Quick answer

Buy the Copper Spur UL2 XL Footprint if you want a floor-sized protective layer that also lets you pitch a Fast Fly shelter without the tent body. A generic ground cloth can save money, but it will not give you that matched Fast Fly setup.

Why a matched footprint beats a cut-to-size ground cloth

A footprint is cut for a specific tent floor, so it protects the floor without leaving excess fabric sticking out to collect rain. A ground cloth can be trimmed to fit, but the result depends on your cutting and rarely lines up with stake points or door zones. The Copper Spur UL2 XL Footprint is made for that tent, which removes the guesswork from tent footprint sizing.

The Fast Fly exception

The Fast Fly pitch is the main reason to choose the matched footprint over a generic cloth. It requires the footprint, tent fly, poles, and stakes, and it leaves the tent body behind. If you only want abrasion protection under the floor, a ground cloth can do that job; if you want a lighter shelter option on dry nights, the footprint is the part that makes it work.

Copper Spur UL2 XL Footprint FAQ

Does the UL2 XL footprint fit the standard Copper Spur UL2?

No. The XL footprint is sized for the XL version of the tent. Check your tent model name before ordering, because a footprint for the standard UL2 will not match the XL floor dimensions. Confirm the model on your tent's label, not just the Copper Spur name.

Do I need a footprint for the Copper Spur UL2 XL?

You do not need one to pitch the tent, but Big Agnes recommends a footprint or ground cloth to extend the life of the tent floor. If you camp on abrasive ground or want the Fast Fly option, the matched footprint is the more useful choice.

Can I use a tarp or polycryo instead?

Yes, as a ground cloth for floor protection. It will not give you the Fast Fly configuration, which requires the footprint itself. Trim any ground cloth so it does not extend past the tent floor, or it will channel rain under the tent.

What exactly do I need for Fast Fly?

The Fast Fly setup requires the footprint, tent fly, poles, and stakes. The tent body stays behind. Pack those four items together so you are not caught without the footprint on a night you planned to go lightweight. Store the footprint with the fly and poles if you intend to use Fast Fly.

How should I care for the footprint?

Shake off grit and debris before packing, and let the footprint dry fully before long storage. Abrasive dirt trapped against the tent floor is what wears it out, so a quick clean at camp does most of the work.

Product facts

  • Copper Spur UL2 XL Footprint: Big Agnes recommends using a footprint or ground cloth to extend the life of your tent floor. That makes the footprint a wear part you plan for, not an optional extra you add after the floor is already scuffed.

    Copper Spur UL2 XL Footprint

    Copper Spur UL2 XL Footprint

  • Copper Spur UL2 XL Footprint: The footprint enables a Fast Fly shelter when paired with the tent fly, poles, and stakes. You can leave the tent body at home and still have a pitched shelter, which changes how you pack for fair-weather trips.