Cotton

+ airy and comfortable in warm conditions

- heavier

- low water repellence

- no waterproof treatments

Polycotton (mix of cotton and polyester)

+ better mechanical properties than cotton

+ lower weight (than cotton)

+ waterproof treatments possible

- heavier and lower water repellence than polyester

Polyester (PES) – most common material in tents

+ resistant to UV radiation and changes in temperature

+ lightweight

+ long lifespan

- low resistance to abrasion

Nylon (Polyamide)

+ better mechanical properties than polyester

+ higher resistance to abrasion

- shorter lifespan

- gradually loses colours