REI Co-op Flash Air 1 Tent Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
REI Co-op
REI Co-op Flash Air 1 Tent
Best for: Solo backpackers wanting an affordable, lightweight shelter.
Big Agnes
Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent
Best for: Ultralight solo fast-and-light mountain missions.
Our Take
Worth flagging before you compare: the REI Co-op Flash Air 1 Tent is a trekking pole and the Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent is a backpacking, so these two sit in different shelter categories.
Both score 8.1 overall, though the REI Co-op Flash Air 1 Tent wins more individual scoring categories.
The biggest gap is ease of setup, where the REI Co-op Flash Air 1 Tent holds a clear advantage.
The REI Co-op Flash Air 1 Tent also has a price edge — $220 less at $329 versus $549.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
🏆 Our pick: The REI Co-op Flash Air 1 Tent scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
REI Co-op Flash Air 1 Tent
- Stargazing-friendly rollaway fly
- Trekking pole setup option
- Integrated mesh condensation vents
- Heavy condensation buildup
- Cramped interior space
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
Full Specs
| Spec | REI Co-op Flash Air 1 Tent | Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Trekking Pole, Backpacking, Ultralight, Non Freestanding | Backpacking, Ultralight, Trekking Pole, Non Freestanding |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 4 Season |
| Est. Price | $329 | $550 |
| Weight | 1 Lb 6 Oz | 1.2 Lbs |
| Min Trail Weight | 1 Lb 4 Oz | — |
| Floor Area | 21.3 ft² | 22.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 8.4 Sq Ft | 9 Sq Ft |
| Peak Height | 42 | 47 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 88 X 35/27(head/foot) In | 88 X 28 44 In |
| Pole Material | DAC NFL Aluminum | Trekking Poles |
| Floor Fabric | Ripstop Nylon | Proprietary HyperBead Fabric Technology; Recycled 15 Denier Ripstop Nylon With 1,500 Mm Waterproof Rating |
| Rainfly Fabric | Attached Rainfly | Proprietary HyperBead Fabric; 20 Denier Recycled Solution Dyed Polyester With 20 Denier High Tenacity Ripstop Fabric And 4,000 Mm Waterproof Rating |
| Packed Size | 6 X 16 In | — |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 20 Mins |
| Warranty | None | Lifetime |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
Ready to Buy?
Still not sure? Let us recommend the perfect tent for your adventures.
Find Your Perfect Tent →