Freestanding vs Trekking Pole Tents: A Fair Fight

The tent you love on a campsite might be the wrong one for the mountain. Freestanding and trekking pole shelters each win different battles, and knowing which one you need depends on where you sleep.

Line them up side by side.

• Freestanding pitches anywhere, even on rock, but weighs more
• Trekking pole tents save over a pound but need soft ground and a stake
• Freestanding handles wind better with its rigid frame
• Pole tents are cheaper because you already own the poles

If you hike with trekking poles already, the choice is easy. If you camp on slabs and sand, go freestanding and eat the weight.

Rent or borrow one of each before you spend. A night in both shelters tells you more about your preference than a hundred online reviews ever will.