Recommended Sturdy/Tall Tripod

Last updated May 13, 2010 - Send Feedback

Recommending a tripod really depends on usage.

I own five tripods of varying sizes, all Gitzos: the GT0531, G1228, G1325, GT3540XLS, G1548. See The Sharpest Image in DAP for my research on tripods and more.

Update July 2011: I no longer recommend Gitzo tripods for professional use. Besides falling apart with nearly a month to repair, and overpriced non-functional models, the Really Right Stuff carbon fiber tripods are much superior in build.

Sturdy, all-around use — Gitzo GT3541XLS

Gitzo GT3541XLS

I use the Gitzo GT 3540XLS (about $900 for the newer GT3541 XLS) along with the Arca Swiss Cube tripod head 95% of the time. It has four leg sections and can handle pretty much any shooting situation.

The current model is the GT3541XLS, which appears unchanged from the GT3540XLS.

Weight:       4.3 pounds / 1.97 kg
Max height:   78" / 198cm
Folded length: 27.6" / 70cm

Useful height

The added height (well over my head) is welcome on steep slopes or near creeks: an extra foot or two of length allows placing one leg downslope or into deep a hole.

Worst feature

The rubber feet have a strong tendency to rattle right off, leaving exposed carbon fiber, which is not a good match for granite, and can be quickly damaged. I had to LocTite the damn things, but not too tight as I occasionally switch to spiked feet from the stock rubber ones.

Non-rotating legs

Unlike older Gitzos, the legs do not rotate. This makes it possible to lock or unlock the legs in any order, leading to much faster setup and takedown of the legs.

Locking/unlocking each section is also easier, since one doesn’t have to over-tighten one section to avoid twisting. Setup/takedown is a time-waster with a tripod, hence it is a high priority for those who shoot-and-go.

Flat plate

I studiously avoid tripods with center columns because they are never as sturdy, and they interfere with getting the tripod in a low-to-the-ground position.

The GT3540XLS has a flat top plate— no center column— perfect.

In the field

Not everyone will like a tripod this heavy (4.3 pounds). But consider the total weight of tripod plus tripod head before worrying about a few ounces.

I carry the GT3540XLS for hikes up to 8 miles or so, but I choose something lighter if I’m climbing Mt Dana, which is a 3000' (1000m) ascent — too much weight. For such uses I use my old G1228, which is no longer made, but models like the GT 1531 or GT2531 might suit such a purpose.

I find that combined with the Arca Swiss Cube, the combination is fast and efficient in lining up the shot I want just-so.