Shopping For The Right Beach Tent and Umbrella

Sun, wind along with wind-blown sand protection is essential for an enjoyable day spent by the beach. Along with the right sunscreen, a quality shelter from the beating sun can be the added protection for safely enjoying the day. Below are eight insights to help you make the best choice when shopping for your beach shelter.

Sunburn is painful and uncomfortable and can have serious health consequences, including an increased risk of skin cancer, premature aging, eye damage, dehydration, immune system suppression, and pain and discomfort. It is essential to take steps to protect your skin from the sun, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats and seeking shade when possible.

Sun protection is essential, especially when spending the day at the beach, and along with the right sunscreen, a beach tent or umbrella can be the added protection you need from the sun and wind. Aside from providing an interlude from UV rays, a beach umbrella or beach tent also provides a “home base” for friends, family, and children.

Your sunshade should be well-built, lightweight, and easy to transport and set up. Plus, it should include a quality sand anchor to help keep it in place. Nothing can spoil a day at the beach more than a sharply pointed umbrella pole flying uncontrollably and hurting or even killing a beach-goer.

Protection from Wind and Wind-Blown Sand

Both beach tents and umbrellas can offer protection from wind and wind-blown sand while enjoying a beach day. Strong winds can make it challenging to enjoy your time at the beach, and a beach shelter can provide a comfortable and safe place to relax.

Beach tents, in particular, can provide better protection than umbrellas. They typically have four or more walls, shielding you from all directions. On the other hand, Umbrellas offer limited protection since they only have one closed side. However, some hybrid umbrellas come with adjustable flaps or side curtains that can be used to block wind and sand from certain directions. It’s also possible to use multiple umbrellas together, creating a barrier.

Whether you decide on a beach umbrella, tent, or hybrid, by considering the following details, you can choose a beach shelter that meets your needs and provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience at the beach.

1-Style

While some sunshade manufacturers offer hybrid designs, a cross between a beach umbrella and a beach tent (canopy), the two main categories are umbrellas and tents. Tents tend to be bulkier and heavier than umbrellas but provide more privacy and space for storing other beach stuff.

2-Quality (UV Protection)

Once you’ve decided on a style of beach shade, you’ll next need to look at your budget. Most often, the price reflects quality, but some manufacturers provide a good balance between cost and quality. However, not all umbrellas or tents are made of fabrics that offer UV protection from the sun. Because UV can pass through material depending on its design, choosing a beach umbrella or tent made of cloth with UV-reducing properties is critical.

3-Weight and Size (Transportation)

You’ll need to consider the footprint of the sunshade to ensure it’s large enough to accommodate the size of your group but not so big that it might be prohibited in public spaces or too bulky and heavy to transport comfortably.

4-Setup

The better-quality shades take a few minutes to set up. When arriving at the beach, the last thing you want is to spend half an hour setting up a sunshade while your friends enjoy the beach.

5-Security

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, approximately 2,800 unconfirmed beach umbrella-related injuries occurred between 2010 and 2018. Once buried in the sand, a sand anchor is designed primarily to hold the umbrella in position. The umbrella post must be 18 to 24 inches into the ground for maximum stability. Keep in mind anchors do not work as sufficiently in loose sand. Typically, your beach accessories will help stabilize beach tents. However, ensure the length and quality of any stakes (pegs) are adequate for use on soft sand.

6-Air circulation

Built-in wind vents will allow a refreshing breeze to flow within the canopy while adding wind resistance—the better the ventilation, the more comfortable and stable the sunshade.

7-Corrosion

All metal parts, such as zippers, buttons, and snaps, should be manufactured using corrosion-free metals. In particular, if you plan to spend time near salted water coastlines.

8-Color

According to a pilot study from Emory University School of Medicine, Umbrellas can protect your skin from harmful UV rays, and the darker the color, the higher the protection. Researchers tested the ability of 23 different umbrellas to block UV radiation and discovered that all of the umbrellas stopped at least 77% of the harmful rays.

Summing It All Up

• Size: The size of the shelter should be proportional to the number of people using it. If you’re planning for a family, consider a larger size shelter.
• Material: The material should be durable, lightweight, and wind-resistant. Typically, polyester or nylon is used, and poles are made of rust-resistant materials like aluminum or steel.
• UV Protection: Against harmful UV rays. Look for a unit with a UPF rating of 50 or higher.
• Stability: Make sure the shelter is stable and can withstand windy conditions. Consider purchasing a sand anchor or a sturdy base.
• Portability: Consider how easily it can be transported to the beach. Look for a design that can be easily disassembled and transported in a carrying case.
• Color: Consider the color. Lighter colors reflect more sunlight, while darker colors absorb more sunlight.
• Price: Consider your budget and the features you need before purchasing. Prices vary widely, from inexpensive basic to high-end models with additional features.

Disclosure

rlmo does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article.