Coleman Tents Waterproof Quality: Unveiling the Truth

Waterproof Coleman Tents: A Look Inside

Coleman's tents are known for their affordability and versatility, but are they truly waterproof? Let's dive into the world of waterproofing and the components that Coleman employs to build their mighty shelters.

How Coleman Tents Stay Dry

When it comes to waterproofing, Coleman's repertoire includes an assortment of techniques. They make use of materials with water-repelling coatings, and painstakingly seal all seams, including their patented welded corners. And it doesn't stop there—their tents feature a bathtub-style floor that stands tall at least 6 inches, complete with a rainfly on top for added protection.

But What's the Scoop on Hydrostatic Head Ratings?

In the realm of tents and outdoor gear, what does a waterproof rating really mean? To quantify a tent's waterproofing capabilities, the hydrostatic head (HH) rating is often used, expressed in millimeters. Unfortunately, Coleman doesn't typically disclose these ratings in their product summaries; we had to reach out for the lowdown. As it turns out, their tents have an oddly low HH rating of around 450mm. This rating is noticeably lower than the typically accepted minimum for tents to be considered truly waterproof (1200mm).

Here's the Lowdown on Coleman Tents Waterproofing

So, are Coleman tents really waterproof? The answer, as with most things, lies somewhere in between. They are designed with waterproofing in mind, using a variety of techniques to repel water and prevent leakage. However, when it comes to their HH rating, it's fair to say they fall short of the industry standard.

Improving Your Coleman Tent's Weatherproofing

There are several ways you can further bolster your Coleman tent's waterproofing. To start, double-check that all seams are properly sealed using a seam sealer, ensuring no pesky water gets through those tiny crevices. Applying a weatherproof coating to the exterior of the tent can also benefit its water-shedding prowess.

Try hanging a tarp over your tent when heavy rains roll in, securing it with some guylines and trees to provide an extra layer of protection. You could also put a tarp under your tent, or use the matching tent footprint for additional waterproofing on the tent floor. Remember to ensure the shape matches the tent's outline and doesn't extend beyond the tent walls to prevent water pooling.

Finally, make sure your tent is pitched correctly and maintained well, as a well-cared-for tent is more prepared for whatever weather Mother Nature throws its way.

What Makes a Tent Waterproof?

A tent's waterproofing can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost is the materials used, often synthetics coated with a waterproofing treatment. However, even tents made of canvas aren't waterproof right out of the box—they're treated with a specialized coating designed to repel water.

This waterproofing treatment is what gives a tent its HH rating, which measures how much water it takes before moisture seeps through. Any good quality tent should boast an HH rating of over 1200mm to be considered waterproof.

Even water-resistant fabrics require careful consideration of the tent's seams, as they need to be sealed to prevent water from seeping through weak points. Tents usually utilize inverted seams, which are sewn so that they're located on the inside of the tent and then treated.

A few other features worth considering when shopping for a high-quality tent include a bathtub-style floor that rises at least 6 inches and a rainfly that covers all mesh parts on the tent walls. For added protection, look for tents with a full coverage rainfly that reaches the ground, as well as a waterproofing rating on the tent floor that surpasses 1200mm.

The Great Outdoors Await

Whether you choose Coleman or another manufacturer, take the time to ensure your tent is properly set up and maintained to stand up to Mother Nature's whims. With a little extra elbow grease, your Coleman tent will provide ample protection against light rain and wind up to 35 mph. Happy camping!

Suitable for sports enthusiasts and campers, securing a tent footprint to match the Coleman tent's outline can enhance its waterproofing capabilities, preventing water pooling and offering added protection during heavy rains.
When investing in a high-quality tent, it's essential to look for those with a bathtub-style floor that rises at least 6 inches, a full coverage rainfly, and a waterproofing rating on the tent floor exceeding 1200mm, ensuring optimal protection against water intrusion and harsh weather elements.