What to Look for in a Canopy

Most canopies have the same design with four legs and an overhead cover, but size can vary greatly. Common sizes for canopies include 10’x10′ and 12’x12′. However, there are larger and smaller sizes available

Be aware that the legs of your canopy can affect how much protection you’ll receive from the elements. The measurement is for the perimeter of the bottom of the legs and not the fabric on top. You’ll receive different amounts of coverage for straight and slant leg canopies. The straight leg canopies provide more coverage. For example:

• If a straight leg canopy has a measurement of 10’x10’, you’ll have 100 square feet of shade. But the coverage of a 10’x10’ slant leg canopy can be 8’x8’ or 64 square feet.

• If a straight leg canopy has a measurement of 12’x12’, you can expect 144 square feet of coverage. But the same size slant leg canopy may have a 9’x9’ top or 10’x10’ top. This will give you a range of 81 to 100 square feet of coverage.
  

Remember to also think about the walk-in height of the canopy. If you have taller guests, you’ll want to make sure they aren’t bumping their foreheads every time they step in and out. Cathedral ceilings can provide extra room under your canopy. Telescoping legs also provide height adjustments.

The two common materials used in the frame are steel and aluminum. Steel tends to be stronger and heavier, which can be helpful in windy conditions. And while steel can corrode, many models come with a powder coat to help protect from rust. Aluminum, meanwhile, can be lighter and easier to set up, but it is more likely to bend than steel.

As for the canopy itself, the most common material used is a water-resistant polyester. It can come in different thicknesses, which will have a major impact on durability and how much water it can withstand. The higher the thickness, the stronger it should be.

There are also canopies made of polyester with a vinyl coating. While they might cost more, these vinyl canopies may offer better protection from UV rays and the weather. Some vinyl canopies are also designed to be fire-retardant.

Want to take your outdoor bash to the next level? There are a variety of features and accessories designed for 10X10 and 12X12 canopies that will make your setup stand out.

• Sidewalls: These offer both privacy and protection from the weather and sun. Sidewalls can come in full- and half-wall options, as well as solid or mesh options. Solid polyester sidewalls come in varying levels of thickness for protection against the elements, while mesh sidewalls are designed to keep insects away and air flowing. You can even purchase a sidewall with a window for extra light.

• Custom graphics: Want to show your team pride? There are canopies designed with logos for professional and college sports teams to choose from.

• Carrying cases: A carrying case will make moving your canopy a breeze, with handles and wheels for easy movability. You can also find carrying cases with a hard outer shell for added protection. Some canopies will come with their own carrying case from the manufacturer.

• Quick lift technology: Some models, like the GCI LevR Up Canopy, come with a spring technology that allows you to set up and take down a canopy by yourself in less than a minute. Other canopies may require the help of a few friends to set up.

Remember to weigh down your canopy before potential wind gusts weigh down your fun by causing your canopy to become airborne. Be sure to purchase leg weights, guy lines, sandbags and/or tie-downs if your canopy doesn’t come with them already. It’s not recommended to use a canopy if high winds are in the forecast. While they can provide shelter from the sun and light rain, canopies are less than ideal in big storms.

Once you find a canopy to meet your needs, you’ll be ready to kick back, fire up the grill and make lasting memories with your friends and family.

Looking to knock your next tailgate out of the park? Check out these tailgate hacks from Pro Tips to help throw the ultimate pre-game party.