The debate over sewn-in versus zipped-in (or linked-in) groundsheet arises mainly in building tunnel tents and bell-shaped structures. So here are some advantages and disadvantages of both constructions.
About the terminology: In the case of tunnel tents, when the floor is removable, it is typically a design with toggles. So you have some overlap between the groundsheet and the tent wall, and you attach them. This is sometimes referred to as a linked-in floor (groundsheet).
In the case of bell-shaped tents, however, this is usually done with zippers. So you may unzip the floor and roll it away or remove it. This is referred to as a zipped-in floor by manufacturers.
Tunnel tents are usually described using sewn-in floor (or groundsheet). Some manufacturers use this to emphasize the differences between their tents. This is seen in the overview of Vango tents. You are wholly protected from groundwater, cold drafts, spiders, crawling insects, and snakes with a sewn-in floor.
Tunnel tents – example.
The floor of specific tunnel tents is removable. This is available in both large and small tents of this sort. So you have a sleeping section that is a tent within a tent with its floor, and the living room in front has a linked-in floor.
These Jack Wolfskin Travel Lodge FR (pictured), Vango 5 Person Odyssey Air 500, and MSR H.U.B. 8 tents are examples of this type.
This Vango Iris 600 XL tent, Ferrino Chanty 5 Deluxe Family Tent, Coleman Rocky Mountain 5 Plus (seen in the picture), and many more tents on the site all include a fully sewn-in groundsheet.
Examples – bell-shaped tents
The floor of several of these tents may be unzipped. The floor of the DANCHEL Cotton Bell Tent can be unzipped, as illustrated in the image below. So you’ve got a nice canopy for sitting in the shade.
It should be noted that some of these tents have a net surrounding them (which can be unzipped individually). Even if you unzip the side panel wall, you will still be protected from insects. This Stout Bell Tent is a fantastic example.
Consider dome tents.
This form of dome tent is uncommon. However, there are expedition tents that are dome-style but lack a floor. Shelter tents are what they’re called. This is seen in the Mountain Hardwear Stronghold 10-Person Tent.
So, which is superior: sewn-in or linked-in (zipped-in)?
There needs to be a more straightforward answer. The tent’s intended use determines this. Here are some potential benefits and drawbacks:
Sewn-in advantages
- This architecture ensures complete groundwater shielding.
- You’re also safe from crawling insects, spiders, ticks, and snakes.
- There are no chilly breezes.
Sewn-in cons
- You will have to scrub the floor after several days of camping. It’s difficult when you can’t get rid of it.
- When utilizing camping furniture, be careful not to scratch the floor.
- When cooking, you must keep the surroundings clean and dry.
- Similarly, water will be on the floor if you try to dry your laundered items inside.
Consider the following justifications for linked-in or zipped-in design:
LinkedIn (zipped-in) professionals
- You can obtain some more breeze by unzipping or detaching the floor.
- If you use a wood-burning stove for heating or cooking, roll a floor section to the side to avoid potential floor damage.
- Cleaning the tent when the floor can be removed is significantly easier.
- This design allows for independent use and transit, reducing overall weight.
Cons of Linked-in (zipped-in)
- In the event of snow, assuming the floor is not a high bathtub design, water may seep through the zipper or under the linked-in floor.
- The zipper adds a significant amount of weight. The Danchel Cotton Bell tent displayed above has a more than 15 meters circumference.
- The zipper may become ruined.
- Because of the linked-in design, you are not entirely safe from crawling critters and snakes; this only applies to the living space.
So, if you compare the two designs, you can come to the following conclusion:
I’m curious what you think about all of this. Please use the comment box below to let me know what you think.
