Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2
Specifications
| Capacity | Seasons | Pack Weight | Pack Size | Floor Area | Doors | Freestanding | Peak Height | Floor Dimensions | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3 | 3 lbs | 19.5 x 4 in | 29 sq ft | 2 | Yes | 40 in | 88 x 52 x 42 in | $549.95 |
Comfort
The Copper Spur UL2 is a premier ultralight backpacking tent that doesn’t compromise on livability or comfort. Designed with steep sidewalls and a high-volume, freestanding pole architecture, it maximizes headroom and interior floor space—letting two people sleep side by side without feeling cramped. Dual doors and generous vestibules ensure easy gear access and ventilation, while thoughtful interior details like stash pockets, gear loft loops, and an integrated fly vent enhance usability and reduce clutter. Setup is intuitive and quick thanks to the lightweight DAC pole system and color-coded assembly, making it ideal for hikers who want both efficiency and a comfortable home base in the backcountry. This blend of roomy livability and weight-conscious design makes the Copper Spur UL2 a standout in its class for camper comfort.
Weight and Packability
This is a true ultralight shelter designed for backpackers who need to shave ounces without giving up features. The tent boasts a trail weight of just 2 lbs 10 oz and a packed size of 19.5 x 4 inches, making it one of the most space-efficient freestanding tents in its class. For those seeking to minimize weight further, the tent offers a "Fast Fly" setup option (using the fly, poles, and footprint) that reduces the trail weight to approximately 2 lb 2 oz. Its ultralight yet durable nylon double ripstop fly and floor, paired with a minimalist hubbed DAC Featherlite pole system, allow it to pack down compactly while still standing up to backcountry use. The tent’s efficient stuff sack and included compression options make it easy to slide into tight pack spaces, appealing to long-distance hikers and thru-hikers who value both low weight and reliable protection in variable conditions.
Price
The Copper Spur UL2 is a premium ultralight shelter worth the investment for serious backpackers. With an MSRP around $550, it delivers outstanding livability, durable materials, and freestanding convenience—all carefully engineered into a sub‑3 lb package. Although priced at the upper end of the 2‑person tent market, its combination of lightweight design, spacious interior, and intuitive features is frequently praised as as justified cost for those prioritizing comfort and long-term performance.
Quality and Materials
The Copper Spur UL2’s construction is premium, using ultralight double ripstop nylon that balances minimal weight with durability for long-term backcountry performance. The tent fly and floor are treated with a proprietary silicone and polyurethane coating rated to 1500mm waterproofing, offering solid protection in wet conditions without adding unnecessary bulk. The DAC Featherlite NFL poles—trusted by many high-end shelters—are strong, lightweight, and anodized in an eco-friendlier process. Reinforced guy-out points, intuitive hubbed pole design, and quality zippers and mesh contribute to a refined build that holds up through seasons of use. All materials are solution-dyed, reducing water and energy consumption during manufacturing, and the entire tent is covered by Big Agnes’ limited lifetime warranty, reflecting the brand’s confidence in its craftsmanship and sustainable practices. While the materials are robust for their weight, users should exercise care to prevent damage from sharp objects or rough terrain.
Consumer Sentiment (Pros and Cons)
Pros:
- Lightweight and highly packable
- Spacious interior with excellent headroom
- Easy and intuitive setup with color-coded components
- Dual doors and vestibules for convenience
- Enhanced durability with HyperBead fabric
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Materials, while durable, require careful handling
- Footprint sold separately
Comparison to Comparable Items
NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P: The Dagger OSMO 2P offers more interior space but weighs more (approx. 3.9 lbs) and is less compact when packed.
MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2P: Both are high-end tents priced similarly - where the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 is more packable and less weight, the Hubba Hubba LT 2P offers more space with a larger footprint.
Cloud Up UL 2: The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 2 offers a more spacious, feature-rich, and higher-quality freestanding shelter with superior materials, durability, and design refinements.
Who is this For?
The Copper Spur UL2 is ideal for ultralight backpackers who want a smart balance between weight and comfort, making it a top choice for thru-hikers, long-distance trekkers, and backpacking duos who appreciate dual entrances and generous gear storage. Its freestanding design, quick setup, and compact packed size cater to adventurers who need efficiency on the trail, while its premium materials and spacious interior make it a worthy investment for those who refuse to compromise on shelter quality or durability.
