{
  "category": {
    "slug": "tents",
    "name": "Tents",
    "description": "Backpacking and family camping tents; canopies, gazebos and sleeping bags are separate."
  },
  "url": "https://stierproducts.com/categories/tents",
  "markdown": "https://stierproducts.com/categories/tents.md",
  "updated": "2026-08-24T14:37:53.593Z",
  "productsRanked": 17,
  "summary": "On the stierproducts tents board, Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 ranks #1 in S tier, ahead of Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 (#2, S tier) and Kelty Wireless 6 (#3, A tier). The board ranks 17 tents from S (best) to F (avoid), last researched 24 Aug 2026, drawing on 170 outlet citations across the board. Placed in the bottom tiers as ones to avoid: NEMO Aurora Highrise 6P, Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2, Fjern Gökotta 2, and 7 others.",
  "method": {
    "summary": "Each category is researched in four independent runs, one per lens (expert consensus, value, reliability, community pulse). Every run ranks a board of candidates that deliberately includes products buyers cross-shop but should avoid. Placements score on a ranked ladder (LP), and tiers are derived from LP, so no tier is ever assigned by hand.",
    "url": "https://stierproducts.com/methodology"
  },
  "license": {
    "name": "CC BY 4.0",
    "url": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/",
    "terms": "https://stierproducts.com/license",
    "covers": [
      "text",
      "rankings",
      "tiers",
      "lp",
      "verdicts",
      "pros",
      "cons"
    ],
    "excludes": [
      "images"
    ],
    "imageRights": "Product photographs are not covered: they belong to their respective owners and are reproduced to illustrate the product being reviewed. Do not redistribute them under this licence."
  },
  "tierMeanings": {
    "S": "Exceptional. Finishes top run after run; capped at 3 slots per category.",
    "A": "Excellent. Strongly recommended, beaten only by the very best.",
    "B": "Good. A solid choice with real caveats worth knowing.",
    "C": "Fair. Acceptable in the right situation, outclassed at its price.",
    "D": "Weak. Hard to recommend when better options cost similar money.",
    "F": "Avoid. The evidence points you elsewhere."
  },
  "products": [
    {
      "rank": 1,
      "tier": "S",
      "lp": 1098,
      "name": "Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3",
      "brand": "Big Agnes",
      "slug": "big-agnes-copper-spur-ul3",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-ul3",
      "verdict": "The most versatile three-person ultralight, praised for its lightweight, packability and long-term durability.",
      "pros": [
        "Lightweight design that keeps you dry through the worst storms",
        "Excellent packability for backpackers",
        "Long-term durability proven by RTINGS",
        "Lightweight and compact pack size",
        "Excellent interior space"
      ],
      "citations": 10,
      "distinctOutlets": 8,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-ul3.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 2,
      "tier": "S",
      "lp": 1031,
      "name": "Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3",
      "brand": "Mountain Hardwear",
      "slug": "mountain-hardwear-mineral-king-3",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/mountain-hardwear-mineral-king-3",
      "verdict": "The top two-person tent for backcountry, noted for its low weight and excellent weather protection.",
      "pros": [
        "Low weight for two-person use",
        "Excellent weather protection",
        "Wirecutter’s best two-person tent",
        "Roomy interior for two people",
        "Solid construction"
      ],
      "citations": 3,
      "distinctOutlets": 3,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/mountain-hardwear-mineral-king-3.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 3,
      "tier": "A",
      "lp": 811,
      "name": "Kelty Wireless 6",
      "brand": "Kelty",
      "slug": "kelty-wireless-6",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/kelty-wireless-6",
      "verdict": "Best value family-camping tent, combining roomy floor space with solid weatherproofing.",
      "pros": [
        "Roomy floor space for families",
        "Solid weatherproofing",
        "Wirecutter’s best for most users",
        "Easy to set up",
        "Generous floor space"
      ],
      "citations": 10,
      "distinctOutlets": 8,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/kelty-wireless-6.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 4,
      "tier": "A",
      "lp": 657,
      "name": "North Face Wawona 6",
      "brand": "North Face",
      "slug": "north-face-wawona-6",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/north-face-wawona-6",
      "verdict": "Best overall family-camping tent, offering the largest floor area (86 sq ft) and robust construction.",
      "pros": [
        "Largest floor area among family tents",
        "Robust construction for weather resistance",
        "Wirecutter’s best for family camping",
        "Spacious floor area for families",
        "Excellent weather protection"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "seam failures reported after a year of use",
        "Higher weight",
        "Less weather resistance compared to similar tents",
        "Heavier than comparable options"
      ],
      "citations": 20,
      "distinctOutlets": 19,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 2,
        "ofRuns": 12
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/north-face-wawona-6.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 5,
      "tier": "C",
      "lp": 473,
      "name": "Hilleberg Allak",
      "brand": "Hilleberg",
      "slug": "hilleberg-allak",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/hilleberg-allak",
      "verdict": "Excellent weather protection for two people, but its higher price and limited space keep it below the top tier.",
      "pros": [
        "Exceptional weather protection",
        "Compact for two people",
        "Storm-proof with excellent wind resistance",
        "High performance",
        "Lightweight"
      ],
      "citations": 22,
      "distinctOutlets": 19,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 2,
        "ofRuns": 12
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/hilleberg-allak.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 6,
      "tier": "C",
      "lp": 440,
      "name": "NEMO Aurora Highrise 4P",
      "brand": "NEMO",
      "slug": "nemo-aurora-highrise-4p",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/nemo-aurora-highrise-4p",
      "verdict": "A four-person tent that balances weight and weather protection.",
      "pros": [
        "Excellent wind resistance per RTINGS",
        "Spaciousness for families",
        "Wirecutter highlights family use",
        "High-rise design gives extra headroom",
        "Lightweight"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "Small vestibule",
        "Limited headroom"
      ],
      "citations": 3,
      "distinctOutlets": 3,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 1,
        "ofRuns": 6
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/nemo-aurora-highrise-4p.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 7,
      "tier": "C",
      "lp": 362,
      "name": "Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1",
      "brand": "Big Agnes",
      "slug": "big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul1",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul1",
      "verdict": "The lightest three-person tent with a fully pitched attachment system that keeps it dry in harsh weather.",
      "pros": [
        "Lightest 3-person ultralight",
        "Fully pitched attachment system for dryness",
        "Long-term performance per RTINGS",
        "Single-person use"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "Limited capacity",
        "Less durable than comparable models"
      ],
      "citations": 10,
      "distinctOutlets": 10,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 1,
        "ofRuns": 2
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul1.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 8,
      "tier": "D",
      "lp": 321,
      "name": "NEMO Aurora Highrise 6P",
      "brand": "NEMO",
      "slug": "nemo-aurora-highrise-6p",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/nemo-aurora-highrise-6p",
      "verdict": "The six-person version offers more space but suffers from higher weight and a less robust frame.",
      "pros": [
        "More interior space",
        "Spaciousness for families",
        "Durable construction",
        "High-rise design",
        "Ample storage"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "Heavy weight",
        "Seam failures after long use",
        "price does not match the extra space",
        "better to buy a 4-person model or different brand"
      ],
      "citations": 3,
      "distinctOutlets": 3,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 2,
        "ofRuns": 8
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/nemo-aurora-highrise-6p.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 9,
      "tier": "D",
      "lp": 306,
      "name": "Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2",
      "brand": "Big Agnes",
      "slug": "big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul2",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul2",
      "verdict": "A higher-volume version of the UL3 that adds headroom without much weight penalty.",
      "pros": [
        "Extra headroom compared to UL3",
        "Comfort and durability per RTINGS",
        "Top pick for backpackers needing extra space",
        "High volume for two people",
        "Moderate price point"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "Higher price and weight not justified",
        "Prone to damage when wet",
        "Less reliable in heavy rain"
      ],
      "citations": 31,
      "distinctOutlets": 27,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 2,
        "ofRuns": 8
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul2.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 10,
      "tier": "D",
      "lp": 303,
      "name": "Fjern Gökotta 2",
      "brand": "Fjern",
      "slug": "fjern-g-kotta-2",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/fjern-g-kotta-2",
      "verdict": "Switchback Travel lists the Fjern Gökotta 2 as a standout for its compact size, durability and good ventilation.",
      "pros": [
        "Compact",
        "Durable",
        "Good ventilation",
        "ideal for pitching on snow",
        "excellent ventilation"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "Limited ventilation",
        "Poor rain-proofing"
      ],
      "citations": 2,
      "distinctOutlets": 1,
      "thinlySourced": true,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 1,
        "ofRuns": 7
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/fjern-g-kotta-2.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 11,
      "tier": "D",
      "lp": 295,
      "name": "Big Agnes Copper Spur UL1",
      "brand": "Big Agnes",
      "slug": "big-agnes-copper-spur-ul1",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-ul1",
      "verdict": "Premium price for too small interior space.",
      "pros": [
        "Lightweight",
        "Solid choice for solo or two-person trips",
        "best one-person tent for backpacking",
        "Very light and compact for solo use",
        "Durable construction"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "Small interior space",
        "Premium pricing"
      ],
      "citations": 8,
      "distinctOutlets": 7,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 1,
        "ofRuns": 7
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-ul1.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 12,
      "tier": "D",
      "lp": 295,
      "name": "Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3",
      "brand": "Big Agnes",
      "slug": "big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul3",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul3",
      "verdict": "The flagship three-person model that offers the best combination of weight, space and durability.",
      "pros": [
        "Most reliable in its class per RTINGS",
        "Excellent balance of weight, space and durability",
        "Top pick for backpackers needing extra room",
        "High interior volume",
        "Lightweight"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "Higher price for similar weight and pack size",
        "Heavier than flagship",
        "Higher cost with minimal added benefits"
      ],
      "citations": 11,
      "distinctOutlets": 10,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 2,
        "ofRuns": 10
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul3.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 13,
      "tier": "F",
      "lp": 137,
      "name": "Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2",
      "brand": "Big Agnes",
      "slug": "big-agnes-copper-spur-ul2",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-ul2",
      "verdict": "A two-person ultralight that offers excellent comfort and durability.",
      "pros": [
        "Comfortable design per RTINGS",
        "Long-term reliability",
        "Top pick for backpackers needing extra headroom",
        "Ultralight weight",
        "Good interior space"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "Heavier and less compact than UL3",
        "Fragile nylon",
        "Lower durability than comparable models"
      ],
      "citations": 27,
      "distinctOutlets": 23,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 2,
        "ofRuns": 7
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-ul2.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 14,
      "tier": "F",
      "lp": 0,
      "name": "Coleman Skydome 6P",
      "brand": "Coleman",
      "slug": "coleman-skydome-6p",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/coleman-skydome-6p",
      "verdict": "Although marketed as a budget family tent, reviews point to frequent seam failures and limited wind resistance after long use.",
      "pros": [
        "Budget price for families",
        "Easy setup",
        "Large floor area",
        "Solid performance for the price",
        "Good floor space"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "Seam failures over time",
        "Limited wind resistance",
        "Heavy weight",
        "Limited weather protection for its size",
        "Thin walls"
      ],
      "citations": 2,
      "distinctOutlets": 2,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 8,
        "ofRuns": 12
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/coleman-skydome-6p.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 15,
      "tier": "F",
      "lp": 0,
      "name": "Big Agnes Sting",
      "brand": "Big Agnes",
      "slug": "big-agnes-sting",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/big-agnes-sting",
      "verdict": "Overpriced for its limited weather performance.",
      "pros": [
        "Lightweight",
        "Spacious vestibule",
        "Easy set-up",
        "Good value",
        "Durable materials"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "Limited weather protection",
        "Higher price compared to similar models",
        "Heavy weight",
        "Limited interior volume",
        "Heavier weight"
      ],
      "citations": 1,
      "distinctOutlets": 1,
      "thinlySourced": true,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 5,
        "ofRuns": 9
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/big-agnes-sting.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 16,
      "tier": "F",
      "lp": 0,
      "name": "Simond MT900",
      "brand": "Simond",
      "slug": "simond-mt900",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/simond-mt900",
      "verdict": "A high-price, heavy tent that repeatedly receives complaints about weak pole connections and seam integrity in extreme weather.",
      "pros": [
        "High-end design",
        "High performance",
        "Lightweight",
        "Robust construction",
        "Rugged construction suitable for harsh conditions"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "Weak pole connections",
        "Seam integrity problems",
        "Heavy weight",
        "Fragile frame",
        "Limited vestibule space"
      ],
      "citations": 25,
      "distinctOutlets": 20,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 4,
        "ofRuns": 7
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/simond-mt900.webp"
    },
    {
      "rank": 17,
      "tier": "F",
      "lp": 0,
      "name": "Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL",
      "brand": "Big Agnes",
      "slug": "big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul",
      "url": "https://stierproducts.com/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul",
      "verdict": "Over-priced with only marginal additional space.",
      "pros": [
        "Spaciousness",
        "High-volume interior",
        "Ultra-light weight",
        "Excellent weather protection",
        "Spacious interior"
      ],
      "cons": [
        "High price for limited extra room",
        "higher failure rate in wind",
        "poles less durable",
        "Heavier than newer models",
        "Higher price without performance gains"
      ],
      "citations": 6,
      "distinctOutlets": 6,
      "thinlySourced": false,
      "flaggedToAvoid": {
        "runs": 4,
        "ofRuns": 6
      },
      "image": "https://stierproducts.com/images/products/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul.webp"
    }
  ]
}