Bushwalk Australia

I'm not a fan of the current velcro on the ProTrail and am wanting to use a zipper instead.

First stop was finding a zipper ~127cm long which I have found on eBay (not waterproof), then second stop is to find a business nearby that can professionally install the zip.

But before I blindly go about it can anyone offer some insight into getting this job done correctly?

Or am I on the right pathway already?

Comments greatly appreciated!

Sheesh - I'm glad I snuck a hike in last weekend (Castlemaine to Bendigo) as the weather this weekend here in Central Vic is a little soggy.

I ordered a Plastic Zip Two Way Zip No5 130cm long Double Zipper from eBay - will find a local dressmaker to sew it in... I guess that it isn't MYOG, but I'll settle with Modify Your Own Gear.

I also have a Protrail so interested to see how it goes.

Hi Orbita

Had the same thought for my Protrail but never got around to it! Yet.

Of the limited YouTube videos of the tent, there is one of a bloke that made this and some other modifications.

The zipper is expected to arrive late July... cost was $20.

We have a few sewing machines at home so I will have a few test runs (can it be that hard?) and attempt to sew it myself - and retail the MYOG status..!

Will keep you updated Crolly & Neo!

"In Praise of the ProTrail" was a thought I had the other weekend on a hike - as I have found it to be 'fun' to be in.

I like the single entry and lying inside looking out. I like the mesh surrounding the tub for ventilation, but most of all I like the little window curtains down the end - there is quaintness about having to crawl down there to close them up when the weather wants in!

I've found it sloppy in the wind as the side panels, even with additional gyes, bellow and shake (when its verily gusty).



But apart from that, the X-Mid has stayed in its stuff sack as the Protrail that I got from this site ~ Feb still has some stories to tell and make - getting the zipper done will be one.

What other modifications can you recommend to the ProTrail?

A second mesh storage pocket on the oposite side would be handy, plus a high hook in the vestibule to hang a wet raincoat.
(think there is a mitten hook inside the mesh doorway)