Analyzing All Sizes of Big Agnes Copper Spur UL vs UL XL vs Limited
Using Marketplace Comps, Area/Weight Analysis, and Ultralight Perspective
The 2025 Big Agnes Copper Spur UL, UL XL, and Limited are the latest versions of the most popular and most highly-regarded lightweight freestanding backpacking tent series on the market, and a slight upgrade over the HV UL predecessor. Copper Spur is most notable for having good headroom, a user-friendly design, large awning vestibules, and a low weight relative to other fully-freestanding tents. The biggest update is that its new HyperBead fabric is stronger, lighter, and more waterproof than before.
While true ultralight optimizers will still prefer Dyneema trekking pole shelters, even those users will find Copper Spur to be a compelling option whenever pole-based tents are required. And for the remaining 99% of backpackers who care about reducing pack weight but aren’t obsessed and just want something that works well reliably, this is likely the best overall backpacking tent option currently available at REI.
Stats for Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2
- Price: $550
- Weight: 42 oz
- Material: Hyperbead 15d Ripstop Nylon
- Interior: 29 ft² | Vestibule: 18 ft²
- Length: 88″ Width: 52″/42″ Height: 40″
- Pros: Lightweight. Fully-freestanding. Great headroom. Very user friendly. Large awning vestibule. Many internal pockets.
- Cons: Expensive. Not ultralight. Avg interior area.
- Variants: UL, Limited, UL XL, HV UL (old version)
- Core Competitor: Big Agnes Tiger Wall, NEMO Dragonfly OSMO, NEMO Dagger OSMO, MSR Hubba Hubba LT, REI Co-op Half Dome
The best overall model in the entire Copper Spur Series is the UL2 XL.
Grounding this review – Our current assessment of the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL is based on marketplace positioning, ultralight analysis, spec-and-feature-based analysis, a hands-on first impression, decades of collective backpacking gear review savvy, and significant experience with its predecessor, the Copper Spur HV UL. Once we have a full season under our belt with the UL, we’ll revisit this review and update accordingly. We’re particularly keen to test the new Hyperbead fabric in a storm.
Make sure to check out or in depth guide to choosing between Big Agnes Copper Spur vs Tiger Wall. Compare this to more great options in our guides to 1P, 2P, 3P, and 4P backpacking tents. Supplement with a backpacking tarp.
You make Adventure Alan & Co possible. REI sent us a Copper Spur UL2 to test. When purchasing through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. Here’s why you can trust us.
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL, UL XL, and Limited Gallery
Big Agnes Copper Spur Suffixes & Terminology
The baseline Big Agnes Copper Spur UL series, which is the same size as the previous HV UL, is now supplemented with a larger UL XL, and lighter weight Limited version. This terminology will help you to understand the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL series.
- UL – Stands for ultralight. Copper Spur UL is the base model available in sizes 1P-5P. Despite the UL nomenclature, this tent is lightweight-not-ultralight. Shop the UL series.
- UL XL – Stands for ultralight extra large. The Copper Spur UL XL is available in sizes 2P-3P. Compared to baseline 2p model, it adds $30, 7 sq ft (+24%) and 4 ounces. Compared to baseline 3P model, it adds $30, 7 sq ft of interior area (+17%), and 3 oz. Upsizing to UL XL is a positive exchange in terms of area/weight ratio. Shop the UL XL series.
- Limited – Stands for Limited Edition. The Copper Spur Limited is a lighter weight version without awning vestibules, but otherwise identical version of the baseline UL model, available in sizes 2P-3P, and always comes with its own footprint. Compared to baseline 2P model, it adds $50, saves 3 oz. Compared to baseline 3P model, it adds $50 and saves 6 oz. It accomplishes this with slightly thinner, lighter weight fabrics. Shop the Limited Series.
- HV UL – Stands for high volume ultralight. The Copper Spur HV UL is the version that was in production through 2024. It was available in sizes 1P-5P, and can now be found at clearance pricing. Notably, it is the same shape and volume as the current UL version, they just deleted HV from the name to simplify. Shop the HV UL series.
- Hyperbead – HyperBead is Big Agnes’ proprietary new solution-dyed tent fly/floor fabric. Compared to traditional tent fabrics (specific reference fabric not cited), it is 6% lighter, 50-100% stronger, and 25% more waterproof. It is also stretch-resistant (to reduce sag-when-wet) and made without additionally added PFAS. All versions of the Big Agnes Copper Spur are now manufactured with Hyperbead Fly Fabric, most commonly a 15d nylon with 20d ripstop grid. Its waterproof rating is 1500mm. Read more about Hyperbead Fabric.
All Sizes Comparison Table UL vs UL XL vs Limited
Mobile users rotate device for full-width table view
| Model & Capacity | Price ($) | Trail Weight (oz) | Interior Area (sq ft) | Int Area/Weight (sq ft/oz) | Height (in) |
| UL1 | 450 | 38 | 20 | 0.53 | 38 |
| UL2 | 550 | 42 | 29 | 0.69 | 40 |
| UL2 XL | 580 | 46 | 36 | 0.78 | 41 |
| 2 Limited | 600 | 39 | 29 | 0.74 | 40 |
| UL3 | 600 | 54 | 41 | 0.76 | 43 |
| UL3 XL | 630 | 57 | 48 | 0.84 | 45 |
| 3 Limited | 650 | 48 | 41 | 0.85 | 43 |
| UL4 | 800 | 80 | 57 | 0.71 | 50 |
| UL5 | 900 | 106 | 65 | 0.61 | 60 |
Data-Based Analysis of Copper Spur UL vs UL XL vs Limited
What stands out from our data analysis is that both the Limited and XL series boost area-to-weight ratio by a sizable margin relative to baseline UL, but in different ways. Here are our takeaways:
- 2 Limited may be better for 1P use than UL1, pending durability
- Both the UL2 XL and the UL3 XL have better area/weight ratios than their same-sized UL counterparts, and those intending to sleep at max capacity should choose XLs.
- For two people wishing to spread out, the UL2 XL is likely the superior option compared to UL3
- For three people wishing to spread out, the UL3 XL is likely superior to the UL4
- 3 Limited has the best area/weight ratio stat in the entire Copper Spur Family, but exists at an awkward size point, cramped for 3p-use but a bit too large for 2p-use.
- UL5 is absurdly tall, 50% taller than the UL2
How to Choose Between Copper Spur UL vs UL XL vs Limited
In general, we recommend choosing your Copper Spur UL based on intended size capacity:
- For Exactly 1P Use: 2 Limited or UL1*
- For Mixed 1-2P Use: UL2 or 2 Limited**
- For Exactly 2P Use: UL2 XL
- For Mixed 2-3P Use: UL3 or 3 Limited**
- For Exactly 3p Use: UL3 XL
- For 3-4P Use: UL4***
- For 4-5P Use: UL5***
- For Maximum Value: Find the old HV UL version on clearance
*This decision comes to whether or not you prefer larger size or higher durability
** This decision comes down to whether or not you prefer lighter weight or higher durability
*** At this capacity level, it may be more comfortable to separate out into two tents
The Ultralight Assessment, Compared to Best-in-class Trekking Pole Tents
In this section, we analyze Big Agnes Copper Spur UL from the perspective of ultralight backpackers. So first and foremost, it’s a poled tent that weighs in at 42 oz for the 2p version. It is approximately twice as heavy as either of the best two ultralight Dyneema trekking pole tents on the market –Zpacks Offset Duo (19.4 oz), and Durston X-Mid Pro 2+ (19.2 oz).
What’s more, both of those tents are also more spacious and more wind stable than Copper Spur, and ultralight optimizers will choose them over Copper Spur pretty much every time. The additional weight of poles is too tough of a pill to swallow, and precludes consideration of go-to shelter status. Thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers should still choose a trekking pole tent.
Despite the UL indicator in its name, Big Agnes Copper Spur UL is not an ultralight tent. For us, that range is 1-1.5 lbs, and coming in around 2.5 lbs means it isn’t even close to ultralight. Yes, it is lightweight overall, and light relative its peer group. But from our perspective, this is another instance ultralight-washing (greenwashing but for weight).
However, there are still a plethora of reasons to choose Big Agnes Copper Spur UL, which we reiterate is still an excellent tent.
First up, there are plenty of times and places when a poled tent is preferable to a pole-less design, such as when pitching on sand, hard rock, or man-made surfaces. Beginner backpackers, or those with strong personal preferences may still prefer poled tents, as trekking pole tents are more complicated to pitch perfectly. Those who hike without trekking poles may also prefer a poled tent. And poled tents are more versatile, since they make more sense for front country camping, travel, festival-use, etc.
So to the shopper who is looking for a poled tent, even an ultralight shopper, the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL is a tempting option. It is comparably weighted to other best-in-class poled tents from ultralight brands, such as the Zpacks Free Zip, Durston X-Dome, and Six Moon Designs Lunar Orbiter. In fact, Copper Spur is lighter than all but the Free Zip, and compared to that has the advantage of being double-walled.
So if you’re an ultralight backpacker shopping for a fully freestanding poled tent to add to your quiver once you already own a best-in-class trekking pole tent, you should definitely consider the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL.
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL vs HV UL (old version)
So how does the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL compare to its HV UL predecessor? This section is our Copper Spur UL vs HV UL showdown. While the new version appears to be strictly better due to the new HyperBead fabric, it’s not that much of an upgrade, and we wish they took a bigger swing.
Differences
- UL $20 more expensive
- UL 1 ounce lighter weight
- UL uses Slightly stronger, lighter, more waterproof fly/floor fabric called Hyperbead
Similarities
- Same overall configuration, including size, shape, interior, height, and volume
- Same poles
- Same doors
- Same vent
- Same vestibules with awning-mode
- Same interior pockets
- Same stakes
Should you upgrade to the new Copper Spur UL
If you already own a Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL that’s still functional, should you upgrade? No! They didn’t reinvent the wheel here. While the new version is an improvement, the user experience will be nearly identical.
Should you purchase the new UL at full price or the old HV UL on clearance?
At time of publication, the HV UL is on sale for 30% off MSRP, making it $370 compared to $550 for the new 2P version. As such, the HV UL is a much better value given the user experience is largely the same. But if money is not a consideration, the UL is pretty much a strict upgrade over the HV UL, given the jump to HyperBead, so performance optimizers will want the new version.
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL vs Alt Versions & the Marketplace
In this section, we compare the Copper Spur UL2 to prominent competitors within its peer group from mainstream tent brands like NEMO, MSR, and other models from Big Agnes.
Copper Spur UL2 vs UL2 XL
For only a few extra ounces, the UL2 XL series is 7 sq ft larger, has a higher-area-to-weight ratio, and higher area-per-person ratio, making it the superior choice for most people most of the time. The only time to choose UL2 would be if you intend to use this tent for mixed 1-2P use, in which case the UL2XL would be way overkill half of the time.
Copper Spur UL2 vs 2 Limited
These two tents are nearly identical, and neither is strictly better. In short, the Limited 2 costs $50 more, does not get the awning vestibule, comes with its own footprint, and uses a slightly less durable fly/floor HyperBead fabric (the same fabric as Tiger Wall), to achieve a few ounces of weight savings. Up to you if you value the minor weight savings + footprint of Limited 2, or the minor durability boost + cost savings + awning vestibule feature of UL2
Copper Spur UL2 vs NEMO Dragonfly 2
Compared to the NEMO Dragonfly, Copper Spur UL2 is the same weight, $30 more expensive, same size, 1″ shorter, and each vestibule is 1 sq. ft. smaller.
Copper Spur UL2 vs NEMO Dagger 2
Compared to the NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P, Copper Spur UL2 is the same price, 12 oz lighter, 2.3 sq ft smaller, 2″ shorter, and each vestibule is 2.4 sq ft. smaller. This tent is more comparable to Big Agnes Copper Spur UL XL.
Copper Spur UL2 vs REI Co-op Half Dome 2 (2025 edition)
Compared to the REI Co-op Half Dome 2, Copper Spur UL2 is $230 more expensive, 32 oz lighter, 2.8 sq ft smaller, 1″ shorter, the vestibules are similarly sized. This tent is more comparable to Big Agnes Copper Spur UL XL.
Compared to Tiger Wall UL2 (2025 edition)
Compared to the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2, Copper Spur UL2 is fully-freestanding (as opposed to semi-freestanding), $50 more expensive, 7 oz heavier, 1 sq. ft. larger, 1″ taller, and each vestibule is 1 sq. ft. larger. See more in our guide to Big Agnes Copper Spur vs Tiger Wall.
Copper Spur UL2 vs MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2
Compared to the MSR Hubba Hubba LT2, Copper Spur UL2 is $20 less expensive, 6 oz lighter, 3 sq ft smaller, same height, and each vestibule is 1 sq ft larger. This tent is more comparable to Big Agnes Copper Spur UL XL.
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL Construction & Materials & Features
In this section, we’ll overview and give our opinions on key features and materials. For a complete list of product specs, materials, and features, please refer to product detail page.
Hyperbead Fabric, Canopy Fabric
The Hyperbead fabric, used on fly and floor, is most commonly a 15d nylon with 20d ripstop, and is the biggest new feature to the Copper Spur design. It claims to be 6% lighter, 25% more waterproof and 50% stronger than traditional fabrics, though it’s unclear which exact fabrics their citing. A generic cheapo? The previous fabrics used by Copper Spur? It’s not clear.
HyperBead also reduces sag-when-wet, and is manufactured with solution dye (more eco-friendly than traditional dyeing processes. Our hands on testing indicated is not very stretchy at all. We need a full season under our belts to full grasp the performance, for now we assume it’s similar in performance to NEMO OSMO, but worse than Dyneema.
The lower canopy fabric is a breathable 15d nylon, which adds a nice dash of privacy, dust protection, and draft prevention. The upper fabric is your typical bug mesh.
Pole Configuration and sturdiness
The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL has a pretty standard pre-bent pole configuration, with a more vertical orientation at the headend sloping downward towards the foot end. The four corner poles all connect at the middle, and are all one unit. A spreader bar sits atop to expand headroom further.
When it comes to sturdiness in wind, the Copper Spur UL is going to be pretty average, neither bad nor good. It certainly isn’t flimsy, but it’s not exceptionally sturdy in the way a SlingFin Portal or Dursotn X-Dome is. We are glad to see they added enough stakes and bonus guy lines to really secure it down for storm camping.
The poles in question are DAC NFL aluminum, and the exact diameter changes depending on which capacity you choose. Larger tents have a larger wind profile and require thicker poles than smaller tents. But for reference, the pole diameter for the 2P model is 8.7 mm, which is considered industry standard. As a reference point, the NEMO Dragonfly 2P uses 8.5mm poles.
Interior Area and Volume
Copper Spur’s 29 sq ft floor plan is a smidge larger than the industry standard 28 sq ft, but not exceptional by any means. If you and your partner are large humans and/or use wide-width pads, we recommend upgrading to the UL XL version, or going up an entire capacity gradation, depending on how much extra space you like and how you use it.
The interior volume, particularly the headroom, is very nice. This is due to the near-vertical head-end wall with beyond-vertical center sidewalls. Ergo, we think the interior volume is pretty dang good.
Vestibules and Awnings
Arguably the most renown feature of Big Agnes Copper Spur UL are its large awning vestibules, which are included with all versions except the Limited series. There is plenty of room to store a pack and shoes. In warm rain, or when extra shade is desired, you can use your trekking poles as kick stands to turn the vestibule into an awning to block whatever the weather throws at you, so long as it’s not strong wind. This is a great feature that further differentiates Copper Spur, albeit at the cost of additional zipper weight. On the flip side, we find this features doesn’t get used as much as you’d think it might, and mostly comes into play for base-camping scenarios.
Vent
The Copper Spur UL has one large ceiling vent directly over the head-end. It’s in an ideal location and can be closed off in a storm. However, we would have like to see a second vent around the foot-end to allow for improved circulation and air flow. While ceiling vents are largely superior to vestibule vents, we always prefer two when we can get them.
Interior Pockets
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL crushes it on the interior pocket analysis, with large overhead pockets at both the head and foot ends of the tent, as well as smaller head-end side pockets. There’s plenty of room to store your knickknacks!
Stakes
The Big Agnes DirtDigger stake are certainly strong, light, and resistant to bending, but they don’t have a great lip on which to secure a loop of cord. We’d like to see a bit more coverage on that angle. We also dislike how the stake bag is built into the overall carrying bag, and isn’t particularly secure. If you load stakes in, and then unwittingly invert the carrying bag before adding in the tent body or closing it off, it’s possible some stakes will fall out.
Buckles
While these buckles are nice and ultralight, we have found that if they get muddy, they’re much harder to snap closed and may require cleaning. Minor downsides, but careful when pitching in muddy environments.
Conclusion
Big Agnes Copper Spur was, and remains to this day, one of the best lightweight freestanding tents on the market, despite the fact that ultralight optimizers will still prefer Dyneema trekking pole-based shelters. But for 99% of backpackers, the combination of Copper Spur’s low weight, livability, and user-friendly features make it the best backpacking tent available at REI. The UL XL is likely the best version overall for most people. Happy hiking!
