ALPS Mountaineering Lightweight Cot - Clay/Apricot

I always get a kick out of the way outdoor companies claim their products are lightweight. Obviously this isn't meant for backpacking, but even so, this product will be fine on a sled or in a canoe. Car camping, yes. I wouldn't suggest carrying this by hand for longer distances. This cot does have a lot going for it otherwise. Once you get the hang of the simple set up, it's not difficult to put together. I like how low to the ground it is, though I would like it a bit higher so I can use it as a seat in my hot tent. The quality is excellent. Alps didn't skimp on the materials. I'm not afraid to put mine on the ground with rocks and sticks while assembling. All that aside, I slept on this cot (on top of my usual air mattress for camping) and WOW, did I sleep great! The slumber came quickly and I am talking deep REM sleep. I've taken this cot in the back country and had a very peaceful night's sleep. With the pad alone (which is an excellent pad), my hips hurt and I toss and turn. On the cot, my pad doesn't move around and there is no more tossing and turning. This product has added another dimension to my camping experience!

I got this today and assembled it which took about 7 min. The first time was a learning lesson here. It does take some strength. It did sag down when I laid on it but not bad I weigh 185. Seemed sturdy I will sleep on it tonight in my living room and give a an update after my camping trip at the end of the month. 1. Don't connect the side bars prior to inserting into cot sleeve. Insert one section at a time ensuring the holes for the cot leg are aligned with the holes in the sleeve until the three sections are in. Once the side bar is all the way in grasp the fabric with your fingers and use your thumbs to force the end into the sleeve (this is not easy, I suspect over time the fabric will stretch and it will become easier}. (do not cut the bars). 2. Kneeling on one side of the cot base and pulling the leg towards you would work better then the way I did it by putting all the legs in the holes on one side then grasping the bar on the other side and pushing the leg while pulling on the bar until the leg would fit in the hole. (takes allot of arm strength). 3. This is not a kids cot when it comes to assembly.

It’s big enough, and strong enough to support me (221 lbs) and, after some grunting, I can get the legs to fit. Once they’re on, it’s great. I will say that the last time I camped either the weather was TOO cold, or I was too weak, but I had to have help putting the legs on. Regardless, I returned other cots for this one and am quite satisfied with it.

My review is based on the idea that camping gear should be lightweight and compact. I believe that high mobility is essential for enjoying outdoor activities. While I'm not typically one to write reviews, I felt compelled to share my experience with this product. Despite being a long-time fan of the brand, I was disappointed to find that the cot was difficult to assemble and significantly heavier than comparable products, despite its 'lightweight' advertising. Disassembling it was equally cumbersome. Upon receiving it, I noticed its substantial weight, but I wanted to ensure it functioned properly. Unfortunately, its clunky operation and excessive weight ultimately let me down. For reference, here's a comparison: Weight: 9.7 lbs (4.4 kg) [this product] vs. 4.4 lbs (2.0 kg) [competitors] Size: Twice as large as other companies While it may seem unnecessary, there are numerous lighter and easier-to-assemble options available. I hope the company will consider incorporating these features into future models

ALPS Mountaineering makes great stuff. I own four of these cots and have recommended them to friends. I had to return this one due to the poles fitting so loosely the cot sagged. The brown/apricot was the one with the problem. I ordered the blue and the poles were fine. Seems like they had a bad run from the pole manufacturer. Hopefully this gets resolved quickly.

Perfect for camping! Bought two for my fiance and I and they are compact, comfortable, and super easy to set up. There is a slight head to toe rock to them, this is my first cot so I don't know if that is standard or not - it does not detract from the comfort though!

This is the best cot ever made. Been using it forever.. but not for backpacking.. too heavy... Car camping only.. you're better off with the helinox cot lite if your gonna need to lug it around.

I'm donating this Cot, because it's a pain in the Ass to get apart. The side supports go together in sections which is fine, but getting it apart is another story. The supports will come apart halfway down the cot and then you have to fish them out. They fit very, very tight in the fabric and are difficult to get out.

I do a lot of winter camping , my two beagles are along with me , because of that I have an over sized thermarest mattress and sleeping bag . So this cot fit the bill, ( its only about 1 inch narrower than my mattress ) without breaking the bank and it's not too heavy to add to the sled of gear . I'm 63 and slim built but had no issues adding the legs , I also prefer this style of legs as they have more surface area on the ground vs a standard chair leg style that i felt could dig into the ground unevenly . I have 2 issues with the side rails . First I wish they would ave locked together , would make it easier adding/removing them . Secondly slipping them into/out of their sleeves , well there is no slipping , its a struggle especially in cold winter conditions . I'm hopping the material will stress a little , or I might sew on a button and loop on the ends . Overall it seems like a well made product for the price point .

Nothing wrong with it. Keeps you off the ground, price it right.