Is Every Double Wall Tent Waterproof?

There are so many different specifications when it comes to tents and tent waterproofing. Let’s look at whether a double wall design immediately guarantees that your tent will be waterproof. Is a double wall tent waterproof automatically? Which waterproof double wall tents do I recommend at TentBroker?

A double wall tent is exactly what the name implies. They are usually constructed from an inner wall and a waterproof rainfly. The rainfly can be removed or attached as you please, so double wall tents can transform to single wall tents easily.

Is Every Double Wall Tent Waterproof?

On average, the vast majority of double wall tents are waterproof. Of course there are degrees to the waterproofness of different models.

For example the KAZOO Venus Double Wall Backpacking Tent has an excellent rainfly with a 3000 mm HH waterproof rating. The Naturehike Mongar 2 is even more impressive, with 4000 mm HH.

Sorry to say, but not every double wall tent is waterproof.

The fact is the removable rainfly is a huge factor when it comes to waterproofing. Additionally to the rainfly double wall tents usually have at least one mesh covered window. These allow the air to circulate constantly and avoid condensation.

What Features Help A Double Wall Tent Be More Waterproof?

Coated rainfly

The outer layer of waterproof tents is usually a coated rainfly covered with a waterproofing agent. There is a huge advantage to have a separate layer for this. Double wall tents are more breathable. If the weather is good, you can even remove the rainfly and enjoy the air moving freely inside your portable home.

Vestibule

With a well designed vestibule you can keep your doors open most of the time. I like vestibules that have a diagonal door. This way you can keep the door of the tent open and let the air circulate even when it is raining.

Two wall design

One of the best things about a double wall tent is the breathability the inner wall provides. Usually it has large parts made of mesh or the whole inner wall is made of mesh! All the humidity from your breath, or wet camping gear can escape the tent. Also the layer of air between the two walls provides insulation. All in all, there is a reason why double wall tents suffer less from condensation.

Thick Tarp

An extra ground layer is just as helpful under the floor. The best tents come with a sized ground tarp manufactured by the company. The ground tarp prevents water seeping through the floor from the damp ground.

Protected seams

The seams of single wall tents are under more risk of getting damaged. This is a simple fact. In double wall tents the rainfly protects the stitching of the seams from abrasion, small rocks, or even you accidentally stepping on them. Yes, that has happened to me before, after having a few beers!

How Waterproof Should a Double Wall Tent Be?

Double wall tents start around 3000 mm HH hydrostatic head rating. This is considered three season tent territory. I would not consider a double wall tent waterproof under 2000 mm HH.

The ground tarps of double wall tents are usually rated even higher, starting around 5000 mm HH. Read more about waterproof tent ratings here.

There are some design issues that can make double wall tents not entirely waterproof though. The two most common faux pas I see are:

• The rainfly not covering the whole tent.
• A mesh window not entirely covered by the rainfly.

Basically in both cases the rainwater can find an easy hole in the waterproof outer wall and drop inside.

What Are The Cons Of Double Wall Tent Waterproofing?

Double wall tents have some disadvantages compared to single wall tents. However none of these problems are related to waterproofing and keeping the insides dry.

It is a fact, that most double wall tents are heavier than their single wall counterparts. Similarly, they take more time to set up on average. However it is not a coincidence that all the best waterproof tents in the world have a double wall design.

Making the Right Choice: Cost vs. Benefit

The decision to invest in a waterproof double wall tent is a trade-off between cost and benefit. The initial cost of a high-quality, waterproof double wall tent like the Naturehike Mongar 2 might seem steep compared to a standard tent.

However, consider the potential cost of replacing soggy camping gear ruined by a downpour during a camping trip – not to mention, the priceless cost of a ruined adventure. Investing in a proper waterproof tent is not just about staying dry; it is about enjoying every second of camping.

Conclusion

It is not an accident that almost every double wall tent is waterproof. The vast majority of these models takes advantage of the waterproofing features and extra wall can provide. I encourage you to invest in a double wall waterproof tent if you can.