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Revealed! The difference between cotton and nylon tents

Updated: Nov 18

Spoiler alert – unless you're a circus performer from the 1920s, your tent probably won't be made of cotton. There are a wide variety of materials used in the construction of tents, today, each with its own set of pros and cons. Here's a quick look at some of the most common materials used in tent construction and their characteristics:

  1. Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic material that is commonly used in tent construction due to its durability and water-resistant properties. It's also resistant to fading and UV damage, making it a good choice for use in sunny or dry environments. One potential downside of polyester tents is that they may not be as breathable as other materials, which can make them less comfortable in hot or humid conditions. Sweat box, you say? Yeah – maybe.

  2. Nylon: Like polyester, nylon is a synthetic material that is commonly used in tent construction. It's lightweight and strong, and has good water-resistant properties. Nylon tents are also generally more breathable than those made of polyester, which can make them more comfortable to use in hot and humid conditions. The downside? Nylon tents may not be as durable as those made of other materials, and can be prone to tearing or snagging.

  3. Canvas: Canvas tents are made of a sturdy, heavy-duty fabric that is treated to be water-resistant – cotton was a common canvas material back in the day. They are generally quite durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions, but canvas tents are often heavier and bulkier than other types of tents, which can make them less convenient to transport. They are also not as breathable as some other materials.

  4. Polycotton: Polycotton tents are made of a blend of polyester and cotton fibers, which gives them some of the benefits of both materials. They are strong, durable, and water-resistant, and are generally more breathable than tents made of synthetic materials like polyester or nylon. However, polycotton tents are often heavier and more expensive than other types of tents, which can be a drawback for those looking for a lightweight and budget-friendly option.

It's worth remembering that different materials will perform better in different environments and under different conditions. Check out online reviews from other campers and you'll quickly arrive at the right choice for you.


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