Big Agnes marks its 25th anniversary with a new range of ultralight shelters designed to balance low weight with the space, ventilation and durability needed for long periods on the trail.

Big Agnes is marking its 25th anniversary with the launch of the VST series of tents designed for fastpacking and ultralight tramping. 

Developed in response to feedback from the thru-hiking community, the tents aim to reduce weight without sacrificing durability, ventilation or usable living space.

“The goal was to design a shelter that met the demands of thru-hikers without compromise,” says Michael Thompson, head of design and development at Big Agnes. “Every design decision was driven by real feedback and the need to balance weight, durability and usable space.”

Maximum velocity, zero compromise

The VST name is a play on the basic formula for velocity (V=S/T), reflecting the range’s focus on moving quickly while carrying less.

All the tents use recycled 20D HyperBead solution-dyed ripstop fabric, with a 4000mm waterproof rating and no intentionally added PFAS. Big Agnes says the fabric combines weather resistance and stability with the low weight required for ultralight shelters.

A hybrid single- and double-wall construction with integrated ventilation is designed to improve airflow and reduce condensation.

Making space where it counts

Rather than simply shrinking the tent to save weight, Big Agnes has used the shelters’ geometry to create useful storage areas in spaces that would otherwise be wasted.

The tents accommodate rectangular sleeping pads up to 64cm wide, while the String Ridge and Pitchpine are available in ‘.5’ sizing, which provide additional interior space for gear or a four-legged companion.

“With VST, every gram we saved and inch of space we gained was a result of intentional design choices learned from firsthand experience,” says Thompson.

The VST series is available from www.bigagnes.nz.

The VST range in New Zealand

String Ridge VST

A trekking-pole-supported shelter aimed at fast-and-light trips. Big Agnes says its design combines the low weight possible with a trekking-pole shelter with a stable structure and generous usable space.

1.5-person: US$1499.99 | 539g trail weight | 2.1m²

Pitchpine VST

A non-freestanding, single-pole shelter designed to maximise interior volume while keeping weight down.

1.5-person: $1599.99 | 2m² | 768g trail weight 

Sarvis VST 

The fully freestanding option, with a full-pole structure, two doors, a generous vestibule and a larger interior.

2-person: $1799.99 | 3m² | 1134g trail weight