Best Tent Zipper?

[ragz]

Hey guys, I am finishing up building my own Sawtooth style tent and would like to get some recommendations on which zipper to use. I plan on sewing a flap that will protect the zipper in harsh conditions if that impacts any decision. Interested to hear what you all have used.

 

[ragz]

Been doing some research and I think I am going to go with a Uretek #5 zipper and opt not to sew in a protective flap since the zipper should be able to repel enough water to prevent entry into the shelter.

 

[Piscatory_4]

How about something like this? About 15 feet long, can get several for free, we throw them out when done after one use. If looking to backpack probably too bulky.

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[Ehiggins]

I think I used #10 size zipper on my tipi build a few years back. It’s been through numerous storms and we haven’t had any issues with water coming through the zipper.


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[ragz]

I think I used #10 size zipper on my tipi build a few years back. It’s been through numerous storms and we haven’t had any issues with water coming through the zipper.


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Do you think a #5 would be too fine for harsh conditions?

 

[Ehiggins]

Do you think a #5 would be too fine for harsh conditions?

I would imagine it would be ok, I think most backpacking tents tend to use zippers in that size range vs something larger like a #10 but I’m not an expert by any stretch of the imagination. Other than it being a little heavier is there an issue with using a larger size? We’ve never had an issue with the zipper and even without any sort of storm flap water has never come through.