Frame Tent vs. Pole Tent: What’s the Difference?
There are two basic tent styles in Pogo’s new lineup of Weekender party tents. There’s the traditional pole tent, and the modern frame tent. And if you’re new to the world of backyard party tents, it’s a safe bet your first question will relate to telling them apart. What’s the difference between a frame tent vs. a pole tent, anyway?
Here’s the over-simplified breakdown. Pole tents are generally cheaper and more pleasing to the eye. Frame tents, on the other hand, offer more functional space and are easier to put up. That’s the simplest answer to this frame tent vs. pole tent question.
That having been said, the style of party tent you choose and the size of the tent you end up with boil down to a number of other important factors. So let’s take a look at these two similar but different party tent styles and figure out which one would work best for your backyard, shall we?
What to Consider when Deciding Between a Frame Tent and a Pole Tent
Your frame tent vs. pole tent decision likely isn’t as simple as scrolling through our tent catalog, finding one at random, and then proclaiming “sure, that’ll do.” You’ll want to take into consideration a few factors, including the following:
- Price
- Functional backyard space you’re willing to dedicate to the party tent
- Storage space: where will you keep your party tent when it’s not in use?
- Usability: how often will you need the tent, and how often will you find excuses to use it?
- Helping Hands: can your spouse, friends, neighbors, or teenage kids help you put the tent up and take it back down again, safely?
Thinking of those factors, let’s take a somewhat closer look at these two types of tents.
Pole tents feature the classic party tent look; they’ve got tall center poles that “poke” the tent tops skyward. Most consider pole tents the more attractive style of tent for this reason alone. But pole tents can be difficult to put up without help. And they also cause some issues with free space, too. Those center poles gobble up valuable real estate inside the tent, while their guy ropes anchored to stakes use up functional space outside of the tent (and present tripping hazards, too).
Frame tents are built on top of rigid tent frames. They don’t have center poles, so you get to make good use of every square inch of space inside the party tent. They don’t need to be anchored with extruding ropes, either, leaving more space outdoors. They’re easier to set up, too—one person using tent jacks can raise a frame tent on their own. But frame tents tend to cost more than pole tents, especially if you’re also buying tent jacks as well.
Which Party Tent is Right for You?
Choosing between a frame tent and a pole tent isn’t easy. Sure, pole tents are cheaper, but the extra internal space and the ease of putting a frame tent together makes up for that for a lot of people. Then again, pole tents have that party tent look, you know? It’s a difficult decision, for sure!
Both styles of tent are manufactured using high end, nearly commercial grade materials and techniques. The Weekender party tents are barely a step below the more expensive professional canopy tents used by rental companies. So in terms of quality, there isn’t much separating them.
Ultimately, the frame tent vs. pole tent decision will boil down to price, yard space, and your own personal tastes. But if you need more help deciding, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 716-566-5806 and speak with one of our helpful, knowledgeable sales representatives. We’re more than happy to go over the different options with you and help you find the perfect party tent for your backyard.