Outback
Cotton tents
The complete guide to polycotton (cotton) tents
What is a polycotton tent?
Polycotton tents, often referred to simply as cotton tents, combine the familiar comfort of traditional canvas with the modern performance of technical fabrics. They appeal to campers, glampers and bushcraft enthusiasts who want a shelter that feels natural, stable and comfortable across all seasons. Polycotton is a blend of cotton fibres and polyester. In the Robens range, the HydroTex Polycotton fabric used in tents such as Klondike, Settler Field, Fairbanks and Klondike Grande is made from 65% polyester and 35% cotton. This creates a durable, breathable and weather-resistant fabric that performs exceptionally well in both warm and cold conditions.
Materials and how polycotton works
Polycotton is built on a carefully balanced blend of cotton and polyester fibres, and in the Robens range this blend takes the form of HydroTex® Polycotton, a high-performance fabric engineered for long life and dependable all-weather comfort. The material consists of 65% polyester and 35% cotton, woven into a durable tight structure that combines the timeless feel of canvas with the technical benefits of modern outdoor textiles.
HydroTex® Polycotton is treated with a water-repellent finish that helps rainwater run off the tent walls rather than soaking in. As rainfall increases, the cotton fibres naturally swell, tightening the weave and forming an effective waterproof seal without compromising breathability. This swelling effect is one of the reasons polycotton behaves so reliably in prolonged rain, as the fabric strengthens its own barrier organically.
To support long-term outdoor use, HydroTex® Polycotton includes a UV-inhibitor treatment that protects the fibres and helps the fabric maintain its performance season after season when cared for properly. The breathable nature of the textile ensures that the tent’s microclimate remains stable and comfortable by reducing condensation and allowing moisture to escape. This helps keep the interior cool in summer and pleasantly warm when temperatures fall, creating a more natural and balanced living environment than synthetic materials can offer.
Combined with strong structural components used across the Robens tent range, HydroTex® Polycotton forms the foundation of a shelter that is durable, weather-resistant and exceptionally comfortable for both short stays and extended camping.
Four-season performance
Polycotton tents excel in all weather conditions and perform reliably across every season of the year.
During summer, the breathable structure allows warm air to escape instead of trapping heat, creating a noticeably cooler and more comfortable sleeping environment. Robens tents support this natural airflow with integrated ventilation features such as mesh doors, adjustable apex vents and side vents that allow fresh air to circulate freely while keeping insects out.
When temperatures drop in autumn and winter, the thicker fabric provides a sheltered, insulated space that retains warmth far better than lightweight synthetic tents.
Combined with a wood burner such as the Robens Hunter Tent Stove, models like Klondike and Settler Field become highly capable four-season shelters. The stove-ready design, including zip-open groundsheets that fold back to create a safe area for stove use, allows campers to enjoy warm, dry and stable conditions even in cold or damp environments.
Comfort and indoor climate
One of the greatest strengths of polycotton is the indoor climate it creates. Unlike synthetic tents, which often suffer from condensation, the breathable fibres allow moisture from inside the tent to escape naturally.
This results in a drier, more comfortable environment throughout the night. For extended camping trips, family stays, workshops or glamping weekends, the reduction in condensation greatly improves comfort. The quietness of the fabric in windy conditions and its natural shading effect also contribute to a more pleasant overall experience.
The Internal Apex Vent Control can be easily opened and closed from inside works with low-level mesh vents to control ventilation.
Featured on the Klondike-series and Settler Field.
Durability and construction
Polycotton tents are built to last.
The HydroTex Polycotton used across the Robens range offers excellent durability, UV resistance and long-term performance. Combined with strong aluminium poles, reinforced guy points, Oxford polyester groundsheets and stable architectural designs, these tents stand up well to demanding conditions. Many models are wind tested to speeds exceeding 140 km/h, demonstrating their reliability and structural strength. Such durability makes polycotton tents ideal for long-stay setups, glamping sites, seasonal camps and bushcraft basecamps.
Glamping
Polycotton tents have become a favourite in glamping because they combine natural aesthetics with exceptional comfort. The warm, canvas-like appearance and classic shapes of bell and tipi-style tents create an inviting atmosphere that instantly elevates any campsite. Inside, the breathable fabric maintains a calm and balanced indoor climate that feels far more like a small lodge than a traditional tent, making it especially appealing to guests seeking a more luxurious outdoor stay.
Models such as the Robens Settler Field enhance this experience with wide windows, generous headroom and flexible openings that provide both privacy and openness. The stable construction and consistent indoor temperature make it easy to furnish the tent with beds, lighting and décor, and the long lifespan of polycotton ensures reliable performance for seasonal or semi-permanent glamping setups. Its acoustic softness, natural shading and strong ventilation create comfort throughout summer, while its ability to retain warmth extends the usable season well into the colder months. The result is a versatile and durable shelter that meets the expectations of guests who value comfort, atmosphere and a premium outdoor environment.
Bushcraft
In bushcraft settings, where long-term outdoor living and dependable shelter matter, polycotton tents offer the ideal balance of breathability, durability and natural comfort. Their stable indoor climate and reduced condensation make them well suited to woodland environments, extended courses and established basecamps. Models like the Robens Fairbanks and Fairbanks Grande reflect this practical approach with simple single-pole pitching, roll-up side panels and a design that adapts easily to changing weather.
A polycotton tent feels reliable under tree cover, resists abrasion and handles sparks far better than thin synthetic materials when used with proper stove precautions. This makes it a strong choice for camps that stay set up for days or weeks. When combined with a safe stove setup and accessories such as a Stove Ground Protector, a polycotton tent becomes a genuine four-season base capable of supporting winter skills training and cold-weather expeditions. Its repairability and long lifespan also appeal to bushcraft practitioners who value durable gear that develops character and remains serviceable for many years.
Waterproofing and weather protection
Although polycotton tents generally show lower hydrostatic head figures compared to synthetics, they are highly waterproof in real-world use. The water-repellent treatment applied to HydroTex Polycotton, combined with the natural swelling of cotton fibres when wet, creates an effective barrier against rain. Robens tents also use intelligent design elements such as steep walls, protective eaves and carefully shaped panels that guide water away from the living area. Once the tent has undergone its initial weathering, its waterproof performance only improves.
Stove compatibility
The Robens range is designed to support safe stove use when paired with the appropriate accessories.
The Hunter Tent Stove provides an efficient heat source and includes multiple stovepipe sections, folding legs, a carry bag and a glass-fronted firebox. To protect the tent floor, a Stove Ground Protector made from fire-resistant materials can be placed beneath the stove area. With correct setup, ventilation and spark protection, a polycotton tent becomes a dependable and comfortable four-season shelter.
Maintenance and care
To ensure long-lasting performance, polycotton tents require proper care.
Regular cleaning begins by brushing away dirt, leaves and bird droppings, which helps prevent deterioration over time. Most cleaning can be done using lukewarm water and a soft cloth or brush. Strong detergents should be avoided unless absolutely necessary, as they can remove the water-repellent treatment. If stubborn stains require a cotton cleaner, the fabric should be re-proofed afterwards to restore its protective finish. It is best to clean the tent while it is pitched so the fabric remains evenly tensioned. The tent must always be fully dry before storage to prevent mould, and it should be stored in a cool, dry place. Using accessories such as footprints, tarps and protective mats can help preserve the groundsheet and fabric and extend the overall lifespan of the tent.
Is a polycotton tent right for you?
A polycotton tent is an excellent choice if you value natural comfort, reliable four-season performance and long-term durability.
Whether used for family camping, glamping accommodation, wilderness courses or cold-season adventures with a stove, polycotton offers a blend of comfort and technical resilience that synthetic tents cannot match. The Robens HydroTex Polycotton range delivers dependable performance, thoughtful design and the reassuring feel of a true outdoor home that works beautifully in every season.