Adding a canopy to your back patio or yard will provide a temporary shelter for relaxation. It will also be useful on days that are too hot or rainy, or maybe even a snowy day when you want to throw some food on the barbecue. Either way, the canopy will keep you comfortable when the weather isn't ideal. They come in various sizes, colors, and set-up styles, so we've gathered the best options. Read on to find the one that will work best for you.
COOS BAY COOL Spot pop-up gazebo
Available in six colors
This is a well-vented option with screen sidewalls.
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Screen walls to avoid mosquitoes
- Vented area at top
- Metal frame
Cons:
- May wobble
- Difficult to take down
Dining al fresco can be fun or romantic, especially if you only need to travel to your backyard. This canopy from Cool Spot has four screen walls you can close to keep mosquitoes from interrupting your time outdoors. When the screens aren't in use, there are ties to keep them out of your way. The roof has a vent so air can flow through, keeping the interior cooler and reducing wind stress on the frame. We, however, recommend getting additional tie-downs for the frame, otherwise, you may notice a bit of wobble.
Eurmax Ez pop-up canopy
Includes four removable side panels
This one has more color options than any other model.
Pros:
- One person can set it up
- Sandbag weights are included
- Three layers
Cons:
- A bit short
- Heavy
Do you want your canopy to stand out in a crowd? Perhaps you're trying your hand at a local craft fair and want to make your spot easy to find. Eurmax's canopy comes in lots of colors, so you can complement your goods or just go with your favorite shade. This model is both fire and water-resistant, making it one of the safest you can choose. Plus, the setup is easy enough to be handled by one person—a rare feature among canopies.
CROWN SHADES pop-up canopy
Can be set up in one minute
Adjust the height to suit your space with this canopy from CROWN SHADES.
Pros:
- Covers 100-square-feet
- Ropes and wheeled travel bag included
Cons:
- Frame can bend
- Could be sturdier
Some canopies can take a while to set up because they have complicated ties or framing construction—and that's before you add the spikes and sandbags. Well, you can forget about the complicated stuff with this pop-up canopy since it stabilizes in about a minute. The quick setup is thanks to the center lock system, which requires very little adjusting after opening the canopy. A steel frame, carrying bag, canopy top, four ropes, and eight spikes are included, giving you everything you need.
MASTERCANOPY pop-up canopy
Choose from three sizes
This water-resistant canopy will work in all weather.
Pros:
- One sidewall included
- UV-resistant
- Adjustable height
Cons:
- Stiff springs
- Feels a bit flimsy
Made from polyester with a polyurethane finish, this canopy is meant to withstand both sun and rain. It's available in three sizes; we think the smallest option is perfect for grilling on a small patio. One sidewall is included, so you can block the direction wind is coming in from. If you need to take it with you, the canopy folds down into a carrying bag with wheels. We recommend taking care when putting it up or taking it down since the steel frame is hollow.
ABCCANOPY stable pop-up outdoor canopy
Stick to the basics
This canopy fits in most cars to take it with you.
Pros:
- 6-foot tall
- Steel frame
- Shade for eight people
Cons:
- Thin canopy material
- Can't hold much weight
On a tight budget? Choose this canopy if you need a temporary—but effective—shelter that won't break the bank. It's not very tall, so it's best suited as a place to sit for lunch or relax outdoors. You could also park a car under it, but this may only be comfortable for people under 5 feet, 9 inches. We like the many color options because you can choose something to match your current patio furniture or complement your greenery.
Canopy cover
Staying comfortable outdoors doesn't need to be difficult. We're confident one of the canopies we've selected will be the shelter you need, despite the weather conditions you're facing. Our favorite canopy is the COOS BAY COOL Spot pop-up gazebo. With screens that can close on all four sides, it keeps pests away while you eat or relax without blocking the breeze. We also think it's clever that the canopy includes ties to move screens out of the way when they aren't needed, instead of removing and storing them.
Picking up a canopy can be pricey, and you may only need it for a limited time. If you find yourself in this position, consider the ABCCANOPY stable pop-up outdoor canopy. It can provide the same benefits as others but at a much more affordable price point. Keep in mind that it's a bit on the short side, so make sure you measure before you buy.
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