Since we’re talking portable shades all this month, naturally, we want to share tips on how to choose and buy the best portable shade for your outdoor activities.
Beach umbrellas, cabanas, tents, canopies are all different types of portable shade options. Here are tips to help you buy the best possible shade for you and your family:
1. Easy to Carry
Yes, a portable shade must be portable. There is no fun in lugging something around that weighs a ton or is a hassle to carry. Choose a shade that can be easily carried around and is quick and simple to install and un-install.
2. Size of the Portable Shade
The size and type of the shade will depend upon the activity for which you need it as well as the number of people who will be using it. A beach umbrella for instance, is good if they’re just a couple of people under it. However, if there are more than 3-4 people seeking shade, you may want to consider a cabana or canopy.
3. Sun Safe Shades
There is little sense in using a portable shade to shield yourself from the sun if it isn’t certified sun safe. The easiest thing to do is look for the UPF rating (UPF, the ultraviolet protection factor, measures protection from UV radiation in fabrics. A UPF of 30 indicates that just 1/30th of the sun’s UV radiation can reach the skin). As with SPF the higher the rating the more UV blockage you get.
In addition, researchers recommend a sunshade with a side on panel. That’s because up to 84 percent of UV rays found in direct sun can be found under your shade structure! This is due to reflected rays. (source: Skin Cancer Foundation.)
The ezShade is the only portable sun shield that blocks over 99% of reflected UVA/UVB rays, keeps you cooler, doubles your shade and instantly attaches any portable umbrella or canopy. You can even add multiple ezShade panels to create a portable privacy enclosure.
4. Secure and Kid-Friendly
No one, and really, no one wants a shade that can hurt or injure their children. Shades with strings that can trip a child over or come loose, shades that are too heavy and may fall and hurt a child or a shade that does not offer you the right level of sun protection are all no-nos. In fact, beach umbrellas, though, a must-have should be anchored securely to prevent unfortunate accidents.
5. Durable and Inexpensive
Finally, you don’t want to buy a new portable shade every summer, do you? So, choose one that is made of durable, weather-resistant material and is affordable as well.
While portable shades, like umbrellas and canopies are important, you need to have a more robust sun protection program that includes clothing, sunscreen and sunglasses. So, go ahead, and get your summer gear in order to have a sunny but sun-safe summer.
What is your favorite portable shade option? An umbrella? A canopy?
Let us know in the comments and then, don’t forget to sign up for the ezShade newsletter to get a cool 20% off on your first purchase with us! Have a question? Need to know more about sun safety? Join us on Facebook and Twitter and let’s help each other stay sun safe this summer.
Photo Credit: downing.amanda
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
This is great information when purchasing outdoor canopies.