Functional fabrics

The development of modern roof tents has made enormous progress in recent years. A decisive turning point was the introduction of high-quality functional fabrics about 10-15 years ago, which revolutionized the entire concept of tent construction. As a manufacturer of specialized roof tents, Gordigear consistently relies on genuine tent canvas – breathable functional fabrics that create an optimal tent climate. This technological evolution has largely made traditional solutions such as inner tents obsolete. The following guide explains the background to this development and why modern roof tents without inner tents are the better choice for your outdoor adventures.

FAQs

  • The history of inner tents - an outdated concept

    Inner tents were originally a stopgap solution to a fundamental problem: earlier tent fabrics usually had only a simple surface coating with severely limited breathability. The result was condensation and dripping ceilings. Cotton inner tents, designed to keep out the dripping water, served as a temporary protection. However, this solution had significant disadvantages. The moisture was trapped inside the tent, resulting in an unpleasantly humid and clammy tent climate. This posed a particular problem for high-quality roof tents for demanding outdoor enthusiasts , as it required the inner tent to be removed and dried daily while driving – an impractical and cumbersome process.

  • Modern functional fabrics revolutionize the tent climate

    Today's functional fabrics in high-quality roof tents offer excellent breathability while providing reliable weather protection. These technical textiles can transport moisture to the outside while preventing rainwater from penetrating—a perfect balance for comfortable overnight stays. This technology enables a dry, comfortable tent climate without the need for additional inner tents. The superiority of modern functional fabrics, which, with special care products, retain their performance for many years, is particularly evident in the changing weather conditions of long-term trips.

  • Thermal tents – useful or unnecessary?

    • Thermal tents are only really effective when the roof tent is actively heated
    • Without a heat source, they reduce breathability and increase humidity
    • Damp cold is perceived as significantly more unpleasant than dry cold
    • Investing in a high-quality sleeping bag offers better thermal comfort
    • If used incorrectly, thermal tents can even promote mold growth

    Years of experience have shown that a thermal tent without an appropriate heating solution is counterproductive. Reduced air circulation leads to increased humidity inside, which can actually increase the subjective feeling of cold. For cold nights, we recommend combining a high-quality sleeping bag with a special 3D mattress pad for optimal ventilation . This solution offers better sleeping comfort while simultaneously creating a healthier tent climate.

  • Compatibility with external solutions

    Despite the clear advantages of modern functional fabrics, some outdoor enthusiasts still prefer to use an additional thermal tent in extreme situations. The design of our roof tents generally allows for the attachment of thermal tents from other manufacturers to the internal poles. This flexibility allows for individual adaptations for specific purposes, such as winter camping in polar regions. However, in most climates and seasons, the breathable functional fabric alone offers the optimal balance of weather protection and a comfortable tent climate.

    Discover the advantages of modern roof tents with high-quality functional fabrics and say goodbye to outdated concepts like inner tents. Our breathable roof tents offer you reliable protection with optimal ventilation in all climates. Are you planning your next expedition or looking for the best solution for spontaneous weekend trips? Then benefit from our decades of experience and find the perfect roof tent for your individual needs!