You're not likely to like my suggestion... but, after opining the weight of mine, I realized the only way to really go light with a full size tripod that has any strength was to get a quality carbon fiber one, like one of the Gitzos.
This guy is a beast, and only weighs in at 3 lbs.
If you're concerned about packed size, get a 4 section, they are more compact.
This one would be another option, weighs a bit less and is smaller.
Here's the thing with tripods- You can have two of the following, but not three- Cheap, Light, Sturdy.
There are other options than Gitzo, but they're all expensive. But then... it doesn't make much sense to support several thousand dollars of gear with $50. Skimping on a tripod is tempting, but a waste in the end. |