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climbrocks
124
May 18, 2016
Wait, so I can pack a tarp and a mosquito net for one person but have to bring my trekking poles--even if unnecessary because, well, I'm traveling LIGHT--and find a wide enough spot to set this up and still hope it doesn't rain because, let's face it, mosquito nets don't stop sideways rain.....or I could pack my MSR Hubba Hubba for one pound more (a pint of water)? Hmmmm, this sounds like fun!
DannyMilks
4557
May 18, 2016
climbrocks@climbrocks - I'm a little surprised by your post, as they're usually very thoughtful and reflect a good degree of knowledge. However, in this case, I think you're comparing apples to oranges. The MSR Hubba costs significantly more - $210, or maybe $140 more if you find it on a good sale (so twice as much as the Zerogram). That difference is enough to prove my point. However, let's go a bit deeper. The Zerogram setup is very versatile as you can set up one item or the other, or both, or mix with other gear (which you can do to some extent with the Hubba, but not as much). The tarp can be set up very close to the ground to protect against sideways rain. Or us this tarp with something like a Borah Gear Bivy and you have a 20oz setup that is very weather proof. It's much easier to set up a tarp with two poles in limited space or uneven ground, compared with a free standing tent which has a set footprint and relies on essentially four level corners. Finally, most ultralight hikers already use trekking poles. The bug mesh can actually fit two 20" sleeping pads inside, and the tarp (without the bug mesh) can easily accommodate two campers. The Zerogram is both lighter and far more waterproof (4000mm for fly vs. 1200 of the Hubba). I'm not trying to sell you on the Zerogram, but rather am simply highlighting a number of significant differences that would make it a personal choice to choose one over the other.
That all being said, high end 'conventional' tents are getting lighter and lighter, and as they do, it becomes less compelling to opt for a tarp/bug net to save weight. This is great though as it means we have more choices, and it's great that you're thrilled with your MSR Hubba. Thanks for your posting as I think this is a good discussion to have!
climbrocks
124
May 20, 2016
DannyMilks@DannyMilks Thanks, Danny, for the thoughful response. I was clearly way too dismissive of the tarp setup, perhaps bitter for having lost my Granite Gear one (and an incredible OR bivy and a bunch of other sweet gear (brand new unmounted mountaineering boot compatible Silvretta free heel bindings!! Doh!!)) years ago during a move. Sarcasm doesn't exactly move the discussion forward, and for that I apologize. I've long thought that the thing holding tarps back is exposure to bugs; this one even throws in what appears to be a bathtub floor (keeps out snakes too?). I credit you for your excellent response, and if I was in the market for yet another setup (to add to my Hubba Hubba, REI Half Dome, Marmot Eclipse (amazing tent with perhaps the worst vestibule ever) and MH Trango 3), well, I might consider it. The difference in price--and the great price offered here--is indeed one reason well worth considering. Again, thanks for your reply, and I'll keep things more positive. Cheers.