- Which is the best waterproof tent?
- How many people will it host?
- Which material makes the tent waterproof?
These must be the questions lingering in your mind when you decide to buy a tent. Always remember that you need to buy a waterproof tent as you may not predict the weather conditions of the place you wish to visit.
However, worry no more as this article is well defined in ensuring it answers your questions. It will also help you in making the best choice when buying the right tent. Therefore, go through!
Hot sale, 2000mm basic waterproof, large screen tent for a giant shelter with good ventilation, pop up design for easy setup, Gazellen 21500 Tent
Double layer, full coverage rain fly, no more fretting about heavy rains, in the meantime a mesh wall ensuring a excellent ventilation, large size for 8-9 people, NTK GT Waterproof Tent
4 season for most weather conditions, lightweight design making it portable for backpacking, hot sale with low price, Teton Dome Tent
Xtreme Waterproof Coating Design, small size for 2 person, a vestibule for extra storage space, MSR Hubba Hubba Tent
How to Rate the Waterproofness of Your Tent?
Generally, we use a hydrostatic head to measure the waterproof, the metric of which is mm.
- 1000-2000mm
Tents that are built with hydrostatic head quality fabric ranging between 1000-2000mm HH are slightly waterproof because they are lightly coated, which means the fabric can withstand an amount of water pressure of 2000mm or a two-meter column of water-bearing down on it before it starts leaking through it.
These tents are most suitable for summer and can offer protection against light rain. Therefore, they susceptible to damage and not durable under moderate to heavy rainfall conditions. Under heavy rainfall, these tents can’t last up to 3 seasons.
- 2000-3000mm
These tents are engineered from fabric materials with hydrostatic heads ranging between 2000-3000mm making them highly resistant under moderate to heavy rainfall patterns.
You can comfortably shelter under them without being worried about getting wet-soaked from the rain because they have the capability of withstanding water columns ranging from 2-3 meters before water could seep through it. These tents are engineered to offer protection against moderate to heavy rainfall.
- Over 3000mm
Tents fabric with over 3000mm hydrostatic head is mostly designed for professional use because they are heavily coated to withstand extreme outdoor conditions. Still, most are suitable in areas with heavy rainfall and storm conditions.
These tents are reliable and versatile through all seasons, and they have lasting durability that is unbeatable and incomparable to other types of tents. 3 and 4 season tents are built with over 3000mm HH.
What Fabric is a Waterproof Tent Made of?
If you don’t know what kind of fabric should you choose, this section will be useful to you.
Polyurethane
PU is a synthetic material that is applied as a coat inside the fabric of the tent. Tents made from PU are robust, water-resistant, and lightweight depending on the PU fabric’s thickness and the tent’s intended purpose.
However, the downside of Polyurethane tents is that they are not breathable enough; hence, there will be a lot of condensation on the tent’s wall, making it easy to maintain.
Nylon
Nylon is the most used material for making waterproof tents because they are affordable, durable, ultra-lightweight, and easy to clean.
However, the downside of using nylon tents is that they are susceptible to UV damage, expensive, stretch when wet, wear and tear easily and are not breathable. Thus, most are coated with silicone or PU to make them durable and highly water-resistant.
Canvas
Canvas tents are the most long-lasting and friendlier tents because they are thick, breathable, have a high moisture absorbency, and high UV resistance.
Canvas tents are made waterproof by seasoned before use by directly exposing them to outdoor conditions to improve their water-retention ability.
However, the downside to canvas tents is that they are heavy, expensive, and require frequent maintenance. Mostly they are used for making bell tents, camping tents, and cabin tents.
What Can Improve the Waterproof of Your Tent?
When buying a waterproof tent, there are many factors to consider. In this section, we are dedicated to helping you quickly get the key point to choose a waterproof tent.
Double Layer
Double layering is the addition of another fabric on top of the tent, which can be waterproof and or not entirely waterproof. This added fabric is called a flysheet.
The flysheet offers protection to the inner tent making it waterproof by preventing water from escaping into the tent.
Further, the space created between the two fabrics reduces condensation and also helps to insulate the tent.
Sealed Seams
Sealed/Sealing the seams is a way of preventing the water from passing through the stitching holes. Therefore, sealed seams will let the water or raindrops flow easily down to the ground.
Hence, it breaks the direct contact between the frames and the fabric to prevent the pole from rusting or corrosion, making the frame weaker to withstand wind.
Zipper
Tent zippers do wear and tear out very fast because of the direct contact with the rain. However, you can prolong its life by simply coating it or waxing its surface and the teeth.
The best coat material that you can use to coat the tent zippers without destroying the zip is by using silicone and wax it up and down, but you thoroughly rub it in nicely.
Tarp/Rainfly
Rainfly is a waterproof-coated designed fabric used to prevent added on the tent roof to prevent direct UV rays from coming into contact with the tent’s roof.
Further, they are helpful because they prevent form a double layer to prevent the rainwater from breaking into the tent and allows water to flow to the ground.
Tent Shape
To improve your tent’s ability, waterproofness is set up in a dome, canopy, or umbrella design. These shapes increase the resistance because it prevents water from pooling at the top; hence allowing water to flow smoothly to the ground.
Further, it reduces the pressure impact of raindrops on the tent’s roof, thereby preventing the tent from sagging, which could be dangerous when left to pool on the roof.
Floor
Use a groundsheet fabric which durable and waterproof designed this is to prevent water absorption through the floor.
You can choose a bathtub-floor to keep it dry.
A bathtub floor is a ground mat floor sewn together with the tent’s side’s walls to prevent water from splashing into the tent and prevent water from breaking into the fabric, especially in a camping site where the soil is waterlogged.
Additional Features of a Waterproof Tent
Besides the key features mentioned above, there are also some additional features to improve your waterproof tent.
Seasonality
3 or 4 seasonal tents are uniquely designed to withstand all the outdoor conditions for over three seasons. Hence, purchasing seasonal tents is a guaranteed assurance that the tent is absolutely waterproof.
Windproof
The tent’s ability to withstand wind enhances the tent to maintain its shape against sagging which may cause water to pool on the roof leading to the pressure of the water-bearing down the fabric. Therefore, you should reinforce your tent to prevent it from getting damaged and increase its water resistance ability.
Ventilation
The air in the tent is always humid. Therefore, poor ventilation increases condensation on the walls of the tent. Hence, leaving a window slightly open or creating a space at the tent’s center height will improve air circulation, thereby driving out the humid air out of the tent to prevent the fabric from getting wet or damp from condensation.
Porch
A porch is a screened room attached beside the tent for resting while enjoying the breeze or doing other activities. When it is raining, you can attach the porch or add it to the tent as an additional layer to prevent water from breaking into the tent.
Top Rated 11 Best Waterproof Tents Reviews in 2021
1000mm
1. Large Canopy – Coleman Gazebo Event Shelter Stretch Tent (1000mm)
Total Weight: 16kg
Size:143.7 x 143.7 x 89.76
Frame Material: Alloy Steel
Have a cool vacation at the beach under this shelter stretch tent with a distinctive solid structure that you can easily set up by yourself and ready to party with your friends. Coleman Gazebo tent won’t disappoint you at the beach due to the following reasons;
The fabric construction features UVGuard with Coleman WeatherTec protection, and it has a hydrostatic head of 1000mm to offers protection against UV-rays and light rain.
The alloyed steel foot and the tent’s pole are sturdy enough to stand on an uneven surface, stand, split, or glass, and very easy to assemble.
It has extra sun walls and groundsheet that allow you to transform your shelter into a fully enclosed tent ready for an outdoor night camping.
Be ready to have a beautiful weekend summer vacation with your friends and family under this shelter stretch tent and take advantage of its open and enclosure design under the sun.
- Easy to set up
- UV and light rain fabric protection and certified
- Open and enclosure designed for multiple uses.
- The pole and foot are sturdy even on sand.
- Full protection with a waterproof floor.
- It cannot withstand a strong wind.
2000-3000mm
2. Most Spacious – Gazelle Tents 21500 G6 Pop-Up Portable Screen Tent (2000mm)
Capacity: 8
Height:7 ft
Material: Polyester
Camp with your team or extended family of 8 members wherever you want with G6 pop-up portable screen tent and enjoy the outdoors, whether it’s under the harsh sunlight or light rain. The G6 offer s you a tone of features that makes it versatile and reliable for convenience.
It is hexagonal designed, spacious to accommodate 8 people seated on a chair plus a center table, and it stands 7ft tall at the center, making it easy and comfortable to walk in and out.
The fiberglass poles at each corner have been reinforced with extra fabric and higher-strength pole pockets for lasting-durability.
It features rugged and dependable YKK zippers on the door that is resistant to wear and tear to ensure you have a lovely night free from direct access from outside.
The roof panel and the weave shell have a waterproof up to a 2000mm HH rating with a UV50+ rating to offer protection against UV rays and repels water to keep you warm and dry under a light rain shower.
The hexagonal wall is tightly weaved with mesh panels to keep insects and unwanted nuisances from entering the tent. Further, the meshed side allows you to see outside easily.
It easy to set up and take down and comes with an oversized bag for quick and easy storage.
G6 Pop-Up Portable Screen Tent is your perfect solution for your field research since it can comfortably accommodate a table with 8 chairs to allow you to sit down for further discussion and analysis.
- Spacious and tall enough for convenience and comfort.
- 6 sided mesh ventilation and tightly weaved to block insects and mosquitoes.
- Reinforced fiberglass poles for durability.
- Waterproof and UV-resistant fabric.
- Easy to set up and take down.
- Groundsheet not included.
3. Best ALPS Mountainnering One Person Waterproof Tent (2000mm)
Capacity: 1
Total Weight: 4lbs
Base Size: 2’8 x 7’6
Peak Height: 36 inches
Minimum Weight: 3 lbs. 5 oz.
Yes! You want to go for a vacation and wish to buy a tent which will only host one person. Worry no more as the shelter is in the market. Not only will it host you but will also ensure you are safe from rain and wind as it is a waterproof tent. You will, therefore, remain dry even amid storms.
Additionally, the tent is containing two-pole designs that are useful in ensuring that the tent is standing on its own. Of course, the tent is included easy assembly which is there to ensure you will not need to ask help from people while out for a vacation to help you in raising the tent.
Again, it contains floor seams and factory-sealed fly for the most appropriate weather protection. More also, it is comprising vestibule for extra weather protection and gear storage. You will always be comfortable whether it is in the dry season or rainy season.
- Durable
- Contain many storage spaces
- Half mesh walls enhance ventilation
- Its footprints guarantee unparalleled longevity
- Possesses a factory sealed fly for appropriate protection
- For one camper
4. Best for Backpacking – NTK Waterproof Dome Family Tent (2500mm)
Capacity: 8/9
Weight: 18.7 lbs
Peak Height: 6.1 feet
Floor Size: 10 x 12 feet
Waterproof: 2500 mm
A Dome tent is a tent which is having a high rate of waterproof. You will, therefore, live comfortably while on vacation as you need not worry about during rainy seasons.
The tent contains other various features which are making it the best tent in the market. It is usually designed for easy and quick assembly so it will be useful when you will end up spending less energy is raising the tent.
Additionally, you will be capable of going out with your family as the tent can host around nine individuals. It is very spacious, thus giving every person enough space to operate in. This tent also includes a detachable room divider to ensure that people are given enough privacy while in the tent.
- It is designed for 3 season
- 2 large D doors for maximum convenience
- Thick and firm polyester and polyurethane
- People who go for hinged doors can’t achieve his goal from this one
5. Best Hydraulic Tent – Night Cat Waterproof Automatic Pop up Tunnel Tent (2500mm)
Capacity: 3
Weight: 4kg
Fabric: 210D Oxford
Waterproof: 2500 mm
Night cat hydraulic tent is one of the easy to set up and take down the tent without extra hand for help and is ideal for 4-person. Further, it is spacious enough to accommodate a king/queen-sized air mattress or 2 sleeping bags. However, there is a lot to gain from this hydraulic tent. These include;
You can automatically set up and take down this tent since it features a hydraulic pressure mechanism system, thereby relieving you from the heavy burden of setting it up, unlike a traditional tent.
The fabric and the seam tape are waterproof made from 190T PE+PU 2500mm HH material, and it is double layered to keep you dry under moderate rainfall. Further, the outer layer fabric tightly touches the ground to keep water out.
The fiberglass poles are made from high-grade material with 8.5mm making it top wind resistant and are further incorporated with metal stakes and firm nylon ropes for increased resistance to strong wind.
You can easily separate the rainfly from the inner tent and set it up separately to make a shelter or a pavilion for resting, beaching, and fishing.
Features meshed and double-sided-zippers window and double door; one door on each side for easy access and ventilation. Further, the meshed window is connected to the poles and tent to release the wind effectively.
- Lightweight and portable
- Waterproof and double-layered
- 8.5mm high-grade fiberglass poles for wind resistance
- Automatic set up and take down
- Well ventilated with meshed windows and zipped doors
- It features indoor pockets to hold your necessities
- Multi-purpose {beach and mountaineering tent}
- Not good in windproof
Since you are allowed to set up the rainfly aside for fishing, this tent will not disappoint you while camping on the mountainside due to its wind-resistant fiberglass poles.
6. Best for 2 Person – MSR Lightweight Backpacking Tent
Season: 3
Capacity: 2
Ultralight Setup: 3 lbs
Center Height: 39 inches
Finding the best tent multiperson backpacking vacation is never that easy. That is why many campers at times prefer coming up with two temporary shelters instead.
However, for families preferring sleeping under the same floor for security purposes, they should select to sleep in a tent. The tent is containing very lightweight and thus you will not strain in carrying it while out for vacation.
Additionally, it is a waterproof tent as it is containing a solid waterproof coating that will end up lasting longer than the conventional waterproof coatings.
Apart from that, it is holding Easton cyclone poles which are known for resisting breakage when the winds are powerful and fierce. Adding to that is its pole geometry which is known for making the tent space larger.
- Resists frays and other damages
- Conspicuous enough to behold easily
- Exudes some elegance and aesthetics
- Strong enough to ward off wind damage
- Demands no assembly before or after use
- Requires some assembly before use
7. Best for Hiking – Night Cat Lightweight Tent for adults and kids (3000mm)
Season: 3
Capacity: 2
Pole Material: Fiberglass
This dome tent is built to last and offer you convenience while camping outdoor without experiencing any difficulties related to the outdoor condition. Besides, its premium construction offers reliability and flexibility to outdoor conditions.
Why is night cat reliable in outdoor conditions?
The foldable fiberglass poles are strong for lasting-durability and guarantee stability against the mountain wind. And is further reinforced by the featured pegs and guy lines accessories.
The 210D waterproof PED fabric PU 3000 oxford bottom fabric construction with waterproof sealed on every seam makes this tent highly resistant to wind and water. Hence, you will stay dry under the storm.
You can manually and easily set up and take down within a minute without any help.
It is lightweight and compact for portability and easy set up/takedown.
Roomy enough for one person with a kid if needed, and also a single-person air mattress fits well.
Well ventilated design with one meshed door and two meshed windows at the top.
With almost 72% 5 star rating from its users, definitely, night cat is the best outdoor and convenient tent for mountaineering purposes.
- Waterproof roofing and flooring
- High wind resistant fabric and foldable fiberglass poles
- Easy manual setup and takedown
- Lightweight and compact
- Versatile and reliable
- Inadequate center height
8. Best Cheap – TETON Sports Mountain Backpacking Dome Tent for Camping (3000mm)
Season: 4
Fabric: Polyester
Shape: Dome
With waterproof fabric 3000mm rating, the TETON sport mountain dome tent is one of the inexpensive tents built with excellent features that makes it versatile and comfortable for multiple uses.
What makes TETON versatile and functional?
The waterproof rainfly is designed with a 360-degree ventilation system for optimal airflow to keep you cool under the scorching sun and allows you to sleep comfortably with little to zero condensation on the walls.
It is lightweight, easy to set up, packs down tightly on the ground, and hassle-free to take it down.
It is double layered for wind resistance, and the inner layer is meshed to create a full-sky view at night.
It is integrated with indoor gear pockets and a large gear loft to store your valuables easily and easily grab your items.
Despite heavy rainfall, TETON has made it easier for you to camp without any worry with its double-layered and 360-degree ventilation system.
- Waterproof floor and roofing
- 360-degree rainfly ventilation system
- Double layered for increased wind resistance up to 60mph
- Sky-view inner layer fabric
- Lightweight for easy portability
- 3-season-designed tent
- The vestibule and inner pockets
- Uncomfortable center height
Over 3000mm
9. Best for 8 Person – TOMOUNT Waterproof Tents for Foul Weather (4000mm)
Capacity: 8
Waterproof: 4000mm
Tent Dimension: 168″ x 108″ x 72″
When going for a vacation in the rainy season, you needn’t worry as this tent is capable of withstanding foul weather.
It is very strong and thus capable of withstanding extreme rain without leaks. You will always have an assurance of dryness in the tent. Eight people’s accommodation makes it economical. The roomy interior holds three queen air mattresses.
It is the most reliable tent for outdoor traveling and car camping, right?
- Sturdy zippers
- Water and wind resistance
- Easy setup within 10 minutes
- 5 mesh windows together with the mesh roof for stable airflow
- This item has a single door
10. MIER 3 Person Nylon Camping Tent with Footprint (5000mm)
Capacity: 3
Waterproof: 5000mm
Season: 3
MIER is a 3-season designed backpacking tent that comes with all accessories to make your schedule run smoothly and to ensure you do not run into any inconvenience while camping. Investing your money and time in this tent unravels you to the following benefits. They include;
This tent is water and high-wind resistant. It is engineered for durability with a double-layered roof made from high-grade material whose retaining strength is 4000mm and 15D nylon rip-stop solid silicone rainfly.
It features double D-designed doors that are large for easy access and ventilation.
It is incorporated with a backpack carrying sack, vestibules, 4 organizer pockets for keeping small items, and 2 lantern hanger.
The bathtub is designed to floor to wrap upsides of the camping tent to protect against splashing and pooling water while it rains.
The rip-stop nylon rainfly doesn’t stretch and sag when it rains or is wet.
It is ultra-lightweight for portability and easy to set up.
Count yourself lucky with this pocket-friendly tent because you will always have company with you while exploring the world of camping because it is spacious enough to host 3-person comfortably.
- Ultra-lightweight and backpack designed for easy portability.
- Easy access and Well ventilated with two large doors.
- Pool and splash-resistant flooring.
- 3-season tent {Double layered for wind resistance]
- Pocket friendly.
- No-see-um mesh wall
- Uncomfortable center height
11. Dream House Outdoor Waterproof Oxford Cloth Family Camping Bell Tent (5000mm)
Capacity: 4
Waterproof: 5000mm
Fabric: Oxford
Camping bell is one of the most comfortable outdoor canvas family tents built with versatility, resistance, and durability in mind. To avoid spoiling your anxiety, camping bell possess the following features that make it unbeatable among the best brands. These include;
Well ventilated- There are 4 ventilation holes directly at the top, a large and wide enough door to allow enough light penetration, and 4 semi-circular windows to keep you cool and comfortable the whole night and day.
Long-lasting and highly resistant to water and wind – The upper roof is made of 900D and waterproof index 5000mm oxford cloth with PU coating interior, and the seams are sealed with PVC tapes.
Further, the floor mat is made of heavy-duty 540gsm PVC with a waterproof index of 5000mm. Simultaneously, the central and door pole tube is steel-galvanized for enhanced durability, stability, and resistance to wind and water.
Reinforced for stability- The tent comes with stakes and guy lines that are durable and anti UV connected to the top of the walls and held down by pegs to reinforce it against the storm.
Protested zippers and door poles- the zipper and the door pole are protected against damage from rain or moisture with a plastic cup and canvas skirt.
Spacious enough and comfortable- the center pole is above 2m with a spacious diameter of 4m that can comfortably accommodate 2 air-mattress comfortable 4 people to sleeping comfortably.
Elope with your loved ones for higher ground adventure without limitations with this canvas camping tent spaciously-designed with excellent resistance to outdoor conditions.
- Spacious floor, wide and large door with 2.5m center height.
- Excellent performance under stormy conditions.
- Well ventilated
- 4-season tent
- Protected zippers, seams, and door poles against moisture or rain.
- Steel-Galvanized poles tubes.
- Highly water-resistant floor mat
- Time-consuming set-up and takedown.
12. Best Waterproof – Lucx Wolf umbrella tent Brolly Shelter carp tent (10.000mm)
Capacity: 2
Waterproof: 10,000mm
Height: 1.4m
Lucx tent is not only built for camping, but it has also been engineered to withstand extreme outdoor conditions. This umbrella tent has all it takes to invest your blood and sweat because it is reliable, long-lasting, and convenient for your needs.
The upper fabric breathable and coated to enhance resistance against water, snow and prevent condensation. Further, it keeps you warm and cool through summer and winter.
The doors and windows are large enough and equipped with mosquito nets for ventilation and protect you from insect and mosquito bites.
All the seams are double sealed to prevent water from escaping inside the frames for a long-lasting lifespan.
Its fabric material is made of a hydrostatic head of up to 10.000mm, which dries very fast with high resistance to water, moisture, and snow.
The robust removable tent floor is highly water-resistant, making it convenient on waterlogged soil.
Lightweight for portability, and you can easily set-up and takedown.
- 10,000mm hydrostatic head fabric.
- Well ventilated with mosquito netted door and windows.
- Sturdy and robust to withstand heavy wind
- Double protected seams
- Breathable fabric
- Lightweight and hassle-free to set up.
- Average center height.
Wolf umbrella tent is also versatile-designed for multiple uses; open its umbrella design, be ready for fishing, and have a lovely weekend at the beach enjoying the breeze under the scorching sun.
How to Re-waterproof a Tent?
Re-waterproofing and re-sealing your tent are the only of renewing its water-resistance ability because as time goes, the coated membrane fades away. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to re-waterproofing and sealing your tent.
- First, wash your tent and let it dry; this could be any day/time before you begin reproofing it. However, ensure you clean them using alcohol to remove the old sealers and some peels for you to create a new layer that is pure and strong for the seals.
- Then pick a warm and dry day and a place where you will apply proofing material and leave them to dry.
- Spread the tent by pitching it for you to access all parts for convenience maximally. However, ensure the tent’s inner side is outwards and vice versa; this prevents the applied seal and coat is not exposed directly under UV-rays.
- When ready, apply seam sealer on the seams using a small brush {use seam sealer that is for the appropriate tent material} as per the manufacturer’s instruction {sealer instruction}
- Leave the seams to dry.
- After the seams have dried, decide whether you want to use dry application or wet application. However, choose the type of application that will give you the best result.
- Evenly apply the coat to all the panels using a sponge, spray, or brush.
- While spraying, ensure you are keen enough to avoid applying the excess coat, but you can wipe off where the coat is surplus.
Leave the tent to dry, but ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. In case the coating product lacks the instruction, it is advisable to let at least it dry for 24 hours.
Why Do You Need to Re-waterproof a Tent?
Moisture is very dangerous to fabric materials because it makes the fabric functionless. After all, the fabric itself is what we call the tent. Therefore, the proof membrane layer on your tent is essential because of the following reasons;
- Prevent direct contact between the fabric and harmful UV-rays.
- Prevent the fabric from coming into direct contact with water, it makes the fabric weak, exposing it to tear and wear.
- To allow the water to flow smoothly to the ground instead of breaking into the tent, thereby preventing you from getting soaked.
- Prevent the seams from wearing and tearing because they hold the tent fabric together.
- It blocks water from seeping through the tent poles to prevent rust and corrosion.
- To make the tent last-longer/improve its lifespan.
- To prevent condensation on the walls of the tent.
Is a Waterproof Tent Pricey?
No, their prices depend on their quality of construction, features, and brand. The cheapest waterproof tent you can get will averagely cost you as little as $30.
However, such a pocket-friendly waterproof tent won’t last beyond 2 seasons compared to expensive ones built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions for over 3 seasons.
But you should be very careful when purchasing them despite your budget and the intended purpose because some brands are expensive because of their name and wide clientele base. At the same time, some brands sell the same type of tent with the same quality at an affordable price.
Conclusion
Buying a tent is the best idea you have considered making. You now have various reviews on the best tents for rain in the market. All the listed and discussed tents are equally good.
Besides, you now have more information concerning the procedure in which sealing of seams is done. Therefore, you will maintain your tent so that it will be helpful to you for an even longer time. Hurry up and make an order before these tents are all bought as they are in demand.
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