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. 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. The wheels on the roller bag are mostly cosmetic, as they are very ineffective on most terrains.
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 Pacific Breeze Easy Up is a beach tent with a half-dome design and enough space to shade one or two adults. Its one-pull setup requires more muscle than we anticipated, but overall it is hassle-free and takes only seconds to erect. At 5.4 pounds, it’s the lightest canopy in our lineup, making it very portable.
It only takes about three minutes and three steps to set up or tear down the 10 x 10 ft. (3 x 3 m) shelter for 100 sq. Ft. (14.86 sq. m) of overhead shade or use it as a wall to block the sun, wind or rain. The welded steel feet are big enough to stand on while you set up the shelter and keep the shelter stable on concrete and asphalt. Once it’s up, the canopy and coleman canopy swing wall’s UVGuard™ material offers UPF 50+ protection from the sun’s dangerous rays, and a vented roof releases heat so everyone stays comfortable. When it’s time to pack up, the compact one-piece frame folds down quickly and fits inside most cars. Refunds are issued to the original form of payment, unless returned in store where some exclusions may apply.
It tends to bend and sway during stout breezes and is not as large as a standard 10×10 shelter. However, overall, we think the Tagalong is still suitable for the adventurous type who likes to be on the go and doesn’t want to lug a heavy canopy. We do 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. 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 at keeping creepy crawlers and flying annoyances at bay. For web orders returned in store, please take the item in original packaging, along with invoice to any
Camping World retail locations for a refund or exchange.
It makes easy work blocking 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 lightweight, portable designs of OASIS™ Lite canopies—are perfect for kicking back at the campsite or tossing the frisbee in the park. The OASIS Lite 10′ x 10′ Canopy sets up easily using a one-push center hub with OnePeak™ technology for wherever the adventure takes you. Get to the fun faster with the Coleman Instant Canopy with Swing Wall.
These caveats aside, this is still our number one when heading out to the playing field. If you’d rather have your shelter geared more toward camping, we’ve also reviewed the best camping tents and top backpacking tents on the market. Likewise, if you need a comfortable seat, place to prep your food, or the best cooler, we’ve got you covered. We’ve also tested the best 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.
The Tagalong is a perfect canopy tent for most outdoor adventures, but it does have a few snags that affect its overall performance. It tends to bend and sway during stout breezes and is not as large as a standard 10×10 shelter. Additionally, coleman canopy the point-to-point reinforcement webbing occasionally tangles during setup. However, overall, we think the Tagalong is still suitable for the adventurous type who likes to be on the go and doesn’t want to lug a heavy canopy.