The shock cords offer a little more flexibility, but again when the temperature drops the chances of the poles splintering increase. As light as fiberglass, they are more durable and do much better in cold weather. However it an aluminum pole breaks, field repair becomes more difficult. High -Strength or Reinforced Aluminum High strength aluminum uses different metals in its make up to make the pole stronger. More costly it is an ideal choice if your tent will be setup and broken down frequently.
Carbon fiber is extremely durable material used in racecars, helmets and aircraft.
Lightweight and extremely durable, carbon fiber will continue to perform even in extreme conditions. However carbon fiber is very expensive when compared to fiberglass, and more expensive then aluminum. A rainfly or weatherfly is a tent over the tent. The rainfly stretches over the tent on the top of the supporting poles. They can be rather basic while others can extend quite a distance beyond the sides of the tent like the eaves of a roof protecting the tent and occupants from wind driven rain.