Tent poles

Types of tent poles

As with tents, there are also many different types of tent poles. We distinguish between the following types:

Aluminum poles (standard)

These poles are generally lighter and stronger than commonly used fiberglass poles. However, aluminum is also more expensive. These poles are generally used with cotton and TC tents. Aluminum poles can be pre-bent to reduce the amount of stress on the poles.

Aluminum poles (DAC)

The aluminum DAC poles are made of anodized aluminum. This is a tougher material compared with ordinary aluminum, nevertheless these poles are still very lightweight. These poles are widely used with lightweight tents.

Fiberglass poles

These poles are, of course, made of fiberglass . This material has a higher density.  A thin shaft through the center of the fiberglass allows the elastic cord to pass end to end. Fiberglass poles are generally the standard poles with polyester tents. These poles are heavier in weight than aluminum poles. Glass fiber material can split but, fortunately, fiberglass poles are easy to repair with tape, and replacement poles or pole parts are available almost everywhere.

Inflatable tubes

With tent designs the major development in recent years has been the progressing use of PVC inflatable tubes. Many tents have only inflatable tubes nowadays, no poles. The advantage of the tubes is that they remain in the tent when setting up and packing up. So you don't have to slide poles through the tent every time you want to switch locations. The tubes are often already in a double cover, this provides good protection against possible leakage. In the unlikely event that something happens with the tube, they can be easily patched up or replaced. The main reason for choosing an inflatable tent is the easiness with which it is set-up.