ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
ALPS Mountaineering
ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent
Best for: Ventilation in hot and muggy weather.
MSR
MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint
Best for: Versatile, durable shelter for backpackers.
Our Take
Worth flagging before you compare: the ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent is a dome and the MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint is a backpacking, so these two sit in different shelter categories.
The MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint adds a included footprint — a meaningful structural difference.
On scores, the ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent edges ahead — 8.8 overall versus 8.4.
The biggest gap is weather resistance, where the ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent holds a clear advantage.
The ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent also has a price edge — $50 less at $149 versus $199.
For most buyers, the ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent is the stronger all-round pick — but check the full specs below before deciding.
🏆 Our pick: The ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent
- Fast two-pole freestanding setup
- Non-sag 75D polyester fly
- 36-inch sitting head room
- Heavy five-pound weight
- Loose pole tips
MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint
- Spacious interior fits wide pads
- Color-coded poles ensure easy setup
- Durable fabric provides great privacy
- Heavy pack weight
- Inner-first pitch in the rain
Full Specs
| Spec | ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent | MSR Elixir 1 Tent with Footprint |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Dome, Backpacking | Backpacking, Dome |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $150 | $200 |
| Weight | 4 Lbs 12 Oz | 5 Lbs 5 Oz |
| Min Trail Weight | 3 Lbs 15 Oz | 4 Lbs 1 Oz |
| Floor Area | 23.0 ft² | 18.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 5.5ft^2 | 12 Sq. Ft. |
| Peak Height | 36 | 39 |
| Doors | 2 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 44 X 86 In | 88 X 30 In |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | 75D 185T Poly Taffeta Floor With 3000mm Coating Combine | 75D Taffeta Poly 3000mm Polyether Urethane & PFAS Free DWR |
| Rainfly Fabric | 75D 185T Polyester Fly With 1500mm Coating | 68D Ripstop Polyester 1500mm Polyurethane And DWR |
| Packed Size | 5.5 X 19 In | — |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 10 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited Life Time | Limited |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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