10 Best Pop Up Canopy Tent Reviews | Abccanopy vs Eurmax vs Coleman

More and more brands are catching onto the pop up idea, offering instant pitch products for consumers in need of shelter. Be it for their vehicles, camping or business stalls, or perhaps just a family get-together in the garden, pop up canopy tents are perfect.

The previous issue was the demanding assembly of traditional canopies. That required multiple people, a few hours of work, and a savvy mind to negotiate the complex instructions.

Well, no more.

Companies have designed and manufactured a modern canopy tent that alleviates the problematic and lengthy assembly of the traditional canopy tents.

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The pop up canopy is a perfect solution if you have met any of the issues we’ve mentioned. It’s also a fantastic instant shelter for any trade shows or market stalls or garden event.

With an array of choices available on the market each with its own set of features, selecting one is a tough task. We have handpicked the best choices in each size range, as usual, we will start with the smallest and work our way upwards.

What Pop Up Canopy Alternatives are There?

If you know already that this isn’t what you need, allow us to share a few alternatives:

• Pop Up Gazebos – These are equally fast pitching but have an enclosed, mosquito-proof shelter. Ideal for garden and camping. 
• Grill Gazebos – Similar to a pop up canopy, but much more weighted, stable, and strong. Lacking the fastpitch frame but specifically designed to be used for barbecuing and fire safety. 
• Garden Gazebos – Again much like a canopy tent, however much more aesthetic in design. Best for social events and improving the appearance of your garden.
• Carport Canopy – Ideal for larger coverage with the goal of protecting your vehicles, from small motorbikes to large trucks. 
• Screen Houses – These are similar to a pop-up gazebo, however, they are designed primarily as a lightweight shelter and more versatile. More subtle and better suited to home and picnic use. 

Keep scrolling to crack on with the Best Canopy Tents on the market. 

Best Pop Up Canopy Tent Reviews

1. Abccanopy 10 x 10 Canopy

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A unique feature of this model is the new striped color theme, that makes a truly effective market stall theme, perfect for business events where you need to grab the attention of any passerby.

Frame

Full truss steel frame and black powder coating, it’s fully resistant to rust, rainfall and stands strong against winds. One of the best 10 x 10 canopies on the market right now. The meshed windows allow for the wind to pass through somewhat as opposed to hitting upon the sidewalls like wind on a sail. It also has nylon mold brackets and sturdy square legs. Again with 2 holes drilled into the feet to allow for extra security when pitching onto soft ground, like a trade show or tailgate event for example.

Material

The material used is fully waterproof and the seams have been heat sealed all around the sides, door and side wall attachments. The stress points have been reinforced, which is crucial for an investment such as this, the last thing you need is your canopy being out of action and in repairs. The canopy cover is secured tightly with Velcro straps running around the sides of the frame.

Bundle

With ABC, you rarely just pay for the canopy itself. They always throw in extras to add value to their products and this is no exception. It comes with 4 sandbags, ropes, stakes and sidewalls, plus the heavy-duty roller bag. But also an additional half-wall attachment and mesh wall attachment. This offers a lot of versatility, customizing the appearance as you see fit.

All in all, a great value deal for a heavy-duty pop up canopy that performs excellently when used in commercial scenarios.

Note: For a full guide, check out our ABC Canopy Review for more in-depth info. 

Key Features

• Vast Color Variety (23)
• Rust Resistant Frame
• Fully Customizable with Sidewalls and Accessories

 

2. Eurmax Ez 8 x 8 Pop Up

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Our next one is one of the best 8×8 models around. A versatile canopy, complete with sidewalls and meshed windows. This canopy additionally comes in all sizes, from 5 x 5 up to 20 x 20, with these dimensions and features, it makes a great commercial shelter for markets and the like.

Frame

Complete with a black powder-coated frame makes it resistant to rust. The strong steel frame with nylon mold brackets and thick square-shaped legs make it sturdier than previous models. The square legs allow compatibility with canopy weights to secure it tightly to the ground. The feet also have 2 holes drilled through them, so you can drive stakes or hooks through for extra security.

Canopy Cover

Utilizes a 500 denier polyester fabric with a PU lining which is completely waterproof. The seams along the lining, doors and windows are all heat sealed to keep out the rain. Additionally, it has reinforced stress points on the usual problem areas, like where the top of the poles meet the canopy, this is an observant improvement by the manufacturer. The cover attaches securely to the frame with 2 inch Velcro Straps that run around the outskirts of the frame.

Package Deal

This purchase comes with 4 weights in the form of sandbags. However, we do prefer the proper canopy weights that slide onto the squared legs at the base. More so, it includes 3 side walls and a door wall, these are all removable. Canopy replacement parts are easy to find due to the popularity of this line. They are equally 8 foot in size, surrounding the canopy, blocking winds, rain and sun. A wheeled roller bag is also a free addition.

Note: For more information, check out our full Eurmax Canopy Review and guide, to find out more about the sizes and color variations they offer. 

Key Features

• Huge Array of Color Choices (18)
• Strong Velcro Attachment Straps
• Free Heavy Duty Roller Bag

 

3. Coleman 13 x 13 Canopy

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Our next pop up canopy is from Coleman but this time with wider dimensions and a beautiful double vented roof to match. With its easy pitching method, lightweight frame and aesthetically pleasing design, it’s become one of the best-selling beach canopies on the market for this size and works excellently well with a folding wagon with big wheels, for sand hauling.

Shade

It offers a huge shaded area with the over-sized 13 x 13 rooftop. The cover is also vented, this stops hot air getting trapped within and creating an uncomfortable interior. It will rise and escape out of the vents above, keeping circulation going. The footprint is 10 x 10 and the legs are slightly angled, which adds to the stability of the structure. It digs into the sand really well with this small design feature.

Headroom

Designed with a double vented rooftop, this gives a taller head height in the center. The head height is tall at 8 feet, allowing anyone to stand tall inside. The angled roof also allows for runoff if you are hit with any unexpected rainfall. The cover is also fully protected from UV rays, much like the Car Umbrellas made from the same material, with up to 99% sun resistance.

Frame

The frame is of an excellent standard as far as pop up beach canopies go. The frame is steel as opposed to the generic fiberglass or aluminum models and is protected with a powdered coating to resist rust, chipping, peeling. All in all, this has many advantages over similar priced 10 x 10 and 12 x 12 models, due to its extra dimensions and lightweight framework.

Note: For a similar alternative you can look at the Ozark Trail Canopy as a cheaper option or for a more in-depth view of what other Coleman Instant Canopies are available check our full review. 

Key Features

• Powdered Coating Framework
• 99% UV Protection
• Easy Pop Up Pitch with Angled Legs for Stability

 

4. CORE 10×10 Instant Shelter Canopy

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Here we have a great choice of instant shelter from CORE. A quick pitch canopy with an excellent frame, beautiful color choice and full protection from the sun. Well suited for friends and family in the backyard or tailgate event.

Powder Coating

Uniquely protected in the form of Thermoset baked-on powder coating. This not only protects the frame from rust but also chips, peeling and corrosion. Solid all-round protection. The frame itself is made from steel and the whole framework is put together with well-designed joints, that work effectively in the assembly and take down.

UPF

Benefiting from a high level of protection the material has been manufactured with effective sun resistant material. It provides up to 50 UPF and acts as a barrier to UV rays, blocking 98% in total. An important factor when we are using it for family purposes, as a trampoline cover shelter,  in the garden or local grill meets etc.

Fast Pitch

For a traditional model of this size they would normally take 30-60 minutes to set up with multiple people. As its a pop-up canopy, it can be assembled within 2 minutes with just 1 person. It employs a 3 step process of extending, attaching cover, then fully extend to finish. Adjust leg height accordingly, attach weights and it’s pitched.

Key Features

• Free Wheeled Carry Bag
• Top Seller in 10×10 Models
• 2 Minute Set Up

 

5. ABCCANOPY 10 x 15 Canopy

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For something larger, elongated, then the 10 x 15 from ABCCANOPY will be a good choice. This is great for those of you who want a canopy for a market stall or rectangular stands. Perhaps you have a double-length stall or a bar etc. The elongated design is a great option for this kind of scenario.

Framework

The solid steel frame is very durable but at the same time, it can be cumbersome carry alone. It weighs close to 90lbs and will probably need 2 people to set it up properly. The frame has been black powder coated for rust resistance. The legs are square-shaped and straight-legged, compatible with the majority of canopy weights on the market.

The feet are strong and have holes drilled into them, allowing stakes or hooks to be hammered down through. The mechanism operates by push-button sliders, so you don’t risk trapping fingers during assembly.

Fabric

The cover used comes in a variety of colors, 18 in fact. Made with 500 Denier Polyester and PU lining makes the fabric totally waterproof. Perfect for continuous use outdoors. The seams have been reinforced by a heat seal, this acts as a barrier to any water droplets trying to penetrate the fabric. The cover attaches to the frame by way of 2 inch Velcro straps surrounding the underneath.

Side Walls

Can be enclosed completely with 210 Denier Polyester sidewalls. They also have PU lining and are waterproof. The heavy-duty canopy is fully customizable, being able to add from 1-4 side walls depending on the scenario. Even the front door side has slight side coverage, allowing for a large front door.

Key Features

• Ability to Fully Enclose with Sidewalls
• 18 Color Choices
• Excellent Value Bundle with Freebies

 

6. ABCCANOPY 10 x 20 Canopy

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A heavy duty version of the 10 x 20 and large enough to be a carport canopy. Utilizing pop up mechanics, within a durable, large sized framework. Making an efficient and easy to use canopy for your market stalls and trade shows. Coming in 7 different color variations including white, red and blue.

Customization

There are various customization choices with 9 sidewalls, you can adapt and change the appearance in a manner of different ways. Uniquely it comes with a meshed screen wall, so you can create a full surrounding cover, with protection from bugs and mosquitoes.

This is something that wasn’t previously available in the 10×15 model.  A great feature is the wall piece you can fit into the middle of the canopy, creating a divider. This is excellent for interior shops or market stalls.

Portable

Weighing up to 118 pounds roughly, it will probably need 2 for the set up. However, they do include a free wheeled bag and its top quality. The wheels are built on a solid steel axle, so they run smoothly even on rough terrain. Handles are engineered well, they’ve included 1 separately at the top for rolling, and then 2 centered handles for lifting. This helps to distribute the weight accordingly, saving our backs.

Full Truss

The frame has also been reinforced since the 10×15 model. The frame is full truss with strong 26 x 13 x 1 millimeter bars. The feet are made of nylon and have also been drilled, for attachment of security hooks and guy lines when used on soft ground. For solid ground we suggest you use canopy weights. It does come with sandbags, but we think the slide on weights usually work the best. The frame also has push button sliders, which avoid any trapped fingers.

Key Features

• 9 Sidewalls and Mesh Screen Bundle
• Full Truss Frame
• Fully Customizable

 

7. Eurmax 5 x 5 EZ Canopy

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If you’re looking for a small and lightweight black pop up canopy for quick use, the 5×5 foot from Eurmax will be a great choice. The best-selling 5 x 5 on the market. With an abundance of cool features, durable frame and sleek black styling, let’s find out why it’s so popular.

Colors and Company

In a huge variety of colors, up to 14 colors, this makes them versatile for events. A sleek black for dinner parties and garden uses or white for your commercial shows and market stalls. The other benefit is that its made by Eurmax, they offer long warranties and have great support for extra parts and repairs.

Set Up

The frame comes pre-attached and the steel frame opens up easily, just pull it outwards to extend. Then simply fit the polyester cover over the top. Free guy lines come with the purchase so you can secure it to the ground, or if on concrete, tie around a tree or use canopy weights to secure the feet. Utilizing modern technology with a thumb latch locking system, this makes setting up incredibly easy.

Protected

It has a commercial full truss frame, which has been coated with a hammertone powder finish. This is designed to resist any rust caused by the elements and strengthen the foundation of the frame. The fabric has also been manufactured with a flame-resistant membrane that has attained CPAI-84 fire certification.

The material gives 99% UV protection which is great for any children, pets and yourself, and a UPF rating of 50+. Offering great resistance against the sun. Likewise against the rain, the material is 100% waterproof making it a fully waterproof pop up canopy.

Key Features

• Hammertone Coated
• 9 Color Choices
• Resistant to the Elements

 

8. Quik Shade 6 x 6 Canopy

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 The GO Hybrid model is ideal for use as a sunshade beach canopy and garden events. With its slanted leg design, is stable in strong winds making it preferable for outdoor use.

Framework

It’s a 6×6 canopy with a 7×7 base, this is due to the slanted legs standing wider than the actual frame. This doesn’t add to the shade coverage, still covering 36sqft. It has sliders that can adjust the height to 3 different levels.

Additionally, it has been reinforced also with M5 hardened rivets which won’t falter under pressure from the sliders. A lightweight pop up canopy weighing around 12lbs, easily carried to and from the car or portable garage.

Set Up

A fastpitch canopy which sets up easily with 2 people but can be done alone. Just extend the frame outwards 60-70% of the way and attach the canopy on the top. Secure and extend fully. Adjust the height with an easy pull-pin slider system on the legs, which is operated by a push button. There’s really no preparation or assembly needed to set up.

Protection

A 170T fabric cover which has been manufactured with an Aluminex coating, protects the frame. This coating offers around 99% protection from UV rays. However, make use of the sewn-in sidewall as it really helps in reducing strong sunlight from behind. It’s not the biggest side panel so try to position accordingly, against walls/trees, etc. for added cover.

Note: For a full overview of all Quik Shade Canopies have to offer, check out our full review. 

Key Features

• Open Cathedral Style Ceiling
• Slang Legged Stability
• Good UV Protection

 

9. Quictent Silvox 10 x 10 Privacy Canopy

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The heavy duty pop up canopy from Quictent comes with 4 full sidewalls, doors and 2 clear plastic windows on either side. Making it a fully screened shelter. Furthermore, the windows are integrated into the fabric, rather than being attached (which offers less water protection). It also has a decent color range of 5 colors, including white, beige and red.

Pyramid Design

Designed with a pyramid roof style to give it a higher center and more space compared with the standard flat roofed canopies. Another benefit is it also assists in rainfall run-off. With the high peak in the middle, rain will fall off to the sides, avoiding issues like water buildup around the edges of the cover.

Strong

A strong steel frame is reinforced with a powder coating to ensure rust resistance. It’s heavy duty, which will fare well in adverse weather conditions. This is exactly what we are looking for in a commercial pop up canopy. Quictent is very confident about the strength of their frame in this product, so they have offered a lifetime free warranty on the frame itself.

Features

The fabric is also waterproof and has been put through water pressure testing during manufacture. Using a 420D Oxford silver coated fabric, this particular fabric is patented,  so you won’t see it in other instant canopies on the market. All sidewalls overhang by 6 or so centimeters to fully cover the ground floor, stopping drafts etc. They’ve also seam-sealed all the zip linings with a protective glue.

Key Features

• Pyramid Style Roof
• Patented Fabric
• Lifetime Frame Warranty

 

10. Quik Shade Summit 10 x 10 Canopy 

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As big as the 8×8 from Abc, but more useful as a beach canopy. Because it’s portable, lightweight and easier to set up. Perfect for beach trips, sporting events and any situation that requires an instant shade. With a reflective white cover and straight leg design, it’s ideal for shading you and yours during sunny weather.

Fast Pitch

With a ‘One Push’ system it unfolds and erects instantaneously, this one requires a one person set up only. There are quick release pins engineered into the straight legs offering 3 different levels of height adjustment. You may want to change to a lower setting if you have sleeping children and a creeping low sun, or simply for privacy.

UV Protected

They have used Aluminex with a 150D polyester top. Which has been proven to resist up to 99% of UV rays from the sun, giving safe and trustworthy protection to your family. Our vice however, is that sidewalls are not included so you will have to track down these additional purchases online.

You can attach the 8 foot or 10 foot sidewalls, sold by Abccanopy as an accessory, they are fully compatible with this model.

Key Features

• Economical Pirce
• Fast Pitch 
• Fully UV Protected

 

Buyers Guide: How to Choose a Pop Up Canopy?

Let’s look over all the important criteria and breakdown exactly what you need from each area.

Material

It goes without saying that one of the major things to look for in a canopy is material. To expect the minimum, it should be able to resist water and sun.

Generally, most canopy tents are made up of either nylon or spun polyester.

If you will be using your pop up for commercial purposes or market, where you will be exposed to the sun for long periods of time.

It is highly recommended to go for a pop up canopy made up of UV resistant chemicals, so it can keep its strength and the colors won’t fade so quickly.

Lastly, we may also be happy to see that the material is also fire retardant. This would be crucial if we were using a grill or BBQ canopy tent in the backyard.

 

Waterproof

If you’re going to be under the weather, look for a canopy tent with water-repelling properties.

More often than not the good quality canopies are manufactured with a waterproof membrane within the fabric of the canopy.

The cheaper models may not possess this membrane, making it difficult to convert your non-waterproof fabric into a waterproof canopy.

Sure, waterproofing spray can help, but if the foundation is poor, it won’t do its job properly.

Most of the top quality pop up canopies will have some kind of powdered coating on the frame.

Generally a hammertone, thermoset, black or white powdered coating for example.

This serves as a great protector to rain and rust, keeping your canopy durable.

Different coatings offer different levels of protection, some are just simply rust-resistant.

Others can protect the frame from chipping, peeling and corrosion too.

Keep an eye out for this to increase the durability of your canopy.

 

Size

The size of your canopy tent is really dependent on what you are using it for.

Luckily for you, pop up canopy tents have a large variety of uses.

Manufacturers recognize this and have acted accordingly.

You will see in this article the various different sizes they cover, from small to huge.

There’s something else to consider also about size.

The larger the canopy, the bigger the roof area.

This can be susceptible to strong winds as it has more area for the winds to get under and its lift off!

However, this is easily combated with heavy canopy weights.

 

Frame material

Just like the fabric of your canopy, the material of your frame also plays a vital role.

The frame of your canopy would support and hold the entire structure, which is why it should be robust and durable.

The best frames are steel frames, they are just much stronger and sturdier than their aluminum counterparts.

They also add that extra weight which is important when covering things of value, like at a market or trade fair.

We are protecting our businesses with these canopies so safety is key.

However, if it’s for personal use, frames made up of hollow aluminum or metal are also good choices.

This is because they are lightweight and easier to carry around than a steel frame.

Perfect for a beach canopy or a backyard shelter.

Stay away from plastic frames with a barge pole, especially if you are using your pop up for commercial purposes, they are weak and don’t fare well in the elements at all.

Having said that, they are okay for children’s play-days in the garden if in an enclosed area.

 

Seam sealing

Do not fall prey to marketing gimmicks.

There is a range of companies which claim that their canopy fabric is waterproof, but don’t even have sealed seams.

When the seams are not sealed, water is very likely to soak through.

Look for pop up canopy tents that have their seams stitched with double lines along the seam.

This is a sign of good engineering.

Secondly, the seams are sealed with some kind of waterproof tape.

With the double line stitch and waterproof tape, you can be more than comfortable against rainfall.

 

Wheeled bag

Most of the canopy tents available with for us on the market today come with a durable wheeled bag which helps when moving from A to B.

A wheeled bag is not a must-have thing, but it is a welcome bonus if your canopy tent has one included.

Some of the bigger models like a 14×14 or 16×16 pop up canopy will probably have a fair weight when packed up. Being able to wheel this weight is a popular feature.

 

Color

Colors are important.

A carefully chosen color helps you to stand out in an exhibition, festival or similar social event.

However, we would highly recommend you to go for a white pop up canopy tent as it reflects the sunlight, keeping cool inside and still looks fabulous.

Most have some kind of white mix in the color themes.

A lot of the canopies we have included have 7-18 different color choices.

Also, some have striped color themes which give an authentic feel for trade and market shows.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Pop up Canopy tent?

A portable, lightweight and instant set up canopy that has become very popular for outdoor and garden events, due to the simplicity and speed of its assembly.

Generally set up by 1-2 people in under 10 minutes, as opposed to the traditional models of 30-60 minutes.

Waterproofed and utilizing a polyethylene cover and steel frame, they are robust and durable. Withstanding outdoor elements, with the right care and protection.

A portable case allows you to carry them around easily, pitching and moving frequently with ease.

 

What is a Pop up Canopy Tent for?

Let’s look at all the various scenarios and events we can use them for.

Market. They make great event stands and can become a focal point of any market or trade show. They also have enough space to have all your products on show. While simultaneously keeping the others dry, safely under the canopy.

Trade shows. Giving a boost to your business is always a welcomed opportunity. For this reason, some see a quality Pop Up as an investment, rather than just a simple shelter. You can get yours personalized at places like Impact Canopies and Tent Printing, for example.

Boot Sales. Having an organized and clean looking set up is proven to attract customers. A canopy can offer shelter and a great shop feature for your second hand treasure.

Catering events. They also make an excellent, stable and luring food stall. You can go from a cool local ale or beer bar, to a full spit roast depending on how big the frame is. Ideal for any outdoor events like weddings, festivals etc.

Garden parties. They make a great shelter in the garden to protect the kids during play-days and also to cover friends and family during dinner and evening drinks.

Beach Trips. They make ideal pop up sun shades, which pitch fast and offer great protection from the sun. Often made with UV protected fabrics on their canopy covers, sun shade canopies are very popular for trips to the beach.

Carports. Now modernly becoming popular as a car canopy. They have substantially larger designs and stronger materials so you can use the larger pop up canopy models to cover your car at any event or at the home. Or put that new luxury motor on show during an event.

 

How to set up a Pop up Canopy tent?

This is a general guide for all pop up canopies except the largest one canopy available the 10×20 model, they require a slightly different approach because of the size.

• Open the carry bag and remove the canopy from the bag. This may require 1 or 2 people to do.
• Decide where you want to pitch it and position it directly in the center of this area.
• Take hold of the frame on either side and pull, extending the frame outwards until its fully extended.
• You then raise each corner upwards. The best way to do this is to place one hand on the frame pole and push the other hand upwards. Once it’s reached the correct level you will hear a click, it’s now fixed into place.
• After you’ve heard the deafening click of doom, you can now pull the canopy cover over the top of the corners. Almost like a bed sheet covering all corners of the bed.
• Adjust leg height. If you’ve ever used machine gym equipment, it’s exactly the same process. You push the pin inside and slide up or down, the pin will pop out again when it reaches the next hole.
• Go around and secure each leg the same height as the other, to avoid any slant.
• Secure. You can do this by hammering the skies through the feet holes and securing with ropes. Or simply using canopy weights, which is what will you need if you are in a public area or on concrete for example.

 

How to attach a Cover to a Pop up Canopy Tent?

• Prior to set up, extend the canopy around 70% of its full extension.
• Remove it from the packaging. This is much easier with 2 people.
• Unfold the canopy cover and locate the 4 corners of the canopy.
• Secure the pop up canopy cover the one side of the canopy first. They usually have Velcro on the outside of the frame, this is where you will attach and secure the cover.
• Walk around and pull the cover over to the opposite side.
• Secure on the Velcro attachment as before. Make sure the canopy cover hub is centered in the middle of the frame.
• Secure the center hub to the frame, underneath the cover.
• Extend the frame to 100% of its full extension and the canopy should now stretch out with the canopy’s frame.

 

How to Fold or Pack Away a Pop up Canopy Tent?

• Remove any canopy weights or spikes and ropes from the leg’s feet.
• Secondly, Start by lowering 2 legs together on one side of the pop up canopy.
• Walk around and lower the remaining 2 legs.
• With all 4 legs lowered, duck underneath and detach the canopy covers hub from the frame in the middle.
• Go back to the corners and release all 4 corner slides. Don’t force them down, just let them drop naturally.
• With all 4 corners detached, stand at opposite ends to your awesome set up buddy and gently push the canopy towards each other. The frame will collapse and corner sliders will drop further naturally.
• Don’t push all the way, stop at about 75%, you can now easily remove the canopy cover.
• Remove the canopy cover and fold accordingly. Usually standing at opposite ends to your partner and walking towards each other while folding works well. Then pack cover away.
• Close the pop up canopy frame and place into the portable carry bag, tie the straps.
• Jump for joy.

 

How to Anchor a Pop up Canopy?

If you are pitched outdoors, then you will likely have spikes and ropes to secure your pop up canopy. These are hammered through the spaces in the legs feet, The ropes are then pulled outwards and attached to walls, trees or anchored into the ground.

If we want to secure it on concrete or public areas, where it’s not possible to drive spikes into the ground, for these circumstances there are Canopy Weights

These come in a variety of shapes and sizes, for different sized canopies. There are sandbags, which are filled with damp sand to help weigh down the frame. There are also PVC and plastic weights. These have many different fillings, like water, metal and sand. All work well as long as they can be secured to the canopies legs and have a fair amount of weight behind them.

 

How to Reinforce a Pop up Canopy?

There are a few ways to do this.

• Remember they aren’t really designed to handle super strong winds, if you have sidewalls up in a gale-force wind, that basically becomes a ship sail. So utilizing heavy canopy weighs is paramount.
• Applying a proofing spray to the canopy fabric before any use is a very good idea, this keeps it fully water-resistant from the get-go.
• To complement the proofing spray, you can also use a seam sealant to seal up any zip seams and sidewall seams. These are usually the vulnerable areas where water seeps in, so get it protected before you begin to use.
• For the frame, you can use a silicone-based spray, which acts as a sealant. This works well and is recommended to apply a coating as it helps to prevent chips, peeling and corrosion.
• For any unfortunate accidents resulting in any tears or rips in the fabric, you can patch them up with a fabric repair kit or the heavy-duty repair tape.

All of these methods will really help to reinforce your pop up canopy and make it more durable, which in turn gives you much better value for your money.

 

How to Clean the Canopy?

You can wash the fabrics and covers with warm water and some canopy cleaning agent. After it has been cleaned and scrubbed thoroughly, just pitch it over the frame or hang it out to dry. It’s imperative that you let it dry out completely before storing it away. This stops the buildup of any mound or mildew while it’s in the carry bag.

We don’t advise you to use any bleaching agent to clean the covers, this can affect the material and cause some color change in the fabric or erosion.

 

How to Clean the Canopy Frame?

For cleaning the canopy frame make sure the whole canopy is fully set up and legs extended to the highest level adjustment. Then you can begin to clean the frame with a tough cloth or scrubber. But, nothing too abrasive so you don’t scratch off the powdered coating or other protective properties integrated into the frame. Hot water, nonchemical soap and a strong arm will suffice.

 

Can I Grill or BBQ under a Pop up Canopy?

Yes, you can. You just need to make sure that the fabric has some form of fire retardant material. This is crucial as some of the cheaper models have zero flame tolerance and are very susceptible to flames and embers. CPAI-84 is the standard often used among Polyethylene tents and canopies, so look out for this in the product details.

Some protective sprays are also available in shops and online, which can assist when using it for a tailgating or a home BBQ. If you are cautious and the center height is far away enough, the sidewalls are detached, you will be fine.

 

Do I need to Remove the Cover when I Pack it Away?

When the cover is stored while wrapped around the metal framework, it can start to wear and may develop rips and tears in the fabric. So for longevity and durability, just take it off every time you store it away, fold it neatly and store separately.

 

Straight Leg vs Slant Leg Canopy: What is the difference?

You may have noticed these 2 types of leg designs in the list. Let’s go over what this terminology actually means.

Straight Leg

 

This design is the most common.

The good thing about the straight leg is that if for example the canopy is measured at 10 x 10, then the shaded area will be exactly 10 x 10 as well, you won’t lose any square footage.

However with the slant leg, this isn’t the case, usually it’s a reduced shade size.

For example a 10×10 pop up canopy with slanted legs, you’re looking at an 8×8 roof size, offering 64sq ft. of shade. As opposed to a straight leg version, would give the full 100sq ft. of shade.

Additionally, as straight legs are more popular for market stands, trade shows etc. it’s much easier to get a custom logo printed onto your canopy cover.

This isn’t as simple for a slant legged cover.

 

Slant Leg

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Slanted leg canopies help to keep the shade shadow in position when the sun is low, due to the angle. Generally more economical than their straight legged counterparts.

This is because they focus more on a portable and ‘quick and easy’ aspect and suit less formal situations.

They are great for short-term tailgating, quick events like outdoor sporting activities and beach trips.

 

Angled Leg

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some manufacturers have developed a canopy that lies somewhere between the 2.

For some of the larger options, this is ideal, as the loss of shade is larger as the dimensions increase. The added stability of a slight angle is also beneficial with a heavier canopy.

 

Conclusion

Pop up canopy tents are a great modern take on the traditional models and are definitely a million times easier to set up.

However, please bear in mind these are designed for fast and easy use.

Portable and lightweight, but not meant for consistent outdoor use for years on end.

With the cheaper price tag than the robust $1000 models, you need to do your part to ensure its durability.

Take down after use, read our reinforcing guide in the FAQ, and take action to keep it in good condition.

Overall they are a great option for many outdoor events, making these events much easier to manage when you don’t have to worry about hours of setting up.

Don’t see your question mentioned? Please comment below or send us a message on the contact us page.

 

Resources and Sources

How to set up a canopy