Tent Structures

In general, Tents consist of poles which form a skeleton and over this skeleton, the Tent Fabric or skin is laid out to create an inner pocket. These are the basic Tent Structures:

Avian Tent

Avian Tents

One or two straight poles with the Tent cover spread out create a covered ground area. They are mostly used for quick shelter and generally light weather conditions.

Pyramid Tent

Pyramid Tents


One central pole and the Tent cover pulled tight and spread out around the center pole form a pyramid shaped pocket. Pyramid Tents are rare in Hiking as the center pole effectively divides the Tent in multiple smaller compartments.

Hoop/Waypoint Tent

Hoop/Waypoint Tents


Use one to three hoops with the Tent cover to form a tubular pocket. The curved walls give a bigger volume with the same ground surface. Hoop Tents are surprisingly strong as they divide pressure over the full length of the hoops.

A-Frame Tent

Traditional A-Frame Tents


Two-legged frames at the outer ends of the Tent with the Tent cover form a triangular pocket. Old backpacking tents were often A-frame Tents. The increased roominess of hoop tents and domes has replaced most A-frame tents.

Modified A-Frame Tent

Modified A-Frame Tents

Add a ridgepole and a center hoop to the traditional A-Frame to create a larger volume version of the traditional A-frame pocket. Modified A-Frame tents are also becoming rare in Hiking.

Dome Tent

Dome Tents

Three or more intersecting hoops with the Tent cover form a multi-faceted ground floor with a dome. The added hoops give this tent increased strength in comparison to Wedge Tents. However, they are mostly pretty difficult to erect. Most 4-Season tents are domes with four intersecting hoops.

Wedge Tent

Wedge Tents

Two intersecting hoops with the Tent cover form a square to round pocket. These tents are very popular in Hiking as they combine great strength in combination with the least use of material and weight.