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We tested canopy tents from Eurmax, E-Z Up, Clam Outdoors, Eureka, and others to find the best models for practically any application
Canopy tents come in handy for soccer games, beach days, backyard BBQs, farmer's markets, corporate gigs, and so much more, and we've done a deep dive to help you pick out the very best option to meet your needs.
Our shade-loving experts poured over hundreds of the best canopy tents available before choosing 13 for side-by-side testing. We selected products best suited for farmer's markets, corporate gigs, and beaches. We also chose canopies optimized for camping, spectator sports, and adventure. From there, we tested each product for several months in Utah and California, subjecting them to sun, wind, and rain. All the while, we assessed key performance metrics such as functionality, ease of setup, protection, craftsmanship, and portability. We hope you can use this comprehensive and unbiased review to help you find all the shade-seeking advice you need to make the best purchasing decision.
If you'd rather have your shelter geared more toward camping, we've also reviewed camping tents and the top backpacking tents on the market. Likewise, if you need a comfortable seat, a place to prep your food, or a cooler to keep your drinks cold, we've got you covered. We've also tested fire pits for your outdoor patio or backyard. No matter what gear you're in the market for, chances are we've got info informed by years of rigorous side-by-side testing.
Editor's Note: Our canopy tent review was updated on November 1, 2024, to remove a discontinued model from our testing lineup.
Rugged, well-crafted, easy to set up, adjustable, excellent travel bag
Massive, completely enclosed, keeps bugs out, no small parts, easy to set up, rugged, relatively lightweight
Pinch-free setup, steel frame, adjustable, repels water, excellent roller bag, easy to set up
Well-made, lightweight, repels rain, small packed-size, lots of built-in features
Good sun protection, three height options, reflective canopy, easy-to-use roof extender crank, solid frame, great powder coat finish, pinch-free levers and locks
Lightweight and portable, fully enclosed, sturdy, perimeter ground skirt, two entrances, fits over picnic table
Sturdy, great sun protection, vented canopy ceiling, pinch-free levers, above-average height, easy setup
Simple to setup, handles the wind, comes with additional side wall, stylish and fun, easy to carry
Less expensive, lighter than similar models, easy to set up and reposition, shades well
Nice high peak, quick release system
Lightweight, easy to setup, easy to transport, maneuverable sun-protection
Inexpensive, adjustable height, lightest of its type in our review
Stylish, unique, easy to transport, large
Cons
Expensive, heavy, large packed-size, feet are plastic
Very long packed-size, setup has a learning curve, a bit challenging to reposition, expensive
Heavy, wheel assembly is mostly plastic, a little wobbly at full height
Sits low, smaller that standard canopies, sways in the wind, takes time to set up
A little wobbly, cheap ground stakes, roller-bag fabric tears easily, so-so wheels and chassis, price point is a little high
Challenging setup process, rainfly sold separately, thinner fabrics, canopy top doesn't completely block out sun, higher price tag
Inadequate roller bag wheels, offers only two height settings, may leak during prolonged rain
Lower craftsmanship, middle pole takes up space, small
Only for the beach, little head room, not impressive in windy conditions
Weak joints and materials, difficult push tabs
Very difficult to set up, material is thin, unstable, does not repel water, easily topples in the wind
Bottom Line
We scoured this monster canopy from head to toe and found nothing but quality
Setup has a bit of a learning curve, but once its mastered, you'll love popping up this mammoth shelter, and you'll be amazed how well it protects you
Spending your weekends sitting along the sidelines just got a whole lot cooler
The perfect blend of spacious, rugged, portable, and fun - this canopy covers a lot of ground but doesn't take up a lot of space
A standard-issue canopy that offers above-average performance and durability for a wide range of outdoor settings as long as you don't expect as much from the roller bag
Perfect for keeping out bugs, this fully enclosed canopy is super portable, sturdy, and well-built, though expensive for what you get
When comparing performance and craftsmanship to cost, this canopy has a nearly perfect price point
This canopy is fun, stylish, and can handle the sun, but it isn't as practical or accommodating as we hoped
Not everyone needs a military-grade canopy tent, so if all you want are the basics, then don't pay more than necessary
This durable and easy to use shelter struggles most when it comes to portability
Portable and user friendly, this is a decent sun shelter for favorable conditions
This canopy is affordable but lacks in durability and structural ingenuity
A sleek, modern design that works adequately provided there is positively zero chance of rain or wind in the forecast
The Eurmax Standard 10x10 offers 100 square feet of sun protection and a peak height of 11 feet. Very high-quality materials were used to produce this shelter, making it our hands-down choice for the best recreational canopy tent on the market. Despite its size and weight, the Eurmax is quite easy to set up and take down. One of our testers easily solo-deployed it on several occasions. Great canopy textiles, quick-release tabs, reinforced trusses, and a beefy steel frame allow the Eurmax to tower over other models we tested. It effectively blocks the sun, stands firm in the wind, and is impervious to rainwater. It's a perfect shelter for any outdoor activity, but we feel it excels in settings that include commerce, command posts, campgrounds, and outdoor sports.
The biggest drawbacks of the Eurmax are its size and weight. Compared to the competitors, it is one of the heavier shelters we tested. This weight makes it somewhat challenging to load into and unload out of a vehicle, but once on the ground, the tank-grade roller bag allows it to be moved with ease, especially if you have two people. However, fitting it into a compact car may still be a challenge. If you want to ditch some pounds without shade coverage, the Coleman 10x10 Sun Shelter and ABCCANOPY Patio Pop Up are other models we like. Though heavier, the E-Z UP Pyramid is another notable option. However, the roller bags with all three options don't offer the same quality. We know the price tag may be too high for some, but we feel the quality increase of the Eurmax is worth it if you can swing it.
Checking out the latest features of our new Eurmax (blue, right) against an older model that we tested a few years ago. Nearly identical, the only difference is the newer model has a slightly thinner-feeling canopy fabric.
The Caravan Canopy V-Series bridges the gap between quality and budget-friendly better than any canopy we tested. This basic, 10x10 cathedral tent blocks the sun almost as well as more expensive models like the Clam Outdoors Quick-Set Escape, and it is sturdy enough to handle the wallops that come with average outdoor adventures. It is much lighter than its heftier peers, but it still incorporates a steel frame that is sturdy enough to handle a few moderate wind gusts. We found the Caravan perfect for trips to the lake, activities in the park, or backyard barbeques, ideally in calmer weather. However, a little extra care is key if you want your Caravan to last.
The included stakes are very short, thin, and somewhat ineffective; we recommend purchasing larger thicker stakes for your Caravan V-Series. The canopy material is adequate but less rugged, and rainwater tends to drip through during a substantial downpour. Our tests show the wheels on the roller bag are mostly cosmetic, as they are very ineffective on most terrains. That said, if you don't expect to use your tent in rugged environments, this is a solid option for a nice big canopy tent at a bargain price. For comparison, another cost-friendly option worth checking out is the Amazon Basics Pop-Up. The Coleman 10x10 Sun Shelter is also a great quality shelter that is reasonably affordable but will cost you a little more.
Fully enclosed and ready to protect you from sun, wind, rain, AND bugs, the Clam Outdoors Quick-Set Escape is a perfect shelter for the campground. That said, we also feel its applications are somewhat endless. No assembly is required; this shelter is ready to go right out of the box and can be fully deployed in less than a minute. We admit there is a small learning curve to setting up the Escape, but once you're locked in, popping this canopy into place is really fun and even somewhat addictive. This product is well-made and creates a ton of shade. It doesn't leak during rainstorms and is rock solid in the wind. As for bugs?… They don't stand a chance. The massive screened walls keep insects where they belong — away from you. This shelter is also fully surrounded by a 10-inch-wide ground skirt, which goes the extra mile to keep creepy crawlers and flying annoyances at bay.
Our testing notes on this shelter are mostly positive — there isn't much we don't like about the Escape. However, it may be too expensive for some shoppers. In addition to costing you a few extra clams, this product doesn't pack up very small. When stowed in its carrying case, it could easily be confused with a winter travel bag carrying snow skis. During testing, its packed size measured more than six feet, making it challenging to fit into an average-sized car. If you want a lighter, more portable camp-style shelter, we highly recommend checking out the REI Co-op Screen House Shelter. The Eureka Tagalong Shelter is also a decent option but is not fully enclosed. If your rig is big enough, though, the Escape is a dream canopy tent to add to your campsite.
The E-Z Up Pyramid is our favorite canopy for outdoor sports enthusiasts. From youth football and soccer fields to motocross tracks and cross-country meets, this canopy fits the bill. If you spend much time on the sidelines, we think the E-Z Up is the perfect way to catch some shade while you cheer on your athlete or team. At the forefront of features, this canopy has a roller bag with large, wide-set wheels so one person can easily pull this beast across gravel, dirt, or grass. The E-Z Up also has a simple setup and can even be deployed solo, depending on age and strength. Its heavy steel frame and massive metal stakes easily hold this shelter steady, even during wind gusts, and glaring sun and rain are also no threat.
However, the E-Z Up isn't perfect. After weeks of testing, we have thrown a few penalty flags on the field. This product's excellent wheel system is mostly plastic; we wish it were constructed primarily of metal. Additionally, it packs up large and is heavy, making it difficult to find room for it in the trunk of just any car. It's also more challenging to lift into and out of a vehicle alone, and although quite solid, the E-Z Up can be a little wobbly at full height. For a lighter option with a small packed size, the Eureka Tagalong Shelter may be your best friend on the sidelines. The ABCCANOPY Patio Pop Up, Caddis Rapid Shelter, and the Coleman 10x10 Sun Shelter also fit the niche and cost about similar in price. Still, caveats aside, the E-Z Up is our number one when heading out to the playing field.
As its name suggests, the Eureka Tagalong Shelter is ideal for tagging along on any adventure where shade is needed. You may be canoeing to an island in the lake or hiking to a remote beach, but regardless of where you're headed, we feel the Tagalong is a great lightweight canopy that can provide loads of sun relief for any escapade, large or small. Its drawstring stuff sack offers a long strap that can be placed over one shoulder or across the chest, giving you hands-free mobility. This shelter employs high-grade, collapsible aluminum poles for its frame and comes complete with built-in guy lines and sandbags to help keep it sturdy. The polyester canopy effectively dampens the sun's rays and is double-stitched and weather-taped to keep out the rain.
The Tagalong is a perfect canopy tent for most outdoor adventures, but it does have a few snags that affect its overall performance. Our testing showed it tends to bend and sway during stout breezes and is not as large as a standard 10x10 shelter. For a sturdier, portable option, consider the fully enclosed REI Co-op Screen House Shelter. Additionally, the point-to-point reinforcement webbing on the Tagalong occasionally tangles during setup. Overall, though, we think this model is still suitable for the adventurous type who likes to be on the go and doesn't want to lug a heavy canopy.
The Eureka Tagalong is the perfect canopy for any adventure. We love it because it's very portable, compact, and lightweight. We also appreciate that the manufacturer didn't cut corners on materials or construction.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
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From beaches to campgrounds to sand dunes, we lugged these beasts everywhere we ventured and studied every inch to discover which are the very best for different use cases.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
How We Test Canopy Tents
Our experts teamed up to develop a rigorous test plan, which we applied to every canopy tent in this review. We learn a lot about each model by testing in varying environments, including mountains, forests, lakes, beaches, and dunes. Each canopy was set up and broken down repeatedly to assess its ease of use and craftsmanship, separating the well-designed from the failure-prone or confusing models. Methodically, we used each tent in its intended environment — plus some unintended ones — to see just how much use we could get out of them. From whipping wind to sweltering sun to relentless rain, we set up these canopy tents across multiple weather scenarios to test them in the worst and best elements. We even carried or rolled each tent 100 feet to see how much suffering it took to move them from point A to point B. We also hosed the tents down to see if the material was water-resistant and strong enough for an afternoon thunderstorm. The results of the unbiased and exhaustive review are presented here.
This comprehensive testing is broken down into the following five metrics:
Functionality (25% of overall score weighting)
Ease of Set Up (25% weighting)
Protection (20% weighting)
Craftsmanship (15% weighting)
Portability (15% weighting)
See more detailed information on our testing process in our How We Test article.
Canopy tents, as a category, vary widely when it comes to function. Our testers separated the canopies we tested into several categories: camping, commerce, sports, adventure, and beach canopies. Before purchasing a canopy tent, determine the environment in which you'll use it most to decide which subcategory fits your needs the best. Each category functions differently depending on the environment of intended use.
We set up each canopy in a variety of climates and regions and then subjected them to rigorous test plan to find where each excelled.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Why Trust GearLab
Over the years, we have utilized an impressive team of experienced canopy tent users, from market vendors to beach lovers. This recent update is spearheaded by Jason Wanlass. Jason is a native of Utah and seeks time in the outdoors every week. He spends his free time playing at local lakes, dunes, and campgrounds, where he routinely uses canopies for shade. He also is no stranger to the sideline, where he enjoys sitting under a canopy to watch family members play youth sports. Jason is also an avid car camper, hiker, and backpacker and has extensive knowledge of general outdoor gear. He has been a member of the GearLab family for seven years.
Even though it didn't receive an award, we feel the Qipi Beach Cabana is a good option for the beach. It comes with cool features like built-in sand bags and an extra side wall to further block out the sun.
We looked for proprietary features like this quick-release height adjuster on the E-Z Up Pyramid. Features like this add value to a canopy by allowing it set up faster and safer.
Even though the main function of a canopy tent is shade, those that can also effectively resist rain and wind have a higher value than those can't.
We evaluated and compared every feature of each product in our lineup to assess which stood out as winners among the pack.
Analysis and Test Results
To uncover the best canopy tent, we use comprehensive test metrics and cover all manner of use cases and essential details. From assessing how enjoyable the space underneath each canopy is (functionality) to timing each setup and noting any accompanying hassles (ease of set up) to hosing each shelter down with a garden hose for 5 minutes (protection), our findings reveal it all. We also looked closely at the quality of each canopy tent for our craftsmanship metric and measured each tent when packed up to provide details on portability. We weighted each metric according to its importance before grading and ranking each shelter, side by side, on a scale of 1-10. Below, we discuss the metrics we used to score each model and highlight impressive models in each performance area.
What's the Best Value?
Not sure which canopy will deliver the best bang for your buck? These tents can quickly become pricey, so focusing on quality versus cost is a great idea. Typically, the lower-priced options in this category will work for the short term. They usually weigh less, which is handy when lugging them around, but it generally means they are not as durable in inclement weather. The higher-priced models often weigh more or offer better construction technology. Increased weight is generally the result of more durable and stable materials like steel and higher-denier tent canopies. Determining which features you need in a canopy will help you choose which one provides maximum efficiency at the right price.
When it comes to value, you have some choices. For a traditional cathedral shape, the Caravan V-Series is a good choice. We are also very impressed with the overall value the Coleman 10x10 Sun Shelter brings to the table. It's slightly more expensive than the cheapest options on our list. Still, we feel its price point is nearly perfect considering its quality and performance, specifically its extra features and beefier design.
Nailing down the specifics. Large alloy spikes, heavier steel legs, and welded metal feet are some of the simple things that give the Coleman 10x10 added value.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Eureka Tagalong is lightweight with stellar components, so if you want to be a bit more mobile with your canopy, this is one of our favorites. And if you can step into the next price bracket, the Eurmax Standard 10x10 is hands-down our top choice. The added cost will buy you stronger materials and a structure that you won't have to worry about falling apart for many years to come — if at all.
We feel the Eurmax Standard 10x10 does an excellent job of balancing performance, craftsmanship, and cost.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Functionality
This metric considers each shelter's floor space and height and any design element that may limit or enhance accessibility and maneuverability. We erected each model and measured the height and floor space compared to the other tents. Typical cathedral tents offered a 10x10 floor space, whereas many more niche tents had varying sizes. Another key aspect of functionality is the extra convenience features provided by various models. For example, hanging loops, storage compartments, and built-in pockets make canopy use easier and more organized.
The Eurmax Standard 10x10 is very functional, followed closely by the E-Z Up Pyramid, Clam Outdoors Quick-Set Escape, and Eureka Tagalong Shelter. All four of these models maximize space and offer several features that make them very livable. The Eurmax and E-Z Up are huge yet still easy to use. The Quick-Set Escape offers a massive, fully enclosed living space, and the Eureka Tagalong dons extra pockets, hooks, and attached sandbags. The center trusses on the Eurmax hang lower than we would prefer, limiting the available headspace, but this is our only caveat. The Tagalong sits a little low and isn't adjustable, which affects the user's ability to alter the canopy's height or angles as the sun's rays change. Still, the lightweight and portable design makes up for this, especially in the right use cases.
We love the Eurmax for its functionality. It's a beast, but it's relatively easy to use and it is massive and comfortable.
The Clam Escape is one of the most functional and fun canopies we've ever put our hands on. It has the ability to make any outdoor activity more comfortable and more enjoyable.
The key to the Eureka Tagalong's functionality is its cool design and many extra features. This canopy looks minimalistic from a distance, but at closer range it's easier to see features like mesh pockets, gear hooks, guy-line pockets, and built-in sand bags.
Not every canopy tent is what it seems from a distance. Some have unexpected features that make them easier to set up or stronger and more versatile when in use.
Landing in the middle of the pack is a group of mostly more budget-friendly options. The Qipi Beach Cabana is stylish and unique, with a supplemental sidewall to target the sun. It doesn't have the highest clearance, but it's plenty for most folks. The Caddis Rapid Shelter and Amazon Basics Pop-Up both offer large floor dimensions (10x10 feet or close to it) and decent height on the interior space. The Caddis is much more expensive but is made from more robust materials. Among the less expensive models, we were impressed with the ample floor space and decent max height of the Coleman 10x10 Sun Shelter.
Checking the specs on our Coleman. When compared against other bargain-priced canopies on our list, this canopy is the tallest.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Caravan V-Series scores a bit lower and isn't as beefy as more expensive models, but it feels roomy and is easy to move around thanks to a lower weight. Several of the cathedral-style models offer three height settings.
Our favorite feature on the Pacific Breeze is its five attached sandbags which allow the canopy to be secured to the ground when at the beach.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Ease of Set Up
Our second grading metric involves how fast and easy it is to set up and take down each shelter, but it also considers how simple and intuitive both processes are. While we recommend a minimum of two people to set up most shelters, the ease of this process can vary drastically depending on the design and quality of materials. While being timed, we set up and took down each product a minimum of 10 times. We also noted special features, like quick-release levers, that make setup easier.
Heavier cathedral-style canopy tents can often be challenging because of their weight; however, most are fairly simple to deploy. The Eurmax and E-Z Up are counted among these heavier tents, but setting them up was surprisingly straightforward.
Despite their weight and size, larger canopies like the E-Z Up Pyramid are quite easy to set up. In fact, many can be deployed by one person.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
At first glance, the setup for the Quick-Set Escape appears quite daunting. However, it became our favorite canopy to set up after conquering a slight learning curve. We even found it to be fun. Despite its size, it amazingly ships completely assembled and pops into place with just a few pulls and pushes. Even better, it can easily be set up by one person. The Neso 1 also has a unique setup format. Simply fill the four attached anchor bags with sand or smooth rocks, stretch the canopy into an X-shape, and prop it up with the provided tent poles. We found this setup process easy because it didn't rely on many moving parts or analytical thinking.
Setting up the Quick-Set Escape is a simple as pulling on a few handles. The canopy literally pops into place with little effort.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Tagalong and Caravan V-Series scored slightly lower than our top scorers, but they still have straightforward setup processes. The setup for both was simple; however, they scored lower because of additional variants that affected the overall ease of the process. In particular, the Tagalong takes additional time to complete. The aluminum poles are quite long and awkward to maneuver, and it takes extra time to slide them through the fabric sleeves and bow them into place. We found the V-Series just as easy to set up as the other cathedral canopies we tested; however, it scored a little lower because it still incorporates spring-loaded adjustment pins to lock it into place. These pins are a little harder to use, especially during takedown, and they are more likely to pinch the skin.
The Caravan's lightweight frame is easy to handle and slides into place with relative ease.
We didn't like that the Caravan employs spring-loaded pins to lock the sliders into place and adjust the canopy's height. They are more difficult to use when taking down the canopy, and they can sometimes pinch fingers and hands.
By setting up and tearing down each canopy tent, we were quickly able to discern which designs made easy work of the job and which slowed us down.
We also liked the setup process of the ABCCANOPY Patio Pop Up. It can be popped into place by just one person, and it boasts pinch-free lockers and height adjusters, which allow everything to glide into position easily. Our favorite setup feature for this model is its crank-style center mast. Once setup is complete, simply twist the crank a few times to lift the center pole to its maximum height. This feature also tightly stretches the entire canopy fabric into place, giving it greater resistance to wind and rain.
Crank it up. Lifting this canopy's mast securely into place with just a few cranks.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Protection
This metric pertains to a shelter's ability to offer protection from sun, wind, and rain. Some canopies perform well in one or two of these areas, but we gave the highest scores to those that could expertly handle all three functions. We even gave extra points to canopies that also protected against bugs.
Our top scorer is the Clam Outdoors Quick-Set Escape. Its fully enclosed design protects users from sun, wind, rain, and bugs, making it a perfect shelter for camping. It was followed closely by the Eurmaxand E-Z UP Pyramid, though neither has sidewalls for complete bug protection.
With a fully enclosed design, the Quick-Set Escape protects better than any model we have tested.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Akin to the Clam Quick-Set Escape is the REI Co-op Screen House Shelter. The Screen House is far more portable but less rugged than the Clam, and it also offers a fully enclosed system that keeps bugs at bay.
It sets up like a tent. Full-length pole sleeves, and beefy aluminum poles keep the Screen House sturdy.
Seeing how our Screen House stacks up against moderate wind. Despite being lightweight, it easily handled a stout breeze, especially if its optional guy lines are anchored.
The freestanding REI Co-op Screen House Shelter is not only highly portable but also surprisingly durable, wind resistant, and as easy to set up as a standard tent.
The Pacific's stiff fiberglass frame keeps the canopy rock-solid during heavier wind gusts.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Eureka Tagalong scored slightly lower but still boasted an impressive score. It sits lower than cathedral-style canopies, which more effectively blocks the sun's rays as their angles change during the day. Its weather-taped seams and waterproof canopy also create an excellent barrier against rain. It doesn't perform as well when it is breezy outside, though. As for the Caravan V-Series, we feel it provides excellent coverage from the sun. However, its thinner frame rocks a bit during wind gusts, and it doesn't have weather-taped seams, so it tends to leak a little during heavier rain storms.
Looking for other ways to stay protected from the elements? Check out our umbrella review.
The Tagalong's canopy material and weather-taped seams do an excellent job at block rain. We never saw a single drop sneak through.
The Tagalong's canopy sits lower and has longer valances, which do a better job at keeping the sun's rays at bay as they change angles throughout the day.
A well-designed canopy tent is not only great for sun protection but can also be an event-saver when the forecast calls for unsettled conditions.
Craftsmanship
Next, we looked closely at how each product is constructed. We looked for features like double-stitched seams, weather taping, steel, robust fabrics, and fewer moving parts. We also took note of the quality of the various storage bags.
Our hands-down winner in this category is the Eurmax Standard 10x10. It offers impeccable craftsmanship and is even graded as “Entry Commercial” by the manufacturer. This canopy's stitching and heavy-wear stress points are reinforced. Additionally, its 600-denier canopy fabric is the thickest we've seen. Likewise, the roller bag is made from commercial-grade components and fabrics, and the frame is thicker and heavier than other canopies.
From its roller bag down to its legs, the Eurmax is a specimen. It really does stand out in a crowd.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Eurmax was followed closely by the Quick-Set Escape and E-Z Up Pyramid. Both products boast hardy components and fabrics. Every stress point on the Quick-Set Escape is reinforced, and all its seams are double-stitched and taped. We feel the E-Z Up Pyramid is almost as well-made as the Eurmax; however, its frame and canopy materials are slightly thinner. Additionally, its roller bag's wheel assembly is mostly plastic. However, overall, the Pyramid is stout and well-made.
We feel the Pyramid has an excellent frame and canopy top. We also love its roller bag, but feel the plastic wheel assembly could be a little more robust.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Eureka Tagalong scored a little lower but still holds its own in terms of craftsmanship. It is a lighter-weight product, which inherently involves thinner, less durable materials. When we compared the Taglong to beefier models, we had to score lower for this reason. Still, when we consider its niche, there's no denying it has excellent properties, like double stitching, weather taping, high-tensile aluminum, and reinforced joints.
Despite being lightweight, every inch of the the Tagalong is very well made. It doesn't compare to beefier heavyweights, but when compared to products that serve its niche, the Tagalong has excellent properties.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Portability
Our final ranking metric is portability. Don't be fooled; this is one of the most important aspects to consider, as it determines the amount of sweat and frustration a model will induce upon its owner. One thing we learned over our months of testing is that a heavy tent with a poor carrying case can be a real challenge.
Our most portable models are the Sun Ninja, Neso 1, and Eureka Tagalong Shelter. These models are all thinner, fold-down styles that weigh far less than the larger canopies on our list. Some, like the Tagalong, are lighter because of the high-end materials used in their construction. Others, like the Sun Ninja, are lighter because they employ less expensive materials. So it is important to distinguish that not all lightweight and portable products are equally high in quality.
The Sun Ninja has one of the smallest packed sized of the products we tested, making it easy to sling over the shoulder. We love its very portable stuff bag, but we didn't like the actual canopy nearly as much.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
The Qipi Beach Cabana came in just behind the top scorers. This position is primarily due to its larger packed sizes, which makes it slightly more difficult to carry and store. It also has a much longer packed size and, at nearly 10 pounds, it's heavier than the others mentioned above.
The Pacific is easy to transport from the car to the beach. Carry it on the shoulder or sling it across the chest to free up your hands to carry other necessities.
The Qipi is very portable, but somewhat heavier than our other lightweight models. It also packs up quite a bit longer than the rest, making it a little more difficult to carry or to store in smaller vehicles.
We also took stock of how easily each tent could be carried and packed away into a small car to take along with us.
All things considered, the REI Screen House Shelter is our favorite portable model. This massive, 10x10 fully enclosed canopy packs down small and only weighs 13 pounds. It's the ultimate mosquito net that is also lightweight and compact enough to hitch a ride on any adventure trip.
If we had a some string and a breeze, this thing just might take flight. We love that our Screen House is massive and sturdy, yet very lightweight.
Heading to the lake, forest, or beach is a piece of cake. The Screen House weighs 13 pounds, and its 25-inch-long duffle can be easily slung over one shoulder in route to wherever the day may take you.
Our favorite options for portability pack down small and can be tossed over a shoulder or into a trunk without undue concern about the space or muscle needed to haul the load.
Our lower scorers in this metric generally received lower scores because of their weight and size. However, it's important to note that some canopies are not as portable because they're constructed of higher-quality, heavier, and thicker materials. Canopies in this category are the Eurmax, Quick-Set Escape, E-Z UP Pyramid, Caddis Rapid Shelter, and Caravan Canopy V-Series. The Eurmax and E-Z Up both received lower portability scores because they are heavy and more difficult to lift from the car to the ground. Likewise, they are larger and more difficult to fit into a smaller vehicle. However, once on the ground, their roller bags make it extremely easy to pull them over concrete, dirt, and grass.
We conducted side-by-side comparisons more times than we can count, so that we could be sure we picked the best canopies for each award.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Conclusion
Canopy tents vary drastically from intended usage to quality to value. We assure you that we went to great lengths to assess each model fairly across pre-determined metrics to help you find the model that best fits your needs. The right purchase the first time saves money and reduces stress and hassle over the long term. We hope our comprehensive review helps you find the perfect way to keep shaded.
