Best Cold Weather Winter Tent – Expert Review

Other Features of Cold Weather / Winter Tents

Protection

A winter tent should not have any mesh panels. This will ensure body heat is captured and kept inside, while the cold stays outside. All the walls and floors should be made of a strong polyester or nylon fabric that is waterproof, windproof and rugged. A fly on a winter tent should extend to the ground, thus keeping the cold wind out and ensuring that snow does not drift in.

Structure

Stability is generally determined by the pole configuration and the structure of the tent. A typical cross intersection is a proven design that holds up well to strong winds. Look for steep walls that don’t allow snow to build up and add compromising weight to the tent.

A round dome shape will stand up better to strong winds than a cabin style tent.

Quality

Opt for tried and tested fabrics. Fabric is measured in denier – which indicates the denseness, durability and thickness of the fabric. A higher denier count is preferred in a winter tent.

Any fabric that is described as ''Ripstop'' is great. Ripstop refers to the weave pattern of the fabric; usually nylon that inhibits tears and rips, making your tent more durable.

Aluminium poles are generally strongest and preferred for stability.

Waterproofing

Waterproof coatings are rated in millimeters (mm). A higher number equates to better waterproofing. A 1000 mm rating indicates that the fabric can withstand a 1000 mm column of water for over a minute before some moisture will seep through the fabric.

Waterproof tents will have features like taped seams, strong footprints and reinforced corners so make sure you look out for these things in a 4-season tent. 

Ease of setup

You don’t want to spend 20 minutes in the freezing cold, with gloves on, trying to set up your tent. Look for something quick and easy. Some tents can actually be set up from the inside. While this might take getting used to, it is very convenient being able to be protected from the elements while you pitch your tent. As always, practice setting up and taking down your tent before you head out on your camping trip.

Usability

Trying to open a tent door in a blizzard with gloves on is downright hard. Large zipper tags are easier to grip. Having more than one entrance will allow you to take advantage of wind direction and also, if an entrance is blocked up with snow, you still have access from an alternate opening. If there are a number of you sharing the tent, it is also much more practical having more than one entrance point.

Comfort and ventilation

It might seem counter-intuitive that you want to allow cold air into the tent when you are trying to keep warm, but if you don’t ventilate properly, the condensation from breathing will result in an uncomfortable and humid environment. Having smart vents that allow you to control the internal temperature will make it easier to stay in the tent and wait out bad weather.

Size

Considering that you will have to do most things inside your tent if the temperature outside is too extreme, it is helpful to have some extra space in addition to a sufficient sleeping area. A large, enclosed vestibule is a useful feature of a 4-season tent as you may also need to store your gear inside to avoid it being snowed under or blown away. As with all tents, if you want more living space, use the manufacturer capacity rating as a suggestion only and considering upsizing.

Price

Not all tents are created equal, and not all affordable tents are of poor quality. It is worth comparing tents within the same price bracket and seeing which one ticks the most boxes from your list of requirements. If you are a frequent camper, buy the best quality that you can afford.