Comparison SOL Anchor 4 vs Tramp Bell 4

The number of bedroom entrances provided in tent design.

It is worth clarifying that if there are several bedrooms in the structure (see "Sleeping areas"), then in this case it is not the total number of entrances that is taken into account, but the number of entrances per bedroom. For example, if the tent has 2 sleeping areas, each with 1 input, then the characteristics will indicate 1 input to the bedroom.

In other words, if the design states 2 entrances to the bedroom, this means that each bedroom has two exits (regardless of the total number of bedrooms). Such a design is convenient primarily because you can leave the sleeping slot in the most convenient way, if necessary, without disturbing your sleeping neighbors. On the other hand, a design with one input provides a higher degree of thermal and moisture insulation; such tents are better suited for particularly unfavorable conditions.

Both the rigidity of the frame and the reliability and durability of the tent itself depend on the thickness of the arcs. Usually, the larger and more capacious the tent, the thicker the arches are needed for the frame. Arcs made of plastic and fibreglass most often have a thickness of 7 to 13 mm, while steel and aluminium — from 5 to 16 mm. With an increase in the section of the arcs, the weight of the tent in the folded state also increases.

— PU (polyurethane). A polyurethane (PU) coating is applied to the inside of the outer tent. The protective layer of polyurethane increases the moisture resistance of the tent, at the same time, the strength of the awning fabric also increases. The main advantage of polyurethane is the ability to reliably protect seam joints. However, polyurethane protection is not the most effective, besides, the presence increases the weight of the tent. The use of polyurethane protection alone is more typical for entry-level (low-cost) class tents. In good quality tents, PU coating is complemented by other types of protection, often polyurethane is used together with silicone (Si).

— Si (silicone). The outer tent fabric is impregnated with silicone (Si). Silicone significantly increases the moisture resistance of the tent. The fabric impregnated with silicone acquires elasticity, its strength characteristics increase. This type of protection is considered the most technologically advanced and functional. The tent itself is impregnated with silicone (from the outside), and sometimes a PU coating is additionally made from the inside for better water resistance. The main disadvantage is the inability to protect seam joints. For this reason, the seams in silicone impregnated tents are glued separately.

An indicator that reflects the ability of the tent awning to withstand moisture without getting wet. It is expressed in millimetres of water column — the height of the water column that the awning can withstand (the area of impact is out of the question, because the load per unit area under water depends only on the height of the water column and is not related to the area of \u200b\u200bits base). The significant figures indicated in the characteristics (for example, 4000 mm of water column, i.e. 4 metres) are due to the fact that raindrops can have a significant speed and, when they hit the tent, create a load at the point of impact comparable to the pressure on depth of several metres.

In general, the higher the waterproof rating, the better the awning will cope with the effects of rain and snow. Indicators up to 3000 mm w.c. Art. are considered sufficient for places where it rains rarely, awnings for 3000 – 7000 mm of water. Art. allow you not to be afraid of intense downpours, and in expeditionary (see "Destination") tents designed for extreme conditions, this figure can reach 10,000 mm of water. Art. and even more. However, more water-resistant fabrics, usually, have a significant weight, so in each individual case it makes sense to choose the option that is optimal in terms of durability and weight.

The corners of the tent are one of the "critical" places: in the unfolded state, they have almost the greatest stress, and the fabric in this place can be torn. To avoid this, many tents are equipped with reinforced corners. In this case, strength can be increased due to multi-layer sewing, special fabric or additional firmware.

— Reflective Elements. The outer surface of the tent is equipped with special reflective inserts. This ensures that the tent's location is noticeable from a distance, allowing users to easily find it at night by identifying the campsite/tent's position. Reflective threads are often woven into guy lines to prevent tripping in the dark.

— Mosquito Net. A fine mesh covering the tent's openings: entrances, windows, ventilation gaps. Having it is strongly recommended if you plan to use the tent in warm weather: it allows ventilation inside while keeping mosquitoes and other unpleasant flying insects out.

— Lantern Loop. A special fixture (loop, hook, or carabiner) usually located under the ceiling, intended for securing a lantern inside the tent. It allows you to easily organize interior lighting without the need to hold a flashlight or find a place for it.

— Internal Pockets. Pockets located on the inside of the tent. They help organize interior space, allowing you to conveniently place relatively small items—glasses, watches, certain tools, etc. Moreover, it reduces the risk of accidentally crushing fragile items.

— Shelf for Small Items. The purpose of the hanging shelf is similar to internal pockets (see above): to organize the space inside the tent so that small ite...ms are not lost or accidentally crushed. Some tents may have multiple shelves. Shelves are usually located at the top of the tent, making them useful as a lantern stand if a loop for it (see above) is not available or cannot be used for some reason.

— Cable Port. A special small slit or flap in the tent's wall designed for the neat and safe insertion of an electrical cable inside. This feature allows you to connect lighting, chargers, or other devices directly inside the tent without compromising its waterproofness and protection from rain. The port is usually covered with a Velcro, zipper, or special plug, to ensure the tent remains fully sealed in the absence of a cable. This detail is particularly useful at campsites with electricity access and makes the tent more comfortable and modern to use.