Pros and cons of single-wall tents
You purchase a single-wall tent for its strength, simplicity of setup and the fact that it typically weighs less than a double-walled tent of its same category and size. Single-wall tents are easier and quicker to set up, which is especially crucial when trying to erect your tent in a blizzard or when having to dig out a ledge on the side of a mountain. The price for ease of setup and lighter weight is more condensation inside the tent and usually not as much protected gear storage as a double-wall tent offers.
Best environments for single-wall tents: Single-wall tents work best in alpine environments that are typically dry and cold.
Pros and cons of double-wall tents
With a double-wall tent, you are almost always guaranteed to have a dry tent and more dry gear storage. Double-walled tents often have multiple doors and vestibules to keep your gear dry. But again, the comfort and space come at the expense of an increase in weight compared to a comparable single-walled design (i.e. same size, same season rating). Double-walled tents also require more staking and attention to guying out the rainfly. In addition to staking the tent body, the vestibules must be staked out securely. The tension on the rainfly may need to be adjusted after setup because tent rainfly fabrics, particularly nylons, tend to stretch a little when damp or wet, requiring re-tensioning of the rainfly.
Best environments for double-wall tents: Double-wall models really shine when it's raining and humid and where extra gear storage is necessary.
Check out our blog post for more detailed information on this topic.