It takes a different kind of person to seek out and thrive in the backcountry. Reliable, well-built gear you can rely on could actually save your life.
So, does Big Agnes step up to the plate, or do they need to be left on the bench? Big Agnes has been in the outdoor gear game for over 20 years.
They have an overwhelming community of outdoor enthusiasts who will go to bat for Big Agnes any day. The dedication of its customers is rewarded with one of the most sturdy, waterproof, reliable, and lightweight tent options on the market.
Yes, Big Agnes tents are durable. Made with carbon blend fabrics and carbon poles, these tents are made quite durable regardless of their lightweight.
Where are Big Agnes Tents Made?
Big Agnes Tents are homegrown in the shadow of the backcountry that inspired their name and creation.
Nestled in the mountains of Colorado, the founders of Big Agnes found their muse at the banks of the Yampa River, up the summits of the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, and everywhere in between.
Steamboat Spring, Colorado, is the home of over 15 well-known outdoor brands, including Big Agnes.
The co-owner and unassuming mastermind behind Big Agnes are overjoyed to call Steamboat Springs his business’s home, though, like many businesses, outsourcing was needed.
Big Agnes tents are manufactured in the Guangdong Province of China. However, the materials used to make the tents are ethically sourced from around the world.
What are Big Agnes Tents Made of?
One key phrase that has been a recurring theme when looking into Big Agnes has been “Solution Dyed” material, especially moving into 2022.
Many of the fabric portions of Big Agnes tents are made of solution-dyed materials. So what are they, and why are they more environmentally friendly?
The manufacturing process, or at least the fabric coloring process, uses significantly less water and energy. Before the polyester material is even made into fabric, when the polyester is still a liquid, it is dyed the desired color.
This, in turn, eliminates the need for dying after the fact using loads of hot water and energy consumption. However, the material is still nylon and polyester so do with that what you will.
Additional materials include silicone-treated nylon, waterproof coatings, plastic clips used to attach the tent material to the poles, aluminum for the poles, and the tent stakes.
Which Big Agnes Tents Have the Most Quality?
Copper Spur, there is a resounding answer of “Copper Spur HV UL” when asked which of the Big Agnes tents is of the highest quality. The HV stands for High Volume, and UL stands for Ultra Light.
So, the Copper Spur is one of Big Agnes’ high volume ultra light tents. High volume means there is more room inside for people, pets, blankets, camp snacks, and so on. High volume also means more stability.
Normally when you have added stability or strength, you are adding weight. However, the manufacturing and materials used for the Copper Spur keep the weight down and keep the tent in the ultra-light category of tents.
Honorable mentions include the Bunk House for larger groups; the Tiger Wall UL2 for weight and portability.
Big Agnes Tents are generally made of the same types of materials. As materials are improved upon, they are integrated into each style. This allows for the quality of all the tents to be quite high.
Are Big Agnes Tents the Best on the Market?
What is the goal of a tent? Are you backpacking the AT, camping at your local state park with your family, or just your upper; are you on a cross-country biking trip? I always ask, “which is the best?” questions are so subjective.
Big Agnes is very high on the list with other brand tents on the market. Big Agnes offers tents in almost every category, lightweight tents, bike packing tents, and car camping tents. One common complaint of Big Agnes is the thin material used as the floor of their tents.
Unfortunately, footprints are available as an additional purchase, common with many high-end tents. However, even considering a few complaints, the Big Agnes tents do at least within the top 10 brands.
How Much Do Big Agnes Tents Cost?
Did you know that there are tents on the market that can cost upward of $7,000? Gucci even has a contender in the ring with a whopping $3,499 price tag. Knowing that somewhat eases the price tag of Big Agnes tents.
Also, there is quite a price range when considering Big Agne tents. The price range for Big Agnes tents starts at $199.95 for the C Bar 2, which can sleep 2, is in the superlight category, weighing in at 3lbs 9oz, footprint sold separately.
They also offer Guard Station 8, which is built to withstand extreme high altitude conditions. It can sleep up to eight souls and is 84in at its highest point inside. The Guard Station 8 will run you $1,999.95; the footprint is included in this style.
Final Thoughts on the Durability of Big Agnes Tents
As a final thought, tents can be expensive. However, if you are an avid backpacker or plan to become an avid backpacker or an avid camping enthusiast, you may want to invest in the best.
After all, this will be your home away from home. Big Agnes, as a business, strives for sustainability. They provide so much to their community in Steamboat and are a grassroots company that has set down some amazingly strong roots.