HLMG version is a lighter dcf fabric, roughly the same dimensions, about 1.2oz lighter in weight, but it costs $175. I used that one on my first 600 miles of the pct, and it developed a ton of pinholes and small gashes within my first week. So Ultimately I wanted something of a higher dcf like the zpacks flat dcf groundcloth... it really just depends on what you're looking for, how much you want to spend and how much extra weight you're willing to add. I'd definitely recommend whatever model you get, (if you go with a dcf ground sheet) make sure it has tie out or stake out points along the border. Most companies include those but I know HLMG just came out with a 1.30z dcf material ground cloth, and it has no tie out/stake loops.. which can make for some frustrating setups..it also doesn't allow you to easily use it as an emergency tarp if needed. DCF is a wonderful fabric but it's not abrasion proof, so imho anything you can do to help protect your tent is a plus..especially on long haul hikes such as thru hikes etc. DCF is obviously just the one of the lightest options, you can get a tyvek ground cloth that weighs maybe 8oz that will work great, and they only cost like 15 bucks. I know super UL people will use a polycro (which is just a thin piece of plastic) and costs maybe 5 bucks. I tried that as well and it got torn to shreds in less than a week. So there's definitely lots of options..I know everyone has their own opinions, and ideas of what works for them, so I'm not saying one is better than another. Gear is very personal. I was just offering my experience, and what has worked for me. Good luck and happy hiking!
Julie- I use the REI Passage 2 Footprint ($35) with my DR Li. Using the tie-out loops it fits perfectly with the tent's dimensions. Yes it's 7 oz. but basically the same weight as Tyvek without the crinkling, shrinkage, logo and need to attach tie out loops.
since when is made in China higher quality than made in the USA? this is a genuine question and im not just bashing China, but shouldn't a $700 US made tent be top of the line quality? are the ZPACKS tents made in Florida high quality? im not a huge fan of China which is a dictatorship with 2m+ people in concentration camps, so ideally im looking for stuff not made over there. anyways, im a first time viewer and you do very good highly detailed videos which is much appreciated.
![FNAF Into the Pit has A LOT of Unused Graphics | LOST BITS [TetraBitGaming]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/6YhZCRdipl4/mqdefault.jpg)
You have a knack for reviewing gear! Not many folks get into the more technical aspects of reviewing items and it's much appreciated. Really enjoyed your last two tent reviews the past two days. Excellent detail. And a wealth of knowledge. Keep it up!
It sure makes a difference from the 1000th 5 minute Duplex review from the back garden
I appreciate that!
Having owned the rainbow double for many years, I can see that a DCF version would be hard to beat.
As a BPL follower for many years, now (and an erstwhile customer of the old BPL gear shop), I‘m very pleased to see your excellent takes on things making it to the mainstream via RUclips! As a long-time owner and lover of the TarpTent Double Rainbow in standard fabric, I can confirm that all the pros and (few) cons you mention also apply for me. It was my very favorite tent of all (and still is my favorite tent for use without trekking poles) until I got a Zpacks Duplex, but that‘s another story. About the size for 2 sleepers: For sitting up side-by-side, try having the 2nd person sleep with their head at the other end. Solo, it‘s a palace, and I absolutely love having the dual-entry option even when alone, e.g. when wind direction changes overnight or people show up and you want to go out the opposite side for nighttime bladder relief. The views with two open vestibules are also a huge plus, and side entry is the most comfortable of all. The only real con for me is in cold and windy conditions (horizontal blasts of icy wind like I experienced in Norway) because the mesh vents at the bottom can‘t be shut off, for example at the chosen head end.
I experienced the draftiness issue with the end vents as well. I was able to adjust the guylines a little to minimize this, except when a huge gust came in, then it was a little hopeless. I put my jacket hood up and hoped for the best, and even with 30-40 mph winds throughout the night, I was fine.
Backpacking Light Yep - same strategy here, except for also having a beanie on under my Ghost Whisperer‘s hood. At least the wind flow is good against condensation. ;-)
I’m so excited about this tent and glad you reviewed it so quickly. I’ve had Tarptents for over 10 years now and my solo and double rainbows are my favorite tents I’ve ever owned. They’ve done great in the Sierra Nevada.... maybe time for another one :)
Hands down the best reviews on RUclips. Thanks so much
Glad you like them!
Another outstanding tent breakdown. No details missed. Fantastic!
I was saving up for a regular one and had NO idea this version was a thing! Yes pleaaaaase! :D
Great review thanks. My slightly older silnylon version got put to the test on one occasion. Pitched a Tarptent double rainbow on Mainrange on snow in winds gusting up to 90. Positioned into wind behind rock and then the wind swung 90 Degrees. Built a snow wall onto the tent on that side to seal it and added walking poles plus extra tie outs and was able to put in a couple of really solid snow anchors. Tent stood up beautifully but I would not recommend it or do it again by choice. Was very cold and blowy inside tent. I was cold in in a minus 20 bag. I had brought a bivy bag as a precaution which got me warm and was just as well as when I awoke in the morning the interior of the tent was white from spin drift. The point being that even if the tent can stand up being designed to ventilate means they are less than ideal for such conditions. The tent is otherwise ideal for Australian conditions. Porch mode onto a decent view is just awesome.
Nice! I wish you had a video of that experience :)
Thanks for the thorough and well articulated review! I was thinking about the Zpacks Duplex until I recently learned about this tent, so I have been looking for reviews about it. Nice job!
I have the original double rainbow. I love it. Great tent, the design is great. Really like the LI options. Good review
This is the best review of any tent I've ever seen! Essential information, to the point and very clearly explained. Subscribed, thank you!
Just used this tent in a very hot and humid climate with a ton of bugs. It vented very well, no condensation, and no bugs got in. Setup is fast, even with no practice.
Been a Backpacking Light subscriber for a few years, did not know there was a channel on RUclips, guess I never noticed since I'm usually on the Gear Swap mostly consuming heavily but selling a little as well ! This is a really excellent piece on an intriguing shelter, better than most on the tube.
Thanks Dan!
This was an excellent review! Very thorough. Wonder if there's any plans to make a Rainbow Li? Seems like the Double is huge for a single person backpacking.
Great video! Thanks, very informative. You helped me decide between the duplex and double rainbow Li... Kind of petty of me but I'm gonna go with the duplex bc it's still 100% manufactured in the USA (I think).
We are reviewing the Duplex Free Duo right now, stay tuned!
Please be sure to compare/contrast the Free Duo also with a Duplex using the Flex Poles + Trekking poles together.. I use a Duplex w/Flex poles AND trekking poles and it is totally solid and more flexible than both the Free Duo and the TarpTent Double Rainbow. It is true that a Duplex with flex poles only and no trekking poles at the peaks is not stable.
Absolutely fantastic review. I was on the fence about a new tent and this one answered all my questions and more. Thanks so much!
Great review of the tent!
It is insane to me that a tent as big as this (with the poles and struts!) weighs less than my goretex bivy. Yes, technology, budget, and design requirements are very different, but still.
Thanks for the entertaining and high quality videos!
I know. My Rab hooped bivy is 36 oz... "ugh!"
I have used the double rainbow for years (hundreds of nights camping in it), and LOVE IT. I wanted to get away form Nylon by going with the DCF material. I just got a tent from a different manufacture. I really miss the porch design on my new tent. I felt the quality of the TarpTents made in the USA were top notch. I wish I knew this tent was in the works, I would have been the first to get one. I will just have to hike and camp more to wear out my new tent, then I can get back to the best tent ever, double rainbow with DCF. Best material and tent design, Wow.
I was surprised about the quality comments too. We have the DR and the cut and stitching are excellent.
Does anyone else remember back in 2005-2006, when Shires swore he'd NEVER make a Cuben/DCF tent? LOL.
He said, many times, that he thought Cuben Fiber (now DCF) was too expensive for the weight gain.
DCF is fine, and the tent is great. Markets shift. I just hope Henry has avoided working with China, and if he is, that he finds a way not to ASAP.
Yes, his comments are burned into my soul, I've needed trauma counseling to deal with it 'til he introduced the Notch Li in 2018. But it's clear that he was willing to wait and see what DCF longevity was going to look like, and based on these initial Li designs, he hasn't exactly been sitting around not thinking about how to build DCF shelters during those years...
@@BackpackingLightUSA yes, i'll call that an educated guess (!). You can't have a DCF shelter like those without making prototypes first. That takes time . Anyway the point remain the it was about the cost versus weight gain not the fabric itself that was the problem.
I remember him saying that in a podcast once. Look how far he has come!
appreciate the content you're putting up during these times.
My pleasure. Yep, these are some times...
Great review, thanks! I have added rare earth magnets to my tent and have found that the magnets get covered with iron-containing dust and sand found in pretty much all camp sites. When packing up my tent, I've found bobby pins and nails attracted to the magnets, too. Have you (or anybody else) seen any "iron sand" coating the magnets yet?
Jim Pflugrath I made tyvek peg bags with magnetic closure and have experienced what you describe. The stuff rubs right off with my finger. It’s more curious than annoying at this point so I’m still using those at the moment
Yes! Us too. Provides some good entertainment, to see how much iron is in which soils :)
I have a Rainbow 1 person and was wondering about DCF. A 1 person LI would be real light. Great design with carbon fiber pole and semi freestanding option. You did a great review job. Sorry to hear about Chinese manufacturing. I’ll take the old way for America.
the china made was really the hard part for me when i decided to buy one
Top notch review. Leaps and bounds over 99% of those I see! Thanks! Going with the regular double rainbow cause of cost.. hoping the performance is close enough.
They should have added the lightweight white fabric low down in the new notch li (at least on one end so you can sleep with your head against it or away from it depending on how the wind is blowing or if you want or don't want a breeze)
The Notch Li has a "solid fabric interior" option that is exactly what you describe!
Thanks Ryan. I just ordered this tent today. I'm 6' 4" tall and this looks like it should work perfectly. Fingers crossed
Good luck with it!
Lucky Strike Hikes would be curious as to how you like it and fit in it. I’m 6’3 myself
@@kevinguzda1131 UPDATE!! My NEW Double Rainbow Li tent arrived today. It is absolutely luxurious for a tall person. I set it up with my trekking poles in freestanding mode in my bedroom to test the fit. For the test, I inflated my 75" x 25" Therm-a-rest X-lite air mattress and my Sea to Summit Aeros XL pillow to test head/foot-room with my down quilt. (I see so many RUclips videos where other "tall" people get inside a completely empty tent to show the "massive" headroom. But, they never show it with an inflated mattress+pillow and a lofted down quilt. These items can significantly reduce headroom/foot room). The Double Rainbow Li passed my test with flying colors. I can stretch out my feet and lie tall and not come anywhere close to rubbing either end of the tent. I was also able to go from lying completely flat to sitting straight up on my inflated air mattress without rubbing against the roof. And sitting in the middle (atop my mattress) for cooking meals in the porch area is also very roomy. I can sit straight up without slouching and I do not touch the roof of the tent anywhere. Needless to say, I'll be selling my Z Packs Duplex, and My Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL tents. Tarptent's Double Rainbow Li is my dream tent. Once the Sierras open up I'll post a video with more feedback.
Lucky Strike Hikes thanks for the feedback, I should have it soon! Which trekking poles do you use for freestanding mode? I have a pair that go to 54, would hate to buy another pair but would like some that extend to 57 inches..
I will agree that their vestibules need to be re thought out. I have the Dipole Li single and double and both vestibules could use a solid 8 more inches to make cooking in them easy. There are a few other issues on the Dipoles with their vents at the foot and head, but doesn't look to be the same set up with this tent. I am sad to hear that 30 mph winds were handled, but you wouldn't take it much further. I have been looking for a free standing tent for hiking in Ireland and Scotland where the ground is rocky a lot of the time. But they both have high winds and rain.
I really liked my Tarptent (normal, not Lithium) Double Rainbow. But when I had to take a break from backpacking so I sold it years ago. I’m definitely looking to get a new tent…
I'm Torn between this tent and the Aeon Li and I have watched both of your reviews on each! You make both tents seem very compelling and this makes it even tougher to choose. Thanks for the great reviews. Wish i could just get both and not have this decision...LOL. Keep up the great reviews and backpacking videos!
Which did you get? How did it work out?
@@wolfeadventures I actually ended up getting an X-Mid Pro 2 and love it.
I had a ZPacks Duplex and loved it, and sold it for stupid reasons to buy a tent I thought I'd like more but really didn't...so now it's a decision between this and going back to the Duplex. What are your thoughts between the two and which would you choose? I like the higher walls on the interior doors with this and the porch mode but worry about zippers and failure. Which do you think is more storm worthy? Scotland and N. Europe can have some pretty gnarly wind and storms even in the summer
Review the Dan Durston Xmid 2p Tent!
It's in the queue! Yes, looking forward to this one!
I just bought the 1p model.
Can't wait to receive it!
Finally! I think I have found the tent that suits me!
After buying, testing, I sold several. So far, I really like this tent. I haven't tested it in the field yet, but I installed it several times at the park near my house, just to familiarize myself with it and I was pleasantly surprised by the ease of installation, the quality of the design . I have the 1P and I find it very spacious. I have plenty of room to leave my bag inside.
I can't wait to use it for my next camping trip which will take place in two weeks :)
Im super excited! I just ordered mine today and I hope it will come in by next week. So I can use it on my section hike to the Pinhoti Trail ❤️🤩
Thanks for the review.
I've had three Henry Shire Tarptents now and I still use my first one, a Squall 2 I picked up in 2004, on a regular basis and it's been through a LOT. I have the basic Rainbow 2, not this Lithium version, and one issue I had was the bug netting at the curve towards the bottom of the doors started to tear away. There was a little too much stress on the netting and I now have a tear several inches long in the netting just inside of the stiching to the zipper on both sides. I haven't used the tent much and I would have liked to use it more since other than that issue the tent is a nice design. I liked that it it could be set up very quickly and it could be set up in heavy rain with little or no rain getting inside the tent while it's being set up. The vents at the top of the vestibules/doors seemed rather small for this type of tent but better than no vents. I literally never used the "porch mode" setup since it offered minimal coverage in a storm and was a bit of a pain in the ass to transition to in the extremely rare occasions where I would want it. For my uses it was always open vestibule doors or batten down the hatches.
Hopefully Dyneema fabrics will get a little less expensive in the next few years. Or ideas for budget minded Dyneema tents?
Always love your reviews. Definitely the best on youtube. Its unfortunate that tarp tents are manufactured in china. I cant in good conscience help support that country’s government in anyway. Still a good design. Wish they would bring back the manufacturing. I would be willing to pay more. Excellent review 👍
@DJ Ness and the quality is not quite as good! My Zpacks is a great tent but the quality of stitching and finishing pales in comparison to another tent I own that was made in Vietnam--Every single stitch is perfect. The double lines are completely parallel, there were no loose ends....just a beautifully manufactured tent...it's the XMid by the way! Looking forward to receiving my Rainbow Li (1P) as a different option to my trekking-pole-only tents!
Excellent review! Thank you!😊
Ooo. I didn't know they made the DCF version but have borrowed the old DR from a friend. Never went back after picking up a Nemo Hornet 2, but now I'm thinking about it. Great review!
(Also have that pad in regular wide. Love it!)
Your reviews are great.
I’d love to see you do a similar review on the Stratospire Li, and draw some comparisons with this one.
If dyneema back packs wear out and develop pin holes.....
Do the tents fair the same?
As I watched this video I kept mentally comparing it with Hilleberg's Enan tent, one I'm thinking of buying. I notice you've not said anything about any Hilleberg tent & not reviewed any. This is simply an observation.
Setting up this tent when it's gusty windy would be as difficult as trying to set up any tent except a Hilleberg.
I bought the REI Quarter Dome SL! in May 2020 AFTER watching your video. Sadly, when I contacted REI Customer Service about buying some pole clips & plastic clips that are required to attach the fly to the tent I was told they don't have any plastic part for that tent available. I simply wanted some spare plastic parts in case one breaks, I wanted them for inventory. And back in November REI DISCONTINUED manufacturing & selling the REI Quarter Dome series.
5 times here in Northern Nevada I've been out with my REI Quarter Dome SL1 tent at elevations above 8,500' & each time strong gusty winds started blowing as soon as the sun went down. My tent provided shelter from the wind storm, but it did get blown back & forth, all night, every night & I slept very little.
I want DURABILITY from my tent & I want it to provide me with shelter from the wind just below or above treeline, hence the reason I'm most likely going to buy the Hilleberg Enan instead of this tent or any other brand of tent.
This is an ultralight dyneema tent and it is 2-person. Your Enan tent is 1 person and weighs a 2 lbs 10 oz. Mentally compare all you want, this is not the tent to compare your Enan to and vice versa, they are for different purposes. This tent is for people who want to go long distances at a minimum weight and have tons of room inside. The Enan is for people who want a rugged tent for 1 person.
@@SpaceTravel1776 I agree, 100% with you
12:06 I like this little metal platform you have .. which is it?
Thank you 😊 you really explained the Tent System ⛺ peace be with you
Thanks for the review, Tarptent is a great company with very good products. I see you are rocking a PHD jacket 👍
Yes I am! A few ounces heavier than my Goosefeet "ultralight jacket" but the PhD Yukon is a better deal for the cold...!
Interesting design and great review. I'm not a fan of the tapered width at increased height due to risk of rain intrusion when the doors open, although the porch mode mitigates that some. I ruled out the Dirigo for that reason. Definitely an option for when I go to replace my Duplex. Lots of trades here. Love the free standing feature and space. Did you get an opportunity to also look at the insert?
If you're referring to the clip-in insert, there's not much to it: mitten hooks, and a piece of nylon. It creates a sort of double-wall, and hangs off of the inner a bit. It mostly goes all of the way down to the floor vents he shows later in the vid.
I haven't looked at the insert, but imagine that it works just fine and is plenty useful for condensation-prone conditions. I've made a number of them myself (DIY) for my single wall tents and these add-on panels are terrific. ^rj
Thank you Squirrel Therapy and BPL :)
@@KrizAkoni I've not had many issues with rain intrusion when I enter/exit, at least not more than I have with other tents. Just leave the "porch mode" flap attached, or attach it rather, prior to enter/exit, and I don't unzip it all the way to the apex vents. The only thing I generally try to pay attention to is when I roll the wet vestibule doors back and clip them. You can get a little drippage during that if you're not paying attention, but I feel this is the same for most DCF or single/hybrid wall tents I've seen -- if you roll the vestibule back, there's little overhang if any. I'll fling the open door around the side, too, which will stick to itself because of dew, haha. I leave the insert in full-time, as I'm generally backpacking East-Coast, or end up in PNW. My SilNylon Double Rainbow has been my favorite tent to date, and I'm now waiting for my Double Rainbow Li to arrive! :D
Shown here:
ruclips.net/video/5CEqtQaqJTo/видео.html
They shortened the porch-mode flap in the DCF version, but it should still work the same. Henry said it was due to the DCF sheet dimensions.
I really like your reviews: very detailed and factual. But, my god, it always seems to be so cold where you live! Does the snow ever melt where you are? ;-)
Montana.
I believe he's in the SE part of Wyoming.
Thank you for the most helpful review!
Great review! Can anyone tell me how "see-through" the dyneema is on this tent? I'm trying to decide between this one and the Duplex. The duplex seems so translucent and this one less so (at least, from the video), although the specs say that the duplex is made with a slightly heavier grade of dyneema....
Thanks for a very high quality review!
Question, I am thinking about purchasing this tent given an issue with my duplex. My pad will slide sometimes and kickout the floor past the fly allowing rain to pour off the fly directly into the tub floor! Do you believe that could be an issue with this tent? Also do you like this tent better than the stratospire?
Hilleberg and Fjallraven are my go-to tents... I know they are NOT in the same category. Hille and FJ are the best tents on the market. :) I must try a Tarptent someday. :) I do not like Zpacks Duplex because of condensation :( Maybe the Stratospire...
I have the sil-nylon version and I'd say this design is the most comfortable, full-featured design out there. But pretty concerned to hear you say this could not survive a storm above tree-line! @4:07
...it's a semi-freestanding tent, not a mountaineering tent. It doesn't have the pole structure for extreme weather.
Can you please review the zpacks free duo? Also thanks for the great work that you do. The depth and thought that go into your reviews is just outstanding... Thank you.
Coming soon!
@@BackpackingLightUSA did you ever get your name on a Free Duo?
Ryan, thank you for another fantastic review! You are by far the most thorough and trustworthy tent reviewer on the net right now. I did miss your dog in this video though!
You mentioned in another thread that the DR Li suffers from draft issues at the head and foot, which is something I also encounter in my single Rainbow. I can mitigate it a little by piling rocks / snow / sticks around the tent as a windbreak, but the cold blasts still get under my quilt. I'm very excited about the DR Li but this is a potential deal-breaker for me. I'm wondering if you had any ideas about reducing that draft? Would it be possible to add a couple of velcro strips and bring a removable nylon insert (like the ceiling insert) to cover the vents? I appreciate that this might cause condensation issues, but I guess the vents wouldn't need to be covered completely.
Tim, re: drafts, the DR Li is substantially less so at sleeping level than the Rainbow due to the solid wall door panels which run all the way across the sides and into the corners. Yes, the ends are still mesh for ventilation but the floor ends can clip up to well above the canopy edge if need be.
late to the conversation but the djedi appears to be done? is there a replacement out there? not this tent it seems.
Interesting questions at the beginning. What if you ask the same question but expand the weight factor to include tents that are 2lbs or around that point? Just a few ounces more. Is this tent worth it still? Not everyone is a thru hiker and maybe there's "light" and "light enough" for those who only spend a few nights out of the year in a tent.
That looks like a great update for my Double rainbow. I'd love to have a lighter tent and partial solid sidewalls (or even full solid sidewalls). I wonder why you didn't show the freestanding option? Also it would be good to mention the Inner Liner, which makes condensation not an issue anymore (for some extra weight). Also it's removable so you can always decide to bring it or not. Can you confirm if it has grommets for vertical trekking pole support (below the connection points of the cross pole)?
I'd like to know as well...about grommets for trekking pole additional support! i saw a photo somewhere that included this but no explanation or other description.
Great video. If you were to pack the pole separate from the tent stuff sack, could you compress the tent small enough to pack in horizontally in your pack? I have the Aeon and have to pack it vertically because the struts are basically attached.
That was one of the first things I checked out. I folded the tent lengthwise into quarters, rolled it up, and it was just rite to pack horizontally in my pack.
Is that an “you either have or will” burn mark on your down jacket sleeve?Scars are cool. Enjoyed the review in actual conditions. Thanks
yep, that's a burn mark! covered with some clear tenacious tape; stove casualty... ^rj
Great review! Amazing tent! Crow✌️
Thanks for the review
Amazing tent review, especially the condensation analysis. What are your thoughts on the optional liner for this tent?
Excellent review. Would you say that replacing the main arch pole with an aluminum one would make it sturdier in high winds? Last time I camped in Snowdonia we had gusts up to 60 miles an hour, so the carbon pole might be an issue if I encounter the same type weather.
I'm not sure the Al arch pole in the Li shelter would be a good idea. The different bending geometry may actually mess with the tension in the arch pole sleeve. You'd have to ask Tarptent/Henry Shires about that though to confirm. Sometimes these things are not "ideally" interchangeable... ^rj
I actually talked to Henry at Tarptent regarding this, and you can swap out the carbon poles and struts for the traditional aluminium ones that come with their silnylon version. I bought my double rainbow li with aluminium poles. Just gives me a little added comfort on long hauls. If that carbon arch pole breaks during a long stretch, you'd really be stuck,, especially in four weather. So for me getting the aluminium pole, and strut was the better fit. But you can use either or on this tent as per tarptent,
Ryan would you recommend the sil nylon version of the double rainbow if that was your budget. I like the design and free standing option 42oz is not bad for 300$.
And the Li, tent for tent minus the poles, weigh the exact same weight as compared to the zpacks duplex.
DR li could be Duplex killer
Good review. Looks like a good tent for 1. But terrible for 2. Would be good if you're reviewing a 2p tent to have 2 people in it.
if you were to pick between the double rainbow li or the hyperlite dirigo 2, which would you prefer, pros and cons and which is more durable ?
great review, thank you. So if you had to put them up against each other, would you go with the stratospire li or this guy?
Ease of setup and livability is definitely better in the Double Rainbow Li, but the Stratospire is probably more stable in high winds...
@@BackpackingLightUSA thank you for your quick response, really appreciate it
I am intrigued by the small table you used for your stove. Can you post some information about it? Thanks.
it looks like the SULUK 46 TULIMAK BACKPACKING TABLE suluk46.com/product/tulimak-backpacking-table/
@@annao.2884 Thanks!
cascadewild.com/ultralight-folding-table
This one is even better. Only 2.2 oz
Excellent review
Thanks for the awesome review, but I have a big concern with the several magnets in the closures. If you're backpacking and leave a trail system to go cross country with this in your pack and you're using a map and compass for navigation, how is that not going to skew the compass reading? Some years ago a buddy and I we're backpacking and our compass readings never matched until he remembered his drinking tube clip was magnetic. After he cut that off our readings matched and all was well. If I owned that tent, my first mod would be removing the magnets and figure out another fastening system.
Neodynium magnets have virtually zero field strength form even an inch or two away.
Hmm. Interesting, didn't know that.
So I just placed my compass within a few inches of these magnets, no issues at all - compass still points in the right direction. ^rj
Thanks for the follow up with magnets and compass.
Great review. Right on point!
Glad you liked it!
You said not above the tree line exposed to the wind, what would be a comparable tent that could do that ?
Great review 👍🏼
StratoSpire 2/ li
Hi Ryan, very nice review! Your tone of voice and talk "speed" makes digesting all of it very easy. Well done. What type of hardware do you use to do your humidity/temp measurements?
Marc - I use Kestrel Drop D3 meters.
Sir,
If you don't mind, I'm curious as to why you chose this over StratoSpire 2/ li ??
I didn't "choose it" per se, as this was a tent that was simply in our review pipeline. If I wanted the most amount of livable interior room, I'd choose the Double Rainbow Li. If I wanted more stability and condensation resistance in cold, wet conditions, I'd choose the Stratospire 2/Li. ^rj
I’m 6’3”+ and do not see it working for me without condensation issues. I imagine I would be in constant contact with outer wall in some fashion while in this thing. Good review.
I’m 6’ 4” and have very comfortably used a 2016 Double Rainbow and never contacted with the outside wall.
If solo, you won't have an issue at all. If shared with another and you're on 20" wide pads, you shouldn't have a problem either. If shared with another and you're on 25" wide pads, and you stay towards the middle, you shouldn't have an issue. If you don't like your partner and want to snuggle up against the vestibule wall, then yeah, maybe...
I'm 6' 4" and mine NEW Double Rainbow-Li just arrived today. It has plenty of head and foot room! I am soooo happy! Finally I can sell my Duplex and my Solong 6 and my Copper Spur. They aren't even close to what this tent can do.
Lucky Strike Hikes I just ordered mine too, I’m 6’3. I’m still nervous won’t be room enough for me and daughter, she will start using 20 inch regular length pad and I will keep my long/wide pad. I can’t wait to get it though..
Kevin Guzda it’ll be tight but doable. I was able to get two people in my ZPacks Duplex using my 25” wide mattress and a buddy’s 20” mattress. It worked. Having said that, my Double Rainbow is much longer and wider than my Duplex. Good luck to you.
What a fantastic review. Subbed!
Very nice and precise review, thank you for sharing! How did you measured temp and condensation inside and outside of the tent? ^^
Great video and review. Thanks for sharing
Now that is great design
Double Rainbow LI or Gossamer Gear The Two DCF? About 6-7 oz difference and TT is slightly bigger in every direction.
I think you answered. Gossamer Gear The Two DCF seems like a complete waste of money to me unless you are very short. It is only 81" in length compared to 88" for the Double Rainbow Li or 90" for the Zpacks Duplex. And, the tent floor of The Two is 7D sil/pu nylon ripstop, not Dyneema. What was Gossamer thinking?!
@@SpaceTravel1776 I ended up buying The Two, TT, and Triplex to compare (and return at a cost of $70 in shipping). The Two is shamefully short - not even a realistic tent for average or taller people. As you noted, the floor is Sil and feels like it is extremely fragile. If it were given to me for free, I wouldn’t use it. While the TT was a nice shelter and well-made, I only kept the Triplex because it had more room. I would’ve considered keeping both if I had the money.
What would your honest advice be about this tent? My two concerns having never used hybrid single wall tents before is condensation and having enough room for two long wide pads and using it comfortably for father/daughter trips. I have a Nemo Dragonfly 2p 48 oz packed weight but it’s too small for trips with her and I use it solo.
I think two long wide pads are just fine in this tent. Another good option is the Nemo Dagger 3 - very generous room for 2 + gear!
Backpacking Light thanks, I’m thinking about getting this Tarptent for my solo tent though. If I did also get a roomier/heavier tent for more room on father /daughter trips would you recommend the Dagger over the BA CS 3. Dagger is about 6-7 oz more both would be big enough, which one would you recommend overall between the two?
Nice phd jacket.
Sounds like a cool tent, but a nope for me. I hike single and am sticking with the duplex.
The Stratospire Li gives this a run for its money doesn’t it?.....i e just watched the opening minutes where it says you’d be hard pushed to match the double rainbow Li
I forgot to ask, you said it did well in a storm. I’ve been wondering about this design with no guy ropes. Was it wind a strong wind?
I've had it in gusts to 30-40 mph with no issues. Yes, I added extra guylines. One each at the mid-point arch pole ends helped a lot. I added 3 to each, and that really stabilized things. I don't know about taking this tent into a winter storm with steady 50+ mph winds above treeline but it should be fine for most of what you'll experience in 3-seasons below the treeline in the CONUS.
Except for DCF, all other styles are made in China for cost control and better workmanship. If they are made in the United States, the price will be at least doubled, and the workmanship will be worse. Top Chinese tent factories accept the best brands in the world every year.
Impressive review. Thanks
Fantastic review. Thanks.
Our pleasure!
Nice vid!!! Is that the Nemo Tensor Alpine or Regular? Do you like it?
Thanks!
TheTrailDancer Looks like the Nemo Tensor Alpine Insulated I just bought. Loving it so far like crazy! Surely he has the Insulated in such conditions, for the non-insulated version only has an R value a bit over 2, as I recall.
@@scottbecker3485 Normal version is 3.2 now.. :)
TheTrailDancer Ah, thank you. Yeah, I did here something about the rating system having been changed. Perhaps that accounts for the difference. Or did they change the design?
I'd rather sleep on this pad than my bed at home. It's the Nemo Tensor Insulated, regular wide. ^rj
Backpacking Light Good one! :-) Now if your can only get the Missus to toss out that pricey boxspring bed and buy a 2nd pad, you‘ll be in business. ;-)
Great review as always, of a great tent.
Thanks! 👍
That is one sexy tent!
∞ Love ^
🙏🏼
Not a fan of condensation
Great review! Thanks
Thanks for watching!
what's that little table at 12:03?
Re: Groundcloth/Footprint? Did I miss something or do you not need one with this tent? If you do need one can anyone recommend one? I'd be scared to put my almost $700 tent on the bare ground.
Julie, I always use a footprint, with any dyneema tent. Even though most dyneema tents make the floors of the tent with a stronger dcf (usually 1.0 oz) I like having another layer of protection especially when using a lightweight inflatable sleeping pad. I've talked with many of the owners of these companies, and even though they advertise you don't need a footprint, everyone i spoke to recommended using one. I usually use the zpacks triplex footprint for my Tarptent's; because it fits their dimensions well, especially this tent and the StratoSpire Li. The zpacks flat ground dcf cloth is made from 1.0oz dcf fabric so it really gives you a nice added layer of protection. Most UL PEOPLE will never do this though because of the weight, etc but for me, it's totally worth the 3 or 4 extra ozs. Most of the cottage companies make dcf ground cloth options, but in my experience the ones made of material less than .8oz dcf material developed pinholes, and tears very early on in my hikes.. and that was with taking care and finding good campsites. Ultimately, I landed on the triplex dcf ground cloth by zpacks, and for the cost, and material you get, I found it to be the best choice for me. it costs 120 dollars. But in comparison the HLMG version is a lighter dcf fabric, roughly the same dimensions, about 1.2oz lighter in weight, but it costs $175. I used that one on my first 600 miles of the pct, and it developed a ton of pinholes and small gashes within my first week. So Ultimately I wanted something of a higher dcf like the zpacks flat dcf groundcloth... it really just depends on what you're looking for, how much you want to spend and how much extra weight you're willing to add. I'd definitely recommend whatever model you get, (if you go with a dcf ground sheet) make sure it has tie out or stake out points along the border. Most companies include those but I know HLMG just came out with a 1.30z dcf material ground cloth, and it has no tie out/stake loops.. which can make for some frustrating setups..it also doesn't allow you to easily use it as an emergency tarp if needed. DCF is a wonderful fabric but it's not abrasion proof, so imho anything you can do to help protect your tent is a plus..especially on long haul hikes such as thru hikes etc. DCF is obviously just the one of the lightest options, you can get a tyvek ground cloth that weighs maybe 8oz that will work great, and they only cost like 15 bucks. I know super UL people will use a polycro (which is just a thin piece of plastic) and costs maybe 5 bucks. I tried that as well and it got torn to shreds in less than a week. So there's definitely lots of options..I know everyone has their own opinions, and ideas of what works for them, so I'm not saying one is better than another. Gear is very personal. I was just offering my experience, and what has worked for me. Good luck and happy hiking!
Julie- I use the REI Passage 2 Footprint ($35) with my DR Li. Using the tie-out loops it fits perfectly with the tent's dimensions. Yes it's 7 oz. but basically the same weight as Tyvek without the crinkling, shrinkage, logo and need to attach tie out loops.
@@alanz1042 Alan, that sounds awesome! I'll have to check that out! Great tip! Thank's for the info and idea!
since when is made in China higher quality than made in the USA? this is a genuine question and im not just bashing China, but shouldn't a $700 US made tent be top of the line quality?
are the ZPACKS tents made in Florida high quality? im not a huge fan of China which is a dictatorship with 2m+ people in concentration camps, so ideally im looking for stuff not made over there.
anyways, im a first time viewer and you do very good highly detailed videos which is much appreciated.
Nice review lots of good in formation. 😃🤜🤛
Thanks! 👍
Can anyone please tell me the name of the small table being used in this video?
it's this one: suluk46.com/product/tulimak-backpacking-table/
@@BackpackingLightUSA Thanks heaps!
$649 USD ??
Cuben fiber is not cheap.
only an idiot buys this brand
@@turboturd7954 ? Why do you say that?
@Turbo Turd, Awesome things are not for you Mr. Turd
Because of your video I bought one!:))) Now I have a hole in my wallet!:))) Very nice video!