Construction & Features

The most notable design element on the Zpacks Free Zip is its double X pole configuration, one X on each end. Most freestanding domes utilize a single X, but we can see how the double X would be more wind resistant, and create steeper head/end walls. Zpacks even claims its the most wind-worthy in their entire lineup! The poles are made with 6.3mm Easton carbon fiber, very strong and light, and fold down small. We’ll see how these compare to some of our other favorites, like the DAC NFL/NSL poles.

This is the only true freestanding tent in the Zpacks line, a tuned and optimized version of its predecessor – the Free Duo – and a big upgrade over the Duplex Freestanding Flex Kit, which converts a Duplex classic into freestanding mode for pitching onto hard surfaces and sand.

Like all of the rest of the Zpacks tents, Free Zip is made with Dyneema fabric, .5 or .75 for the canopy, and burly 1.0 for the floor. We love Dyneema tents, and find them to be best-in-class, lightweight, extremely sag resistant, and incredibly durable and long lasting compared to ripstop nylon or poly of similar weight per square yard. Dyneema has an exceptional tear-strength, and is waterproof without any coatings.

The biggest performance downside is its overall small size. We have to assume they made it as big as possible while still keeping it under 2 lbs, but sticking hard to that weight cap. Its interior area of 26.3 sq ft is a bit lower than the industry standard 28 sq ft for regular sized 2p tent. It is 1″ narrower and 3″ shorter then Duplex Classic. It is 6″ narrower and 8″ shorter than the Offset Duo, the largest and most luxurious 2p Zpacks tent.

However, the steeper-than-average end walls and taller-than-average ceiling make it feel bigger than it is, and compensate for the loss of square footage. However again, this is a single walled tent, so you have to stay mindful of not brushing against condensation. This in turn makes it feel a bit smaller than a double wall of the same interior volume.

And then there’s the vestibules, with a total combined estimated area of ~8 sq ft (our best guess based on line drawing geometry), roughly half the size of lightweight double walled freestanding tents. This makes them large enough to be viable for storing shoes, but it may be difficult to store a pack and shoes under it without something sticking out, or sacrificing the ability to use it as an entry/exit point. These are some of the very smallest vestibules we’ve ever seen.

Moving on from size, we conclude with the features. The Free Zip has lots of great livability features, including peak vents, magnetic storm door roll ups, included repair kit, two interior pockets, backup zipper sliders, bath tub floor risers, and independent DCF stuff sacks for the poles and tent body.