REI Co-op Flash Air 2 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 2 Tent
Best for: Ultralight backpacking to minimize pack weight.
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 2 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.
On scores, the Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent edges ahead — 8.1 overall versus 7.6.
The biggest gap is space and comfort, where the Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent holds a clear advantage.
The REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent also has a price edge — $120 less at $429 versus $549.
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
REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent
- Trekking pole pitch option
- Near-vertical interior walls
- Dual canopy-style doors
- Finicky foot-pole setup
- Tiny storage pockets
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 2 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 | $429 | $550 |
| Weight | 2 Lbs. 8 Oz. | 1.2 Lbs |
| Min Trail Weight | 1 Lb. 15 Oz. | — |
| Floor Area | 28.7 ft² | 22.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 16.8 Sq Ft | 9 Sq Ft |
| Peak Height | 42 | 47 |
| Doors | 2 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 88 X 52/42 Inches | 88 X 28 44 In |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | Trekking Poles |
| Floor Fabric | Ripstop Nylon | Proprietary HyperBead Fabric Technology; Recycled 15 Denier Ripstop Nylon With 1,500 Mm Waterproof Rating |
| 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 | 5 Mins | 20 Mins |
| Warranty | None | Lifetime |
| Made In | USA | Imported |
Ready to Buy?
Still not sure? Let us recommend the perfect tent for your adventures.
Find Your Perfect Tent →