Looking for a Tripod for dSLR

[kofeyok]

Hi,

I am looking for a compact tripod that I can take for hikes, skiing, etc. I have Nikon d40 DSLR and just bought Optex T25, which is about 11" when folded, 20" unfolded 25oz. I still have two weeks to return it.

Here are some other ones that I found descriptions of, but haven't really seen myself yet.

Compact SXL (black)
14.6" to 42.5" (folded/unfolded)
25 oz
http://www.tocad.com/tripods/compact.html

Compact DXL (alum)
14.6" to 43.5"
25 oz
http://www.tocad.com/tripods/compactd.html

Have you used these?
Any other sugestions?

Review from '96: http://photo.net/equipment/tripods/cheap

Thanks

[TenzoR]

I dunno how serious are you into photography. If you just want to try it out, then I would stick with anything cheap. Else I'd invest in a good tripod as it'll probably outlast all your equipment. I am still using my aluminum tripod from the 80s. What I would suggest is to look for a tripod with a quick release plate so you can remove the camera from the tripod very fast for some quick hand shots and a good quick release latch for the legs. Everything else is a bonus.

[DirtyLude]

I have a Manfrotto for regular use, and a $15 super cheap, light, and rather flimsy tripod for hiking/canoeing. Since it's left outside of the pack and takes a good beating, I'd rather not risk losing/breaking a good tripod. If this thing goes over the side of the canoe, I have no problems replacing it.

[kofeyok]

Which manfrotto tripod are you using for hiking?

btw, T25 does not have a quick release plate, but I was thiking it can be fine.. the major thing I am worrying about right now is that I'll really need to look for a high object to place the tripod on or have to lean to look through the view finder..

[DirtyLude]

Manfrotto is for regular use. Not hiking. That thing is way too heavy.

[DirtyLude]

Manfrotto is for regular use. Not hiking. That thing is way too heavy. I saw some nice collapsable part fibre ones at Henry's, though.

[southcan]

Does anyone have any opinions for GIOTTOS VT-809 (http://blackphotostore.com/english/proddetail.asp?sku=5798). It seems to periodically go on sale.
Would this be suitable for a slr? Does anyone recommend anything else for this price range?

[DirtyLude]

That looks exactly like my $15.00 one. I think I got mine at...not TigerDirect, but that other place that sells mostly refurbs.

[DirtyLude]

Looks like it's $20.00 now. I assume it's the same one.

http://factorydirect.ca/catalog/product_spec.php?pcode=TR0053