Differences Between the Kodiak Canvas Basic, Deluxe, and VX Flex-Bow Tents

In this text, you have described the main similarities and the differences between the Kodiak Canvas Basic, Deluxe, and VX Flex-Bow Tents. All of them are top-notch 4-season canvas camping tents.

The Kodiak Canvas tents are built in several sizes so you have them for 2, 4, 6, and 8 people. But here, I want to describe the essential differences between the following three main models:

• The Kodiak Canvas Basic,
• The Kodiak Canvas Deluxe, and
• The Kodiak Canvas VX tents. This is sometimes called the Super Deluxe.

Before pointing out the differences, to mention that all of them have the same Flex-Bow roof construction with the central pole which has three separate segments, plus four spring steel rods that give tension to the roof canvas. This roof structure is supported by two legs poles, see the pictures below, so you realize that the tents are not freestanding. What keeps them self-supporting are those two legs in combination with numerous stakes, so you have to stake these tents properly.

This structure is obviously very different from yet another type which Kodiak Canvas has developed, and this is the Kodiak Canvas 12×9 Canvas Cabin Tent with 6 legs poles.

Basic, Deluxe, and VX Tents – Similarities & Differences

Here is the summary of the most important features, so you can see the differences and similarities:

A few comments are in order. Regarding the vents, as far as I remember, the Kodiak Canvas Basic Tent was initially designed with vents, and it seems that later they have dropped this feature in the Basic model and included it in the Deluxe Tent. The VX model is without vents, but it has so many openings and they are all with mesh and panels, plus the breathable fabric, that ventilation cannot possibly be an issue in this model.

As for the number +2 for the windows; this is about the doors that have two layers, mesh and panel, so when you unzip the panel you have the mesh windows on the two doors. The Basic Tent has no such a mesh on the doors and this is a big difference because you have to keep the doors zipped up to avoid insects.

The tarp is included with the VX model, so this adds value and an extra layer of protection for the floor. If you would buy it separately, you would pay around $40 for it.

The Deluxe and VX Tents have the gear loft included, so this is a nice addition which helps you keep the stuff off the ground and staying organized. It is designed so that you can hang it in several different ways. The same is with the hanging organizers which you have in the Deluxe and VX Tents but not in the Basic Tent.

The carry bag is also different. The Basic Tent comes with a standard carry bag, but the other two models have a roll-up piece that works like this. You pack the tent and put it on the flat piece of fabric which you fold up around the tent from the sides first, and then wrap it up from the other two directions. There are clips which you fasten and there is also a carry handle, so you really have no problem to store the tent in such a structure.

So I hope this text was helpful and you now have a more clear picture of these three Kodiak Canvas tents series. All three types have the same breathability, waterproofness, and frame features, all are very reliable top-notch 4-season canvas camping tents. The differences are only in the details which add to the comfort. Clearly, the Basic Tent with two windows offers fewer views around, but it is more enclosed than the other two and perhaps more suitable for a very cold environment.

Do you have any experience with these tents? Please use the comment box below if you have any question or comment. I wish you a nice day.