Not a lot more needs to be written about the allure of modern, ultralight pyramid shelters than Ryan Jordan's eloquent piece here and more specifically about Mountain Laurel Design's DuoMid (albeit the cuben fibre model) on Andy Howell's blog here but suffice to say that the DuoMid really could be the 'one shelter to rule them all'. Sure there are occasions where I still like a more minimal, simple tarp (in high summer) and I'd prefer the rock solid protection of a true high mountain tent in the winter mountains of Norway but for 90% of the time this wonderful, simple, light and adaptable shelter is all I need.
The MLD workmanship is legendary and the design is elegantly simple. Customisation is also available and the 6-8 weeks delivery can feel delightfully painful. Big enough for two people at a pinch (although for extended use I would size up to the SuperMid to avoid possible companion conflict) it is a palace for one, especially in poor weather. No need for yoga poses when your getting changed. Plenty of room for spreading your gear out and even cooking inside if your stove can be trusted to behave itself. Rumour has it that it's the ultimate shelter for one man and his dog. Modular in the respect that you can use it with a choice of InnerNets, bivys and with or without a ground sheet, this shelter can cope with all kinds of weather. It goes up quickly and there is little to fuss with beyond learning to pitch it as tight as a drum. I chose yellow because I don't have to worry too much about being 'stealthy' over here and it's a beautifully sunny, happy place to wake up in. I chose Sil-nylon because it was far cheaper than cuben fibre and allegedly more durable. I understand I might have to fuss around with the pitch slightly more due to Sil-nylon's tendency to stretch a little on poor weather but that's ok with me. It's another piece of gear I would replace in a flash if I ever lost it and this reinforces my belief that this shelter is close to perfection.
Anyone want to buy a Laser Comp?!
