What Types of tents are there?

The construction of a tent brings specific properties that are important for the particular area of use. The tent construction is decisive for wind stability, space or weight of the tent. With its extensive range, VAUDE offers the right tent for every terrain and every area of use.

Combined structure or flysheet construction?

Basically, we distinguish between two different types of tent construction, both of which have certain advantages and are suitable for different areas of use:

Ein Zelt mit kombiniertem Aufbau Ein Zelt mit kombiniertem Aufbau

The combined construction, i.e. the inner and outer tent are pitched together (double pitching).

  • Advantage: the tent is easy to pitch even in windy conditions and in the event of precipitation the inner tent remains dry
  • Use: year-round camping,
    Rainy weather
Ein Zelt mit ÜberwurfkonstruktionEin Zelt mit Überwurfkonstruktion

The throw-over construction, here first the inner tent with poles is put up and then the outer tent is stretched over it (singlepitching)

  • Advantage: very variable use, the inner tent
    can stand independently
  • Use: summer camping, hot regions

Tent types

The tent design should be chosen with your needs in mind and the specific requirements that the particular area of use presents. The range of different tent types is accordingly large. We offer you an overview here.

Die Grafik eines VAUDE KuppelzeltesDie Grafik eines VAUDE Kuppelzeltes

Dome tent

Dome tents are the all-rounders among tent constructions. They are versatile, quick and easy to set up and offer high wind stability. Two pole arches cross at the highest point to form a hemispherical dome. The ratio of space to floor area is therefore particularly favorable. The free-standing tent requires few pegs for tensioning.

Die Grafik eines VAUDE TunnelzeltsDie Grafik eines VAUDE Tunnelzelts

Tunnel tent

Tunnel tents are ideal for trekking tours. They offer the best space at low weight. The steep walls make 90% of the floor space usable. The erection of the parallel pole arches is quick and easy. In addition, tunnel tents have large vestibules and thus plenty of storage space.

Die Grafik eines VAUDE Ridge-Tunnel-ZeltsDie Grafik eines VAUDE Ridge-Tunnel-Zelts

Ridge Tunnel

Ridge-tunnel tents are a combination of a tunnel tent and a ridge tent. This hybrid design provides extra stability and expanded storage space. The ridge withstands high snow and wind loads and provides rain-protected ventilation options. The design is freestanding and offers a good space-to-weight ratio.

Die Grafik eines VAUDE TunnelzeltsDie Grafik eines VAUDE Tunnelzelts

Tripod

Tripodis a practical, lightweight tent construction that makes the most of space and is easy to set up. The sloping dome design is low at the foot and offers a comfortable sitting height at the head.

Die Grafik eines VAUDE Mark-ZeltsDie Grafik eines VAUDE Mark-Zelts

Mark

This special construction is used in all VAUDE Mark models and is very variable. With self-standing poles, this tent construction offers high wind stability, a generous amount of space and allows for quick setup. Re-tensioning in wet conditions is not necessary.

Die Grafik eines VAUDE Powerframe-ZeltsDie Grafik eines VAUDE Powerframe-Zelts

Powerframe

Powerframe is VAUDE's most wind-stable pole construction and is used primarily in our expedition tents. A self-supporting frame and quick-fix power clips allow for fast pitching. The poles are firmly connected to the tent and ensure an even distribution of force and increased wind stability. Lighter poles can also be used for the Powerframe construction - further reducing weight.

Die Grafik eines VAUDE Geodät-ZeltsDie Grafik eines VAUDE Geodät-Zelts

Geodesic

Geodesic tents have an extremely stable tent construction that can withstand snow and storms. This makes them suitable as expedition tents for demanding tours in all weather conditions. The pole arches cross several times to form small, extremely stable power triangles.

Die Grafik einer VAUDE Zelt-Spezial-KonstruktionDie Grafik einer VAUDE Zelt-Spezial-Konstruktion

Special construction

For special purposes, the tent construction, including the pole structure, is precisely adapted and designed to meet the specific requirements and area of use.

Neben einem Van steht ein VAUDE BusvorzeltNeben einem Van steht ein VAUDE Busvorzelt

Bus awning/drive series

Bus awnings offer a practical space extension and are easy to erect. For all vacationers and campers, VAUDE offers suitable tents  with the Drive series, which can be easily combined with your own vehicle. They are coupled directly to the camper or caravan, but some can also be used freestanding.
In addition, we also offer rear tents that are connected directly to the car tailgate.

Seam processing

Basically, we distinguish two different types of construction for tents, both have certain advantages and are suitable for different applications:

Die Grafik skizziert eine herkömmliche NahtverarbeitungDie Grafik skizziert eine herkömmliche Nahtverarbeitung

Conventional seam processing

Normally, two layers of material to be connected are sewn together in tents. Due to the perforation at the seams, waterproofness and stability suffer. All outer tents PU-coated from the inside are provided with a seam tape sealing at the factory - this prevents water from penetrating through the seams. This makes the surfaces waterproof while remaining breathable.

Die Grafik skizziert ein QuellgarnDie Grafik skizziert ein Quellgarn

Swelling Yarn

The use of water-repellent swelling yarn seals the seams of the outer tent, which is siliconized on both sides. The yarn swells directly in the seam when it comes into contact with moisture, thus sealing the seam holes. In case of heavy use or adverse weather conditions (heavy and continuous rain), manual re-sealing with Silicone Seam Sealer is necessary.

Silicone bonded seams (Siliconized Bonding)

In this process, the layers of material that have been siliconized on both sides are bonded with silicone. The material is bonded without a stitched seam, i.e. it is not pierced (= perforated) and the bond is therefore 100% waterproof. Manual re-sealing is no longer necessary and the tent material is also more tear-resistant and UV-resistant. Only VAUDE offers you these advantages.

Die Grafik skizziert mit Silikon verklebte NähteDie Grafik skizziert mit Silikon verklebte Nähte

Silicone Tapes (Silicone Seam Seal)

Taping is a process in which layers of material that have been siliconized on both sides are provided with a seam seal made of silicone at their connecting seam. This creates a 100% waterproof outer material that does not need to be re-sealed manually. This finish is also exclusive to VAUDE tents.

Die Grafik skizziert Silikon-TapesDie Grafik skizziert Silikon-Tapes

Product development "Made in Germany"

Basically, we distinguish between two different types of construction for tents, both of which have certain advantages and are suitable for different areas of use:

Eine Collage, die Impressionen aus der Produktentwicklung geben – von der Zeichnung bis zum Regen-TestEine Collage, die Impressionen aus der Produktentwicklung geben – von der Zeichnung bis zum Regen-Test

When developing our products, we leave nothing to chance. First, we make a tent model to check the construction. We then work out the product details in a 3D program. The materials are carefully tested in laboratory tests for waterproofness, tear resistance and beading behavior. Finally, we create a prototype and plastic injection molds for production.

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