Use dictates a tent’s style and we use the following to address different needs:
Dome tent
These have at least two hoop poles that cross over above the middle of the tent. The crossover poles enable dome tents to be free-standing and create a lot of internal space that can be enhanced using an extra apex pole to enlarge the entrance porch. Long poles and the fact they catch the wind when pitching makes them awkward to use.
Tunnel tent
The tunnel tent has hooped poles that sit in line normally through pole sleeves on the outside of the tent. This means they are easier that a dome to pitch in windy conditions for they can be readied for pitching close to the ground and only raised when ready to quickly peg out. An extra hoop is sometimes used to create a generous porch with plenty of room for luggage, or cooking when the weather is bad.
Geodesic tent
Uses a number of hoop poles that cross each other to create lots of small triangular panels that create a geometrical sturdy weather-beating structure with great resistance to wind and heavy snow. Geodesic tents are free-standing and in normal weather do not require guy-ropes.
Semi-geodesic tent
These tents move away from the geometric design in order to include extensions and other features that interfere with the basic sturdy triangle panel.
Single Hoop tent
These tents use a single hoop to create a lightweight fast pitching simple tent that’s perfect for trekking.
Tipi/Bell
These feature a single centre pole and an excellent wind shedding profile with eye-catching appeal and speedy pitching times.
Ridge tent
This traditional design uses front and end poles to support a ridge pole to provide lots of useable space. Front and rear poles are often replaced by A-poles for enhanced stability and easy access.
Tarps
The versatile tarp has many uses, such as a sunshade, temporary day shelter, ersatz tent, or to create a protected area to supplement a small trekking tent. Tarps can be erected in many different ways, including using walking staffs, paddles, branches or between trees – or attached directly to the tent as an extra room.