Big Agnes Shield 2 Mountaineering Tent

Founded in 2001 in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Big Agnes has established itself as a premier brand in the outdoor industry. The company was named after a well-known peak in the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness area, reflecting its deep roots in the Rocky Mountains. Known for innovation in ultralight camping gear, the brand gained significant recognition for its integrated sleeping pad and bag systems and high-performance tents.

While the brand maintains its headquarters, testing facilities, and design center in Steamboat Springs, the majority of its manufacturing is outsourced to specialized factories in Asia, particularly in China and Vietnam. This allows them to utilize high-tech materials such as DAC poles and Pertex fabrics efficiently. Big Agnes remains one of the few major independent outdoor equipment companies in an industry often dominated by large conglomerates, maintaining its status as a private, employee-owned and founder-led business.