There doesn’t seem to be any information on the thickness level of the polyester, but this Ozark Trail Canopy model does have a 50+ UV protection rating. This is very important for gazebos, considering their principal purpose is to shield from the sun. In terms of being waterproof, we think it’s more so water repellent. Instant set up has become a huge selling point for many models out there. A lot of gazebos on the market, soft tops and hard tops, can take an hour or more to pitch which can be a big downfall when you want something quick and easy. We think this is the biggest standout in relation to how different this model is to others on the market.
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 ozark trail instant canopy V-Series. In the case of the Eurmax and E-Z Up, they 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.
Likewise, the roller bag is made from commercial-grade components and fabrics, and the frame is thicker and heavier than other canopies. The frame is sturdy and can be customized to your preferred height. For those extra scorching hot days, the peak roof vent creates additional ventilation.
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. These caveats aside, this is still our number one when heading out to the playing field. In the low-cost range of outdoor shelters, the Ozark 10ft x 10ft Trail Canopy is definitely at the top in its class. It sticks to the classics, with a very traditional design that works. There may not be many bells and whistles, but we don’t think it’s necessary here.
To uncover the best canopy tent, we use comprehensive test metrics and cover all manner of use cases and essential details. We also took a close look at the quality of each canopy tent in our craftsmanship metric, as well as measuring each tent when packed up to provide details on portability. We weighted ozark trail straight leg canopy 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. At first glance, the setup for the Quick-Set Escap appears quite daunting.
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. Additionally, its weather-taped seams and waterproof canopy create an excellent barrier against rain. 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.
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. 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 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 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. 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.
Most versions at this price will stick to the really simple designs, with a complete lack of add-ons. While this model isn’t anything ground-breaking by any means, it’s still not oversimplified, and the vents are a prime example of that. GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews.
When stowed in its carrying case, it could easily be confused with a winter travel bag carrying snow skis. Its packed size is more the 6 feet, making it difficult to fit into an average-sized car. But if you’ve got a big enough rig, this is a dream canopy tent to add to your campsite.