Cold Weather Essentials

After a decade-plus of leading the pack, we gave our award-winning design some slick new upgrades: meet the Duplex Pro. Just like the original Duplex Classic, the Pro is made with waterproof, durable Dyneema® Composite Fabric that is trail tested to go the distance whether you are thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, crossing snow fields in Iceland, or braving the winds in Patagonia.

The fully symmetrical design allows you to pitch and sleep in any direction depending on the wind, the slope of the ground, and the views. Stay protected, or vented in any weather with  zippered storm doors which can be deployed for vestibule space, or secured with magnet toggles for views and airflow. The screen doors feature double-L zippers that drape to block mosquitoes or open fully to access your vestibules or enter on either side of the trekking poles.

The large floor can fit two wide, long sleeping pads without an increased footprint, so you can still squeeze into tight backcountry spots without a fuss. The Duplex Pro is ultralight, spacious, packs down super tiny, and pitches anywhere you feel like calling home. You simply won’t find a lighter, more dialed two-person shelter out there.

I’m on the Appalachian Trail right now for the last 30 days and am 100% happy so far. Awesome pack. Probably best on trail.

– John M., ★★★★★

The Arc Haul Ultra backpack is designed for comfort and durability at an unbeatable weight. Made from Ultra 100X material, the Arc Haul is innovatively designed for long days between resupply. Whether you are thru-hiking or out for a week, this ultralight backpack is a workhorse from the Sierras to the Smokies.

Transfer your pack’s weight to your hips with our curved carbon fiber Arc Frame system, and enjoy the air gap between your back and the pack to keep you cool.

Dial in the perfect fit with our patented adjustable torso height, interchangeable shoulder straps and belts, and tons of modular add-ons. The Arc Haul Ultra will allow you to tackle long days on the trail with a durable ultralight backpack designed to fit you.

Fantastic move to the Arc Haul pack from a traditional internal frame type pack. Although I didn't really need a 70L pack, I decided to go with the biggest I could get as the top rolls down if compartment is not filled up.

– John S., ★★★★★

The Arc Haul Ultra backpack is designed for comfort and durability at an unbeatable weight. Made from Ultra 100X material, the Arc Haul is innovatively designed for long days between resupply. Whether you are thru-hiking or out for a week, this ultralight backpack is a workhorse from the Sierras to the Smokies.

Transfer your pack’s weight to your hips with our curved carbon fiber Arc Frame system, and enjoy the air gap between your back and the pack to keep you cool.

Dial in the perfect fit with our patented adjustable torso height, interchangeable shoulder straps and belts, and tons of modular add-ons. The Arc Haul Ultra will allow you to tackle long days on the trail with a durable ultralight backpack designed to fit you.

First time I put on the Arc Zip Ultra 62L, I immediately noticed the difference—this was the best pack fit I’ve ever experienced. I thought my previous packs fit well, but the extra adjustability of the shoulder straps and hipbelt tilt on this model really took comfort to another level. 10kg has never felt this comfortable before. Highly recommended!

– Kasper A., ★★★★★

The Arc Zip Ultra was built from the ground up for hikers who need quick access to their gear and all-day comfort on the trail. The front zip panel lets you grab your food bag or camera gear without digging through your pack. Our signature curved carbon fiber Arc Frame transfers weight to your hips and creates a breathable space between your back and the pack. No more sweaty discomfort during long climbs or hot days.

With a patented adjustable torso height, interchangeable shoulder straps, and a padded belt that hugs your shape this ultralight pack is ready to move with you wherever the miles take you.

Share body heat and snuggle up together on frosty nights and cold mornings with our reversible Twin Quit. It's been redesigned to keep you warmer, more comfortable, and more ultralight than ever! It is crafted with ethically sourced water-resistant goose down and soft lightweight shell material. Our Twin Quilt easily beats the weight, cost, and warmth of two separate sleeping bags when adventuring with a partner.

Includes a Free size Big Zpacks Roll Top Dry Bag to pack it in! A $39.95 value!

Don't forget to add Sleeping Pad Straps to lash your pads together and block drafts from below.

When I tried on the prototype of this jacket at Trail Days in Damascus earlier this year, I knew I’d be getting one! I think my search for the perfect backpacking jacket is finally over! Bonus that it matches my Zpacks full zip sleeping bag! Zpacks does not disappoint. Just get one.

– Jennifer B., ★★★★★

When those cold nights in the backcountry hit, stay warm and cozy with the Zpacks Down Jacket. Striking the perfect balance of warmth and weight,​ our ultralight down jacket is the go-to insulated layer for outdoor adventurers looking to beat the chill at an unbeatable weight!

 

From alpine ascents to campsite relaxation, the ultralight Octa® Fleece Hoody redefines what a fleece can do. Built with advanced Octa® fleece, it delivers exceptional durability, breathability, and a warmth-to-weight ratio that’s hard to beat.

Featuring a soft, fluffy interior for unmatched comfort, a half-zip for quick temperature control, and a fitted hood to lock out the cold the Octa® Fleece Hoody is designed for performance and versatility.

The spacious kangaroo pocket is perfectly positioned for use with a backpack belt, keeping essentials or trail snacks within easy reach.

Also available in a full-zip version.

Check out the rest of our Octa® Fleece Collection here.

From alpine ascents to nights around the campfire, the ultralight Women’s Octa® Fleece Hoody is designed to move with you and keep you looking great while doing it. Designed with a women's cut and offered in colors that flatter, this ultralight layer keeps you cute, confident, and comfortable wherever the trail leads.

Made with advanced Octa® fleece, it delivers exceptional durability, breathability, and a warmth-to-weight ratio that’s hard to beat. This pullover is designed for performance and versatility, featuring a soft, fluffy interior for unmatched comfort, a half-zip for quick temperature control, and a fitted hood to lock out the cold.

The spacious kangaroo pocket is perfectly positioned for access with a backpack belt on, keeping your hands warm and essentials within easy reach.

The Women’s Octa® Fleece Hoody is the go-to fleece you’ll reach for on every adventure.

Also available in a full-zip version. Check out the rest of our Octa® Fleece Collection here.

From alpine ascents to campsite relaxation, the ultralight Octa® Fleece Hoody redefines what a fleece can do. Built with advanced Octa® fleece, it delivers exceptional durability, breathability, and a warmth-to-weight ratio that’s hard to beat.

Featuring a soft, fluffy interior for unmatched comfort, a full-length zipper for easy layering and precise temperature control, and a fitted hood to lock out the cold, the Octa® Fleece Hoody is designed for performance and versatility.

The spacious kangaroo style hand pockets are perfectly positioned for use with a backpack belt, keeping essentials or trail snacks within easy reach.

Also available in a half-zip pullover version.

Check out the rest of our Octa® Fleece Collection here.

From summit pushes to starlit campfires the ultralight Women's Full Zip Octa Fleece Hoody is made for women who move with purpose. designed a flattering feminine fit and colors that inspire confidence this high-performance layer keeps you warm comfortable ready whatever adventure comes next.

Built with advanced Octa® fleece, it offers an unbeatable balance of durability, breathability, and warmth without the weight. The soft, airy interior feels luxurious against your skin, while the full-zip design gives you instant control over temperature and comfort. A fitted hood provides extra protection when the weather turns cool.

Thoughtful details like roomy hand pockets that stay accessible beneath a backpack belt ensure you can warm your hands or stash essentials with ease. Whether you’re climbing high or unwinding fireside, this fleece is made to move with you every step of the way.

Also available in a slightly lighter Pullover version. Check out the rest of our Octa® Fleece Collection.

Could be the best rain jacket on the market. Keeps you dry from the rain outside and dry on the inside as it is very breathable.

– Craig G., ★★★★★

When the skies are overcast and the rain is pouring down, our ultralight Vertice Rain Jacket offers superior protection and breathability. Our Vertice material is optimized to be lightweight without compromising on durability, and it is among the lightest possible choices for waterproof hyper-breathable rain gear.

Also available in Women's Sizes.

Be sure to check out the rest of our Vertice Rain Gear.

 

Kept me dry in a heavy downpour and they are so small I can pack them along just in case.

– Kevin K., ★★★★★

Master the elements with the Men’s Vertice Rain Pants. Gone are the days of getting soaked with hot, humid and unventilated rain gear. Our Vertice Rain Gear Collection is optimized to be lightweight without compromising on durability, or breathability, and it is among the lightest possible choices for waterproof hyper-breathable rain gear.

Also available in Women's Sizes.

Excellent! I wear it as an external layer, fits perfectly, it keeps me dry. Ultralight and a nice colour.

– Lacramioara, ★★★★★

When the skies are overcast and the rain is pouring down, our ultralight Vertice Rain Jacket offers superior protection and breathability. Our Vertice material is optimized to be lightweight without compromising on durability, and it is among the lightest possible choices for waterproof hyper-breathable rain gear.

Also available in Men's Sizes.

Be sure to check out the rest of our Vertice Rain Gear.

 

They do what they’re supposed to do without adding hardly any weight. For any item so useful when needed this is the best option I’ve found. Thank you.

– Cristina R., ★★★★★

Stay dry during those grueling climbs in the rain with the Women’s Vertice Pants. Gone are the days of hot, humid, and unventilated rain gear. Our Vertice fabric is optimized to be lightweight without compromising on durability, or breathability, and it is among the lightest possible choices for waterproof hyper-breathable rain gear.

Also available in Men's Sizes.

Be sure to check out the rest of our Vertice Rain Gear.

The kilt packs down to nothing and very very light weight. Far better than carrying rain trousers at 5 times plus for weight. The kilt is very easy to use quickly and no need to take boots off. A great idea that keeps you dry with good quality materials and finish. Arrived quickly when ordered.

– Ian M., ★★★★★

The Vertice Kilt is a unique solution to staying cool in warm weather storms, and is a great option for ultralight waist to knee rain protection. It can also be worn as a stand alone item on laundry day. The Vertice Rain Kilt works great when combined with our Vertice Rain Jacket or Groundsheet Poncho.

Also available in a lighter weight Dyneema Composite Fabric DCF Rain Kilt version.

If you're not into a kilt but still into staying dry, check out the rest of our Rain Gear.

Winter weather can be harsh, but when the digits drop yours don’t have to feel the chill. Made from a combination of New Zealand's brushtail possum fur, and New Zealand Merino lamb's wool, these Fingerless Brushtail Possum gloves provide plenty of warmth when you need it most.

These fingerless gloves allow you to easily use your smartphone, open snacks or water bottles, and make removing stakes on cool mornings a breeze.

These gloves are a great companion to the Brushtail Possum Socks, and can be used as a liner under our Vertice Rain Mitts

*Gloves are non-returnable if they have been removed from the packaging.

Excellent! I have the worst circulation and have tried literally every glove and mitten on the market. My hands and fingertips freeze within a few minutes of being in the cold wether it's mild or below zero. These gloves keep my fingertips warm! I do not have to wear anything else.

– Dave H., ★★★★★

Winter weather can be harsh, but when the digits drop yours don’t have to feel the chill. Made from a combination of New Zealand's brushtail possum fur, and New Zealand Merino lamb's wool, these Brushtail Possum gloves provide plenty of warmth when you need it most.

Featuring conductive ends on both the index finger and thumb, these gloves will allow you to use your smartphone and other touch screen devices without having to remove them.

These gloves are a great companion to the Brushtail Possum Socks, and can be used as a liner under our Vertice Rain Mitts

*Gloves are non-returnable if they have been removed from the packaging.

Slip into our Octa® Fleece Mittens, your ultralight, trail-ready hand warmers that weigh next to nothing. Crafted from advanced Octa® fleece, these mitts boast a plush, brushed interior for cozy warmth and a durable mesh exterior that resists abrasion without collecting trail crud. These loose-fitting mittens work great solo or when layered over liners or under our Vertice Rain Mitts. Elastic wrists seal in the warmth, making them great for all-season adventures.

Check out the rest of our Octa® Fleece Collection here.

Winter weather can be harsh, but when the digits drop yours don’t have to feel the chill. Made from a combination of New Zealand's brushtail possum fur, and New Zealand Merino lamb's wool, these Brushtail Possum mittens provide plenty of warmth when you need it most.

The mittens help keep your hands warm and cozy on those cold fall and winter nights.

These mittens are a great companion to the Brushtail Possum Socks, and can be used as a liner under our Vertice Rain Mitts

*Mittens are non-returnable if they have been removed from the packaging.

NRS HydroSkin® Socks are the ultimate liner for hiking through snow, streams or other wet and cold conditions. They are thin enough to easily slip into your boots, trail runners, or sandals. The neoprene core insulates and protects your feet even when wet, and the 4-way-stretch PowerSpan™ outer layer gives you enhanced mobility and greater durability.

Keep your fingers warm when wet too with NRS HydroSkin Gloves.

AVAILABLE TO CUSTOMERS IN THE UNITED STATES ONLY

Barrel through rain and wet brush with confidence while keeping your shoes protected. Unlike some gaiters, Zpacks Gaiters are designed to fully cover your laces and keep debris and water out of running shoes.

A waterproof front zipper fully unzips allowing you to easily put them on or take them off. The ripstop nylon fabric is comfortable and lightweight without compromising on abrasion and tear resistance.

Available in Ankle or Calf height.

NRS HydroSkin® Gloves are perfect for hikers looking to cut the chill without sacrificing grip or feel. Great in the rain, snow, or other wet cold conditions, the thin neoprene material insulates and protects your hands even when wet. It allows you the enhanced mobility to easily pitch your tent in the rain or snow, or breakdown and pack up your cold wet tent the morning after a rainy night.

These also make excellent winter gloves for shoveling snow or scraping ice off your car, while small enough to fit in your jacket pocket. Combine them with Vertice Rain Mitts as a shell to keep them dry, and they can handle even arctic temperatures.

Keep your toes warm when wet too with NRS HydroSkin Socks.

AVAILABLE TO CUSTOMERS IN THE UNITED STATES ONLY

This is without doubt the warmest beanie l have ever had on my head in still air. Kept me toasty in sub zero. I’ve recommended it and Zpacks to several friends.

– William C., ★★★★★

When winter arrives, cold nights at camp are no match for our ultralight Brushtail Possum Beanie. Made from a combination of New Zealand's brushtail possum fur, and New Zealand Merino lamb's wool, these beanies will keep your head warm around the campfire and those frigid days on trail.

For extra warmth pair these socks with our Brushtail Possum Socks and Brushtail Possum Gloves!

For a lighter weight 3 season option, check out our Fleece Hat.

They performed quite well on first try hiking in snow and rain mix. Hands were warm and dry while hiking with trekking poles.

– Karen H., ★★★★★

Cold, rainy hikes are no match for our Vertice Rain Mitts. Our Vertice fabric is optimized to be lightweight without compromising on durability, and it is among the lightest possible choices for waterproof-breathable rain gear.

Be sure to check out the rest of our Vertice Rain Gear.

These are absolutely the warmest socks. I take them backpacking to put on when I get into camp and they keep my feet toasty.

– Amy W., ★★★★★

When the campfire just isn’t enough to keep you warm and your feet need a little extra help heating up, Brushtail Possum Socks are an ultralight must have. Made from a combination of New Zealand's brushtail possum fur, and New Zealand Merino lamb's wool, these socks are sure to keep your toes nice and toasty.

These socks are very thick and warm! They are rugged enough to hike in on cold days, and they also make excellent sleep socks. They are great for winter sports as well.

For extra warmth pair these socks with our Brushtail Possum Gloves!

*Socks are non-returnable if they have been removed from the packaging.

Amazingly light but cuts the wind and holds the heat in with a layer underneath!

– Joe B., ★★★★★

The right layer can make all the difference. That's why the Ventum Wind Shell is purpose-built for those moments when a base layer alone isn’t enough, but an insulated jacket would be overkill.

A whisper-light layer that blocks the bite of the wind while staying highly breathable on the move, the Ventum Wind Shell starts at just under 2 ounces and disappears into your pack until you need it. 

Pairs well with an Octa Fleece Hoody to cut the wind and trap in warmth. Ounce for ounce the Ventum Wind Shell has the best warmth to weight ratio of anything we sell.

Whether you’re logging miles on a thru-hike or pushing big days in unpredictable weather, the Ventum Wind Shell keeps you focused on the journey, not your layers.

Couldn’t be happier with this down hood. Perfect for quilt users, doesn’t slide around or off your head at night like a beanie can on straight, slick hair. Much better than the hood on a sleeping bag, which can slide into your face when you turn, and of course can’t be detached for use as a separate warm hood. The ultra light weight is remarkable. It’s very warm and has a cozy fit and feel.

– Rachel M., ★★★★★

Get ready for sweet dreams on cold nights when bundled up with the Zpacks Down Hood. A perfect companion to your ultralight down quilt, stay cozy and snug tucked away from the cold.

A down hood can move with your head as you turn side to side in your quilt, unlike an integrated mummy bag hood. You can also wear it around camp, or tuck it inside your camp pillow when you don't need it.

Zpacks Down Hoods are reversible, face whichever color you prefer outward.

The Zpacks Octa® Fleece hat delivers impressive warmth without the bulk, ensuring you stay cozy whether you're tackling a windy trail or your morning commute.

Ultralight by design and featuring a double layer of fleece around the ears, this hat locks in heat where it matters most while remaining breathable and easy to pack. Warmth without compromise—no matter where the day takes you.

For a heavier weight 4 season option, check out our Brushtail Possum Beanie.

Check out the rest of our Octa® Fleece Collection here.

A few weeks earlier, I would have just lived with a cold head. But not now! For almost no weight and a tiny amount of space in my pack, I put up a strong defense against hypothermia. Another great product!

– Jon B., ★★★★★

Stay warm and cozy when the temperature begins to drop, whether you’re on the trail or on your way to work. Ultralight and crafted with a double layer of micro-fleece around the ears, this hat was created to keep you warm but not weigh you down.

For a heavier weight 4 season option, check out our Brushtail Possum Beanie.

Still not warm enough? Check out our insulated clothing line here.

When the morning air has more bite than your trail mix, the Zpacks Octa® Neck Gaiter has your back (and your neck, face, and occasionally your hair). This ultralight wonder isn’t just a gaiter, it’s a shape-shifting sidekick ready to tackle whatever the trail throws at you.

Need warmth? Done. Sunburn defense? Check. Bad hair day camouflage? Absolutely. Think of it as a multi-tool for your head except way softer, lighter, and less likely to pinch your fingers.

Check out the rest of our Octa® Fleece Collection here.

This is an excellent product. It keeps your neck cool and protected from the sun too. Very well made, and a great idea!

– Lisa W., ★★★★★

Whether you are exploring a desert, hiking through dense woods, or traveling somewhere cold, the Zpacks Neck Gaiter is a pack list essential. This multi-functional head wear can be utilized in an endless amount of ways to protect your face and neck from the elements! The neck gaiter is a continuously woven tube that can keep you warm on a chilly day, catch sweat, or protect your face and neck from sunburn.

A version is also available in Octa Fleece for colder weather!

High quality in construction. Extremely light weight and super durable.

– Wayne S., ★★★★★

This full size roll top dry bag protects the entire internal contents of your backpack. This is a good option if you prefer to use non-waterproof stuff sacks instead of individual dry bags. It is also nice as an extra layer in very wet environments. Multiple sizes are available.

This is also available in a heavier material with a handle for dual-use as a protective Airplane Case for checking your backpack on an airplane.

It was great at blocking the sun and flexible in the wind. I used it for hours in a rain storm yesterday and it was so light I barely noticed I was holding it that long. I plan to bring this umbrella everywhere.

– Julie C., ★★★★★

Take cover from brutal sun and intense downpours with our Lotus Ultralight Umbrella. We worked hard to develop the world's lightest backpacking umbrella. Weighing in at just 6.8 ounces it is perfect for beating the heat or helping you stay dry in a storm while still being durable enough to stand up to the abuse of a thru-hike. This umbrella will have your back rain or shine!

Add our Umbrella Holster for hands free use and our Umbrella Stuff Sack for storage.

I wanted a food bag that was more flexible than a rigid bear canister that I could hang confidently and that would hold up to the elements. Hangs well, stores in backpack well, holds up well in weather and is just plain wonderful.

– Arian M., ★★★★★

Keep your food safe from bears, rodents, and other woodland creatures with our ultralight Bear Bagging Kit. Featuring one of our Food Bags, a Rock Sack and 50ft of 2.0mm Z-Line Slick Cord, our Bear Bagging kit is everything you need to make sure your food is safe while you sleep.

Less smell, more waterproof = good idea. Sorry bears.

– Dave B., ★★★★★

NyloPro Odor Barrier Bags are an odor proof and water proof ultralight storage solution for the scented items you bring into the outdoors. Made from an ultra durable plastic film for long life and sized just right for most commercial bear bags and canisters, these sacks will shave ounces off your gear list and save you money. Sized to line our food bags and our backpacks as indicated on the Specifications tab below.

When a hot meal at night and hot coffee in the morning is more of a need than a want, a reliable canister stove is mandatory. The Soto Windmaster stove is the best in class for ultralight canister style stoves. The burner is recessed allowing it to light easier and continue burning in windy conditions without requiring a separate wind screen. This stove has really great efficiency which helps you heat water faster and consume fuel slower.

This stove includes a FREE ultralight "TriFlex" stand, in addition to the heavier standard "4Flex" stand.

This Titanium Wing Stove combined with Esbit Tablets may be the lightest and simplest way for minimalist hikers to heat water. The arms are shaped to nestle a small mug, or rest a larger pot like any of our Evernew pots and mugs. The arms fold together for a small flat packed size.