What Is the Best Waterproof Rating for Tents?

Waterproof ratings can seem complex, but they matter. When you are caught in a downpour, that number on the tent's label makes all the difference.

A 3,000mm, 5,000mm, or 7,000mm rating can mean a cosy night or waking up in a puddle. What does it all mean? And what is a good rating for your camping style?

In this guide, we’ll explain tent waterproof ratings. We cover how they are measured and how to choose the right rating for your needs. This will help you make the best buying decision.

If you are short of time, then check out out video guide below:

At OLPRO, we lead the way in tent innovation. We are proud of our high-spec designs and sustainable materials. Most of our tents feature a 5,000mm waterproof rating as standard. Many also use OLTECH REPRO, a fully recycled waterproof fabric. We combine technical performance with a passion for protecting the outdoors.

What Is a Tent Waterproof Rating?

A tent's waterproof rating tells you how well it resists water. This is measured in millimetres (mm) and is called the Hydrostatic Head (HH).

If a tent has a 5,000mm rating, the fabric can withstand a 5-metre column of water before moisture seeps through.

How It’s Tested

Ratings are found using the Hydrostatic Head (HH) test. Fabric is stretched tightly under a sealed tube. Water is added to the tube until droplets appear on the fabric's underside. The height of the water (in mm) before it leaks is the rating.

A Simple Analogy

Think of your tent like a coat.

• A low HH rating is a light jacket. It works for a quick drizzle.
• A high HH rating is a heavy-duty raincoat. It is built for a downpour.

A 2,000mm tent handles light rain. A 5,000mm+ tent is designed to cope with anything the UK weather can throw at it.

At OLPRO, all our awnings and tents* have a minimum waterproof rating of 5,000mm. This gives you peace of mind from a weekend campsite to the Scottish Highlands.

*The OLPRO Hallow 2.0 Dome Tent has a waterproof rating of 3,000mmH/H.

What Is a Good Waterproof Rating for a Tent?

The answer depends on where and how you camp. The table below breaks down the most common ratings.

Waterproof Rating (HH)	Weather Conditions	Recommended Use
2,000mm – 3,000mm	Light to moderate rain.	Summer & Festivals: Good for fair weather and light showers.
4,000mm – 5,000mm	Heavy, persistent rain.	UK Family Camping: The best choice for 3-season UK camping where weather changes fast.
5,000mm+	Very heavy rain, wind.	Wild Camping & Extreme Weather: For remote adventures or areas with harsh weather.

For Summer and Festival Camping

A 2,000mm–3,000mm rating is often enough for festivals or quick summer trips. These tents handle light rain well. The OLPRO Hallow 2.0 Dome Tent is a perfect festival tent with its 3,000mm rating.

For Family Camping in the UK

Planning a family trip in changing UK weather? You need reliable waterproofing. Look for tents with a 4,000mm–5,000mm rating.

Our family tent collection offers this standard. The Wichenford 8.0 Tent and Stafford 6.0 Tent both have a 5,000mm HH, taped seams, and spacious layouts.

For Wild Camping or Extreme Conditions

For remote trips, you need a tent with a 5,000mm+ rating and high-performance materials. You should also check for wind resistance and a strong shape. Consider additional factors like wind resistance, tent shape, and rigidity.

OLPRO’s technical pole tents and inflatable tents offer robust protection. The Abberley XL Breeze 4 Berth Tent is a great example – designed for variable terrain and fast setup in poor weather.

More Than Just the Rating – What Else Keeps You Dry?

A high HH rating is key, but it’s not the only thing keeping you dry.

1. Taped Seams and Zips

Stitching creates tiny holes in the fabric. Taped seams are sealed to prevent water from entering these common leak points. All OLPRO tents have taped seams. Storm flaps over zips add another layer of protection from wind-driven rain.

OLPRO offers an advanced waterproofing system called AQUABARRIER™, designed to provide superior protection against rain ingress at high-pressure points such as zips and seams. This provides extra protection at high-pressure points like zips and seams. It includes reinforced, waterproof zip coverings and a drainage system to channel water away from weak points.

2. Fabric Quality and Build

The fabric’s weave and coating also play a vital role. At OLPRO, we use two main materials: OLTECH and OLTECH REPRO. Both deliver superior waterproofing. They are tough, lightweight, and quick-drying, perfect for UK weather.

OLTECH REPRO is our most sustainable fabric option. It’s a high-performance canvas made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, helping to reduce landfill waste and cut down on virgin material production. Despite its eco-conscious origin, OLTECH REPRO offers the same 5000mm waterproof rating and durability as traditional materials, proving that sustainability doesn't mean compromise.

3. Tent Design and Shape

A well-designed tent keeps water from pooling on the roof or running into doorways. 

• Sloped roofs help water run off.
• Strong pitch tension keeps fabric tight.
• Good vents reduce condensation.

Browse different types of tents to compare features tailored to your style of camping, whether you prefer traditional poled setups or advanced inflatable designs.

Why OLPRO Tents Keep You Dry

Every OLPRO tent is built to a minimum 5000mm waterproof rating, giving you confidence even in heavy UK rain. But we don’t stop there.

• A 5,000mm Rating as Standard: Most of our tents and awnings meet this high standard.
• Sustainable OLTECH REPRO: We offer high-performance recycled fabrics that protect you and the planet.
• Smart Design Features: Sewn-in groundsheets and taped seams are included across our range.

“Our tents are designed with campers in mind, comfort, durability and weather resistance are non-negotiable. OLTECH REPRO is just one of the ways we combine innovation with sustainability.”
– Daniel Walton, Founder of OLPRO

OLPRO Tents That Go the Distance

Take the Stafford 3.0 Tent – easy to pitch, made from recycled materials, and equipped with a 5000mm HH rating, it’s ideal for those who want quick setup and all-weather protection.

Or explore the Wichenford 8 Berth – one of the most spacious and reliable family tents in the UK. With huge living space, fully sewn-in groundsheet, and rugged waterproofing, it’s built for real British adventures.

Still Unsure What Rating Is Right for Your Adventure?

Don’t let the numbers confuse you. We are here to help.

Understanding your tent’s waterproof rating will keep you dry and comfortable. Every OLPRO tent is built to protect, perform, and pitch with ease, even when the heavens open.

Browse our full collection of poled tents, inflatable tents, and family tents or chat with our expert team for personal advice.

Let us help you stay dry, wherever you pitch.