Big Agnes has carved out a reputation for crafting some of the best ultralight shelters on the market. Two of their most popular models – Copper Spur vs Tiger Wall – are excellent ultralight tents, but they’re designed with different priorities in mind.
Your choice depends on whether you care more about having extra space or reducing your load as much as possible. The Copper Spur offers more interior space, while the Tiger Wall shaves off a few ounces of weight. In this comparison, we’ll break down the differences between Big Agnes Copper Spur vs Tiger Wall to help you understand the nuances between the two.
Quick Takeaways
- The Big Agnes Copper Spur offers more interior space and comfort. It’s fully freestanding, has larger vestibules, but is also a bit heavier and bulkier.
- The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 is semi-freestanding, slightly more compact, and shaves off a few ounces of weight.
- FULLY REDESIGNED – One of our best-selling,…
- AWARD-WINNING COMFORT – New awning-style…
- STORAGE AND MORE – New 3-D bin ‘mezzanine’ in…
- A BETTER SHELTER – New proprietary tent corner…
- TECHNICAL COMFORT – The Tiger Wall UL offers…
- SUSTAINABLE & STRONG – Solution-dyed fabric is…
- READY TO PITCH – Simplified setup with proprietary…
- FULL FEATURED – The Tiger Wall tent has elevated…
Who Should Choose the Copper Spur?
- People who want a freestanding tent that’s easier to setup on uneven terrain.
- Campers who appreciate comfort, want a bit extra interior space and don’t mind carrying a slightly heavier tent.
- Taller individuals who need more headroom.
- Campers who want more vestibule space for gear storage.
Who Should Choose the Tiger Wall?
- Ultralight backpackers who want to minimize pack weight, and are comfortable with a semi-freestanding design.
- Campers who don’t mind a snugger fit and want a balance between weight savings and livability.
- Hikers who use trekking poles and can take advantage of the awning setup.
Big Agnes Copper Spur vs Tiger Wall Feature Comparison
Livability and Interior Space
Both tents are designed for two people or solo hikers who want extra room. Although both tents are ultralight, the Tiger Wall is a bit lighter, coming in about 3 ounces lighter than the Copper Spur. However, the Copper Spur offers a bit more interior space.
If you’re planning to spend a lot of time in your tent or you’re on the taller side, the Copper Spur might be more comfortable. But if you’re okay with a tighter fit to save some weight, the Tiger Wall is a good pick.
| Feature | Copper Spur HV UL2 | Tiger Wall UL2 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 2-person | 2-person |
| Trail Weight | 2 lbs 11 oz (1.22 kg) | 2 lbs 8 oz (1.13 kg) |
| Packed Weight | 3 lbs 2 oz (1.42 kg) | 2 lbs 15 oz (1.33 kg) |
| Packed Size | 19.5 x 6 in (50 x 15 cm) | 18 x 5.5 in (46 x 14 cm) |
| Floor Area | 29 sq ft | 28 sq ft |
| Peak Height | 40 inches | 39 inches |
| Vestibule Area | 9 sq ft (each) | 8 sq ft (each) |
Design and Setup
Both tents feature a double-wall construction and full rainfly to give campers extra protection in rainy weather. The Copper Spur is supported by a pre-bent span pole, which helps to create more space. The Tiger Wall has a single-pole system, which reduces weight but also requires staking out the tent at the foot end.
| Feature | Copper Spur HV UL2 | Tiger Wall UL2 |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Freestanding | Semi-freestanding |
| Pole Structure | Pre-bent span pole with high-volume hub | Single-pole system |
| Number of Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Number of Vestibules | 2 | 2 |
| Wall Construction | Double-wall | Double-wall |
| Fabric | Nylon | Solution-dyed nylon |
| Ventilation | High-fly vents, mesh body | Mesh upper, rainfly vents |
Weather Protection
The Copper Spur HV UL2 and Tiger Wall UL2 are designed to keep you safe from the elements, but they do it in different ways.
Both tents have:
- Waterproof floors to keep ground moisture out.
- Seam sealing to prevent leaks.
Copper Spur HV UL2:
- Includes a rainfly that covers the entire tent, which creates a solid barrier against rain and wind.
- The tent’s design helps water run off easily, so you don’t end up with puddles on top.
- Plus, the vestibules (those extra covered areas outside the main tent) give you a dry spot to store your muddy boots or backpack.
Tiger Wall UL2:
- It also includes a rainfly designed to keep water out, with a tent body made of waterproof materials.
- However, because it’s a semi-freestanding tent, it won’t be quite as stable as the Copper Spur, especially in heavy winds.
- You need to make sure it’s properly staked out for the best protection.
Ventilation
Good airflow in a tent helps keep you comfortable and prevents condensation. Both the Copper Spur HV UL2 and Tiger Wall UL2 have double wall tent design, which means there’s space between the inner tent and the rainfly to reduce condensation by allowing air to circulate.
Copper Spur HV UL2:
- Two doors for airflow
- Mesh panels on the tent body
- High vents on the rainfly
Tiger Wall UL2:
- Two doors for airflow
- Mesh upper on the tent body
- High vents on the rainfly
Doors and Vestibules
The Copper Spur HV UL2 and Tiger Wall UL2 both allow each camper to have their own door entrance and vestibule storage areas. This is handy when you need to get up at night or want to keep your gear organized. The vestibules are great for storing boots, backpacks, or even cooking in bad weather.
Copper Spur HV UL2:
- Two doors, one on each side
- Two vestibules, each with 9 square feet of space
- Doors can be tied back for an open-air feel
Tiger Wall UL2:
- Also has two doors, one on each side
- Two vestibules, but slightly smaller at 8 square feet each
- Doors can be rolled up for better views and airflow
Durability
Ultralight tents like these are made to be light, so they’re not as tough as heavier camping tents. For this reason, you’ll need to be a bit more careful with their fabric. Here are some tips to make your tent last longer:
- Use a footprint (a ground cloth) under your tent
- Be gentle when setting up and taking down the tent
- Store it dry to prevent mold
While both tents are well-made, the Copper Spur might have a edge in durability because of its slightly thicker materials.
Copper Spur HV UL2:
- It uses strong ripstop nylon fabric for the floor and rainfly
- The poles are made of sturdy aluminum
- Reinforced stress points help prevent tears
Tiger Wall UL2:
- It uses slightly thinner fabric to save weight
- The poles are still strong aluminum
- It has solution-dyed fabric, which means the color won’t fade as quickly
Pros and Cons
| Aspect | Copper Spur HV UL2 | Tiger Wall UL2 |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | – More interior space – Fully freestanding – Excellent weather protection – Larger vestibules | – Lighter weight – Compact packed size – Good balance of weight and livability – Solution-dyed fabric for durability |
| Cons | – Slightly heavier – Higher price point | – Less interior space – Semi-freestanding (requires staking) – Smaller vestibules |
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Conclusion
Choosing between the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 and Tiger Wall UL2 isn’t about picking a “better” tent – it’s about finding the right fit for your outdoor style.
The Copper Spur HV UL2 is your go-to if you want a roomy, freestanding shelter that doesn’t skimp on comfort. Its extra headroom and larger vestibules make it a cozy home away from home, perfect for those who spend a lot of time in their tent or camp in rough weather.
On the flip side, the Tiger Wall UL2 is the ultralight champion. It’s ideal for thru-hikers, minimalists, and anyone who counts every ounce in their pack. While it offers slightly less space, it still provides comfortable shelter without weighing you down.
Both tents showcase Big Agnes’ commitment to quality, with smart designs that balance weight, durability, and livability. They’re both excellent choices for backpacking adventures, whether you’re tackling a weekend trip or a long-distance trail.