In January 2025, U.S. tent-maker Big Agnes announced HyperBead™, a new ultralight tent fabric that boosts performance without toxic coatings. According to the company, HyperBead™ is 25% more waterproof than traditional ultralight fabrics while being 6% lighter, and it achieves permanent water repellency without any added PFAS, DWR or other chemical treatments. The innovation comes after two years of development; it delivers 'breakthrough performance' for campers by ensuring water resistance that won’t wash out over time. Big Agnes highlights that this new fabric 'performs better, weighs less and is easier on the environment,' effectively reimagining ultralight gear. In practice, HyperBead™ will be used on the company’s flagship backpacking tents, enabling lighter gear without sacrificing durability. By eliminating PFAS and durable-water-repellant (DWR) finishes, HyperBead™ responds to growing industry and regulatory pressure to remove harmful 'forever chemicals' while still meeting high waterproofing standards. This development exemplifies a broader trend: advancing textile technology to make tents both lighter and more eco-conscious.
