Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent ZPacks Duplex Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Big Agnes
Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent
Best for: Ultralight solo fast-and-light mountain missions.
ZPacks
ZPacks Duplex Tent
Best for: Ultralight long-distance backpacking and thru-hiking.
Our Take
Worth flagging before you compare: the Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent is a backpacking and the ZPacks Duplex Tent is a a-frame, so these two sit in different shelter categories.
It also has vestibule storage for muddy boots and wet gear.
On scores, the Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent edges ahead — 8.1 overall versus 7.5.
The biggest gap is build quality, where the Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent holds a clear advantage.
The Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent also has a price edge — $149 less at $549 versus $699.
For most buyers, the Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent is the stronger all-round pick — but check the full specs below before deciding.
🏆 Our pick: The Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent
- HyperBead fabric offers elite waterproofing
- Spacious 1.5-person asymmetrical interior design
- Ultralight trekking pole supported setup
- Small pole pockets fit poorly
- Sloped walls limit taller hikers
ZPacks Duplex Tent
- Ultralight 19-ounce Dyneema
- Fits two wide pads
- Symmetrical, easy pitch design
- Expensive investment
- Prone to condensation
Full Specs
| Spec | Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent | ZPacks Duplex Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Ultralight, Trekking Pole, Non Freestanding | A Frame, Backpacking, Ultralight, Trekking Pole, Non Freestanding |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 4 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $550 | $699 |
| Weight | 1.2 Lbs | 1.13 Lbs |
| Floor Area | 22.0 ft² | 28.1 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 9 Sq Ft | Yes |
| Peak Height | 47 | 48 |
| Doors | 1 | 4 |
| Floor Dimensions | 88 X 28 44 In | 90 X 45 X 48 |
| Pole Material | Trekking Poles | Trekking Pole |
| Floor Fabric | Proprietary HyperBead Fabric Technology; Recycled 15 Denier Ripstop Nylon With 1,500 Mm Waterproof Rating | Dyneema® Composite Fabric |
| Rainfly Fabric | Proprietary HyperBead Fabric; 20 Denier Recycled Solution Dyed Polyester With 20 Denier High Tenacity Ripstop Fabric And 4,000 Mm Waterproof Rating | — |
| Setup Time | 20 Mins | 8 10 Mins |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 2 Year |
| Made In | Imported | USA |
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