Nylon vs polyester tent Nylon tents will usually be towards the top of the price spectrum. PU coatings reduce the tear resistance of fabrics compared to silcone - this is why sil-nylon works at 1. That is, if you want a silnylon sheet with a similar waterproof rating to Dyneema it would have to be more than 10 times thicker! Oct 28, 2024 · Understanding Tent Materials: Nylon vs. Polyester hardly absorbs water, nylon does – polyester hardly absorbs water, while nylon absorbs about 3. com Sep 16, 2023 · Nylon Tents. Bottom Line: Polyester is heavier than nylon but much lighter than natural fabrics like canvas. This is why a nylon tent is the classic backpacking tent. Common Types of Tent Materials. Jan 10, 2020 · Favorite Poly/Nylon Combo Tent (1 to 3 person) MSR Elixir – Although most tents these days are made from nylon, there are a few that use a combination of the two fabrics. Polyester vs Nylon Fabrics — When Wet We use 100% polyester fabrics on the MoonLight tents. Polyester is usually padded with polyurethane (PU). With so many options out there including polyester, understanding the pros and cons of nylon especially high tenacity nylon like Nylon 6. Lightweight Materials It's also important to note that nylon denier does not directly map to wind or water resistance. Different materials have unique strengths and weaknesses and selecting the “right” fabric is really about choosing which compromises to make. A nylon tent without additional coating is also a possibility, considering that nylon fibres do not absorb water. Also it's cheaper but most likely less durable. Better abrasion resistance and exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Denier isnt everything. Remember: Cost is what you pay, value is what you get. Mar 26, 2024 · Thicker nylon fabrics like those made from 70D and upwards are sturdy and can be made more waterproof with the right surface treatment. The most common tent materials you’ll run across when looking at tents are nylon, polyester, and canvas. On the other hand it Mar 23, 2013 · Polyester is a bit more UV resistant and sags less but not as strong as the same weight of nylon. Polyester tents are a good budget option. 7) weight difference from 20D Nylon to 210T Polyester for the same tent! I would go for the 210T polyester tent if price and durability is a concern and the 20D nylon version if you want the lightest possible tent. Like nylon, polyester is also a synthetic material. Nylon is better for backpacking, and polyester is better for prolonged outdoor use. Nylon Tents. If strength is desired over weight, 40D nylons should be used but if weight is a priority, 20D nylon is better. Pros: Lightweight & Compact – Great for travel and camping. In my opinion a tent fly polyester is a much better choice. Levensduur: De levensduur van een katoenen tent is veelal veel langer dan die van een polyester of nylon tent. 40D nylon is woven with threads that are twice as thick as those used for 20D nylon. UV resistance : Natural cotton fades; advanced fabrics like TenCate resist it. While not as cheap as nylon, it is a great budget option, especially when compared to cotton, making it possibly the most economical tent fabric since it Cotton canvas tent material is also extremely soft to the touch. Camping tent made of nylon I think substituting DCF in place of nylon in a normal double wall tent, especially without adjusting the design to minimize abrasion on the fly fabric, is asking for trouble. " Jun 27, 2014 · A comparison of the wet performance of polyester and nylon rainflies on the same tent. The polyester offers better UV resistance than SilNylon, which is a big plus if you plan on leaving your tent out in the sun for extended periods. Some manufacturers also add a protective coating to their nylon tents. This also means nylon tents do not become heavier or shrink when encountering rain. As in all aspects of tent design, fabric selection is a balancing act. Longevity And Wear Polyester and nylon are two common materials used in tent manufacturing, and each has its unique characteristics when it comes to longevity and wear. Nylon traps heat better compared to other fabrics, which is a feature you absolutely want in a winter tent. Oct 14, 2010 at 7:44 am #1654473 For tents with polyester flys, we still use our 30D sil-nylon in the floors for its superior abrasion, tear, and puncture resistance. Also it stays lighter when you pack the tent wet as it doesn't absorb water. May 19, 2025 · Best waterproof tent fabric: PVC-coated polyester and TenCate All Season materials rank highest. In fact, and it's taken me years to appreciate the full truth of this, our tents are unperturbable, unchanging Feb 14, 2024 · You may see a $500 nylon tent and a $300 polyester tent with an extremely similar design. Both materials are waterproof and suitable for camping. The best camping tent material depends a lot on how you'll use it. However, this might change soon as the technologies advance providing higher quality formulations for high-end Mar 28, 2022 · Let’s take a look at tent materials and what to look for when comparing. Jul 28, 2021 · Ripstop is a type of fabric that is woven into other materials to make it less susceptible to rips and tears. When it comes to ripstop nylon, it does make your tent stronger. The Sierra is a polyester tent, and the Eureka is a nylon tent with a polyester rainfly, so from a UV perspective they're both the same. but the fact remains that the natural fibers that are used in the manufacture of canvas tents provide a more pleasant tactile experience. Jan 22, 2025 · Basically there is Nylon 6, Nylon 6. Traditionally, polyester is best, but modern technology has done for things to change. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. 6 , Robic Nylon and Cordura Nylon which is a nylon 6. Nylon weaves are water-permeable unless treated or layered with other fabrics (most 1000d backpacks have an additional waterproof liner) Heavy denier nylon is chosen for durability, not weather-resistance. Oct 13, 2010 · However, the elasticity of nylon fabrics also helps to limit abrasion and punctures, and this, along with the quality of the coating, may be more important factors than the type of weave. Durston gear makes some nice tents out of polyester. This means a much stronger fabric, but also a heavier one. 4 finished cloth weight) while 1. 2 oz finished) tends to be the weight of PU coated nylon used in tent flys. Polyester is cheaper – polyester can be recycled and reused. There are only ripstop nylon and ripstop polyester tents. For instance, a standard nylon tent weighs around 3-5 pounds, while a comparable polyester tent might weigh 5-7 pounds. Polyester is less ” breathable ” than nylon. I’ll be comparing a nylon vs polyester tent. It`s holds less water than nylon. Nylon vs. As far as tents go, nylon is typically much lighter than polyester while still being just as durable. After poly and nylon were invented in world war II, most tents did use polyester. 40D vs. 20D Nylon is a lightweight and durable fabric made from nylon threads, while 210T Polyester is known for its strength and weather resistance, making it ideal for outdoor activities. When it comes to buying a tent, whether it is your first tent or your 100th tent, it can be confusing to understand all the differences between the hundreds of options. Is Nylon Better Than Polyester? The biggest question when comparing the Naturehike Mongar 2 15D model with the 210T is whether nylon is a better material for manufacturing tents than polyester? Nylon is lighter and more stretchable than polyester. Many consider nylon to be a better option for a backpacking adventure since it’s lighter and easier to transport, while polyester makes for a great group and family camping, as Nylon is barely stronger, polyester is cheaper and doesn't absorb water or stretch. Nylon. 185T polyester is another similar fabric used in tents and many other of the same purposes as 190T and everything you read here about 190T will generally also count for 185T polyester as well. However, there is a reason that they are cheaper. Wind performance : Heavier materials like canvas and reinforced frames handle storms better. Discover the pros and cons of polyester tents: a durable, weatherproof material that outlasts nylon, but comes at a slightly higher cost. Mar 26, 2024 · The rip-stop threads are clearly seen in a nylon tent sheet. Each has it`s advantages and disadvantages. 1500 for the fly, and 3000 for the tent floor presumably. Nylon tents also tend to be among the most affordable tents on the market. Polyester. You won't have to tension your fly after a rain. Among the various materials used for tent fabric, nylon and polyester are the two most popular options. Better UV Resistance. Polyester is manufactured by melting down PET plastic pellets and spinning them into thin, elongated fibers. Unless you're planning on leaving a tent set up someplace year-round, UV resistance of the fabric is not usually the limiting factor to its lifespan. Discounts for large group orders: Call (208) 506-5839 | Shipping to all 50 U. Polyester lasts a much longer time than other synthetic fabrics like nylon, so it makes for a great long-term investment if you are looking for a tent you can rely on for many years to come. Mar 26, 2024 · This property of nylon may explain why tents made of nylon will sack more after the rain compared to a tent made from polyester. Conclusion: Making the Right Choice. Both are durable and lightweight, but they come with distinct characteristics and benefits. 6. Ultimately, the decision between a nylon or polyester tent depends on your specific needs and camping style. Polyester tents are not as common as nylon tents due to several reasons such as reduced tear strength. Understanding the materials used in te Jan 6, 2020 · Er zijn verschillende soorten tentdoek; Katoen, Polyester, Katoen-Polyester, Polyamide (Nylon) en Acryl. Affordable: Like nylon, polyester tents are also budget-friendly. This guide will go into the properties of nylon, is it suitable for tent fabric and a comparison with polyester to help manufacturers and buyers make decisions. It does not necessarily mean that nylon is better, but there are many variations from which to choose nowadays. Some nylon tents are stronger than polyester, and vice versa, so it is a good idea to look at reviews of tents you are considering to know how reliable it will be. It . It’s durable, resists stretching, and feels slightly stiffer than nylon. Polyester tents tear more easily than nylon and generally have a poor strength-to-weight ratio Oct 24, 2021 · The most significant cause of tent life is UV, which breaks down fabric fibre molecules and subsequently pulverises and breaks them. For example, 190T polyester fabric provides sufficient strength to withstand harsh weather conditions. For a tent, 30d is more than enough, so probably don't go any higher unless you're planning on thoroughly abusing it. With the movement to lighter tents in the ’80s, backpacking tents switched to nylon simply because only nylon was available in lighter weight versions (due to demand from other industries with more sway than the small tent industry). Mar 26, 2024 · A light fabric made for clothing like the Taffeta 190T polyester weighs around 56g per square meter of fabric if not too densely woven. 3 days ago · Polyester Tents What is Polyester? Polyester is another synthetic fiber, similar to nylon but slightly heavier. I would prefer a polyester tent, but it is likely not my first or second spec when looking for a tent. We do: it makes our tents completely sag proof. In this camping gear review video we'll cover everything you need to know about popular ca Feb 6, 2025 · The two most common options—nylon and polyester—each have their strengths. While polyester doesn't seem to sag, but the trade off is weight and strength. # Nylon vs Polyester: Which Tent Is Better? When venturing into the great outdoors, the choice of tent can significantly impact your camping experience. Polyester vs. I like Silpoly for its lack of stretch and low cost. 9 oz/ sq yd (base cloth weight - 2. It is generally believed that nylon is not as resistant to UV as polyester, but according to our tests, polyester is only slightly stronger than nylon, unless the fabric is thickened, no 15D material of the same thickness will last 90 days continuously under Dec 4, 2021 · On average, polyester tents can weigh between four and 10 pounds, depending on the dimensions. Polyester is a common material used for tents known for its good UV resistance. However, because nylon is often thinner and more breathable, nylon will dry more quickly compared to polyester , which is nice when used for raingear. Between the two synthetic tent fabrics, nylon is by far the lightest. 15D Nylon , with its thin yet strong fibers, provides exceptional durability while maintaining a lightweight design, perfect for hikers and backpackers seeking to minimize their load. And whereas 70D nylon is often used for tent floors or hammocks, the thicker 210D, 420D, 600D, and 1000D types are strong enough to be used for parachutes, sails, jackets, and backpacks. S. Nylon Jul 8, 2024 · Additionally, some nylon tents may not be as durable as polyester tents, so it is important to consider the conditions you will be camping in before deciding on a material. It seems as though the only two material choices are nylon or polyester which both come with their trade off's. However, regular nylon would sag and stretch from snow and winds, which is why ripstop nylon works better here. I'd also bet the tent is made out of Polyurethane coated nylon, not polyester, but I might be off on that. Jun 4, 2022 · Nylon tent is sturdier and more lightweight than a polyester tent. A 30D silicone impregnated nylon footprint will be more durable than the same D rating polyester variant. Pros: UV Resistant: Polyester handles sun exposure better than nylon, so it lasts longer. 🏕️ Nylon Mosquito Nets. Sep 11, 2017 · Polyester, Silnylon, DCF or Cuben fiber, Polycotton canvas and PE? Understanding more about tent fabrics will help you make the right choice when looking at tents for sale. 20D nylon is more expensive to make but is a bit lighter. Jan 28, 2025 · I have a bunch of tents, including ones made of Silpoly, Silnylon, the “old school” PU coated nylon that big name brands use, and now even a TNTUltra tent. It can be confusing with so many different fabrics, coatings and specs. Polyester behaves better in bad weather conditions, heavy rain and strong wind. Nylon See full list on slingfin. Brushing against man-made materials such as Polyester can be unpleasant – although newer formulations of Polyester have largely eliminated this issue. Nylon and polyester are the most commonly used materials for the widely used dome tents. It’s not suitable for prolonged high UV exposures. If you prioritize weight and are willing to take extra care of your gear, a nylon Apr 18, 2024 · What Is The Difference Between Nylon And Polyester Tents? Nylon tents are lighter and more durable, while polyester tents are more UV resistant. Apr 8, 2024 · 15D Nylon and 210T Polyester are two commonly used materials in the manufacturing of outdoor gear such as tents. Polyester At A Glance. 100% silicone coatings (no PU or PeU) are not only the longest-lasting coating type available but they even increase the tear strength of the fabric (unlike PU or PeU coatings) making 100% silicone the obvious Oct 25, 2024 · 2. While 3-season tents work with a variety of materials, the best option for a 4-season tent is ripstop nylon. 210T Polyester is less tear resistant at the same strength than 20D nylon, ergo: Polyester must be thicker and therefore heavier than nylon in order to maintain the same tear resistance. Apr 6, 2015 · Some more comments: 1500mm and 3000mm are the measured values (in HH–hydrostatic head) for the water permeability of the fabric. The following content aims to lay out the advantages and drawbacks of the most popular materials used in the design of tents and tarps, including polycotton, nylon, and polyester, rather than acting as a buying guide. 50 years ago when backpacking tents first started hitting the market, nylon fabrics, especially in lightweight tent fabric options, were superior to polyester due to technology in the fabric world at the time. Jan 9, 2024 · If it rains, the nylon tent will become more wrinkled the next day, but polyester fabric will not. On the other hand, nylon is more durable and tensile, which is crucial for windy or rainy weather. 1 oz/sq yd (1. Pros and Cons of Polyester Fabric Tents. It's often used in backpacking tents because of its excellent strength-to-weight ratio. The jab was directed towards companies charging $1000+ for DCF versions of their normal nylon tents (that still weigh more than even a silnylon flat tarp) without making Oct 4, 2022 · Nylon Vs Polyester Tent. It comes with a 70D taffeta nylon floor that is hydrostatically rated to 3,000 mm, and a footprint for underneath to protect the tent floor. And when it comes to camping, your tent choice is perhaps the most crucial factor that can make or break your experience under the stars. Om duidelijk te maken wat de plus- en minpunten zijn van de verschillende soorten tentdoek hebben wij een overzicht gemaakt waarin wij per soort materiaal zowel de voordelen als de nadelen bespreken. PU coating is more waterproof, but heavier. Apr 8, 2024 · 20D Nylon and 210T Polyester are common fabrics used in outdoor gear like camping tents. 6 "high tenacity nylon". Let’s take a closer look at the cost and value of each material type. Nylon 6 is the least expensive and weakest but still stronger than Polyester. 5% of its own weight in water, so polyester dries faster than nylon. I bought one of the original DCF tents from ZPacks back in 2012 but sold it. It’s crucial to weigh the price against the intended use and expected lifespan of the tent. states & Canada Conversely, nylon is generally stronger than polyester, but less UV resistant. Nylon tents are generally lighter, making them suitable for backpackers. Nov 21, 2023 · All three models are double wall tents. Mar 26, 2024 · Compared to the thinnest silicon-treated nylon sheets used for tents the thinnest Dyneema tent sheet is approximately 7-15 times more water resistant. Nylon is the stronger material that can make a pretty tough tent at 15D, but the trade off is that it absorbs water and sags. Weight Comparison: Polyester vs. For tents there are 2 types of materials: polyester and nylon. 20D Nylon's Waterproof index is 4000 higher than 210T Polyster's 3000. Nylon: Polyester: Chemical Composition: Tents: Nylon is a common material for tent fabrics due to its lightweight, durable, and Per google looks like 20D is the way to go: "20D Nylon can be far thinner and lighter than 210T polyester. Nylon is a synthetic material that is lightweight and strong. Canvas As outdoor enthusiasts, we know that a great adventure begins with the right gear. 20D Nylon. Polyester is usually heavier than nylon but has higher strength and is less prone to tearing. Conclusion Oct 11, 2023 · Tent Fabric 101: Nylon vs Polyester vs Dyneema/Cuben . Below are some pros and cons of the most common tent fabrics and what they are most suitable for. Robic nylon is an improvement in strength and abrasion but it is still not as good as nylon 6. This makes it ideal for backpacking or camping trips where you need to carry everything yourself. 6 is key to making informed decisions. However, it tends to sag when wet and isn't as UV-resistant as other materials. Those that have spent any time in the great outdoors knows that Mother Nature might like to drop rainwater at her leisure, and so this is a very important attribute of polyester’s, and one that should certainly be weighed and considered when choosing between nylon vs polyester. It makes a kind of square pattern on the different fabrics that it gets woven into. May 30, 2025 · Polyester tents, while often more affordable, may not provide the same level of performance in extreme conditions. 210T polyester doesn't 'suck' up water and stays exactly the same shape. Soft & Flexible – Feels smoother and drapes easily around beds or tents. This protects against condensation. Understanding the differences can help you pick the right one for your needs. Feb 25, 2024 · That’s almost one pound (0. They cost more than similar nylon fabrics so we better have a pretty good reason to use them. It is harder, and less permeable to water vapor than simple nylon. Polyester Tents. When evaluating nylon vs polyester for your next tent purchase, both cost and value considerations must be factored in. Oct 19, 2024 · Unlike SilNylon, a polyester tent doesn’t have the tension issues and sagging that a nylon-based fabric does, so you can set it up once and not worry about it. Hoeveel weken een katoenen tent meegaat, is daarnaast weer afhankelijk van de kwaliteit van het katoen, maar ook in grote mate van hoe de tent onderhouden is. And because they were the best option, demand for the fabric by backpacking tent companies fueled increases in technology and product Oct 19, 2022 · In this article, I will be discussing the differences between a canvas tent vs nylon tent vs polyester. kenrw lifz zer atcwtaj iico unzr bjqqx fxwnz wdeg sfeqokm