Yep Tent canvas types are often the subject of debate, having said that Polycotton is what it is, Polyester with some Cotton woven in, so you get the best of both worlds, a lightweight canvas that also breaths.
So what's the catch, we'll maybe there is no catch, but what I do know is that Cabanon don't do Polycotton, even though they have tested offerings from the Tencate range.
So Cabanon went for "All Season Polyester" which is arguably longer lasting and stronger then either Cotton or Polyester.
I guess you pays your money and makes your choice, but IMHO nothing beats Cotton.
Look on the outwell website for loads of info on Polycotton.
Ultimately I think it's as follows
PROs
Breath ability and less condensation
Less noise in the wind
Nicer to touch
Durability
Cooler in hot temps and warmer in cold temps
CONs
Weight (vs polyester)
Cost (again vs polyester)
That's about it in my opinion. I had a bear lake 6 which was Polycotton, it was totally fine and a nice tent, very water proof... Only got rid of it as I upgraded and invested in a Karsten 'village'!
------------- Hendo
****************************
Holtkamper Cocoon Aero
Karsten 300 + CA, RA
To see the real difference visit a camping shop on a sunny day and go inside both the polycotton breathes so will be noticeably cooler.
Having had,normal polyester, Outwell Polycotton, Cabanon all season polyester and Cabanon full cotton (canvas) I would say canvas is by far the best (with all-season poly close 2nd). Downsides are its far heavier, but feels like it will last 30-40years, as a lot do.
I guess polycotton is for people who want canvas but don't want the weight/size.
Thanks for responses.
The cost mainly puts me off and someone said u need to get them
Wet first with a hose to make them waterproof (not to sure what that was about)
The rationale is that "weathering" a cotton or polycotton tent helps speed up the natural process whereby the cotton threads swell or fluff up and close when wetted with water. This is what gives the material its natural water resistance.
It can't do any harm, but at some point the tent will get rained on anyway, thereby achieving the same result.
As it can't do any harm, I did ours on its first pitch with a £1.50 pressure sprayer. Took about 10 minutes. Whether it made any difference, I can't say. What I can say is that on two spells of heavy rain later, we had no leaks.
Polyester tents are made from a synthetic material which during manufacture has a waterproof coating applied. These tents need no weathering when new, but may need a similar coating re-applied after a few years.
Generally speaking, their lifespan is less than that of polycotton, which in turn is less than 100% cotton, all other things being equal. Pricing follows the same pattern.
------------- Mike
My advice is worth no more than the price paid for it
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Topic: Pollycotton
