I have too throw in another positive vote for the nylon. Much more durable than you would expect. I would caution that you get what you pay for. Cheap nylon tents are probably worse than cheap canvas tents. Nylon requires less maintaince. I have 4 boys and a dog that routinely camp in a tent. Eureka tents have withstood their abuse the best of all. The nylon in some of the large models is quite thick. Look at camping or base camp tents. They will be much more durable and roomier than a hiking tent.