Big Agnes  Shield 2 Tent

My go-to winter solo tent. Perfect size for me and some gear. Cramped for 2, but I'll take the close quarters for the relative weight and strength of the tent. I sort of expect it mountaineering. Have stayed in some pretty windy nights on Pacific Northwest volcanoes, and when well pitched it feels super strong. I typically open the vents, and haven't had any problems with condensation on the single wall.

Recently slept on the shore of Lake Superior during a spring snow storm with gale force winds. This tent held strong with no issues. It was super loud as as the winds blasted and waves crashed on the beach below. Sleeping in this tent is like being in a very large, high quality Goretex jacket! It is snug for 2 people but for one it is perfect. Bottom line, BA makes the best tents....hands down!

I just used this on some ski traverses in the Cascades where I got rained on.... a lot. Not what you want for a good time while skiing but at least I stayed warm and dry in this thing. Set up is a breeze, and this thing is bomber! Had a really exposed camp on Mt. Baker and this thing was unaffected by winds. I am 6'7" and I was sharing this tent with another guy and we had plenty of room and were even cooking/melting water inside when it was raging outside. It was tight, but roomier than other 2-person single wall bivy tents I have used. My only issue with the tent is not a big deal, but I like sleeping with my feet at the door so I can crawl in head first instead of feet first. The trade off is that the door is larger this way, and I was able to get up and pee in the middle of the night without waking my tent partner so it still gets 5 stars! All that rain and two people breathing in there and we did not have a drop of condensation. I am a full time, year-round mountain guide and a member of the Big Agnes team I received this gear to test and use.

To me , no tent on the market compares to a Big Agnes. I purchased the Shield 2 for an upcoming trip around the Ausangate Trek at 16,000’+ elevation in June and I need a bomber for the temperature and wind at that altitude. I own the Copper Spur UL2 for most camping and compared to that tent, the Shield 2 is a Brut regarding design structure. I will be back for an update after the trail but I never have doubts when it comes to Big Agnes!

I used the Shield 2 for an overnighter. The outside temperature was 32F. I kept the vents open on top. Also, I slightly vented the screen on the door. The tent was comfortable with my gear. By morning, the outside temperature was still 32F. The inside temperature was at 38F. I felt comfortable all night. No condensation. I plan on using this tent for section hiking the AT.

I have not used the tent yet. Although, I did set up the tent easily and simply with the high quality tent poles. The poles are sturdy compared to other tents I owned. The tent material is first rate compared to other tents made of polyester/nylon or nylon. For me, the need for a vestibule is not a requirement for a high quality light weight tent. I use to camp with a pup tent in various weather conditions without a vestibule. I am use to it. Also, I do not need to have two doors or large windows. For me, the vented door and ceiling will suffice. As well, I love the idea of not needing a rain fly. This adds to the quickness of assembly and confidence of weather protection. I just wanted a tent that offers superior weather protection. The tent should have a larger interior for two people. I was aware of the tent's dimensions before purchase. However, I was shocked the tent recently became available. So I grabbed it. I would prefer the Shield 3 for the extra room. If that becomes available again I will grab it. But, the Shield 2 is still perfect for my needs.

I use this tent for winter camping to go skiing, and absolutely love this setup. It's a phenomenal lightweight tent that's durable and works just as intended.

Tent is much smaller than advertized. I am 6'1" and head and feet touched. Tent went back day after I got it. Waiting for a refund.

Easy pitch. Simple tent. Door design allows water into the tent when it rains or tent is wet.