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Merrell Moab 3 GTX vs Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

Grant's comparison  ·  June 2026  ·  Last verified June 2026
Grant's Quick Verdict

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 (8.9/10) wins for most people. Merrell Moab 3 GTX wins for a specific profile.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Runner-Up
Merrell Moab 3 GTX
8.7
Fee: $185 one-time
Best hiking boot
Full review →
Winner
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
8.9
Fee: $500 one-time
Best ultralight tent
Full review →

Who Should Choose Merrell Moab 3 GTX

3-season hiking on established trails. 13 boots researched. Field-tested 14 miles. Zero blisters.

Buy on Amazon →

Who Should Choose Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

Backpacking where weight matters. 22 tents researched. Linda used it twice and had zero complaints.

Buy on Amazon →

Grant's Final Verdict

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is Grant's recommendation for most people reading this comparison. Score: 8.9/10. 22 tents researched. Linda used it twice and had zero complaints.

Merrell Moab 3 GTX (8.7/10) is the right choice for a specific situation: 3-season hiking on established trails. If that describes you, the full review has the complete math.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: Merrell Moab 3 GTX or Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2?
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 (8.9/10) wins for most people. 22 tents researched. Linda used it twice and had zero complaints. Merrell Moab 3 GTX is the right choice if: 3-season hiking on established trails.
What is Grant's score for Merrell Moab 3 GTX?
Grant rates Merrell Moab 3 GTX 8.7/10. Verdict: 13 boots researched. Field-tested 14 miles. Zero blisters.
What is Grant's score for Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2?
Grant rates Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 8.9/10. Verdict: 22 tents researched. Linda used it twice and had zero complaints.
Who should choose Merrell Moab 3 GTX?
3-season hiking on established trails.
Who should choose Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2?
Backpacking where weight matters.
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Head to head, by the numbers

Merrell Moab 3 GTXBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
Grant's score8.7/108.9/10
Price
Top strengthGore-Tex waterproofing keeps water out in standard conditions2.5 lbs for a freestanding two-person tent is excellent
Biggest drawbackGore-Tex adds weight versus non-waterproof versions15D fabric is less durable than heavier tents

The case for Merrell Moab 3 GTX

The case for Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

Bottom line

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 takes this one on the numbers (8.9/10 vs 8.7/10). Grant's tent after researching 22 alternatives. Linda used it twice and had zero complaints — the highest praise Linda gives.

That said, Merrell Moab 3 GTX isn't a loser — it's a different answer. Grant researched thirteen boots before selecting the Moab 3. He wore them for two days in May. His verdict: the research was correct.

Read the full breakdowns: Merrell Moab 3 GTX review · Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 review · all rankings.