The choice of materials is absolutely crucial for the product's performance and service life. Helsport has developed a unique understanding and competence for what it takes to choose good tent fabrics with long service life. Here you get information about what kind of materials we use in our tents. Something may feel a little technical, but there are several things to know if you are looking for a tent that will last for many years.
Outer tent fabrics
Too many people are fooled into thinking that the quality of the fabric is good as long as the water column is high. International standard EN 343 defines fabric as waterproof if it has a water column of more than 800 mm. However, different manufacturers use different methods to measure the water column, and the results can vary enormously. Furthermore, it is not the water column in the new state that is important, but the substance's ability to maintain its properties over time. At Helsport, we set very strict requirements when we test substances, both in terms of water column (ISO 811) and tear strength (ISO 13937-4).
HELSPORT RAINGUARD® FR:
In our Trek tents and lavvos, we use a specially developed polyester fabric, Helsport Rainguard® FR, which has a water column of at least 3000 mm. The fabric is designed to keep the tent tight even in changing weather and temperature conditions. It is flameproof and is used in tents and lavvos where you can use open fire inside.
HELSPORT RAINGUARD® SUPERLIGHT:
In the Superlight tents, a polyamide with micro ripstop is used. The material is woven from a very thin (15D) thread which makes the fabric super light. It is also coated with silicone on both sides, which makes the fabric very tear and durable, while it has a water column of 2000 mm.
In our other Pro and X-Trem tents, we have developed a solid outer tent fabric. It has 8 times as much abrasion and tear resistance as ordinary tent fabrics, and is woven with the finest type of yarn, and silicone-coated on both sides. Of course, this substance also has good resistance to UV (solar radiation), and stability in the substance under changing weather and temperature conditions. The water column is at least 3000 mm. This fabric is also used in the bottom of the Superlight tents.
Inner tent fabrics
HELSPORT AIRFLOW FR:
The inner tent fabric in our Trek tents is polyester. The fabric is water-repellent, flame-retardant, and has good breathability. Polyester does not absorb moisture and therefore dries very quickly. The weight is only 60gr / m2.
HELSPORT AIRFLOW PRO:
The fabrics used in the Pro and X-Trem tents are light and strong 30D polyester fabrics. Ripstop significantly increases the tear strength and the fabrics have excellent water-repellent and breathable properties.
HELSPORT AIRFLOW SUPERLIGHT:
This fabric has very good breathability, which is important to minimize condensation. It is also impregnated to keep out any condensation that may drip from the outer fabric.
Floor fabrics
HELSPORT RAINGUARD® PRO FLOOR:
The bottom fabric is an important element in all tents, as it is exposed to the greatest wear. Helsport's bottom cloths have great abrasion and tear resistance. The outside facing the ground has a silicone coating that prevents water penetration and reduces the drying time of the fabric.
HELSPORT RAINGUARD® FLOOR FR:
Used in Trek and lavvos. With polyurethane instead of silicone for the material to be flame retardant.