LFD
Description
This run of LFDs has sold out. Contact us to get added to the wait list.
The LFD is the workhorse of our big mountain domes. Like its big sibling, the BFD, this shelter will safely take you anywhere you can take it. Both of our big domes have been proven on Everest; yet the LFD received some extra attention after a heavy wind storm on Mt. Everest at 22,000 ft in 2011. The LFD was the last large tent standing at Camp 2 after the storm passed.
Every aspect of the LFD was designed to maximize durability and function. Custom-molded acetyl clips are easy to operate with gloves and stay flexible down to -40˚F/C. Titanium dioxide-coated fabric gives the LFD an unmatched degree of UV resistance. We often hear from customers that it lasts several times longer than comparable tents at extended high-altitude basecamps.
Built for groups of 10-12 , this is a great communications or dining tent, and is the right size for most expeditions. The LFD is being used all around the world and excels in windy, harsh, high-altitude, and even hot environments.
For more livability when sleeping with groups or camping on wet ground, pick up the LFD Floor to more effectively seal out the elements. To improve the LFD's performance in wet conditions and to help it shed snow, pick up an LFD Flysheet.
Features
- ET210 Titanium Dioxide coated polyester fabric is extremely UV resistant and lasts 3-5 times as long as comparable tent fabrics under intense UV exposure.
- Custom Cobra clips are made of injection-molded acetyl plastic, which remains flexible to -40˚F/C, with stainless steel gate
- Internal tie downs/o-rings provide many options for hanging, storage or internal guying. When properly strung and tensioned, the internal tie down system will greatly increase the strength of the tent much like the spokes and rim of a bicycle wheel.
- Clear polymer window film does not yellow from UV exposure and remains flexible to below -40˚F/C.
- White TiO2 window covers protect window film from UV and reflect heat when closed. (This allows the LFD to excel in almost any condition where large groups need to congregate. Great for expos, trade shows and in-laws as well.)
- Reinforced attachment points are 3-layer TiO2 sewn over a nylon core.
- Reflective grommets are alphanumerically labeled and pole-specific to ease setup.
- 840D nylon perimeter skirt
Click here for setup instructions
Specs
| Weight | 45 lbs 2 oz |
| Capacity | 12+ people plus gear |
| Floor Area | 201 sq ft |
|
Interior Height
|
7' 5" |
| Diameter | 16' |
| Number of poles | 10 |
| Number of doors | 3 |
| Number of windows/vents | 7 |
Materials
| Tent Body Fabrics | ET210 Titanium Dioxide-Coated 210D Polyester Ripstop |
| Skirt Fabric | 840D Nylon Taffeta |
| Poles | 10 DAC Pressfit 13.2mm |
Setup
Features
Specs and Dimensions
| Weight | 45 lbs 2 oz |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 12+ people plus gear |
| Floor Area | 201 sq ft |
| Interior Height | 7' 5" |
| Diameter | 16' |
| Number of poles | 10 |
| Number of doors | 3 |
| Number of windows/vents | 7 |
Materials
| Tent Body Fabrics | ET210 Titanium Dioxide-Coated 210D Polyester Ripstop |
|---|---|
| Skirt Fabric | 840D Nylon Taffeta |
| Poles | 10 DAC Pressfit 13.2mm |
SlingFin LFD — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the LFD’s intended use?
The LFD is our workhorse single-wall 5-meter expedition basecamp dome for extended use over multiple seasons in high-UV environments like the Himalaya. Designed for expedition use, the LFD features heavy zippers and durable fabrics to stand up to both guides and clients. It’s normally used for dining, comms, ops, or first aid to support medium-sized groups. It’s best suited for high altitude or arid environments where UV resistance is the priority, where precipitation primarily falls as snow. For rainy and humid climates, the double-wall Kahiltna Dome is a better option, or you can get a partial flysheet for the LFD to improve its rain performance.
Why is UV resistance important and how does Titanium Dioxide help?
At high altitude, tents that are set up for extended periods of time experience devastating levels of UV exposure. UV breaks down fabrics, coatings, and webbing, turning them brittle and eventually leading to the demise of the tent. UV exposure is often the limiting factor in a tent’s lifespan in those conditions. Titanium dioxide is basically sunscreen for fabric. Mixed in with the fabric’s waterproof coating, titanium dioxide reduces the amount of UV that reaches the fabric itself. It’s hard to mix into coatings, and it’s expensive, but it’s worth it. At Everest base camp, domes with traditional fabrics often do not last more than one season because UV degrades the fabric so quickly. We’ve had LFDs last 8-10 seasons on Everest.
What accessories are available for the LFD?
We offer a removable floor and a partial flysheet for the LFD.
Can I get repair supplies and spare parts for the LFD?
Yes! We are passionate about keeping our tents in the field as long as possible and have spare pole sections, repair fabric, and repair adhesive available on our website. Even if a specific part isn’t listed on our spare parts page we can almost always find the part you need. Just reach out to us and we’ll get you sorted out. Depending on inventory levels we are often able to sell individual components of the tent if you manage to wear something out or damage it beyond repair.
