Big Agnes’ bright 25th anniversary tents combine trail-ready engineering with true comfort
Big Agnes celebrates its 25th anniversary by introducing a new family of ultralight shelters, the VST range, designed for hikers and fastpackers who chase light weights without sacrificing comfort or weather protection.
Named after the formula for speed (V=S/T), the VST series relies on the concept of going fast on the track, pairing stripped-back designs with new materials and hybrid single-/double-wall construction aimed at balancing durability, ventilation and usable interior space.
The packable tents use the brand’s recycled 20D HyperBead fabric, delivering a waterproof rating of 4,000mm while remaining PFAS-free.
Big Agnes says the geometry also allows the tents to comfortably fit 25-inch rectangular sleeping pads, with select “.5” sizing options offering more elbow room for those who want a little extra life without jumping full size.
Ultralight, without the usual compromises
Splitting between three core models, the lightest tent in the collection tips the scales at a trail weight of 633g, putting the VST line firmly in the pack.
All tents are designed to accommodate 25-inch rectangular sleeping pads, and select models come in “size.5” options for those who want more shoulder or gear space without stepping up to a full two-person shelter.
(Photo credit: Big Agnes / Noah Wetzel)
The String Ridge VST, available in 1.5- and 2.5-person configurations, uses a pole-supported construction to keep weight to a minimum while maintaining stability, with a curb weight starting at 663g.
The Pitchpine VST weighs 719g and is a self-contained, single-pole 1.5-person speaker designed for quick setup and impressive interior volume.
(Photo credit: Big Agnes / Noah Wetzel)
At the other end of the spectrum, the Sarvis VST comes in two- and three-person versions and features a full architecture of independent poles, two doors and generous vestibules.
Despite the conventional structure, the weight of the trail starts at just 1.06kg, which is still the lowest weight for a tent packed with such features.
Designed for a new era of packaging
Big Agnes has been steadily pushing for material innovation in recent years, and the use of recycled HyperBead fabric with a high level of waterproofing shows a continued focus on performance without opting for heavy lightweights.
Combined with a hybrid wall design, the VST range seems to be aimed at travelers who want a low weight trekking pole shelter but with improved durability and weather resistance.
With long-distance trails reopening across Europe and the US and ultralight backpacking more popular than ever, the launch of the VST feels well-timed.
VST tents are available now from Ultra Light Outdoor Gear, Big Agnes EU and Big Agnes US, prices start at £480 / €550 / $549.95 (~AU$777).
