Tent poles-thought of them lately? 

Tent poles are not a very glamorous camping subject.  We all know how important they are but never really give them much thought.  They seem to be there we need them (hopefully) but there isn't much information around other than what came with our tents.

Replacing tent poles is not done very often.  Unless you manage to lose them or happen to drive over them, they will more than likely outlive the fabric of the structure itself.   Replacement tent poles are not a camping equipment accessory that one would look for unless absolutely necessary since they are dedicated to one brand, size or style of tent.

Tent poles come in a variety of materials from wood and aluminum to more exotic materials like the carbon graphite composites that are used in high end popup dome tents.  You'll find most wood poles on older canvas wall tents.  Since wood can warp, split and rot, wood has been replaced by aluminum or fiberglass.  If you need to replace an old wooden pole you're more than likely going to have to fabricate a new one yourself, or if you're lucky the manufacturer may have new old stock available. 

Aluminum poles and fiberglass poles are today's industry standard.  They are virtually indestructible and should outlive the material unless you are extremely rough on them.  Shock cords may be the only part that may need replacing from time-to-time with repair kits and parts made available from the major tent manufacturers.  Shock cord can also be obtained from fabric warehouses or in bulk as 'bungee' cording.  A little ingenuity and perseverance is all you need to replace worn-out shock cords yourself.

If you do need to replace a pole and are completely at your wits end, try Tent Poles Technologies, www.polesforyou.com. They have over 25 years experience specializing in tent pole replacement and have most of the tent manufacturer's specifications that will enable them to refit you with a new one.