Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint Review

Let’s Dive into Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint

As a seasoned outdoor enthusiast with over a decade spent testing gear in the harshest environments, I’ve learned that protecting your investment is paramount. The Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint is designed to do just that, extending the life of your tent floor and offering alternative pitching options. This footprint promises durability and versatility for the serious backpacker.

My journey to find the perfect tent footprint stemmed from years of dealing with torn tent floors. Rocky terrains and unexpected moisture can quickly compromise the integrity of even the most robust tent materials. I needed a reliable shield against the elements, one that wouldn’t add significant weight or bulk to my pack.

Upon unboxing the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint, I was immediately impressed by its lightweight and compact design. The nylon ripstop material felt durable yet pliable, and the included stuff sack was a welcome addition for organized packing. The gray color is also practical, minimizing the appearance of dirt and stains.

I considered other options, such as generic ground cloths and heavier-duty footprints from different brands. However, the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint stood out because of its precise fit for the Fly Creek HV UL 2 tent and its ability to facilitate the Fast Fly setup. This feature allows you to leave the tent body behind, creating an ultralight shelter using just the footprint, fly, poles, and stakes.

My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. While the footprint seemed well-made, I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world conditions. Could something this lightweight truly withstand the rigors of backpacking?

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint to the test during a three-day backpacking trip in the unforgiving terrain of the High Sierra Nevada. The trail was a mix of granite slabs, loose scree, and patches of damp vegetation. Setting up the footprint under my Fly Creek HV UL 2 tent was a breeze, thanks to the intuitive Tiplok Tent Buckles.

The footprint performed admirably in keeping the tent floor clean and dry. Despite a brief but intense thunderstorm, no moisture seeped through, and the tent floor remained protected from sharp rocks and abrasive debris. The ease of setup was also noteworthy, especially after a long day of hiking.

There were no major issues after the first use, only some minor cosmetic scuffs from the rough terrain. I was pleasantly surprised by how well the lightweight material held up.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use on various backpacking and camping trips, the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint has proven to be a reliable and essential piece of my gear. While there are some visible signs of wear and tear, such as small abrasion marks and minor staining, the footprint has maintained its structural integrity and waterproofness. It still keeps my tent floor clean and dry.

Cleaning the footprint is a simple process. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild soap is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. I avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as these could damage the waterproof coating.

In comparison to using no footprint at all, the difference is night and day. Before, I would frequently find small punctures and tears in my tent floor. With the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint, I have significantly reduced the risk of damage and extended the lifespan of my tent. It definitely outperforms my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint

Specifications

The Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and functionality.

• Weight: 5 oz. This ultralight design ensures that the footprint won’t add significant weight to your pack.
• Body Material: Nylon ripstop 1200mm waterproof polyurethane coating. This durable and waterproof material provides excellent protection against ground moisture and abrasion.
• Packed Size: 7.5 x 5 x 1.5 in / 19 x 13 x 4 cm. The compact packed size allows for easy storage and transport.
• Compatible with Fly Creek HV UL2 tents featuring Tiplok Tent Buckles. This ensures a precise and secure fit.
• Fast Fly setup available. This allows for an ultralight shelter option using just the footprint, fly, poles, and stakes.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the footprint’s weight, durability, and ease of use. The lightweight design is crucial for backpackers who are conscious of every ounce. The waterproof coating protects against ground moisture. The Tiplok Tent Buckles provide a secure and user-friendly attachment to the tent.

Performance & Functionality

The Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint excels at its primary function: protecting the tent floor. It effectively shields the tent from sharp rocks, abrasive debris, and ground moisture. It is easy to use and setup is quick and intuitive.

The main strength of the footprint is its lightweight and compact design, combined with its durability and waterproofness. The Fast Fly setup is another significant advantage, allowing for an ultralight shelter option. The only potential weakness is that the lightweight material may not be as resistant to extreme abrasion as heavier-duty footprints.

The footprint meets and even exceeds my expectations. It provides excellent protection for my tent floor without adding significant weight or bulk to my pack.

Design & Ergonomics

The Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint features a simple yet effective design. The nylon ripstop material is lightweight and durable, and the Tiplok Tent Buckles provide a secure and user-friendly attachment to the tent. The included stuff sack is a welcome addition for organized packing.

The footprint is very user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve. Attaching it to the tent is quick and easy, even in low-light conditions.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and maintenance, the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint should last for many years of use. The nylon ripstop material is resistant to tearing and abrasion, and the waterproof coating provides excellent protection against moisture. The Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint has proven to be a durable product.

Maintaining the footprint is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild soap is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint comes with a stuff sack for easy storage and transport. It is specifically designed to be compatible with the Fly Creek HV UL 2 tent and to facilitate the Fast Fly setup.

There are no specific customization options available for the footprint itself. However, you can customize your overall shelter system by choosing different tent fly options or adding accessories such as extra stakes or guylines.

Pros and Cons of Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint?

The Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint is perfect for backpackers and lightweight campers who own a Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 tent and are looking for a reliable and ultralight way to protect their tent floor. It’s also ideal for those who want the option of using the Fast Fly setup for an even lighter shelter.

This product might not be the best choice for car campers or those who frequently camp in extremely rocky or abrasive environments. Those users might benefit from a heavier-duty footprint.

A must-have accessory for the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint is a set of high-quality tent stakes to ensure a secure and stable pitch, especially when using the Fast Fly setup.

Conclusion on Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint

The Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint is an excellent investment for owners of the Fly Creek HV UL 2 tent who prioritize lightweight and reliable protection. It provides peace of mind by safeguarding your tent floor from damage and extending its lifespan. The Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint also offers the added versatility of the Fast Fly setup.

At $61.99, the price is justified considering the footprint’s quality, durability, and functionality. It’s a small price to pay to protect a much larger investment.

I would highly recommend the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint to anyone looking to enhance their backpacking or camping experience. Don’t let a torn tent floor ruin your next adventure. Invest in the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 Footprint and enjoy worry-free camping for years to come.