Finding the best canopy weights and gazebo weights can feel like a losing battle – there are so many different designs and types out there that won’t suit all gazebos and canopies. Metal ones, sandbags, water-fillable designs – where do you even start?
If you’ve been tempted to make a homemade or DIY gazebo weight in order to save some cash, take a few moments to step back and consider this: Garden shelters are an investment, so it’s important to spend that little extra on gazebo accessories to ensure longevity and low maintenance.
Most tie-down kits are suitable for regular conditions, but you never know how the weather on the day might turn. What’s more, guy ropes aren’t the main source of stability, as the weights are designed for heavy-duty stability at the root. You can never be too prepared, and if you’re knowingly using a shelter in bad weather, then you definitely need something to secure it down.
Keep reading to find out the best canopy weights and gazebo weights on the market, so there won’t be any fly-away canopies during your next patio party or market stall.
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1. Eurmax Universal Upgraded Canopy Water Weights
Available Weight Capacities: 124lbs with Sand (31lbs per bottle), 88lbs with Water (22lbs per bottle)
If you’re not a fan of bags, or you simply want to try something new, these bottles from Eurmax are a solid pick. Shaped like a long cube, these can hold 31lbs of sand or 22lbs of water for industrial-grade strength and stability. That’s also a clear reason for the jump in price when compared to bags, so keep in mind that these are made for more heavy-duty needs.
The filling and fitting process is straightforward: Open at the lid and fill, close and position on the foot pad, fix it to the leg using the Velcro, and you’re good to go. We would have liked the opening to be a little wider, but it’s an easy fix by using a funnel.
A standout for us is the addition of a Styrofoam gasket at the cap, which prevents water from leaking in or out. That eliminates the worry of sand getting wet and heavier when it rains. A handle is positioned on the side to distribute weight evenly while carrying it, and the Velcro locking system is user-friendly when attaching.
Key Features:
- Styrofoam Gasket in Cap Prevents Water Leakage
- Robust Velcro Locking System Simplifies Process
- Side Handle Makes Carry More Effortless
2. US Weight Store Tailgater Canopy Weights
Available Weight Capacities: 20lbs, 30lbs, 40lbs, 60lbs, 80lbs
Ideal for wide metal-plate feet, these have a recycled plastic outer with a cement filling. Both the plastic and the cement work together to provide all-weather protection that won’t absorb water, or rust after being exposed to moisture overtime.
There are plenty of capacities to choose from. As these are pre-filled with cement, each one contains a particular weight that equals a total amount. For example, the 30lb pack is made up of four 7.5lb weights, making a total of 30lbs.
The fitting method consists of a no-pinch design, which makes things safer when installing and removing. Another cool part about these is that you can stack them on top of each other to customize the heaviness on each leg.
Key Features:
- Fits 1.25” Wide Poles
- No-Pinch Design for Safe Installation & Removal
- Robust Recycled Plastic Covering with Cement Filling
3. ABCCANOPY Sand Saddlebag Weights
Available Weight Capacities: 100lbs (25lbs per bag)
Lastly is this set of 4 bags which are specifically designed for holding sand. They are extremely simple in terms of design, and we love the carabiner attachments that come with each bag. You can clip them onto virtually any kind of outdoor furniture, but you can also use these bags for weighing down soccer goals or indoor equipment like cameras and lights.
Rather than Velcro to seal up the opening, these come with two zippered pouches. This means the whole installation process, from filling to attaching, is fast and manageable. Constructed with 1680D polyester fabric, these are said to last around 5 years of constant use.
Key Features:
- Dual Zippered Pouches for Speedy Installation & Secure Seal
- Four Aluminum Carabiner Attachments Add Versatility
- Wide-Length Carry Handle for Smooth Transport
4. ABCCANOPY Outdoor Pop Up Canopy Weights
Available Weight Capacities: 112lbs (40lbs per bag)
This next choice is another option from ABCCANOPY, but is slightly cheaper and has a different design than the previous one on our list. These come in a pack of four, are available in 5 different colors, and sport a long tube-like shape with four Velcro straps that measure 4.25” long. These straps secure firmly onto the legs for better stability.
At the top of each one is a large, thick handle that makes it comfortable to carry around once filled. Speaking of filling, you can use sand, dirt, small rocks, or even water bottles if they fit. The mouth area opens significantly, which we appreciate as it stops sand from getting everywhere while you’re filling.
Made from 1680D Oxford material, these are intended to withstand rough conditions. There’s also a PVC coating to make them even more resilient.
Key Features:
- 18” x 7” Size with 4.25” Velcro Straps
- Heavy-Duty Polyester Handle for Easy Carrying
- Extremely Tough 1680D Oxford Fabric with PVC Layering
5. ABCCANOPY Industrial Grade Canopy Weights
Available Weight Capacities: 80-100lbs (20-25lbs per bag), 120-140lbs (30-35lbs per bag)
Four weight bags make up the ABCCANOPY Industrial Grade weights – one for each leg of a standard shelter. You can choose from either medium or large sizes, which hold 20-25lbs and 30-35lbs respectively. These are best filled with sand, but you could use small pebbles or some dirt if you’re in a pinch.
It’s pretty easy to see why these are rated as industrial-grade. You’ve got 1680D polyester fabric, which is extremely thick and durable, a PVC coating for added protection, and a patented Velcro attachment piece that is stronger than most others on the market.
Filling is hassle-free with a wide top opening, and a top loop helps with carrying it around. These are also suitable for use with a camping tent, carport, beach umbrella, patio furniture, or sun shelter.
Key Features:
- Fits 0.59”-1.97” Legs with Adjustable Straps
- Waterproof 1680D Polyester Fabric with PVC Coating
- Ultra-Strong Velcro Ribbon
6. ABCCANOPY Canopy Water Bag Weights
Available Weight Capacities: 90-170lbs
These water weights are probably the most innovative and different we’ve seen in terms of design – they’re also the most urban-friendly with their modernized vinyl build. Our favorite thing about these bags is that they deflate for storage; a unique feature we haven’t seen much with these types of water bags. We’re pleased by how effortless it is to transport these around, since they flatten so easily and quickly.
Not only does vinyl look sleek, but it is also fully waterproof to prevent leaks. The screw-cap top provides a reliable seal and is the perfect size to fit under a standard tap. Next to this cap is an easy-grip handle, which gets its name because of its ergonomic shape.
On the side you’ll find three Velcro straps that are used to attach to the legs. They’re fully adjustable, boasting a width range between 0.59” and 1.97”.
Key Features:
- Deflates to 6” x 6” x 2” for Convenient Storage
- Strong & Waterproof PVC Vinyl Construction
- Adjustable Velcro Strips Fit 0.59”-1.97” Poles
7. Quik Shape Canopy Weight Plate Kit
Available Weight Capacities: 20lbs (5lbs per plate)
These plates are perfect for instant canopies on-the-go. Each plate weighs 5lbs, so you can buy a few kits to stack them up and personalize the amount of stability.
Built with a cement filling and polyester-plastic external surface, these are designed to keep up with rain, wind, shine, and anything else the weather decides to throw at them. Apart from being hard-wearing, the plastic coating is smooth to the touch – this makes them more comfortable to carry around, install, and remove.
In terms of the slot that gets inserted around the poles, each one is made to ensure a custom-fit to most standard legs on the market which typically measure 1.25”. We like the low-profile design that only measures around 2” thick, as it’s subtle and convenient to move around.
Key Features:
- 6” Diameter Plates with Custom-Fit 1.25” Slots
- Weather-Resistant Cement & Poly-Plastic Construction
- Easy-Carry Disc Shape & Smooth Surface
8. Caravan Canopy Sports Weight Plates
Available Weight Capacities: 24lbs (6lbs per plate)
What makes these plates by Caravan Canopy Sports stand out from other disc plates on the market is that they have a thick rubber coating on the outside, rather than PVC plastic. They are also a little less disc-shaped as they have straighter edges, making them even more convenient to carry around by hand.
Another reason we love this rubber coating is that they are seamless to stack on top of each other – the rubber won’t scratch the pole legs or slip around, so you have better control. With four plates weighing 6lbs each, you can easily pile them up using the large holes at the top.
You can use these on both hard and soft surfaces, which gives you more freedom when installing your shelter – no stakes needed.
Key Features:
- Scratch-Free Rubber-Coated Build with Cement Filling
- Suitable for Both Hard & Soft Surfaces
- Standard 1.25” Slot Opening
9. Eurmax Weight Bags for Pop Up Canopy
Available Weight Capacities: 120-140lbs (30-35lbs per bag)
This set of all-black bags is one of our favorites for market stalls where you need something simple, classic, and that won’t take attention away from your goods. Of course, they’re also great for outdoor parties or backyard gatherings, too.
Built from high-grade polyester, these are designed as universal to be able to attach to a wide range of legs. That’s because they feature Velcro bands, which let you modify the tension to exactly your standards. At the top you’ll find a durable loop handle for easygoing transport, and a double-closure system for a hassle-free fill and tight seal.
As well as the top loop, we love that you have a second carry handle at the back – this takes a lot of the weight off when you’re carrying it over to the poles before installation.
Key Features:
- Double-Closure Opening Prevents Sand Leaks
- High-Quality 1680D Polyester Waterproof Construction
- Adjustable Velcro Strap for the Perfect Fit
10. ABCCANOPY Super Heavy Duty Instant Shelter Weight Bags
Available Weight Capacities: 220lbs (55lbs per bag)
Just like the name suggests, these are some serious super heavy-duty bags – it’s pretty safe to say that your shelter is going nowhere with these bad boys. Built for all surfaces, each bag in this four-pack can hold up to 55lbs of sand, dirt, or rocks, and they are 50% larger than most other bags on the market.
The design is a little more eye-catching than some others we’ve seen. Each bag has a colored band in the middle with a black lining on either end. You can choose from 6 colors, so you’re not limited to any certain one.
Since these can hold such a large capacity, it’s great to see that they’ve considered the need for a heavy-duty carry handle. It measures 70mm, rather than a standard 25mm on some other bags, plus it has reinforced stitching for that extra bit of security.
Key Features:
- Premium Hard-Wearing Build Increases Longevity
- Double Hook-and-Loop Straps for Tight Fit Around Poles
- Heavy Loading 70mm Handle for Effortless Carrying
How to Choose a Canopy Weight or Gazebo Weight
Type
Before anything, before even looking at brands and whatnot, you should get familiar with the different types of weights out there.
Generally, there are four main types: PVC Plastic, Water Weights, Sand Weights, and Cast Iron Weights.
We did not include any cast iron ones in our list, as we’ve stuck to more budget-friendly options, so for now let’s focus on the first three.
- PVC Plastic: These usually consist of a PVC plastic shell (sometimes polyester plastic) and are filled with cement, which acts as the source of weight. If your shelter has foot pads, you can find a lot of plastic options that are made to sit directly over the pad for stability, otherwise referred to as stacking leg plates.
- Water Fillable: We think these are probably the most convenient for carrying and transporting, since you can seamlessly empty the water out, making them extremely lightweight. They will typically strap around the poles for anchorage.
- Sand Fillable: Just like the water fillable ones, sand versions can be lightweight and easy to carry once they’re empty. Most sand models come in some kind of polyester fabric, which can be a little heavier than plastic, but it all depends on the brand. These usually attach onto the leg area, rather than the foot pads. Also, the sand can get heavier when wet, so if that’s going to be a problem you should consider ones that prevent water penetration.
Fittings
There are different ways to fit different weight models, so this is a big factor to think about before making a purchase.
Take a look at the bottoms of each pole on your shelter – how wide are the foot pads? If it has a wide metal foot, and the shelter is not bolted down, foot locking or stacking leg plates are the way to go.
Then take note of the width of the poles. You’ll notice each weight will tell you how wide the leg slot is, or how long the Velcro attachment is, to be able to get the perfect fit. If the fit is too loose and doesn’t hug the legs, the stability will be compromised. If it doesn’t fit at all, then obviously you’re not going to get any kind of stabilizing effect.
Color
While this may not have even crossed your mind, we’re here to remind you that color does play a big part in choosing the right one. This factor especially applies to those who use shelters for market stalls.
Think about it: A white set of weights is going to blend in a whole lot better than a bright pink set (unless that’s what you’re going for, of course). If you want them to keep a low profile, consider whether the color and style will match with your shelter.
Design
This is similar to the “Type” section, but here we’re focusing on the actual design, rather than the materials. Many models will attach in different ways, whether that’s with Velcro straps or through a slot, and it’s important to think about what will suit your situation best. We’ve even seen some that attach using a simple carabiner, like the ABCCANOPY Super Heavy Duty Sandbag.
Another element of design is the shape. Some of them look like bottles or cubes, others look like discs, and some look like regular bags. Your choice will depend on the style you’re going for, as well as how you’re going to store them.
The type of opening is another major design factor. Go for something that has a wide opening, usually Velcro bags are great for that, so that you don’t have to pay too much attention to getting things through a tight hole. Water fillable ones generally have a small opening, but they usually fit easily over a top or hose, and it’s important for them to be small to avoid leaks.
How Many Canopy Weights Do I Need?
It’s pretty much as simple as: The more weight on each leg, the more secure the shelter will be. Typically, each weight will range between 20lbs and 40lbs (you can definitely get heavier ones, but those are the most popular capacities on the market).
For a four-legged shelter, aim for around 130lbs in total (so, approximately 32lbs per weight) if things are particularly windy. On a shelter with six legs, you should go for a total weight closer to 200lbs, again, if there are high winds. Increasing the overall heaviness is easy to achieve by stacking more plates or attaching more bags to the poles.
Remember though, the amount will depend on several factors, like the conditions and the quality of shelter.
How Do I Attach a Canopy Weight?
There are multiple ways to attach them, as they come in all different styles and designs. The most common methods are with Velcro straps, as well as using the slots that are built-into plates.
Velcro straps simply tie around the poles and let you adjust the tension to get the perfect fit. Plates with slots require a little more planning, as you need to measure the exact distance between the slot, and the width of the shelter poles. If there isn’t a snug fit, your shelter runs the risk of getting blown away.
What Kind of Canopy Weight Should I Use?
Your choice will depend on the type of shelter you’re using (e.g. tent, outdoor furniture, umbrella, tarp shelter, etc.), your budget, and the kind of weather conditions you’ll be using it in. There are countless different sizes, capacities, and designs on the market, so you’ll need to choose the one that works best with the factors we just mentioned above.
Conclusion on Canopy and Gazebo Weights
Here’s a general rule to follow: If you can lift up your canopy, then the wind can too. While these are certainly some wise words to live by, even the heaviest-looking shelters run the risk of getting windblown. Anchor weights are a lifesaver for outdoor gazebos, and can save you a lot of money in the short and long term when it comes to maintenance and general safety.
We’ve listed a huge variety of weights, from plastic, to vinyl, to polyester. The best part? Most of them are easily portable, so you can set up your canopy wherever you please. Remember to think about the type of weight, the fitting, and the design that will best suit your shelter.
