VIK 1

Nature hike kicks ass. Had the one from 5 years ago and it had been so good that it's a high recommendation to budget traveling tent and intro to light tents. It made it through tornado weather multiple times (3 season one) This was the chosen tent until saved enough to afford that same big Agnes one you mentioned and use this one now. Was Totally worth the money for the old old one back then before investing and LOVING the lightweight and strength of big Agnes now. Waited till it went 30% off sale at REI this past year. No experience with it, and I bet the new new model of nature hike is good. It's up to you how much you can actually break the bank. Both are great depending on what you can spend. If you have the money, get big Agnes. If you're punching pennies, get nature hike and keep your eye out for sales on big Agnes or work overtime to get it.

Second for Naturehike. I have the Vik1, freestanding and have used it solidly across 3 seasons for 5 years. I care for my gear so I always use the ground sheet and make sure it’s clean/dry before storing. Fits me and a 50lb lab mix, but YMMV. Prices have gone up since I bought it and with the tariffs gear is just going to jump higher. I suggest looking at online resale sites to find good used gear as well.