Tenting It: Why Canvas?

Tenting has changed over the last decade.

Canvas once prevailed as the fabric of choice for tent construction. Over the years, though, new technology introduced the use of other materials in tent-making.

Nylon is popular today, along with polaris, gala and realite. Each material has unique qualities and may serve well under various conditions.

However, many die-hard campers still swear by canvas tents. Here are a few of the reasons why:

They’re strong. Canvas, which can hold up against the wildest of circus elephants, is also ideal for use in camping tents. It’s perfect for the hunter who spends days in the wild. It can take all of the abuse that nature throws its way. It will withstand wind, thunderstorms and even hail. Even curious forest creatures will have trouble penetrating a canvas tent.

They’re durable. The average life of a nylon camping tent is about three to five years, depending on frequency of use. By contrast, a canvas tent may last 10 years or more.

They’re breathable. Canvas is made from cotton. Unlike other common materials used in tent manufacturing, cotton breathes.

Nylon, polyester and other fabrics do not allow air to pass through easily. This can create a sauna-like atmosphere inside tents made from these materials. By contrast, canvas allows for the exchange of air between the interior and exterior of the structure.

Canvas is so durable that it is also used in the construction of some semi-permanent structures. Canvas covers are frequently used over traditional cement foundations and wooden frames. These “cabents” last for decades and provide a way to maintain low-cost housing.

In poor countries where extreme weather variations are rare, canvas or part-canvas homes are the norm. They stand up well to moderate weather conditions and are a cost-effective alternative to bricks and mortar.