Choice of tourist tent up to $250. How to choose a tent for outdoor recreation - advice from professionals. How to choose a tent, given the season

Here is a manual for choosing a tourist tent. What should it be like in order not to freeze in the mountains? Which tent should you buy for a family vacation? And what does the marking of the tent say? The answers to these and many other questions are in this article.

Want to get to know someone better? Go camping with him.

Many people love camping, but few know how to choose a good tent. Size, weight, design, material - all this matters and affects the cost. How to choose a tent that meets your travel preferences, learn from this article.

Do you need a tent for camping?

In short, yes. Of course, you can spend the night in a sleeping bag under a canopy, but this:

• uncomfortable (at night, even in summer, it is cold in nature, it may rain or a strong wind rises - weather forecasts do not always come true);
• unsafe (insects, snakes, small rodents - not a complete list of sources of "thrill" when spending the night in the open).

Therefore, take it as an axiom: a tent is necessary on a hike.

Which tent is right for you?

The answer depends on the answer to another question: what type of outdoor recreation do you prefer?

If you like equipped campsites with car parking, then you can safely take a large tent.

A camping tent is a large tall tent, often with a vestibule and windows. Designed for autotourism, family holidays and overnight stays in one place for 3-4 days. Pros: comfortable conditions (you can stand upright), large capacity. Cons: heavy weight, poor warm-up.

If you are planning a long hike or bike trip, the weight and size of the shelter are important considerations. You will need a trekking tent.

A trekking tent is a small tent used for flat hiking, camping along hiking trails. Pros: Lightweight, easy to carry. Cons: not designed for strong winds and rain.

The dimensions and weight of the tent become even more important when hiking in the mountains or over rough terrain. Here you need an assault tent.

An assault (or high-mountain) tent is an ultra-light tent designed for serious hikes (difficult route, long transitions). Pros: very light and reliable, not afraid of strong winds, quickly installed and assembled. Cons: as a rule, small (even for one person it can be cramped).

Konstantin Shishkin/Shutterstock.com

What is the seasonality of the tent?

Beginners mistakenly believe that if you divide tents by season, then there should be spring, summer, autumn and winter. Actually distinguish:

• Summer tents. For warm or hot weather. An important point here is ventilation: the fabric is well blown, and the edge of the tent, as a rule, is raised above the ground. But such a tent will not save you from strong winds or rain.
• Three season tents. The name speaks for itself - they are designed for three main hiking seasons (spring, summer, autumn). They are made of a denser fabric, thanks to which they can withstand both cold demi-season winds and heavy rains.
• Winter (or all-season) tents. Designed for use in difficult climatic conditions (snow, wind), but can also be used in summer in calm weather. Differ in stability of a design, dense waterproof material.

How to decide on the size?

A boa constrictor in a famous cartoon was measured by parrots, and tents are measured by men. Many have heard: single tent, double, triple and so on. In the first case, this means that one adult man will comfortably accommodate (with all belongings) in the tent; in the second - two; in the third - three and so on.

“Men are different,” you say. Right. Therefore, to get a clearer idea of ​​​​the dimensions of the tent, before buying, study its length and width on the Internet. Then "recreate" these dimensions on your floor, take a sleeping bag and try to fit into the resulting square. Succeeded? You can take! Not? It may be worth buying a two- or three-person tent.

How many layers to choose?

Depending on the design, tents are divided into single-layer and double-layer.

In the first case, the tent is made of a waterproof awning and is a single canvas. It is easy to fold and install. But there is a significant drawback - condensate. In humid or hot weather, it inevitably forms on the inner walls. If you do not provide ventilation, you will wake up in a wet sleeping bag. Fortunately, scientists are actively working on solving this problem - they come up with various "breathable" and at the same time windproof fabrics. Tents with membrane awnings are already on the market, but they are quite expensive.

A two-layer tent consists of a waterproof tent (outer layer) and a light, breathable tent (inner layer). Between them, as a rule, there is a 10–15 cm gap. Such a tent is somewhat heavier, but condensate does not accumulate in it, while it is reliably protected from rain.

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

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

Do you need windows in your tent?

In general, no. As a rule, you are in a tent at night - there is nothing to look through them. If we consider the window as an additional ventilation hole, then with two-layer structures this is not necessary, and in single-layer structures, an ajar zipper at the entrance does an excellent job of supplying fresh air.

The only exception is camping tents. In this case, a tent with windows looks like a house and creates more comfort.

What material to give preference?

Poly Taffeta 210T 3000 PU is not a magic spell, but seeing a similar inscription in the description of the tent, an inexperienced tourist may fall into a trance. What do all these numbers and letters mean?

In fact, everything is simple. In the manufacture of tents, two types of fabrics are used:

• polyamide (Nylon);
• polyester (Polyester).

The first ones are quite durable and very affordable, but at the same time they are easily stretchable when wet and sensitive to ultraviolet radiation. The second ones are even more durable and at the same time do not tear when wet, but are more expensive. Thus, the first word in the tent label (Poly) means that it is made of polyester material.

Taffeta is the most common way to weave thread. In addition to it, there is also Oxford (creates additional strength and, as a rule, is used for the bottom of the tent) and Rip Stop (increases strength due to the reinforced thread, while not weighing down the weight).

The next element (210T) is the density of weaving. 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 the letter D. This indicates the thickness of the threads from which the material is made. This indicator also affects the strength and weight of the tent.

Finally, PU means that the fabric is impregnated with polyurethane, making it water resistant. There is also silicone impregnation (SI), it is better and more durable, but also more expensive.

The material is 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 on the outside. Here, an acceptable level of water resistance is 2,000 mm.

So, which material should you choose? If you get out into nature infrequently and at the same time stick to well-trodden hiking trails, then a nylon tent with Taffeta or Rip Stop weave and a density of 190T to 210T is quite suitable for you. A good addition to this would be silicone water-repellent impregnation.

What should be the bottom of the tent?

Strong, strong and once again strong! The bottom of the tent is the hardest: 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 can withstand from 5,000 mm of water column.

Sometimes the bottom is also made of reinforced polyethylene (it is designated PE, tarpauling). This material is practically waterproof, quite affordable, but much heavier than polyester and nylon.

In addition, many tents have a so-called skirt, which prevents wind from blowing in and precipitation from getting between the inner and outer awning.

The skirt is an additional strip of fabric around the perimeter of the tent. Can be attached 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, only condensation will accumulate.

What design to choose?

There are three main forms of tourist tents:

1. Hemisphere

It consists of two or more arcs crossed with each other, thereby creating a dome. This is a versatile and very popular form. Tents in the shape of a hemisphere can be used even in extreme hikes: they can withstand strong winds, water easily rolls off them.

2. Half rib

As a rule, a large and roomy tent (often with a vestibule). The arcs of such a tent are parallel to each other and do not intersect with each other. It is not particularly resistant and will not withstand any bad weather. This design is often found in camping tents.

3. House

Gable tents in the form of a house are considered classics. Rain and snow roll off them easily, but the wind resistance of the design leaves much to be desired. In addition, this type of tent is considered the most troublesome in terms of installation.

In addition, solo tourists quite often prefer single frameless tents. They are light and compact, in fact it is just an awning attached to trees with ropes or held on several racks (usually sticks).

Now you know enough about tents to make a purchase. But do not rush to run to the mall or open an online store website. There are a few tricks to help you save money.

• Old models of well-known brands are no worse than their new models, but much cheaper.
• Do not be afraid to buy tents from little-known companies, the main thing is that the specification is true.
• Read reviews, consult with friends, if possible, test this or that tent in action before buying (for example, borrow from a friend).

Having bought a tent, do not rush to immediately go to the forest. To get started, assemble it at home to understand how it works, and on a hike, assemble and disassemble it quickly and easily. After that, go over the seams with a water-repellent spray to be sure to protect against moisture. And in order for the tent to serve you for a long time, upon returning from a hike, do not forget to dry it thoroughly.

Fans of hiking, mountain climbing, road trips and just outdoor recreation necessarily include a tent in their equipment. Its design, weight, dimensions, protection from adverse weather conditions depend on the purpose, season of operation, and the number of residents. These can be one-, two- or even three-layer models, with the last two varieties being considered the most adapted to the difficult camping life. They are most often found on sale, they are most in demand. However, for summer, a short stay on flat terrain, reliable options for single-layer structures are quite suitable.

When choosing, you should pay attention to the wear resistance and working qualities of the material of each of the layers, if there are several of them, the drying time from condensate, the method of placing the frame. The internal arrangement allows you to quickly dry the tent from moisture, but such models are assembled a little longer. For the external fastening of the arcs, the opposite situation is typical.

As for the forms of popular devices for tourism, manufacturers offer such types as a sphere / hemisphere, barrel / semi-barrel, cube, umbrella, a less common house or combined ones. Our rating is based on the target principle of the use of collapsible tourist housing, according to which it is easy to choose the ideal model.

The best fishing tents

Fishing tents are small models designed for 1-3 people. Products of this kind should protect the user from bad weather, especially from strong winds, which are typical in winter conditions.

3 STEK Cube 2

Best price
Country Russia
Average price: 6200 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

On the third line of the rating is the STEK Cube 2 model, which has the best price in the presented category. You can buy this tent for fishing in winter starting from 6000 rubles. The design is designed for two people. As the name implies, the geometry of the product is non-standard, it looks like a cube.

Users refer to the advantages of the model single-layer awning, which is made of windproof and waterproof synthetic fabric.The frame is made of fiberglass mixed with carbon fiber. It is strong enough, does not bend even with powerful gusts of wind.A skirt is sewn on the bottom of the tent, which protects against drafts.Inside the model has convenient pockets for storing things.

2 "Lotus 3 Universal"

Reliable 3-seat model for the summer
Country Russia
Average price: 10,000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

This model is perfect for fishermen and hunters for use in summer conditions. The hemispherical type allows you to comfortably accommodate 3 fishing participants at once. The internal frame is made of durable but lightweight aluminum alloy, so, according to the owners, the product does not cause any inconvenience during transportation. Its weight of 5.3 kg is one of the smallest in its lineup. The pluses usually include the presence of a moisture-resistant polyester awning, as well as a windproof skirt, which is quickly attached and strengthens the entire structure.

Air exchange in the tent is supported by special ventilation holes, which minimizes the likelihood of condensation. Despite the absence of ordinary windows, it is quite light inside, as the awning is made in the appropriate color scheme. There is no vestibule here, but all small things fit well in the available side pockets and hanging shelves. The quick-assembly tourist structure is additionally equipped with storm guy wires.

Useful tips for choosing a tourist tent:

• Single layer or double layer tent? Each option has its pros and cons. Single-layer ones have a one-piece awning, therefore they weigh a little. True, without ventilation, condensation often forms in them. Two-layer ones consist of an external and internal (breathing) awning, between which there is about 10 cm. Such models are heavier, but no condensation will accumulate inside.
• Two types of materials are commonly used in tents: nylon and polyester. The first is less durable, does not protect against UV rays and is vulnerable to rain, but is inexpensive. The second one is much stronger, is not afraid of moisture, has UV protection, but is more expensive in price.
• The bottom of the tent must be resistant to mechanical damage, wear-resistant and waterproof. Most often it is made from the same materials as the awning. To increase strength and reliability, weave Oxford or Rip Stop threads (reinforced thread that does not weigh down the structure)
• The design of the tent should correspond to the tasks. The “house” option has already become a classic, but cannot compete with modern forms. Such tents are unstable in the wind and difficult to set up. The "half side" option is preferred for camping. Such models will not stand in any bad weather. They are spacious and often have a vestibule. The "hemisphere" option is the most common. It provides good rolling of drops and snow, guarantees strong stability even with strong gusts of wind.
• Consider the weight of the tent. If you are going to go to the mountains, then you should choose the best option. For long trips with backpacks, lightweight models are also needed. But for car trips, heavier structures are also suitable.

1 Mitek Nelma 3

Minimum weight in its category
Country Russia
Average price: 9000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

The Nelma-3 model becomes the leader of the rating in the category. This 3 person hemispherical tent is designed for fishing in winter conditions. It has the smallest weight in comparison with analogues - 5 kg. It is easy to carry in the bag that comes with it.

The advantages of the product include 8- millimeter duralumin frame. Its quick assembly will allow you not to linger for a long time in the cold.The awning of the tent is made of waterproof material with Oxford weaving.To ensure safety, the model is equipped with a bright dome and reflective elements. This makes the design visible both day and night.The door of the tent is quite wide, closes with a zipper. A convenient loop allows you to open / close it even with gloves.Inside the model has special pockets in which it is convenient to store fishing accessories.

The best camping tents

Camping tents are designed for long outdoor recreation. Usually they are large enough to fit furniture inside, drive a bicycle or even a car. Such models in the first place should provide comfort.

3 Tramp SPHINX FG

High level of water resistance
Country: USA
Average price: 13500 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

This 4-seater design will become quite a convenient temporary home for the whole family. It has a fiberglass inner frame, the arcs of which form hemispheres. Modern material well tolerates moisture, temperature changes, direct sunlight, without deforming, without cracking, without changing its depreciation qualities. In addition, such a frame does not differ in increased weight, which is often typical for camping models. The entire 10.5 kg structure does not take up much space in the trunk of a car when folded and is transferred to the installation site without much physical effort.

Steel racks reinforce the structure, as well as reliable fastenings, a windproof skirt. There is an open canopy under which it is pleasant to spend time in good weather. Such a one-room product for tourism is also protected from negative factors. The awning not only has a high level of water resistance (4000 mm w.st.), but is also impregnated with a refractory compound. The polyethylene bottom of the tent, as well as taped seams, protect against both moisture and insects. For the same purpose, the model is equipped with a mosquito net.

2 Canadian Camper GRAND CANYON 4

Plenty of ventilation windows and entrances
Country: Canada
Average price: 18,000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

The design is made in the form of a hemisphere, there are 3 entrances and the same number of ventilation windows. This allows small companies on a trip to move more freely inside without creating a crowd, and in hot weather provides the necessary level of ventilation. One of the doors can serve as a hinged canopy that creates shade and protection from precipitation. A model with a vestibule and a spacious sleeping area allows each user to feel comfortable.

Also available in the possibility of using a tent without a sleeping compartment.The arcs have high strength, but at the same time they do not make the structure very heavy, which weighs 11 kg. This indicator is provided by the use of fiberglass as the main material.The awning, bottom and perimeter skirt are made of durable polyester, which protects against wind, rain, and UV rays. Included in the package oppositeoscillating net for protection against insects.

1 Alexika Indiana 4

Ergonomic 2-room design
Country: USA
Average price: 30,000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

This 4 person camping tent is equipped with 2 indoor hanging bedrooms. The user has the possibility of applying various options for their placement. You can leave only one or remove them completely, turning the tent into a warehouse, a dining room, and the like. The presented model comes with a vestibule, which comes with a removable floor. There is an awning for entry.

The product is equipped with a solid outer frame made of carbon fiber, which allows even a beginner to install the structure in a matter of seconds. The diameter of the arcs is 11 cm.

The awning and the bottom are made of polyester, resistant to wind and moisture. There is also a refractory impregnation. The tent is two-layer, the geometry is a semi-barrel.The model is equipped with a snow / wind protection skirt, mosquito net and storm wires.

The best trekking tents

Regulars on the plains or along hiking trails will need a trekking tent. It is lightweight and compact, so it can easily fit in a backpack without weighing it down. But it is unlikely to be able to provide complete protection in bad weather.

3 Alexika Tower 4 Plus

Interesting design solutions
Country: USA
Average price: 19,000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The 4-seater device is designed for a whole company of travelers. The interior space is represented by one room measuring 215x220 cm, which is accessed through 3 entrances. Therefore, almost each of the participants receives their own area where they can relax. The aluminum frame is covered on both sides with a moisture-resistant fabric, and the outer tent additionally has a refractory impregnation. Reinforced corners contribute to good stability of the whole structure.

Such a tourist tent is equipped with a very spacious vestibule where you can store essentials or even sleep for guests. True, the floor is purchased separately for it. Everything else is placed in special pockets indoors or on hanging shelves. There are no windows, but it is possible to attach a flashlight. Among the shortcomings in the reviews, the owners highlight the lack of a windproof skirt, the unhindered penetration of sunlight inside.

2 Greenell Kerry 2

Effective UV protection (UPF 50+)
Country: Ireland
Average price: 7000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

This product is great for hot weather. The upper material of the tent has a special impregnation that prevents 90% of the penetration of ultraviolet rays inside. It also prevents the spread of fire, which provides additional safety for the life of vacationers.

The two-layer model is based on the material of the awning and the bottom of waterproof polyester. The arches of the outer frame are made of fiberglass, resistant to strong external influences.The tightness of the seams is ensured by gluing.The tent is made in the form of a hemisphere, there is a vestibule.

1 Btrace Bike base

Maximum efficiency single-seat design
Country Russia
Average price: 3900 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

For those who are used to traveling without satellites, the single-seat model of the new, but already popular Russian brand will appeal to you. It has everything for a safe and pleasant pastime in nature. Optimal diameter arcs of the inner frame are made of wear-resistant durapol, which does not make the structure heavier, but at the same time does not bend, is not prone to breakage. The two-layer product from polyester differs in tight seams, the strengthened corners. The awning is inert to ultraviolet radiation, open fire, along with the lower part of the structure, it is characterized by maximum resistance to moisture (6000 mm w. Art.).

If you prefer the shape of a sphere, then this option will cause positive emotions. In the reviews, users indicate as advantages the presence of 2 entrances and ventilation windows, storm braces, which ensure the stability of the tent in adverse wind conditions. The special grid well protects in the summer period from insects. The single fixture weighs only 1.7 kg.

The best extreme tents

Extreme tents are small structures characterized by the special strength of the materials used. They are usually designed for no more than two people.

3 Tramp ROCK 3

Safe design
Country: USA
Average price: 10,000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6

This series of tents has been specially designed for expeditions in non-standard weather conditions. The materials used in the manufacture have excellent characteristics that meet all safety requirements. The outer frame has arcs made of aluminum. They practically do not deform and are able to withstand any bad weather.

Durable polyester (RipStop) was used for the awning, which allows not to make the tent heavier, but at the same time provide reliable protection from wind and moisture. Its outer side has good UV protection. Refractory impregnation will prevent the spread of fire in the event of a fire. Heat-shrinkable tape used for gluing the seams provides a complete seal.Ventilation valves open both from the outside and from the inside.

Alexika Storm 2

Attachment with 2 vestibules
Country: USA
Average price: 28,000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The tent for extreme hikes is equipped with two vestibules and bedrooms. This model is suitable for people who love privacy. It is quite spacious and has independent entrances for each zone. Inside The early frame is made of durable aluminum alloy, the arcs have a diameter of 8.5 cm. This allows the structure to withstand the long-term pressure of strong winds, snowfall and heavy rain.

The product has two layers of fabric: the awning is made of nylon, and the bottom and interior are made of polyester (Oxford). The material is moisture resistant, not blown through and fireproof due to the applied impregnations. All seams are treated with a special adhesive that fills the voids, ensuring tightness. In design ethere is a reinforcement of the corners and a protective skirt around the perimeter.

1 NOVA TOUR Ai Petri 2 V2

Best Performance
Country Russia
Average price: 12000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

The undisputed leader of the category rating was a double tent for extreme conditions - NOVA TOUR Ai Petri 2 V2. This model has the best performance, which is very important for consumers who are looking for a product that can withstand the increased onslaught of weather conditions.

Her t Polyester webbing is known for its durability. The material has an impregnation that does not allow moisture, ultraviolet and protects against the spread of fire.A high degree of tightness of the seams is ensured by their high-quality sizing in addition to the threads.Durable arcs are made of aluminum. They are able to withstand even strong winds.Along the perimeter there is a skirt that provides protection for campers from snow and wind getting inside the tent.An improved ventilation system avoids stuffiness and accumulation of condensate.

The best automatic tents

Automatic tents are attracted by the fact that a minimum of physical effort and time is spent on their installation. They come in winter, summer varieties, as well as off-season. This is a great option for fans of short outdoor recreation.

3 SWD "White Night"

The best winter disguise
Country: China
Average price: 1700 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6

The model is popular with fishermen, hunters, geologists and all those who lead an active lifestyle in winter conditions. It can be assembled in just a matter of seconds thanks to a special spring mechanism. However, you should first familiarize yourself with the sequence of the reverse procedure, since it, especially for beginners, takes some time.

The shape of the tent resembles a dome, a height of 1.3 meters is quite enough, for example, for fishing without leaving the walls that protect against moisture and wind. To do this, the bottom is unfastened with a zipper. The dimensions of 2x2 meters are comfortable for single stay and accommodation of everything you need. The winter coloring of the outer awning allows you to make your stay in nature unobtrusive. When folded, the product looks compact, easily fits into a complete round case, which makes it easy to carry.

2 Norfin Zope 2

Welded seams
Country: Latvia
Average price: 7800 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

The two-seater model can be used as a single-seat one, creating maximum comfort for its owner. It is assembled almost instantly, despite the fact that the design provides not only a room, but also a vestibule. The outer frame made of fiberglass keeps its shape, does not require additional reinforced fastening. The model is two-layer, each of them, like the floor, is made of different types of polyester. The seams are welded, so there is no reason to worry about seal failure.

The tourist product belongs to the trekking type, its water resistance is not very high, it is only 3000 mm in. Art. Of the features of the configuration, the presence of a mosquito net and compartments for storing things. Among the minuses are the lack of windows and insufficient ventilation. One of the main advantages is the weight of 2.9 kg, which is important for tracking structures.

1 TREK PLANET Moment 2

The lightest of the trekking
Country Russia
Average price: 2700 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

This trekking tent is chosen by lovers of 1-2-day outdoor recreation in the warm season. It is a semi-barrel-shaped structure, where fiberglass arcs serve as an internal frame. A big plus of the model is that it can be quickly not only assembled, but also disassembled, having previously studied the attached instructions. The awning of such a device for tourism is made of polyester, and the bottom is made of polyethylene. Water resistance of material 1000 mm in. Art. allows you to use the device in conditions of light rainfall.

The single layer construction is equipped with 4 ventilation windows to minimize condensation. 1-2 people can fit in one room without a vestibule; special pockets are provided for small items. The package also includes a mosquito net. With a folded weight of 1.6 kg, the product fits easily into a backpack or other luggage for manual transport.

HOW TO CHOOSE A TENT

So, I'm buying myself a tent ... Tell me, friends of the Tramontana, do you remember how you once did not have your own tent? Well, that is, there was not at all: not a single tent of their own. And there were only club, friendly or parental. In which you, in fact, spent the night on your first "departure" and "campaigns". And then the moment came when you said to yourself: that's it, I'm starting a tent. My own, my own.
Remembered? And now, from the heights of the past, we will try to give recommendations to those who also took it and decided to start a tent for the first time.

First bold recommendation- look at double so-called tourist tent double(more precisely, two-layer) designs. On an aluminum tube frame.

REFERENCE:

As for terms, it is customary to refer to their most universal type as tourist (or tourist) tents. In this they live both in the forest and in the steppe, at the foot of rocks and on glaciers. Though in February, even in June, although everywhere there will be their own characteristics.

In addition to tourist tents, it is customary to distinguish two more types of tents: for super-extreme, as well as for super-comfortable conditions. Accordingly, extreme tents (for storm conditions) and camping tents. This is the most general classification, since many products have hybrid properties.

And there are also tents for "light-walkers", all sorts of "bivouacs", "bivi", tents, awnings and other "shelters". But these things are for especially sharpened consumers. To want one for yourself, you have to go through a lot and evolve to the appropriate non-traditional needs.

Double benefit

Why a double tent? Because a tent for two people is the most versatile size.

This can be comfortably used alone, but if anything, then she will take three for the night. And maybe more, it all depends on the nature of this very “If What”.

In terms of weight and dimensions, when folded, a double tent does not significantly burden the owner.

A larger tent is usually purchased for some specific task. Let's say a large team is planning a trip to places where there is no problem with setting up a large tent. If you need to optimize the weight of the equipment, then the specific and volumetric weight of one "bed" will be less when using a multi-person tent, and not a solo or two-person option. Large tents are also convenient for setting up a long-term stationary camp. Well, for regular trips to the nature of parents with small children, a large tent is better suited.

Now, with regard to the mentioned double or double layer construction. This tent has double walls. It is like a nesting doll: there is an inner tent and an outer awning, everything rests on one frame.

The outer awning is made of waterproof fabric. It stops the torrents of rain and gusts of wind. Inner tent made of breathable fabric that allows steam and air to pass through. There is a gap between the inner tent and the outer tent. This is an air gap for ventilation: all the condensate from human breathing goes beyond the inner tent, after which it partially erodes, partially settles on the inner surface of the tent. Fresh air flows in the opposite direction. It turns out that the tent is both dry and not stuffy at the same time.

This design is the de facto modern standard for tourist and camping tents. In the latter, several inner tents are often placed under one large awning - “multi-room” camping apartments are obtained.

Note that single-layer tents still exist in nature, and have not died out along with canvas or percale products. Single-layer tents are found in the segment of super-expensive tents for extreme conditions. They are sewn from cutting-edge membrane fabrics. Compact, lightweight, not universal and very expensive.

There are single-layer tents and as cheap solutions: beach houses from the sun, play tents for children or shelters for fishermen, ice fishing enthusiasts. Sometimes the manufacturer (or seller) tries to position them as suitable for tourism. But these tents either get wet or don't "breathe" at all. More often than not, both plus are torn as soon as possible. They can sometimes be used, but only as a one-time solution for one warm night in a distant warm country, to be thrown out in the morning.

Shape: who needs a half-barrel?

Having finished with the first global advice - to choose a double double tent - let's move on to particulars. And then you decide what you need.

In form, most tents for tourism and mountaineering can be divided (very roughly if) into two types: "hemispheres" and "half-barrels".

In hemisphere tents, the arcs of the frame intersect each other and form a self-supporting structure. And in half-barrel tents, the arcs are parallel: a series of arches is created. Such a tent can stand only if it is well stretched between two reliable points.

Within each of these types there are many variations. There are also hybrid solutions, for example, a half-barrel-tambour is attached to a dome-shaped tent. Note that in recent years, the release of "half barrels" around the world has noticeably decreased.

Varieties of gable tents, wigwam tents, tent-houses today are as exotic as bivouac shelters - purely for connoisseurs.

What are the main advantages of the "half-shell"? In her more usable space because its walls are more sheer. Its karsas consists of a smaller number of elements (usually two or three arcs). That is, it is lighter and when folded takes up less space. However, as already emphasized, the half-shell tent needs to be well stretched. This means she needs a wider area and a more thoughtful installation process.

A half-shell tent is good if you plan to set it up on even forest edges or in a field. That is, where there are no problems with even and soft ground, into which it is easy to drive pegs for tying braces. Plus, let the wind there be weaker. Otherwise, you will have to invent something new every time. To drag logs, stones, and knit guy lines to them. Then cover these stones with smaller stones so that in the middle of the night a gust of wind does not overturn all your efforts on your head along with the tent. Putting a half-barrel in deep snow is almost always a pain.

Therefore, half-barrel tents are good for cyclists and, for example, water sportsmen. In other conditions, tents, which can conditionally be attributed to hemisphere tents, will be clearly preferable. So quite under withsilt to stand independently, even without braces. But you still need to tie them: in the mountains, where the tent can be blown away by the wind.

Here, the supporting frame may already include two, three, and even more arcs. The more of them, and the more often they intersect, forming power triangles, the more significant wind load the tent will be able to withstand.

Winged aluminum in arc

If we figured out the form, consider such a thing as a wireframe that creates this form.

First, about the frame materials. In industrial tents, aluminum tubes or fiberglass tubes (usually fiberglass, black or colored) are usually used to make it. There are also steel tubes, but this is in huge camping collapsible houses (and titanium ones are in handicraft homemade products). There are frames made of composite materials based on carbon fiber - in expensive premium models.

As for fiberglass, it is cheap, has no permanent deformation, but is heavy and short-lived. Fragility is associated both with an objective category - the poor resistance of fiberglass to excessive bending, and a subjective one - insufficient quality control of materials and production, since fiberglass is the lot of low-budget solutions (there are exceptions).

Fiberglass tubes are connected to the frame rack using metal couplings. These couplings, on the one hand, add weight, and on the other hand, they are often frankly of poor quality (roofing iron rolled into a tube, which “spreads” along the seam under load). The very same fiberglass tube, barely cracked, inexorably continues to crack further and further. And it “pushes” when you try to insert it into the repair sleeve. A cracked rack can only be repaired at home with epoxy. It is believed that fiberglass does not hold the load well in the cold, but this is rather a consequence of defects made during production.

Tents on a fiberglass frame, of course, can and should be used. They are perfect for regular, uncomplicated trips to nature: in the same, predictable, weather and landscape conditions. Another tent "on fiberglass" will be a good, but "one-time" solution for one season. Let's say, for a stationary camp for one summer, when the tent will not be repeatedly dismantled, assembled and moved to a new place.

Now, in fact, there is little left to say about aluminum frames. Stronger, more durable, but more expensive.

Compared to fiberglass, the aluminum frame (aluminum grades are similar to aviation ones) is almost twice as light, moreover, it holds sharp bends and shock loads much better. That is, a tent with an aluminum frame is much better at resisting gusts of storm wind.

Due to the greater strength, the diameter of the aluminum tubes is smaller, and this is compact.

It is repaired on site using a pair of pads (or an aluminum tube-sleeve, which often comes with a repair kit) and electrical tape. At home, a broken segment can be replaced with a new tube, or the fracture site can be “recycled” into another, new “knee” on the arc.

There are elite brands among aluminum frames. It is a product of research laboratories that only design and manufacture frames and then sell them to tent manufacturers. A common thread for their products: quality, strength and low weight.

Most heard of superframes from companies DAC and easton.

Korean company DAC(Dongah Aluminum Corporated, www.dacpole.com) is a clear leader today: in terms of prevalence and the number of cooperations with well-known tent manufacturers.

The DAC arsenal includes extra-strong tubes with variable wall thickness, a wide range of diameters, high-tech press-fitting and special technologies for joining elements. Hardening knurling, anodizing and other, other…

In the last few years, DAC has seriously hit the production of all kinds of aluminum and plastic adapters, tees, connectors, sleeves and other accessories, which allows the craziest designers of tents and trekking furniture to play enough. The results are fantastic! The development is called DAC Toys.

Americans from EASTON(http://tentpoletechnologies.com) are trying to keep up. In contrast to competitors, they have stepped up research in the field of lightweight composite materials. Super high quality and expensive. By the way, fiberglass frames from Eastorn are cool.

About rags...

So what's next. Perhaps you can stop at the fabrics.

With fabrics for a tent, everything is relatively clear. The lighter and stronger - the better, but more expensive, because strength and lightness are antagonists. Rip Stop technology is welcome (reinforced threads are periodically woven into the fabric; a tear, if it occurs, has a chance to stop faster - “stumbling” on one of these threads).

The waterproofness of awning materials is achieved both by the weaving of the fabric and the quality of the waterproof layer applied to it. Plus a water repellant finish. Not only the finished fabric, but even the individual fibers from which it is made can be subjected to such processing.

Water resistance is measured in objective terms - millimeters of water column. There are visual tests, when the test fabric is pulled tightly on the bottom of a high glass tube: water is poured into the tube and they are monitored when drops begin to ooze through the fabric.

A sufficient indicator of water resistance for a tent awning is 3,000 mm (three meters of water column). Pay attention to this characteristic, it must be indicated in the product passport.

By the way, almost all reputable world and responsible Russian manufacturers have always higher water resistance indicators for awnings in practice. The point is the guarantee for a new tent: by the end of the warranty period, the water resistance should not be lower than stated. A good manufacturer plays it safe and puts fabric with initially higher rates.

In addition to the awning, the tent must also have a waterproof bottom: for it, the indicator must be at least 10,000 mm (ten meters of water column). It is this pressure that your elbow or knee will exert on the damp ground when you hit the floor.

By the way, the floor of the tent is sometimes made of the so-called extruded polyethylene. Cheap and durable waterproof material, heavy and poorly compressible. (Supermarkets sell reusable shopping bags made from the same fabric.) This is a budget solution. The bottom of extruded polyethylene is found, as a rule, in the same tents that are equipped with a fiberglass frame. About where and when it is advisable to use such tents, we wrote above. For other options, the use will be associated, if not with risk, then at least with inconvenience.

...and taping the seams

An indicator of tens of meters of waterproof fabric will be an empty and wet place if the manufacturer does not glue the seams during the production of your tent. Each seam of the outer tent must be well insulated, as well as all the seams of the floor of the inner tent. Without this, moisture will ooze into them, and in huge quantities.

Typically, sizing is performed thermally using a special transparent tape. This procedure is not artisanal. Available only to owners of the corresponding expensive equipment.

High-rise and extreme tents made of complex fabrics using silicone-filled fibers do without gluing the seams. The hot-melt film does not stick to such, and therefore the problem of watertightness of the seams is solved here in other non-trivial ways.

Fabrics for the inner tent also need light and durable. Its panels may include mesh inserts for better ventilation, internal pockets and more.

What makes up a demisseasonality of the tent

There is another parameter according to which tents are divided into two groups: seasonality. The tents are called three-season(not suitable for winter use) and all season(suitable for all situations, including snow camping). In foreign catalogs, respectively, it is indicated as three seasons and Four Seasons (sometimes All Seasons), respectively.

In the "three seasons", the side and top panels of the inner tent are made of fine mesh fabric, which provides excellent ventilation, insect protection and lighter weight. In general, these tents are versatile and more suitable for long trips, because lighter and more compact. However, during a snowstorm, snow dust can penetrate through this very mesh, which will definitely fly under the outer awning.

All-season tents, that is, "four-season", usually more expensive and more durable: to resist blizzards and winter winds. The outer tent may or may not have an additional protective skirt, but in any case, it is designed to be longer so that the ground clearance remains less than that of the “three-season” tent awning. The racks of the frame are usually thicker and stronger than those of the "three seasons".

REFERENCE (observation from life):

However, this does not mean that it is impossible to survive in a tent with an all-mesh lining in the winter. It used to be that you climb inside, but you don’t know that the tent that your partner carries with him everywhere is a “three-season”. It is surprising, of course, to find in the middle of the night a natural draft that flows from starboard to port, flows through a neighbor, through your sleeping bag and flows somewhere into a frosty, snowy night. Well, you’ll be surprised and roll up a roller of clothes in front of your nose so that it doesn’t freeze too much.

If you are going to use a tent always and everywhere, then one that is designed for “four seasons” will be preferable. It is convenient when part of the mesh panels of the inner tent are duplicated with solid fabric flaps (for example, fastened with zippers). Usually panels of “doors” are made such composite, puff. In cold weather, there will be more comfort in such a tent, although its weight will also be greater when compared with a similar three-season one.

Emergency entrance, emergency exit and utility vestibule

Tent designs are varied. By the number of entrances and the presence of vestibules, including. The possibility of separate, say, storage of equipment and provisions greatly improves the functionality of a camping dwelling. Here we dry our shoes, and there we pour our morning coffee. The presence of a spacious vestibule greatly facilitates life, but again increases the weight of the tent. And it requires additional space for its installation. So, look, try on and choose.

Philosophical who is on top: frame or awning?

This is such a long-standing, specific and never-ending dispute. It concerns one more feature of the construct of a modern tent: where should the arcs of the frame be located - on top of the outer tent or under it? Both options are quite common among modern tents.

The main benefit of having an external frame is that the inner tent can remain attached to the outer tent at all times. And therefore, by stretching the outer awning, you will automatically “set up” the entire tent as a whole, including the inner tent. And in this case, if you put up a tent in the rain, the insides of it will not get wet. You can detach the inner tent from the outer one when you want to clean it or dry it thoroughly.

With a tent in which the frame is located inside, between the inner tent and the awning, this number will not work. First you need to put up an inner tent, and then pull the awning from above. If it is raining or snowing, then all this can be inside the tent. Especially if you hesitate.

However, such calculations are rather theoretical. In practice, you can put up an inner tent, covered with an awning that has not yet been stretched. This reduces post-drying to a minimum.

On the other hand, when the frame is external, you face the unpleasant need to push the elements of the arcs into the special narrow and long pockets provided for by the design. When the turn of the second arc comes, it is very problematic to do it alone - you try to resort to the help of a partner.

In addition, the design of many of these tents is such that, with excessive force, the stand rests and tears the fabric of such a pocket. Attention, accuracy and sufficient illumination of the scene are required. Under the wind and rain, the task becomes even more nontrivial.

The author of these lines has ever seen a "dream tent" with an external frame only photographed by Reinhold Messner from Everest: there the tent was hung to the frame with the help of a thin strong cord and many hooks. Alas, today such tents are produced either individually or handicraft.

But what exactly loses a tent with an external frame is in absolute inability to fold down the awning and spend the day/night only inside the inner tent. In the sun or in stuffy weather, such a luxurious option is simply irreplaceable.

A tent with an external frame seems to be advantageous in the conditions of some multi-day trip through the area, blown by hurricane winds. If the rack bursts, then it (most likely) will not open the tent with its debris. What would inevitably happen if the frame was located inside, under an external awning, and thereby gave rise to a lot of problems.

Little things are big and important

Having examined the tent as a whole, carefully learn and appreciate the little things: fasteners, "zippers", execution of seams. The presence and number of eyelets and eyelets for guy wires. The braces themselves, the packing bag and the quality of the pegs.

All these, as it were, trifles, in fact, are not nonsense, but archival things. If everything goes in the normal order, then a tent made of high-quality fabric and with high-quality fittings can last five, ten, or fifteen years.

But the “lightning” that spreads under load is terrible. As well as the “lightning” that is not able to fasten under load. Monstrous threads sticking out in all directions and falling into the fastener slider. Unsuccessful protective overlay on the "zipper" of the awning, unexpectedly sticking into the lock, takes away the last strength when you have already overcome all the challenges and trials of a good day at work and are about to melt the snow for the evening soup. And then such a trabl!

Breakaway eyelets, flying off strips, to which braces are knitted. Hooks bursting in the cold or from the heat for hanging the tent to the frame. Believe me, if they are destined to come off or break, then they will come off and break at the most, most inopportune moment. When there is neither time nor strength to confront this mini-accident.

Choosing a tent unzip and install it and get inside. Lie down to your full gigantic height. Is there enough headboard space for personal items? And in the legs - for equipment and ropes?

Examine the tent. Is the inner tent hanging on the frame? And the awning doesn't wrinkle? If there is a hint of this, then in the rain, when the fabric is saturated with moisture and inevitably stretches, the sides of the inner tent and the outer awning will stick together. And then during the night all your warm clothes will get wet. And in the wind, the flapping “sails” will break: first, the braces will fly, and then the main fabric will burst.

If the tent is well designed, then weather transformations are taken into account in advance. The tent remains beautiful and elastic both in the rain and in the sun.

It would seem quite a trifle - the coloring of the arcs of the frame in different colors. But when you shake out this multi-colored “bamboo” on your bedding and start building your house, you will appreciate how much faster it goes with color marking. And on a frosty night, by the light of a flashlight, the color of each arc and the corresponding color markers on the fasteners of the tent turn from a seemingly trifle into a real de luxe option.

Have a nice night!

A mandatory attribute of any hike or just outdoor recreation is a tent. The question of choosing a tent is quite complex and is determined by many different factors. It will not be difficult to buy a tent, because, today, a huge number of options are presented 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, impregnation quality and others. All this matters and affects the cost.

First you need to decide: for what purposes do you need a tent? The answers can be summarized in three main ones:

- Amateur tourism. You are planning mountain trekking for your pleasure, without conquering difficult peaks. Here, with a few reservations, we can include cycling and kayaking.

- Professional tourism. These are active travels, sometimes “on the verge of possibilities”, climbing above 3000 meters, mountaineering and records. Such hikes require the most thorough preparation, any mistake in choosing equipment can stand in the way of climbing 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-traveller and will periodically remove the tent from the trunk of the car.

If you have clearly formulated the purpose of your travels, it will not 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 types of tents. Consider the most common of them, which is used by many manufacturers. Which tent is best for you depends on what type of vacation you prefer.

By appointment distinguish tourist tents:

for the highlands;

for the middle mountains;

for the plain.

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

Alpine tents are divided into expeditionary and assault. High altitude tents are specially designed for extreme conditions: strong storm wind, high altitude, frost, etc.

Expeditionary - these are tents for, so to speak, the "Himalayan" style of climbing, when several base camps are created during the ascent. An expedition tent is designed to stand 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 broken, and the tent is carried with you throughout the ascent (which is why it should also be as light as possible). A good assault tent will withstand any weather conditions. Assault tents are light, moderately roomy, and quickly assembled.

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

Plains are simple small tents for light 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, caravanning).

Tents for the middle mountains and plains are divided into:

camping tents

If you like equipped campsites or you go out into nature by car for a sufficiently long time (or at least do not plan to move often 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 permanent installation. The main advantages are comfort (in such tents you can stand to your full height) and spaciousness. Of the shortcomings - a lot of weight, poor warming. Camping means that the tent does not need to be moved, assembled and disassembled daily. Often, it, like the rest of the equipment, can be taken to the place of rest by car, therefore, the weight of the tent (more than 7 kg) is of no fundamental importance. Also, an important role in camping is played by a large vestibule, which allows, for example, on a rainy day, to cook food in it on a gas burner 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, however, other qualities common to all types (water resistance, the use of "breathable" fabrics, etc.) must be at the proper level.

Tents for hiking and mountain hiking

The specificity of these trips lies in the fact that you only have what you carry behind you. This is not easy, so neither the tent nor you need extra pounds. In addition, the trip 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 strong enough to withstand the weather. Well, if the tent has a "skirt" to protect against snow.

Tents for water trips

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

Special tents

This type of tent includes specialized tents with non-standard conditions or design requirements: 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 stay for fishing, most of the tents from the “tourist” category are suitable. In this case, you can 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 (if you are not going to use it to the maximum).

By design features, tents can be divided into two main groups:

Single layer

Double layer

Single layer tents are made mainly from waterproof synthetic materials. Their main advantages are lightness and compactness, and the main problem is the condensate that accumulates on the walls of the tent. There is a ventilation issue as it is quite difficult to make a single layer waterproof and breathable at the same time. Therefore, when choosing a single-layer tent, one should be guided, first of all, by the type and quality of the fabric (cheap single-layer tents usually have poor ventilation, you can easily wake up in a damp sleeping bag in the morning.). If the material is waterproof, but "not breathable", then a well-thought-out ventilation system is needed: mesh holes 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: an outer one (an awning, which must be durable and waterproof, since it is a protective shell covering the inside) and an inner one, 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 with moisture, which settles on the awning and flows down, bypassing the inner tent. Often, there are ventilation windows in the tent.

Another advantage of two-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.

The difference between tents by seasons of use

Summer tents. Used in summer in good climatic conditions. The design of the tent for summer operation is very simple, and does not provide for its use in stormy winds and thunderstorms. The main advantage is good ventilation, compactness, low weight and low price.

Three season tents. Provide reliable protection even in the rain and cold. Designed for spring, summer and autumn. The price is much more expensive than summer ones.

All season tents. Designed for any weather, including cold, storm, rain and heat. Can be used all year round. Main advantages: high water resistance, wind resistance, snow skirt. The price of such tents is correspondingly high.

Types of tents in shape

In general terms, the design 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 a decorative, but also from a purely practical side. There are such types of tourist tents in shape:

hemisphere

This is the most popular and common form of tent, due to its versatility. Semi-spherical tents are well suited for both simple outings and difficult hikes, as they are easy to set up and stable. The basis of the frame is usually two intersecting arcs. This is a fairly wind-resistant, equal-strength construction. Plus it looks great.

Half-ribbon

The half-barrel has an elongated shape in the form of a half cylinder cut along. This type of tent belongs to the category of frame products, but the arcs 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-barrel are considered one of the most comfortable, they can conveniently equip sleeping places, place 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 quite a long period of time. The downside of the tent is 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, light and compact. This is quite a successful and cozy type of tents. 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 high and pretty.

marquee

A tent is a favorite form of expeditionists. This type of tent has been known since ancient times. Their great advantage is the lack of a frame and a large capacity. The supporting element is the only central post, from which the awning descends to the ground.

Gable tent ("house")

Nowadays, this type of tent is popular among lovers of forest hikes and water sportsmen. 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.

Other

The most common forms are described above, but there are others. Non-standard designs, most often, are in demand in extreme conditions, where special requirements are needed for wind resistance, landscape compatibility, and so on.

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

How to decide on the size of the tent?

Many, for sure, have heard: a single tent, double, triple and so on. In the first case, this means that one person (it is customary to think, 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, you should study its length and width on the Internet. Then you can "recreate" these dimensions on your floor, take a sleeping bag and try to fit in the resulting square.

Tent capacity

When choosing a tent, one of the decisive factors is its capacity. As mentioned earlier, there are one-, two-, three- and four-person tents. There are also twelve local ones, 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-person tent will be heavier than two local ones 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. No need to take a four-person tent for two, because 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 mats (tourist rugs). A 60-centimeter karemat is considered standard. But there are reduced 50-centimeter options. If two standard karemats are placed in a tent, then it is considered a double tent. If three reduced 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 place, you can comfortably fit a backpack on a rainy night, and in good weather you won’t have to crowd, but there will be a little more free space.

Do you need windows in your tent?

In general, we can safely say no. As a rule, you only sleep in a tent at night, therefore, you don’t have to look out 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, an ajar zipper at the entrance 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. Awnings for tents

When choosing a tent, you will come across many different types 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 based on polyamide or polyester fibers are used, sometimes mixtures of the cotton + polyamide type.

Polyamide fabrics(nylon, capron).

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

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

polyester fabrics(polyester, lavsan).

pros: practically do not stretch when wet, are characterized by increased resistance to ultraviolet radiation, as well as 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 to understand what this means?

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

Taffeta- This is the most common way of weaving a thread. It is a uniform densely woven fabric. Differs in the increased water resistance. Is there some more Oxford- a type of weaving in several threads. (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 certain intervals. (increases strength due to the reinforced thread, while not adding weight; makes the fabric more resistant to tearing, but the reduced density of the fabric near thick threads can lead to leakage).

Next comes 210T is the weave density. 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 is the thickness of the threads from which, in fact, the material is made. This indicator also affects the strength and weight of the tent.

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

Materials are covered 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 on the outside. Here, an acceptable level of water resistance is 2,000 mm.

Summarize. If you rarely go out into the countryside and at the same time stick to well-worn hiking trails, then a nylon tent with Taffeta or Rip Stop weave and a density of 190T to 210T is quite suitable for you. A worthwhile addition to this would be silicone water-repellent impregnation.

Water resistance

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

In the characteristics of the tent, you will see an 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 fabric of the tent. According to the 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 has water-repellent properties. Optimum water resistance of the awning fabric is 2000-4000 mm. If it is less, there is a chance 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 the hardest: you put it on sharp stones, on snow, on sand.

As a rule, the bottom is made of the same material as the outer tent. 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 can withstand from 5,000 mm of water column.

Sometimes the bottom is also made of reinforced polyethylene (it is designated PE, tarpauling). 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, which prevents wind from blowing in and precipitation between the inner and outer awning.

Skirt - this is an additional strip of fabric around the perimeter of the tent. It is 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, only condensation will accumulate.

What is the difference between expensive tents and cheap ones?

Expensive tents are made of lightweight durable materials. Usually they are 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 the low price of goods is important for the market. And such tents, respectively, are less practical, hardy and comfortable than those of reputable manufacturers. So tents of proven companies will be equipped with reliable fittings, many pockets, convenient design of ventilation holes and zippers.

There are a few tricks that will 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 specification is true.

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

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

After purchasing a tent, do not rush to immediately go camping. To get started, assemble it at home to understand how it works, so that you can quickly and easily assemble and disassemble it on a hike. After that, treat the seams with a water-repellent spray to be sure to protect against moisture. And in order for the tent to serve you for a long time, upon returning from a hike, do not forget to dry it in good faith.

How to take care of your tent

to prolong its service life

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

1. In order for the tent to last longer, it is advisable to treat it with impregnating substances at least once a year.

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

3. After you brought the tent back from your trip, be sure to dry it well, even if it has not been set up.
4. Do not leave fiberglass or plastic poles in direct sunlight.

5. Do not store your tent in a compression bag or in direct sunlight. The compression bag is only for ease of transport.
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. You can 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 . Practically on any tent there are 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, guy wires are installed with the help of pegs, but if there is not enough space, the guy line can be fixed to a tree or a bush. The standard number of stretches is 4-6, but in tents for serious climbing it can reach 20.

Coating. An additional benefit is the fabric's water-repellent coating (designated WR). It should be said that the coating can be purchased separately and handle the tent yourself.

Impregnation . It is made of polyurethane (PU) or silicone (SI) and increases the water resistance of the fabric. Some brands offer for those who like to play it safe and refractory impregnation, which prevents the tent from catching fire, although it does not insure against the appearance of small burns in places of direct exposure to fire.

Ventilation . Paying close attention to protection from the rain, do not forget that the inside of the tent should "breathe" and the ventilation windows should open. Otherwise, there is a risk of getting wet from condensation. Ventilation windows or flaps 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 the trip, set a financial limit and choose a tent that will be comfortable and cozy!