Pole Tents
Until the rise of the dome tent, pole tents were the main tent of choice. Also called ridge tents due to their distinctive shape, pole tents are sadly declining in popularity for general use due to the popularity of the dome.
I must confess to having a soft spot for the pole tent as it was the first one I ever owned. I used to strap everything to the back of my trusty motorcycle and head off almost every weekend.
Here I am some twenty years ago in the New Forest, UK!
The advantage of the pole tent was its ability to pack down to a very small size, a fact much appreciated with the limited storage space of a motorcycle. Its lightness also meant that I was able to take more clothing and equipment with me.
If you need better weather protection than a basic tent offers then the pole tent really excels. For the serious camper, mountaineers et al there is a large selection of specialized pole tents to suit your particular requirements.