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If you are going on a hike, then you definitely need a tent.
A tent for the first hike can be rented, but even for this you need to know what types of tents exist and how they differ.

How to choose a tent

Before answering the question: "What kind of tent do I need?", You need to understand which hike (or hikes) you are going to walk with it.

As in the question with a backpack or sleeping bag, the season when you prefer to get out into nature and types of hikes is also important here.

Let's start with outdoor activities.

They can be conditionally divided into four categories:

Camping - stopping at an equipped space, which is usually reached by car. From the territory of the camp, tourists usually do not go anywhere, at most - to close and simple radials.

Trekking, cycling, PVD - hiking, where the weight of the backpack becomes the main indicator (after all, you have to carry it on yourself!). Such hikes usually follow pre-laid and "walked" routes, the camp is set up on convenient meadows, beaches and other gentle and sheltered places.

Extreme tourism, climbing, hikes of increased difficulty level - these are hikes that require special training, endurance and skills. The camp may have to be set up on sections of the route that are not the most suitable for this. Climatic conditions are often very difficult, sometimes even extreme.

Water tourism - everything is clear here, these are rafting, hiking along or crossing various reservoirs and staying on the seashore. Few people managed to go on water trips in winter, and therefore the campsites involve a camp of large, comfortable tents, because it is much more convenient and easier to transport cargo by water than on your own back.

You can also find a division into hikes in the plains, in the middle mountains, in the high mountains, climbing tents. Everything here is clear from the name and indicates rather the complexity of the campaign than its difference from the rest.

Based on the types of tourism, tents are divided into:

camping (large, beautiful tents, houses, with windows, a large entrance and interior space; they are heavy and bulky and can be carried in the trunk of a car);

trekking (compact and lightweight tents that fit comfortably in a backpack, but are not designed for extreme temperatures and prolonged rains);

assault (these are Supermen among tents, they are certainly not from space, but they are made of the most modern, durable and lightweight materials; such tents weigh less than others, easily and quickly assembled and disassembled, but rather cramped, since they are usually designed for one person ).

In addition to the types of tourism, tents are subdivided according to the seasonality of hiking:

three season tents ideal for all relatively warm months of the year. These tents are the most popular, as most of the tourists go hiking between spring and autumn. They are warm enough yet well ventilated and durable.

winter tents are designed for low temperatures, high humidity and are aimed at keeping warm inside the room. These are the most durable and resistant to any climatic "surprises" shelter.

summer tents designed exclusively for parking on warm and even hot days and nights. They are well ventilated and have little protection from rain or strong winds.

By design, tents are in the form of a "hemisphere", "half roll", gable or hipped

"Hemispheres" by design, they resemble a dome (as they are also called), which is formed thanks to two arcs of the frame, installed crosswise. These tents withstand the wind very well, thanks to the design features, they are easily installed even by one person. However, if you are not used to installing such a structure, it can be difficult to figure it out, but in the future, you can assemble the shelter in just five minutes. An important advantage is the ability to simply lift the tent and move it to another place, without the need to disassemble and assemble it, in addition, the "hemisphere" can be placed on almost any surface. Perhaps the only significant drawback is the weight of the tent, which is increased due to the constituent elements of the arches and there is less internal space in it, again, due to the design features.

"Half roll" really visually resembles a barrel or hangar sawn along, the arcs are located parallel to each other here, which increases the internal space, but weakens the structure as a whole, making it not so resistant to wind gusts. Often in the "half rolls" there is a large enough vestibule, where it is convenient to store equipment, things and shoes. It is quite easy to assemble such a tent, but it will take more time than installing a "hemisphere". Due to their relatively weak wind resistance, these types of tents are not suitable for hiking in the mountains, but they serve well on uncomplicated hikes in the plains and during camping.

Gable tents are familiar to everyone from illustrations in children's books and cartoons. They are easy to install and have a simple design, but, unlike the "hemisphere" and "half rolls", they weakly resist the wind, therefore they are usually used on the territory of base camps or on hikes under favorable conditions.

Tent tents also most often found in base camps. Their design is extremely simple and familiar to many. Large tent tents can be found in the base camps of large groups during winter hikes, when a stove is installed in the center, heating the entire tent space.

"Coffin" - yes, yes, yes, it happens. Coffins are a single-person tent of the corresponding shape, where the arcs are parallel to each other. This is a tent for extreme climbing, designed exclusively for one person, which is located inside exclusively for the night. You cannot sit or stand in such a tent. It is small, lightweight, wind-resistant and quite durable.

Tents are available in two-layer or single-layer

Single layer tents are made of waterproof materials. Such tents are lighter than two-layer tents, but if the ventilation system is not well thought out, then condensation accumulates and there is a possibility of waking up in a wet sleeping bag.

Have double layer tents there are two elements: an inner and an outer tent. The inner tent often has mesh walls, while the outer one protects against moisture, wind and cold. Such tents "breathe" better and protect from bad weather.

Almost all modern tents are double layer tents.

What the tent consists of

The tent usually consists not only of a "sleeping place", because it should act as the most comfortable dwelling for its owner. Let's take a look at the most useful structural elements of a modern tent.

Awning
The upper layer of the tent, which protects the inside of it (and its inhabitants) from rain, wind and other troubles.

Inner tent - directly the "home" for the tourist. A place dedicated to sleep and rest.

Tambour
Perhaps the most popular element of a tent. It is convenient to store your belongings and shoes in the vestibule so that they do not take up space in the “living” space, but at the same time are protected from rain and dirt. In addition, the vestibule helps to prepare for going out, which is especially important in the cold season, and sometimes serves as a kitchen if the weather is raging outside.

You can find tents with two vestibules equipped at each of the exits (there are also two of them, respectively). This design allows not only to correctly distribute things for storage, but also increases the "passing" ability of the home, when you can get out of the shelter without disturbing sleeping neighbors, without stepping on anyone's feet or other parts of the body.

The tambours are formed either by a specially designed canopy, or by using an additional support or arc. If an arc is used for the canopy of the vestibule, then it is better that it runs along the axis of the tent and intersects with the main structure, without violating the stability, but increasing it.

You can find a tent with a vestibule equipped on the side. This option is not the most preferable, since it makes it impossible to use the vestibule as a shelter before going outside, on the other hand, the side storage space does not imply the presence of an additional frame element, and does not affect the total weight of the tent.

Skirt
A skirt is a special plumb line around the perimeter of the tent, which can protect against wind, draft, moisture. In mountain hikes, due to the skirt, they additionally strengthen the tent on the ground, placing heavy stones or snow weights on it.

Grids
As additional equipment, manufacturers offer to stock up on mosquito nets and other flying animals. In some models, the nets are included in the "basic package", in others they are purchased additionally and hung over the entrance to the tent. This upgrade is extremely light in weight and in conditions of hiking in Russia (and not only) is extremely relevant.

Ventilation
One of the most important indicators of a popularly loved tent will be its ventilation capacity. It is quite unpleasant to wake up on a winter morning and, having touched the roof with an awkward movement, sprinkle frost on the sleeping neighbor. This happens when the tent does not breathe well and is poorly ventilated. An excellent indicator will be if the vents can be opened or closed without leaving the shelter. Ventilation must be designed so that precipitation does not enter through it.

entrance
Here the rule "the more the better" acts like nowhere else: it is very inconvenient to use one entrance in large tents. In single or double tents, you can get by with one entrance. In tents for alpine tourism or in winter tents, entrances should not be equipped with iron zippers, this is fraught with frost formation and subsequent freezing of lightning.

Tent size
All tents are labeled according to how many adult males can fit in the living space. However, if we are not talking about tents for extreme conditions, when choosing a tent, you should still pay attention to your own dimensions: the volume of the tent should allow you to stretch out to its full height, sit down without resting on the ceiling, etc.

For camping tents, it is important to have separate sleeping rooms, where, like in rooms in an apartment, the participants of the hike can sleep separately (this option is especially pleasant when hiking with children - they put them to bed, closed the partition and you can go on with your business without leaving the tent).

Inner tent attachment methods

The inner tent is either attached to the frame, and an awning is pulled from above, or vice versa, the awning is first installed, and the tent is already attached to it.

Both installation methods are found with the same frequency for all manufacturers and have both their pros and cons. For example, if the awning is installed in the first place, then the probability of getting the inner tent wet is reduced to zero, but on the other hand, on a hot summer day, the awning near the tent is often removed as unnecessary. So, here again, the principle of choosing a tent based on the conditions of the hike operates.

The awning or inner tent can be attached to the frame using hooks, pockets, ties or Velcro. All these mounts are quite reliable (maybe only the Velcro are not too strong, but they speed up the installation process) and are not a fundamental point when choosing a tent, it is rather a matter of habit. Note, however, that in our opinion pockets are the most reliable and durable, but slows down the installation process a little.

Other upgrades to make life easier

Stretch marks covered with reflective paints - simple, like everything ingenious, but it simplifies the process of comfortable movement around the camp: no one clings to them, the pegs do not fly out and do not get lost, the tent is still and stable.

Internal arrangement: pockets, windows, shelves or nets under the ceiling, hooks for a flashlight or burner, etc. These little things are really not important, but they can help you get into the tent with the greatest comfort.

Processed seams - an important detail. With heavy precipitation, the seams can pass water, but if they are treated with glue or other solutions, they will not cause such inconvenience.

The weight of the tent largely depends on the materials used in the production

Frame

Arcs in tents are made of aluminum alloys, fiberglass or steel.

Aluminum

Russian manufacturers use duralumin with D16T or B95 marking. D16T is the cheapest, B95 is more expensive and slightly better.

The tents of foreign manufacturers are mainly based on Easton anodized alloy frames. This alloy is lighter and stronger than Russian counterparts, but it also costs an order of magnitude more expensive.

Fiberglass

Frames made of fiberglass of various types are cheaper, but rather fragile, and are generally not suitable for high-altitude ascents, since under the influence of extreme temperatures, the plastic structure becomes fragile and deformed, in addition, fiberglass is heavier than aluminum.

Steel

The most durable material for construction, but also the heaviest available.

Total: the strongest and lightest are aluminum alloys, the cheapest are all types of plastic, the lightest but most expensive are steel frames.

Awning

In single layer tents, it is important that a balance is struck between moisture resistance and air permeability, which would seem to contradict each other. Manufacturers of membrane fabric tents have achieved the greatest success in this task, but the cost of such shelters is very high.

In double-layer tents, awnings should only protect against weather surprises, and ventilation is carried out due to special holes and the structure of the tent itself. Before buying a tent, you should pay attention to the fact that the inner tent and the outer one do not touch, as this adversely affects moisture and air permeability.

The main materials for awnings are polyamide and polyester materials, which are usually additionally impregnated with polyurethane or silicone to increase moisture repellency.

On the tent, you can find markings indicating the density and method of weaving the threads that were used in the manufacture of the material. The most common weaving methods are Oxford, Taffeta and Rip Stop. Taffeta and Rip Stop are most often used in the production of awnings, Oxford - for the manufacture of the bottom.

The weave density of the thread is indicated by numbers with the letter T (tex), the higher this indicator, the denser the threads are woven, but the fabric is also heavier.

An important indicator is also the mark about the water column that the fabric will withstand. Very good tarpaulins guarantee water resistance up to 10,000 mm.

Seams must be glued or welded. Taped seams are more common and tents with taped seams are cheaper than welded seams. However, you can find a tent for extreme hikes with not glued seams: there is nothing surprising here, just at such heights there is no rain in principle. Most tourists always have a self-cleaning tool in their backpacks. This preventive treatment will help your tent last longer and better resist moisture.

The inner tent is made from the same materials - polyamides and polyesters - as the awnings, but they are not treated with moisture-proof components and remain breathable and very lightweight. The main task of the inner tent is to let in fresh air and release the steam generated during a person's stay inside. Condensation accumulates on the inner surface of the awning and is directed along its walls to the ground.

Bottom

Perhaps, it is impossible to underestimate the importance of the quality of the bottom in a tent. This is the most "tactile" part of the structure, because the tent is installed on a variety of surfaces that are not always suitable for this. In addition, the bottom must be absolutely waterproof so that both the sleeping bag and the things remain dry, regardless of external weather conditions.

They use Polyester and Nylon with the highest weave and thread density. In camping tents, you can find the use of reinforced polyethylene, but this material is significantly inferior to those given above in terms of strength and indicators of protection from water.

Water resistance is measured here with the same water pressure as the rest of the fabric in the tent. A good bottom is one that can withstand up to 3,000 mm of moisture.

We would like to note that additional requirements may be imposed on tents used for the most difficult ascents.

We tried to tell as much as possible about the tents used in a variety of camping conditions. Of course, modern technologies and the imagination of designers never stand still and hammock tents, hanging tents, transparent plastic tents, multi-room camping tents, etc. are known.

We wish you the coziest tents and the best dreams under the stars!

A tent is an obligatory attribute of any hike or just outdoor recreation. The question of choosing a tent is quite complicated and is determined by many different factors. It will not be difficult to buy a tent, since, today, there are a huge number of options on the market - tourist, expeditionary, camping and others. Each tent has certain parameters and features: size, weight, number of places, entrances and vestibules, quality of fittings and seams, water resistance, quality of impregnation and others. All this matters and affects the cost.

First you need to decide: for what purposes do you need a tent? The answer options can be reduced to three main ones:

- Amateur tourism. You are planning trekking in the mountains at your own pleasure, without conquering difficult peaks. Here, with some reservations, you can include cycling and kayaking.

- Professional tourism. These are active travel, sometimes "on the verge of possibilities", ascents above 3000 meters, mountaineering and records. Such trips require the most thorough preparation, any mistake in the choice of equipment can stand in the way of the ascent or even lead to serious consequences.

- Camping or auto-travel. You are not going to move from place to place, the tent is set up permanently, for example, for a week. Or you are an auto traveler and will periodically remove the tent from the trunk of your car.

Once you've clearly articulated the purpose of your travels, it won't be difficult to determine the basic requirements for a tent.

Types of tourist tents:

It's no secret that tents are made for a variety of purposes. In this article, we will look at the types of tourist tents. But tourists are also different. There are many different classifications of tents. Consider the most common one used by many manufacturers. Which tent is best for you depends on what type of rest you prefer.

By appointment there are tourist tents:

for highlands;

for midlands;

for the plain.

In each of the three above categories, there is a conditional division into "upper", "medium" and "low" tents. This gradation depends on the materials of arches and awnings used, technologies, impregnations and construction.

Alpine tents are divided into expedition and assault tents. Highland tents are specially designed for extreme conditions: strong stormy winds, high altitude, frost, etc.

Expedition tents are tents for, so to speak, "Himalayan" style of ascents, when several base camps are created during the ascent. The expedition tent is designed to stay in one place for a long time, so it must be wind and moisture resistant, and its structure must be rigid enough to withstand the pressure of wind and snow.

Assault - tents for the "Alpine" style, when the base camps are not set up, and the tent, throughout the entire ascent, is carried with them (that's why it should also be as light as possible). A good assault tent will withstand all weather conditions. Assault tents are light, moderately roomy, quickly assembled.

Midland tents combine the qualities of expedition and assault tents: they are more comfortable, therefore, heavier than assault tents, although lighter than expedition tents.

Plains - These are simple small tents for easy hikes and overnight stays along hiking trails, in the forest and on the plains. Not very resistant to heavy rain and wind. Most often, the company's catalogs indicate the recommended purpose of the tent (for example, for mountain tourism, mountaineering, auto tourism).

Medium and lowland tents are divided into:

Camping tents

If you like equipped campsites or if you go out into nature by car for a long enough time (or at least do not plan to often move from place to place), then you can safely buy a large camping tent.

Camping - these are large, spacious, high tents (often equipped with vestibules and windows) for stationary installation. The main advantages are comfort (in such tents you can stand at full height) and spaciousness. Among the shortcomings - a lot of weight, poor heating. Camping means that the tent does not need to be moved, assembled and disassembled every day. Often it, like the rest of the equipment, can be taken to the resting place by car, therefore, the weight of the tent (more than 7 kg) is not of fundamental importance. Also, a large vestibule plays an important role in camping, allowing, for example, to cook food in it on a gas burner on a rainy day and not get wet in the rain.

Universal tents

Such tents are quite comfortable, they are not subject to very strict requirements for wind resistance, but others common to all types of quality (water resistance, use of "breathable" fabrics, etc.) must be up to date.

Hiking and mountain hiking tents

The specificity of these hikes lies in the fact that you have only what you carry on your shoulders. It is not easy, so neither the tent nor you need extra pounds. In addition, the hike can be accompanied by wind, rain or snow, therefore, the requirements for tents are quite strict: the weight per person should not exceed 1.2-1.3 kg for a 3-person tent and 1-1.1 kg for a 4-person tent. At the same time, the structure must be rigid enough to withstand bad weather. It is good if the tent has a "skirt" to protect it from snow.

Water trekking tents

It is unlikely that someone will go on such a hike in winter, which means that protection from snow in this case, most likely, will not be useful. The weight of the tent will also not play a significant role, which means you can choose it more conveniently. Wind resistance will also not be a critical parameter, therefore, from the two classical forms - "hemisphere" and "half roll" - you can choose the latter due to the large useful volume and better habitability.

Special tents

This type of tents includes specialized tents with non-standard requirements for conditions or construction: fishing and military tents, tents for winter hiking, for children, and others.

When choosing a tent, it is advisable to study this qualification. So for simple hikes and trips with an overnight fishing trip, most of the tents from the "tourist" category are suitable. In that case, you can make reasonable money. However, it is important to remember that a good tent cannot be cheap (due to the use of quality materials), but it is not worth overpaying (unless you intend to use its capabilities to the maximum).

According to their design features, tents can be divided into two main groups:

Single layer

Double layer

Single layer tents are made mainly of waterproof synthetic materials. Their main advantages are lightness and compactness, and the main problem is condensation accumulating on the walls of the tent. There is a ventilation issue, as it is difficult enough to make a single layer both waterproof and breathable. Therefore, when choosing a single-layer tent, you should be guided, first of all, by the type and quality of the fabric (cheap single-layer tents usually have poor ventilation, in the morning you can easily wake up in a damp sleeping bag.). If the material is waterproof, but "not breathable", then a well thought-out ventilation system is required: mesh openings on all sides of the tent. Currently, the most widespread are numerous types of two-layer tents, as the most functional.

Double layer tent, in fact, consists of two tents: the outer (awning, which must be durable and waterproof, since this is a protective shell that covers the inside) and the inner, which is made of lightweight breathable material. The inner layer is necessary so that condensation does not accumulate in the tent and there is something to breathe. The porous fabric removes air and moisture, which settles on the tent and flows down, bypassing the inner tent. Often, there are ventilation windows in the tent.

Another advantage of double-layer tents is the presence of a vestibule.

Tambour - additional space under the outer awning of the tent. Serves for storing things, dishes and dirty shoes.

Difference between tents by seasons of use

Summer tents. They are used in summer in good climatic conditions. The design of a tent for summer use is very simple, and does not provide for its use in stormy winds and thunderstorms. The main advantages are good ventilation, compactness, low weight and low price.

Three season tents. Provides reliable protection even in rain and cold. Designed for spring, summer and autumn. At a price significantly more expensive than summer ones.

All season tents.Designed for any weather, including cold, storm, rain and heat. It can be used all year round. The main advantages: high water resistance, wind resistance, the presence of a snow-protective skirt. The price for such tents is correspondingly high.

Types of tents by shape

In general terms, the structure of the tent is a frame with an awning stretched over it. But there are important nuances, for example, the shape of the tent. The form is important not only from the decorative, but also from the purely practical side. There are these types of tourist tents in shape:

Hemisphere

This is the most popular and widespread form of tent due to its versatility. Hemispherical tents work well for both simple camping trips and challenging hikes as they are easy to set up and stable. The base of the frame is usually two criss-crossing arcs. This is a fairly wind-resistant, equal strength structure. Plus it looks great.

Half roll

The half-roll has an elongated shape in the form of a half cut along the cylinder. This type of tents belongs to the category of frame products, but the arches in it are installed parallel to the width of the tent and in the direction of the wind. Tents in the shape of a half roll are considered one of the most comfortable; they can be conveniently equipped with sleeping places, and placed the necessary things. If you set up such a tent correctly, it can become not only a place to spend the night for one night, but a whole house for a rather long period of time. The disadvantage of the tent is the reduced stability. It is better to set up such a tent together, since it is quite difficult to do it alone.

"Coffin"

A favorite form for single tourists. Good stability, compact and lightweight. Good stability, lightweight and compact. This is a pretty good and cozy type of tent. There is a noticeable difference in the arrangement of the arcs: two of them are placed parallel to each other, then crossed at two points and fixed. It turns out an elongated tent, quite tall and pretty.

Tent

The tent is a favorite form of expeditionists. This type of tents have been known since ancient times. Their big advantage is the absence of a frame and a large capacity. The supporting element is a single central post, from which the awning descends to the ground.

Gable tent ("house")

Nowadays, this type of tent is popular among forest trekkers and water enthusiasts. This is the classic style of Soviet tents. Main advantages: compactness, light weight and low cost. But at the same time, there are tangible disadvantages: high requirements for the installation site, low wind resistance, installation complexity.

Others

The above are the most common forms, but there are others. Non-standard designs are most often in demand in extreme conditions where special requirements for wind resistance, landscape compatibility, etc. are required.

It is also important to choose the right sleeping bag - a necessary attribute for any trip.

How to determine the size of your tent?

Many people have probably heard: single tent, double, triple, and so on. In the first case, this means that one person (usually an adult man) will comfortably accommodate (with things) in the tent; in the second - two; in the third, three, and so on. But for a clearer understanding of the dimensions of the tent, before buying it is worth studying its length and width on the Internet. Then you can "recreate" these dimensions on your floor, take a sleeping bag and try to fit into the resulting square.

Tent capacity

When choosing a tent, one of the deciding factors is its capacity. As mentioned earlier, there are one-, two-, three- and four-person tents. There are also twelve local, but they are intended for special expeditions. It should be emphasized that the weight of the tent is directly proportional to its capacity. That is, a four-seat tent will be heavier than a two-seat tent made of the same material. Therefore, when choosing a tent for a hike, calculate the number of places in strict accordance with the number of people. There is no need to take a four-person tent for two, as every extra kilogram of equipment will be felt by your body.

! The number of places in the tent is calculated according to the width of the mat (tourist rugs). A 60-centimeter cushion is considered standard. But there are reduced 50 cm options. If two standard karemats are placed in a tent, then it is considered a double one. If three smaller ones fit, then it will be marked as 2 + 1.

For light hikes, it is better to choose tents marked +1. On the rest of the space, you can comfortably fit your backpack on a rainy night, and in good weather you won't have to be crowded, but there will be a little more free space.

Does a tent need windows?

In general, we can safely say that no. As a rule, you only sleep in a tent at night, therefore, you do not have to look out of the windows. If we consider the window as an additional ventilation hole, then with two-layer structures this is not necessary, and in single-layer structures, a slightly open zipper at the inlet does an excellent job of supplying fresh air.

Camping tents are an exception. In this case, a tent with windows looks like a house and creates more comfort.

Materials. Tents for tents

Choosing a tent, you will come across many different names of fabrics - nylon, nylon, polyester, lavsan and others. Initially, it may seem that it is difficult to understand all this, but in reality it is not so.

For the manufacture of awning materials, fabrics are used based on polyamide or polyester fibers, sometimes blends such as cotton + polyamide.

Polyamide fabrics (nylon, nylon).

pros: lightness, high strength, low hygroscopicity, abrasion resistance and low price.

Minuses: noticeable stretch when wet, low resistance to ultraviolet radiation (under the influence of ultraviolet radiation they lose up to 40% of their strength per year).

Polyester fabrics(polyester, lavsan).

pros: practically do not stretch when wet, they are characterized by increased resistance to ultraviolet radiation, and also higher strength than polyamide fibers.

Minuses: high price.

In the description of the tent, you can see an incomprehensible set of symbols, for example, Poly Taffeta 210T 3000 PU. How do you understand what this means?

Word ( Poly) means it is made of polyester material.

Taffeta - This is the most common way to weave a thread. This is a uniform densely woven fabric. Differs in increased water resistance. Is there some more Oxford - type of weaving in several strands. (increases the strength of the fabric with a slight decrease in water resistance and is often used for the bottom of the tent) and Rip stop - a thicker and stronger thread is woven into the fabric at regular intervals. (increases strength due to the reinforced thread, while not adding weight; makes the fabric more resistant to tears, but the reduced density of the fabric near thick threads can lead to leakage).

Next comes 210T is the density of the weave. It is measured in tex and affects the strength of the material. The more T, the denser, stronger and heavier the fabric. In addition, the marking of the tent may contain numbers and letter D... This designates the thickness of the threads from which, in fact, the material is made. This figure also affects the strength and weight of the tent.

And finally PU means that the fabric is impregnated with polyurethane and is therefore water resistant. There is also a silicone impregnation ( SI), it is of better quality and more durable, but it also costs more.

Materials are coated with polyurethane from the inside. At the same time, two layers of PU-impregnation ensure water resistance of 3,000 mm of water column; three layers - 5,000 mm. The silicone coating is applied outside. Here, an acceptable level of water resistance is 2,000 mm.

Summarize. If you go out into nature infrequently and at the same time stick to the well-trodden hiking trails, then a tent made of nylon with Taffeta or Rip Stop weaving and a density of 190T to 210T is quite suitable for you. Silicone water-repellent impregnation is a worthwhile addition to this.

Water resistance

When buying a tent, be sure to pay attention to its water resistance. It should be different for different conditions. The higher the water resistance, the stronger and, as a consequence, the heavier the material and the tent itself.

In the characteristics of the tent, you will see the indicator of the maximum height of the water column (600-10000 mm), in other words - water resistance. Usually it is indicated immediately after the name of the tent fabric. Standard DIN, fabrics with a water resistance of more than 2000 mm are considered waterproof. If the water resistance is more than 1000 mm, then the fabric is water-repellent. The optimal water resistance of the awning fabric is 2000-4000 mm. If it is less, there is a possibility that the fabric will get wet in heavy rain, and if it is more, the tent will be too heavy. The bottom of the tent is usually characterized by a higher water resistance - at least 4000 mm.

Also, pay attention to the quality of the seams. They must be made with lavsan or nylon threads, be sure to be glued or double.

What should be the bottom of the tent?

The bottom of the tent, mainly, should be strong, as long as it is the bottom of the tent that is most difficult: you put it on sharp stones, on snow, on sand.

As a rule, the bottom is made of the same material as the outer awning. Nylon fabrics with Oxford weave are suitable for this, with a weave density of at least 210T and a thread thickness of at least 210D. But the main indicator is water resistance. It is desirable that the bottom material withstands 5,000 mm of water column.

Sometimes the bottom is also made of reinforced polyethylene (it is designated PE, tarpaulin). This material practically does not get wet, is quite democratic in cost, but much heavier than polyester and nylon.

In addition, many tents have a so-called skirt that prevents wind from blowing and precipitation between the inner and outer tent.

Skirt - This is an additional strip of fabric around the perimeter of the tent. It can be sewn on or removable.

It makes sense to buy a tent with a skirt if you are going on a winter hike: it will provide additional warmth. For trekking summer tents, a skirt is an unnecessary burden. Because of it, condensation will only accumulate.

How do expensive tents differ from cheap ones?

Expensive tents are made from lightweight, durable materials. They are usually lightweight and better protect against moisture.

Of course, you can buy a tent in a hypermarket without bothering, but here it is important to understand that a low price of goods is important for a market. And such tents, respectively, are less practical, hardy and comfortable than those of reputable manufacturers. So the tents of proven companies will be equipped with reliable fittings, a lot of pockets, a convenient design of ventilation openings and zippers.

There are a few tricks that can help you save money when buying a tent.

Do not be afraid to buy tents from little-known companies, the main thing is that the specifications correspond to reality.

Old models of well-known brands are no worse than their new models, but their cost is significantly lower.

Before buying a tent, study user reviews about the selected model, consult with your friends, if possible, test this or that tent in business before buying (for example, borrow from a friend).

After purchasing a tent, do not rush to immediately go hiking. To begin with, collect it at home to understand how it works, so that it can be quickly and easily assembled and disassembled on a camping trip. After that, spray the seams with a water-repellent spray to be sure to keep out moisture. And in order for the tent to serve you for a long time, do not forget to dry it conscientiously upon returning from the campaign.

How to properly care for your tent,

to extend her life

The tent in operation is not very whimsical. However, there are some simple rules for caring for her:

1. To make the tent last longer, it is advisable to treat it with impregnating agents at least once a year.

2. If the floor in your tent is made of polyethylene, try to set it up a little differently each time, avoiding rubbing along the fold lines.

3. After you have brought the tent from the trip, be sure to dry it well, even if it has not been set up.
4. It is not recommended to leave fiberglass or plastic bows in direct sunlight.

5. Do not store your tent in a compression bag or in open sunlight. The compression bag is for ease of transport only.
6. When choosing a tent, pay attention not only to its cost. Not only the amount of money spent, but your health and even life may depend on this choice.

7. Do not ignore the rules of fire safety (this applies to fires, cigarettes). The tent burns down in 3-4 seconds, leaving behind only arcs and a floor.

Necessary little things

Stretch marks . Almost any tent has stretch marks, when installed, the awning stretches well and does not come into contact with the inside of the tent. This protects against condensation, and in windy weather additionally strengthens the structure of the tent. As a rule, the braces are installed using pegs, but if there is a lack of space, the brace can be fixed to a tree or bush. The standard number of stretchers is 4-6, but in tents for serious climbing it can reach 20.

Coating. An additional advantage is the water-repellent coating of the fabric (designated as WR). It should be said that the cover can be purchased separately and you can handle the tent yourself.

Impregnation . Made of polyurethane (PU) or silicone (SI) and increases the water resistance of the fabric. Some brands offer fire-resistant impregnation for those who like to play it safe, which prevents the tent from catching fire, although it does not insure against minor burn-throughs in places of direct fire exposure.

Ventilation . Having paid close attention to protection from rain, do not forget that the inside of the tent must "breathe" and the windows for ventilation must open. Otherwise, there is a risk of getting wet from condensation. Ventilation windows or valves should be comfortable, easy to open and close, without interfering with the compact packaging of the tent.

Now the matter remains small: decide on the purpose of travel, set a financial limit and choose a tent that will be comfortable and cozy!

More recently, a tourist tent was a heavy canvas structure that required certain skills to set up. Today any novice tourist can easily cope with this task. It is not only the fastening systems that have improved. The fabrics of modern tents have high performance characteristics, are water-repellent and fireproof, while weighing very little. Some folded models are small 3-5 kg \u200b\u200bbundles that fit easily into a hiking backpack.

You need to choose a suitable option based on the expected number of campers, as well as the conditions in which the tent will be used. The most popular are trekking and camping constructions.

We have compiled a list of the best camping tents based on expert opinions and reviews from real buyers. Our recommendations will help you make the best choice for your requirements and desires. There are many competitors on the world market for equipment, but we have selected the best manufacturers and recommend that you pay special attention to them:

  1. NOVA TOUR
  2. Tramp
  3. Maverick
  4. Alexika
  5. Greenell
Camping Trekking Double Layers Number of seats: up to 4 Winter Fishing

* Prices are valid at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

Tents: Camping

* from user reviews

Minimum price:

The main advantages
  • The four-person camping tent is designed for comfortable outdoor recreation in any weather
  • A sling-stitched skirt and a sealed outer dome protect from rain and wind. Seams are additionally taped with heat shrink tape
  • The main feature of the model is its design. The spacious vestibule is ideal not only for storing things, but also for eating. A camping table and chairs fit easily here
  • Bottom material Oxford 150D withstands heavy mechanical loads and does not let the cold from the ground
  • The sleeping compartment is equipped with a window, the opening of which is protected by a mosquito net and an external curtain. Thanks to a well-thought-out ventilation system, the tent is not stuffy, even with high humidity outside

Double Layers / Camping / Number of seats: up to 4

The main advantages
  • Four-person tent for a comfortable stay at any time of the year. Wind resistant, well thought out ventilation and secure fittings
  • This tent has a spacious vestibule where all the camping equipment will fit. There are three entrances to the vestibule, protected by mosquito nets
  • The seams are welded with a special heat-shrinkable fabric, which makes the tent 100% airtight and waterproof
  • Attachment points are reinforced with additional inserts and seams. The fabric does not stretch or tear, thanks to which the tent will last for many years even with intensive use
  • Refractory impregnation ensures maximum safety during rest

Show all products in the category "Camping"

Tents: Trekking

Number of seats: up to 4 / Trekking / Double-layer

The main advantages
  • Two-layer trekking model designed to comfortably seat four people
  • 10 adjustable guy ropes keep the tent stable in any wind. And from rain and snow, Polyester 190T PU fabric with external Water Repellent impregnation protects. Shrink tape is responsible for the tightness of the seams.
  • Thanks to a well-thought-out ventilation system, it is always easy to breathe inside the tent, and a special valve protects against precipitation.
  • There are two spacious vestibules for storing things, the entrance to which is closed with a zipper. If it rains, you can additionally close the moisture-proof valve
  • Compression storage bag so you can place a wet tent in it and pull it down to a compact size

Double layer / Number of seats: up to 4 / Trekking

The main advantages
  • The tent is designed for three adults. It is quite spacious, with a large vestibule in which you can leave equipment.
  • The tent is two-layer: the bottom breathable layer and the outer waterproof. In hot and dry weather, you do not need to put on the top tent, so the tent will maintain a comfortable temperature and optimal air parameters
  • The upper awning is made of polyurethane fabric and is 100% moisture resistant. All seams in the tent are sealed. Even in a heavy and prolonged downpour, it will be dry
  • The bows are made of fiberglass - a composite material that combines strength, lightness and durability. It is several times stronger than aluminum, while weighing much less
  • The tent has a flashlight mount, internal pockets for small items, and a mosquito net at the entrance. Such details ensure the most comfortable stay.

Double layer / Number of seats: up to 4 / Trekking

The main advantages
  • An excellent automatic tent that can be set up even by a beginner. Detailed instructions are sewn to the cover, you can always see how to set up the tent correctly
  • Easy-to-install umbrella mechanism for 1000 folding and unfolding cycles
  • The ventilation system is thought out in the tent. Special windows provide a constant flow of fresh air, but if necessary, they can be closed
  • The model is two-layer, the upper awning protects from rain and wind, and the lower one, made of "breathable" fabric, allows you to rest comfortably even in the heat
  • The floor is made of dense material laminated on both sides. This ensures 100% moisture resistance in any bad weather

How to choose the right camping tent? The choice of a tent for a hike, trekking or climbing was a matter of concern for every tourist, both novice and experienced. In this article, you will find almost all the selection criteria that you need to pay attention to when buying. By reading this article, you will be armed with a wealth of knowledge about camping tents. We hope that even experts will find it interesting!

The passion for hiking is not only a desire to see and learn new beautiful places, to be in nature, outside of cities, but also a certain challenge to the usual way of life. The traveler somehow goes beyond the usual framework of comfort. Cooking in a forest or in the mountains, the vagaries of the weather, physical difficulties in overcoming obstacles force us to re-evaluate the meaning of the very concept of "comfort" in a completely different way. Comfortable hiking shoes, well-fitting, dry, warm and, of course, a reliable tent - these are the main "whales" on which the feeling of comfort during the hike rests. Today we will talk about tents.

Of course, there are a great many types of tents - trade, military, and even whole tents-pavilions of huge sizes. Here we will consider tourist tents. By a tourist tent, we mean a mobile shelter that can protect the traveler from the vicissitudes of the weather - rain, wind, insects and small animals, cold (within certain limits, of course). A tourist tent should have a reliable structure, be simple and easy to install and fold, take up little volume when folded, and when unfolded, provide normal conditions for rest and sleep.

Twenty years ago and earlier, in the post-Soviet tourist space, there was not much choice - the majority used the same type serial structures, bulky and heavy, or they had to make tents on their own. There were few foreign models and products of a few local manufacturers, and they were inaccessible to many. Gradually, the market was filled with a large number of a wide variety of models - for every taste and wallet. It can be difficult to understand this diversity not only for a novice tourist, but also for more experienced travelers.

WHERE TO BUY A HIKING TENT?

If this is your first time buying a tent and you are not a seasoned connoisseur of the market, it is best to shop for the first time at a major outfit center. Here you can choose from a variety of models, see, touch and even install / fold the model you like. In such stores, as a rule, real experts in the tourism industry work, so they sell the most suitable, functional models, and do not order everything, like large online stores of “everything in the world”. Here you can really help with advice when choosing. Vendors usually use the equipment themselves, rather than being consultant theorists. The main thing is not to fall completely under the influence of the seller.

HOW TO BUY AT THE EQUIPMENT CENTER?

Remember, real "pumped level 1000 sales masters" who are able to delve into your specific request and sell what you need is extremely small. In most cases, even an experienced tourist-mountaineer, who is also a sales consultant, will sell you equipment "for himself." This can lead to the fact that you fall under the "magical influence of a specialist" and acquire something you do not really need. To avoid this, go shopping as prepared as possible, draw up the criteria for your choice, even write them down. Save photos of the models you like on the Internet on your smartphone. You know that in a photo on the Internet, everything may not look the same as in reality. When shaping your desires before buying, avoid a large number of advisors, especially those with low qualifications - you risk completely confused. If possible, choose a couple of really smart people whose opinion you trust, describe your task to them as constructively as possible. They will ask you the right questions themselves. After that, go to the store. The chosen tent must be laid out, ask permission to climb inside - lie down on the rug, sit. If you are going to become an avid tourist, remember - this is your future home in a variety of places and conditions, and you must be confident in it.

Now let's take a look at what you absolutely need to know about tents.

The main criteria for choosing a tent:

TENT CONSTRUCTIONS

Nowadays, most tents, even budget series, are made of modern, completely reliable materials. Now almost ALL tents are completely waterproof and have seams glued with a special heat-shrink tape. In many cases, the material has ceased to be the criterion No. 1 in the choice. The only exceptions are the cheapest models, the so-called "supermarket tents" - they should be avoided. The first thing you will need to decide on when choosing - what kind of tent design do you need?

Most modern tents stretch on a frame. So, by default, your tent will have a frame. But there are tents without their own frame. They can be stretched using trekking poles (it's good that you have them) or improvised means. When should you pay attention to such designs?

FRAME TENTS

You are a minimalist, easy walker and save every gram, you are ready to sacrifice the convenience of a night in favor of weight and compactness. You will rarely need a tent during a hike or it may not be useful at all, you take it "just in case." Perhaps just an awning or a bivvy bag will suit you. The type of tourist activity inexorably requires from you a lightweight and the most compact backpack - a ski tour, challenging via-ferats, adventure races, etc.

When choosing such a design, it is worth keeping in mind the pros and cons.

Advantages of a frameless tent:

  • Minimum packing volume and weight.
  • Relatively low cost (not always, there are very expensive models).
  • Opportunity to use your equipment more fully (trekking poles, skis).

Cons of frameless tent:

  • Often less ease of installation compared to self-supporting structures.
  • Usually the worst habitability and wind resistance.
  • Now on the market there are frame tents weighing less than a kilogram. They are expensive, but maybe you should take a closer look at them?

Frame structures of tents

Most modern framing structures on the market are self-supporting. In other words, these are free-standing tents; in calm weather, they practically do not need stretching. However, in many models, you still need to stretch their individual parts to give the correct shape and maximum internal volume. The use of a free-standing tent is also possible on camping decks, asphalt and concrete sites, soft sand - where it is problematic to fix stretch marks. Also, stretching structures are very common, the installation of which is possible only with the help of stretch marks.

Frame material

FIBERGLASS, FIBERGLASS

It is used for tents in the lower price range. The worst option is black, matte, opaque fiberglass. If possible, choose a reinforced plastic frame - it is more reliable and more durable. The plastic frame is suitable where weight, extreme wind resistance and use at subzero temperatures are not critical. If you do not want to spend a lot of money on equipment, do not go on hikes very often and during the warmer months, this is your choice.

ALUMINUM

The most balanced material for the frame. It should be noted that simpler aluminum grades are used on budget designs than on more expensive ones. They are somewhat heavier and have less strength and elasticity. More expensive models use more functional grades of aluminum and aluminum alloys. Top models can be equipped with scandium and even CARBON frames. Also, some well-known and expensive manufacturers order frames from specialized developers for maximum reliability and giving their products a touch of "luxury". The most famous manufacturer of tent frames is DAC. You should know that this famous creator of the most durable frames has both simpler and more expensive lines. Check this point with the seller.

INFLATABLE FRAME

So far, such tents are still so rare that it makes no sense to write about them.

EXTERNAL OR INNER FRAME?

INNER FRAME

Most common solution. The frame is located between the inner and outer tents. The inner tent is suspended from it, and the awning is simply pulled over and attached.

Advantages of a tent with an inner frame:

  • The length of the frame is less than with an external arrangement, which means that weight and dimensions are saved.
  • Installation is possible only with an inner tent, which is in demand in good weather.
  • With a special kit (usually purchased separately, but sometimes included), you can only set up an outer tent without an inner one with a separate bottom, which can be used as a FOOTPRINT (protective mat) at other times.
  • The outer surface of the tent is as smooth and streamlined as possible, and less snow and debris accumulates on it.

Minuses tents with inner frame :

  • Possibly slightly worse wind resistance.
  • In case of breakage, the frame can tear the tarpaulin material.
  • When set up in the rain, the inner tent has time to get wet.
  • Installation in the wind is less convenient.

HUB FRAME

Recent invention. It is mainly used in models of the "ultralight" segment. The main feature is the presence of "hubs" - connections of the frame, allowing to optimize its overall length, volume, and hence weight. Typically used as an internal frame. The main advantages are low weight with a large internal volume of the tent. The main disadvantages are the worst wind resistance and high cost. Often, the hub frame is an all-in-one design - all the frame elements are interconnected by an elastic cable, forming, as it were, one complex arc. Such a frame is easy to fold even for a beginner.

EXTERNAL FRAME

Located on top of the entire structure, arcs are visible. The inner tent is attached to the outer one. There are two main options for attaching the awning to the outer frame. With the help of LAT POCKETS. These are kind of sleeves made of mesh or fabric, where the frame is threaded, after which it is fixed with tips in special eyelets. On the one hand, this is the most wind-resistant structure, which distributes the load as evenly as possible, on the other, it is the most labor-intensive to install. Sometimes the final setting (stretching) of the tips into the eyelets is fraught with such efforts that some girls or teenagers are not able to complete it! So practice before buying. The second option is with hooks or carabiners. Similar to attaching the inner tent to the frame on the inner frame models. Such a system has unrivaled convenience and speed of installation! If you've bothered to pre-attach the inner tent to the outer tent (or you have a single layer tent), setup will take a matter of seconds. This can be especially appreciated in stormy conditions. At the same time, the carbines do not provide the phenomenal load distribution of the first option. It's up to you to choose.

Advantages of a tent with an outer frame:

  1. Possibility to set up an inner tent together with an outer one.
  2. Possibility to set up an outer tent without an inner and no bottom, like an awning.
  3. Good wind resistance, easier to put in the wind.
  4. In the event of a breakdown of the frame, the awning usually remains intact, it is easier to make repairs.
  5. When setting in the rain, the inner tent remains dry.

Minuses tents with an outer frame:

  1. You cannot set up an inner tent without an awning!
  2. The frame is relatively longer and heavier than in the first version.
  3. Retains snow and debris (leaves, branches, serves as a basis for weaving a web, etc.)
  4. Significant installation effort is possible.
  5. Usually, such structures are equipped with floor straps connecting the points of attachment of the ends of the arcs. Belts can become tangled and make installation difficult.
  6. Installation from scratch, without an attached inner layer, is quite laborious.

OUTPUT: for most tourists, the option with an internal frame is preferable, which is confirmed by sales volumes. Tents with an outer frame are more suitable for professional use - in the mountains, cold climates, in bad weather conditions.

ONE OR DOUBLE LAYER TENT?

Most of the tents sold are of a double layer construction. As a rule, this is an inner tent, equipped with a bath-like (overhanging) waterproof bottom and a lightweight breathable upper, part of which is made of lightweight mesh. In tents for use in warm and hot seasons, almost the entire top can be made of mesh, while in models for colder conditions, the amount of mesh is much less and it can be closed with a denser fabric with a zipper. The outer tent is usually a protective awning made of waterproof, durable fabric with braces attached. It is usually connected to the inner tent through the frame using special fastexes or other fixing devices equipped with a tension mechanism. It allows you to stretch the awning as tight as possible, which is necessary during rain or wind. The double layer tent forms an air gap between the inner and outer tent. This makes staying in it more comfortable in both hot and cold weather and to a greater extent prevents condensation in the living area, which is very important for keeping your belongings dry during the hike.

Single layer tent it is either a very cheap and extremely simplified "supermarket" version, or a specialized design for specific tasks. Almost all single-layer tents, one way or another, have problems with condensation, even when using special breathable fabrics, so their use in most cases is limited to the winter period, mountains and other places with low air temperatures, where condensation is not so critical. Also, single-layer tents are colder in the cold, and hotter in the sun than their double-layer counterparts. Instead, they offer ultimately low weight and volume, ease of installation and folding in extreme weather conditions, minimum dimensions in the installed form, which allows them to be placed on the smallest flat area. As you already understood, this option is not for everyone! It is also worth considering the often very high cost of such structures.

TENT SHAPE

Dome tent

Dome designs are the most common. For decades, such tents have faithfully served tourists, climbers, hunters and fishermen. The simplest design of the dome is formed by a frame of two struts crossed in the middle. Such a tent is easy to install, lightweight. At the same time, it cannot boast of a spacious lobby (one or two). Often, to increase the functionality (internal volume, wind resistance), one or more frame arcs or special frame struts are added to the structure. The more intersections between the frame elements, the stronger the tent.

Half roll tent

The second most common type of tent today. In popularity, it lags behind the dome by orders of magnitude. The appearance of such a tent is clear from the name. The main disadvantage is that the tent is not free-standing (self-supporting), stretching is required. Installation is usually more difficult, especially for beginners. The main advantage is excellent wind resistance (when installed correctly), good internal volume, low weight. Such a tent is rarely chosen by beginners, mainly its owners are experienced tourists who can take advantage of the advantages and compensate for the disadvantages.

Tent marquee

A classic, reminiscent of an Indian tipi, wigwam or yurt. Usually installed on the B-pillar, although there are other options. This option is very common in North America, but we have little demand. Basically, in the post-Soviet space, a similar design is used for winter hiking, as a rule, skiing, since it is convenient for using ski equipment as a frame and installing a stove. Often there are options without a floor.

"HOUSE"

Once an uncontested option for Soviet tourists. The construction is usually single layer. Nowadays it is not widespread due to its low habitability, dependence on stretch marks and installation difficulties. A rare guest on store shelves. In a new interpretation - a compact frameless tent, mounted on trackpoles, a frequent choice of "survivalists", "bushcrafters" and beginners.

NUMBER OF INPUTS. VESTIBULES (TAMBURS), PLACEMENT OF THINGS IN A TENT

Many are accustomed to the fact that the tent should have one entrance (exit). It's nice when the entrance to the tent allows comfortable use in the rain. Practice shows that two entrances are much better than one. Therefore, if possible, choose a model with two inputs. If you do not intend to often use the tent on narrow sites, it is better to choose a model with side entrances (provided that you have a 2-3 person tent; if the tent is larger, then the entry / exit at the head / legs is a good option). What's the best way to organize your storage space? Of course, it is better to keep the little things and some of the clothes close at hand in the tent itself, for which you will find useful pockets in it and the "mezzanine" - shelf under the ceiling is especially pleasant. Backpacks, shoes and bulky / dirty things are convenient to keep in lobbies (vestibules). In theory, the more of them (that is, two are better than one) and the larger their volume (for example, it is good when a separate arc of the frame is "responsible" for the vestibule), the better. In practice, you are constantly balancing between the useful volume of the tent and vestibules and its weight / size / cost. Think about what will be important to you and proceed from this in your choice. Where do you want to shift the emphasis - towards comfort or light weight?

Tent bottom material

Most tents have a fabric bottom. The bottom constantly experiences heavy loads - you lie on it, press, press with your elbows and knees. That being said, your tent rarely sits on an ideal surface. Therefore, it is good that the bottom is made of reinforced fabric. The current trend of weight reduction forces many manufacturers to chase more lightness of the product, rather than its strength and resource. In some sense, it is beneficial for the manufacturer that your tent would wear out faster and be replaced with a new one. If you are also chasing weight and buying an ultralight tent, be especially careful when using it. I also advise you to use FUTPRINT (bedding) on \u200b\u200bsuspicious surfaces. The bottom material should not only be very durable, but also have increased water resistance. In the classical European measurement system, the minimum waterproofing value for the bottom of the tent is 5000 mm. But remember that by pushing with your elbow, you create more pressure and the tent may leak. An indicator of 10,000 mm of water column is considered absolutely reliable. At the same time, for an awning, it is enough to have characteristics of 3-5000 mm. American manufacturers report significantly more modest numbers. But, firstly, they are guaranteed lifelong for fabric, and secondly, the system for assessing water resistance overseas is somewhat different from the European one.

For cheap tents, the floor can be made of structured polyethylene, which looks like a supermarket oilcloth bag. There is nothing terrible in such a field with infrequent use. It is heavier and somewhat more cumbersome, but it can be repaired perfectly with mounting tape. This floor is suitable for not too demanding and economical tourists. I happened to live in a tent with a polyethylene floor and a fiberglass frame on Elbrus, at an altitude of 4200 meters, for several nights in fairly fresh weather, and the tent coped with this test perfectly. True, polyethylene can freeze to ice great.

Tent material handling

In nature, especially in the mountains, the tent is exposed not only to mechanical stress, but also to strong solar radiation. To withstand UV light and better moisture protection, most tents have additional fabric processing. The best resistance to UV and moisture is the silicone coating. For internal impregnation and impregnation of the bottom, a polyurethane coating of fabric is often used. Different types of coverage have their own advantages and disadvantages, which we will not dwell on in the review article. Also, the fireproof impregnation of the awning and inner tent will be useful. This will help to avoid damage from sparks or rough handling of fire inside.

FEATURES OF OPERATION

COOKING FOOD IN A TENT

Be very careful and careful! Avoid using burners inside the tent unless absolutely necessary. If this cannot be avoided, cook in the vestibule, making sure that a lot of air enters there and that no part of the burner or utensils comes into contact with the tent material. Avoid cooking in a tent on integrated systems such as jetboil, reactor and similar - they are extremely dangerous. There are many known accidents associated with this.

WALKING TENT PACKING

You don't have to always fold your tent in a cover. You can separate the tent parts and carry them separately from each other. The wet canopy can be placed on the backpack while driving to dry. When packing your tent without a cover in your backpack, make sure it won't be damaged by sharp objects.

TENT CARE

Modern tents are made of synthetic materials, they are very unpretentious and require a minimum of maintenance. Moreover, they can serve you for a very long time. Nevertheless, the tent should at least be dried after the hike. When folding, avoid the stereotypical (habitual) folds - in the same places. Repair the tent as soon as possible after damage occurs, use a suitable repair kit.

SEASONALITY OF USE

A very conditional characteristic. Extreme tents are often referred to as "all season" and are often uncomfortable to use in summer. At the same time, two-three-season tents are often successfully used in winter and in the mountains. However, there are a few things to be understood. So, one of the main characteristics that determines the possibility of use is wind resistance. A tent with a weak frame and large windage is hardly worth taking for difficult weather, it will not be able to withstand increased wind and snow load. If you have a warm sleeping bag, you can use a tent with a lot of mesh inside in cold conditions, but it is important that it has enough strength and that the tent reaches as low as possible to the ground. Against the beliefs of some tourists, a snow skirt is not at all a mandatory attribute of "winter" tents, although it can often be of much use in snow and in strong winds. However, many very famous manufacturers sell winter tents without snow skirts. Seasoned hikers know that a good windbreak can often be more important than a skirt or a very sturdy tent.

You should understand that modern super-technological tents of the ultralight segment may not withstand serious loads and take this into account in your travels. You also need to know that even the most expensive, heavy and durable super extreme tent can be torn and simply destroyed by a hurricane wind.

Travel wisdom, knowledge and developed intuition are often more important than the newest and most expensive equipment. And while awaiting the arrival of all these important qualities and gaining the necessary experience, try to use the equipment strictly for its intended purpose, take into account the positioning of the manufacturer and always use common sense.

Good luck with your choice and pleasant travel!

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