13 Best Boat Umbrellas: Which Is Right For You?

1. 1. Editor’s Choice: SureShade PTX Power Shade

   

   Price: $1,343.45

   Amazon Customer Reviews

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   Pros:

   • Ideal for T-top and hardtop boats up to 26 feet long
   • Two actuators powered by individual 12VDC motor deploy 5 feet of shade in just 28 seconds
   • 1.375-Inch stainless steel frame and 600D polyester marine canvas construction for increased integrity and lifespan
   • Includes the rocker switch, wiring (no programming required) and necessary mounting hardware
   • Utilizes an easy to install three-component mounting system
   • Rated for use up to 40mph
   • Canvas is fade resistant
   • Measures 5-feet long, and available in several different widths to precisely match your boat's deck
   • Multiple color options

   Cons:

   • Expensive option
   • Requires some installation
   • No compatible with boats without power

   The SureShade PTX Power Shade is a top-quality, easily installed option for instantly deployable, reliable shade. Ideal for T-top and hardtop boats, this is a compatible system for vessels with power under 26 feet.

   This motorized shade system measures five feet long and is available in several different widths to precisely match your boat’s deck. The purchase includes the .375-inch stainless steel frame, two actuators powered by individual 12VDC motors, a rocker switch and the necessary wiring (no programming required), a fade-resistant canvas, and a matching integrated boot with mounting hardware. There is a fair degree of installation required to get this bad boy set up, but if you or a friend has at least a little bit of electrical experience, you shouldn’t need the help of a professional.

   Once you’re set up, the PTX Power Shade extends five feet in just 28 seconds with the push of a button – pretty handy huh!? You can more or less think of this as a motorized awning for your boat.

   The stainless steel frame and fade-resistant 600D polyester marine canvas construction ensure a long lifespan here, so you can install this shade on your vessel knowing you’ll get years of reliable service. Rated for use up to 40mph, you can even motor at high speeds with this sun shade deployed – a sure sign of high integrity.

   The brand even offers a decent color selection so you can match the aesthetic of this canopy to your boat’s look!

   Find more SureShade PTX Power Shade information and reviews here.

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2. 2. SugarHouse Industries – Universal Boat Shade Extension

   

   Price: $975.00

   Amazon Customer Reviews

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   Pros:

   • Tear resistant universal boat shade extension available in two sizes
   • Easy installation features bolt-on clamps available in a plethora of sizes based on tower diameter
   • Suitable for wind speeds/motoring up to 30mph
   • Canopy is rated for long-term color retention
   • Rust-free, powder-coated aluminum casing with stainless steel arms and fittings for long-term integrity
   • No-fuss assembly - no drilling or customization required
   • Built-in boot allows the shade to fold compactly for easy storage when not in use (can be kept in place with clamps if you choose to)
   • Adjustable mounting height
   • Available in two sizes

   Cons:

   • Expensive option
   • Requires a T-top, hardtop or some kind of mounting rack for installation
   • No color options

   The Universal Boat Shade Extension by SugarHouse Industries is a wonderfully effective and low-hassle option of boat umbrella that’s easily deployed and broken down and built with high integrity and lifespan in mind.

   Designed for compatibility with motorboats featuring a T-top, hardtop, or ski rack, this quick-deploy sun shade simply attaches via bolt-on clamps which are available in a plethora of sizes based on your tower diameter. There is no drilling or customization required, simply secure the bolts, extend the arms, and unfurl the canopy!

   Built with marine-grade canvas and a rust-free, powder-coated aluminum casing with stainless steel arms and fittings for long-term integrity, you’ll own and love this boat umbrella for many seasons to come. It’s even tough enough to withstand winds and boat speeds of up to 30mph!

   Best of all, a built-in boot allows the shade to fold compactly for easy storage when not in use. You can also keep the canopy in place for the duration of your boating day with the clamps if you choose to.

   Available in two different sizes and featuring a widely adjustable height, you’ll likely find that pairing this sun shade with your vessel and personal shade preference is a piece of cake!

   Find more SugarHouse Industries - Universal Boat Shade Extension information and reviews here.

3. 3. Millennium Marine Shade Tree Umbrella

   

   Price: $127.47

   Amazon Customer Reviews

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   Pros:

   • Large, versatile boat umbrella that can be utilized in a variety of different ways
   • Lightweight, aluminum and composite construction resists marine environments
   • Easily movable top that tilts to achieve the ideal coverage angle
   • Convenient vent can be opened on top to let hot air escape, and can be closed to keep rain out
   • Special coating effectively reflects heat to create an especially cool environment underneath the umbrella
   • Quick and easy set up and break down
   • Height adjustable
   • Includes a heavy duty stow and carry bag

   Cons:

   • Lack of tie downs means keeping this umbrella set up at high speeds is not advised
   • Seat/universal mount is sold separately
   • No color options

   The Millennium Marine Shade Tree Umbrella is a large and versatile boat umbrella that can be utilized in a variety of different ways. If you’re seeking a simple and straightforward option that doesn’t require a complicated installation and that also provides more shade than a personal umbrella, this is a great go-to.

   Designed with a special coating that effectively reflects heat, this option creates an especially cool environment underneath the umbrella. There is also a convenient vent that can be opened on top to let hot air escape, and then closed to keep rain and wetness out if necessary.

   Setup and breakdown are exceptionally simple, so if you’re seeking a straightforward, no-hassle option for boating (and beyond), the Shade Tree Umbrella should most definitely be on your radar. Best of all, the easily movable and height-adjustable top tilts to achieve the ideal coverage angle, so making fine-tuned adjustments to achieve that perfect shade setting is made easy.

   The lightweight, aluminum and composite construction furthermore effectively resists marine environments, so you can plan on owning this option for quite some time. The brand even includes a robust carry bag, so properly maintaining this umbrella is made that much easier.

   Unfortunately, the chair mount pictured is sold separately, but we still find this purchase to be of excellent value even when paired with the additional accessory.

   Find more Millennium Marine Shade Tree Umbrella information and reviews here.

4. 4. Magma Products Rail Mounted Boat Umbrella

   

   Price: $149.99

   Amazon Customer Reviews

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   Pros:

   • 100% UV block protective coating significantly reduces heat underneath the umbrella
   • Quick release all-angle round rail mount easily adjusts to any position
   • Venting mesh windproof design
   • Built with non-corroding fade resistant acrylic nylon materials to resist the effects of marine environments
   • 2-Piece fiberglass shaft with chrome brass joint
   • Entire canopy is reinforced to each corner tie-down with polyester webbing
   • Designed for attachment to vertical, horizontal, or angled 1-1/2 inch diameter round railings
   • Windproof design does not allow the canopy to turn inside out or lose its shape in gusty wind conditions
   • Fair price point

   Cons:

   • Set up and break down is a bit more intensive than some of the competition
   • Mounting hardware is not universal
   • No color options

   The Magma Products Rail Mounted Boat Umbrella is a highly versatile and well-designed shade option for boating that is built to provide ample shade for most cockpits, and is able to withstand strong wind gusts.

   Built with a 100% UV block protective coating that significantly reduces heat underneath the umbrella, this is a brilliant option for boaters seeking a shade system that truly works to cool down their deck space. A venting mesh windproof design furthermore goes on to allow a breeze without compromising integrity.

   The umbrella’s square shape measures 6 feet across, so this unit provides quite a bit of shade for small and large boating groups alike.

   Setup is fairly intensive, but won’t be difficult after a little practice. A quick-release all-angle round rail mount easily adjusts to any position, while a 2-piece fiberglass shaft with chrome brass joint enables easy height adjustments. The entire canopy is also reinforced to each corner tie-down with polyester webbing.

   Designed for attachment to vertical, horizontal, or angled 1-1/2 inch diameter round railings, be sure to check your boat’s specs before purchasing this model. It can likely be modified to fit your vessel if your railings are not in alignment with the install hardware, but you’ll have to carefully think through the process.

   While this unit is not really recommended for moving at high speeds, the windproof design does not allow the canopy to turn inside out or lose its shape in gusty wind conditions, so you can likely motor around with this umbrella up as long as you’re not cookin’ too fast out there! 

   Very reasonably priced considering the quality here and built to last through many boating seasons, we find this option from Magma Products to be of excellent value. 

   Find more Magma Products Rail Mounted Boat Umbrella information and reviews here.

5. 5. Taylor Made Products AnchorShade III Sun Shade

   

   Price: $120.84

   Amazon Customer Reviews

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   Pros:

   • 6 by 6 foot square, UV treated nylon umbrella compatible with almost any vessel
   • Versatile option that can be quickly and easily deployed in a variety of contexts on and off your boat
   • Powder coated aluminum frame has a 4 point locking height up to 8 feet
   • Adjustable straps for mounting flexibility
   • Non corrosive hardware stands up to marine environments
   • Solid fiberglass structural ribs and hinge connectors add further integrity
   • Includes a heavy duty carrying case with shoulder strap

   Cons:

   • Not recommended for use at high speeds or in especially strong winds
   • Although setup is easy, you will require at least a few cleats, poles, or other suitable anchoring points on your vessel
   • No color options

   The AnchorShade III Sun Shade is a 6 by 6 foot square, UV treated nylon umbrella compatible with almost any motorboat that’s quickly and easily deployed in a variety of contexts both on and off your vessel.

   While this umbrella is not recommended for use at high speeds or in aggressive winds, it’s designed with high integrity in mind, and should hold up for many seasons of boating with the proper care. Solid fiberglass structural ribs and hinge connectors stand the test of time well, while the powder-coated aluminum frame and non-corrosive hardware effectively resist marine environments.

   Featuring a four-point locking height up to eight feet and adjustable straps for further mounting flexibility, getting this umbrella to work with your vessel is made easy. Setting this unit up for the first time might require a little patience, but the expansive shade it provides is well worth the (short) learning curve.

   Mounting this bad boy will require four anchoring/tethering points, so think about how you might rig this umbrella before purchasing. If you have some cleats, boat rails, or rod holders onboard, you’re in business! 

   Find more Taylor Made Products AnchorShade III Sun Shade information and reviews here.

6. 6. Sport-Brella Versa-Brella

   

   Price: $35.75

   Amazon Customer Reviews

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   Pros:

   • Versatile, go-anywhere personal clamp-on umbrella
   • Folds into a compact carrying case weighing only 1.8 pounds for awesome portability
   • Offers UPF 50 plus protection to help keep skin safe from 99.5% of UVA and UVB rays
   • 4-way, 360-degree swivel and 2 push button hinges enables the umbrella to be adjusted to any angle to block the sun
   • Heavy-duty universal clamp connects to square and tubular surfaces
   • Multiple color options available
   • Two sizes available
   • Excellent price point

   Cons:

   • Not recommended for use at high speeds or in especially strong winds
   • Clamp components are plastic and should be handled with care
   • Only provides shade for one person

   Here’s an inexpensive and exceedingly easy to implement shade solution that can be used on your boat, and virtually anywhere else! The Sport-Brella Versa-Brella is a personal clamp-on umbrella that can be instantly attached and detached from seat backs and armrests, boat rails, and more.

   If you’re seeking a no-nonsense, no-hassle shade option that doesn’t require any kind of installation or hardware whatsoever, this is a great option to have on your radar.

   Implementing a heavy-duty universal clamp, this unit connects to square and tubular surfaces and features 4-way, 360-degree swivel for finding that perfect shade angle. Offering UPF 50 plus protection, the Versa-Brella keeps you safe from 99.5% of UVA and UVB rays – so those serious about sun protection should perk their ears here.

   Available in two different sizes, both models break down remarkably compact and lightweight for easy go-anywhere use and come with a handy carry bag included. There are also several color options available for personalizing the aesthetic of your umbrella.

   Find more Sport-Brella Versa-Brella information and reviews here.

7. 7. G4Free UPF 50+ Adjustable Beach Umbrella with Universal Clamp

   

   Price: $49.99

   Amazon Customer Reviews

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   Pros:

   • Versatile, clamp-on personal umbrella for easy and reliable grab-and-go use
   • Measures 46 by 44 inches when deployed
   • UPF 50+ protection featuring a silver coating fabric layer that further reflects heat
   • Designed with lightweight and flexible fiberglass ribs
   • Flex spring top allows the umbrella canopy to bend in any direction
   • Includes a portable carrying case weighing only 2 pounds and measuring 43 inches long
   • Includes a one year warranty

   Cons:

   • Not recommended for use at high speeds or in especially high winds
   • The maximum clamp diameter for mounting is 1.37 inches
   • Color selction is limited and not that diverse

   The G4Free UPF 50+ Adjustable Beach Umbrella with Universal Clamp is the perfect option for folks seeking a boat umbrella that’s especially portable, and easy to implement. Measuring 46 by 44 inches when deployed, this model offers reliable, grab-and-go personal shade that you can bring with you essentially anywhere! 

   Designed with lightweight and flexible fiberglass ribs and offering UPF 50+ protection, this umbrella even features a silver coating fabric layer that further reflects heat. It’s the perfect size for securing to your boat seat or side railing, and is even equipped with a flex spring top that allows the umbrella canopy to bend in any direction.

   The only real downfall here considering this design is that the maximum clamp diameter for mounting is 1.37 inches, so it may not be able to attach to thicker boat rails. That being said, the clamp is super easy to use and versatile, so finding a place to effectively mount this umbrella should not be very difficult.

   Including a portable carrying case weighing only 2 pounds and measuring 43 inches long, taking the G4Free umbrella anywhere is made easy. The brand even includes a one year warranty so you can purchase in complete confidence you’re scoring a quality product.

   Find more G4Free UPF 50+ Adjustable Beach Umbrella with Universal Clamp information and reviews here.

8. 8. Naviskin Bimini Top Covers

   

   Price: $144.99

   Amazon Customer Reviews

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   Pros:

   • Folding bimini-top that can remain set up at high speeds
   • Marine grade construction built from 600D polyester canvas with PU coating
   • Many sizes available in order to poroperly fit the dimensions of your boat
   • Includes all stainless steel mounting screws and hardware
   • Very reasonably priced
   • Wide color selection available
   • Includes a one year warranty

   Cons:

   • Will require you to carefully measure your boat's dimensions (measuring guidance is available through the above link)
   • Installation is reasonably intensive - this will be a project
   • Complaints about the overall longterm integrity of the fabric and mounting hardware - you get what you pay for

   Naviskin’s Bimini Top Covers offer excellent protection from the sun and elements at a very reasonable price point compared to most quality-built bimini tops. Available in a wide array of sizing in order to accommodate different length and dimension boats, chances are this shade system is compatible with your vessel.

   The marine grade construction is built from 600D polyester canvas with a PU coating, so this product is designed to resist the corrosive effects of saltwater environments. All of the included mounting hardware is furthermore stainless steel to avoid rusting out. That being said, there are some customer complaints about the long-term integrity of the fabric and hardware, so it seems you get what you pay for in terms of lifespan here. We find this option to be of excellent value regardless, but if you’re boating on lakes and rivers as opposed to the sea, you’ll really get a lot of bang for your buck with this one.

   The brand does at least offer a one year warranty, so if there are any defective issues with your bimini, you’re covered.

   Able to remain deployed even when moving at reasonably high speeds, this is a shade system you can set and forget for your entire day on the water – an underrated feature for boaters who do a lot of moving around and want to avoid setting up and breaking down their umbrella all day long.

   Installation is certainly a bit more intensive than a lot of the other listed shade options here, but once you carefully measure your boat’s dimensions using the guidance available through this link and select the right size bimini, you’ll find that getting this unit mounted on your boat isn’t so challenging. It’s a project, yes, but a rewarding one considering your boat will be set up with instantly deployable, integrated shade.

   Available in a wide array of colors, you can even match this option to your boat’s aesthetic.  

   Find more Naviskin Bimini Top Covers information and reviews here.

9. 9. Oceansouth Bimini Extension Airflow Boat Shades

   

   Price: $175.56

   Amazon Customer Reviews

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   Pros:

   • Easy to install and affordable bimini or T-top shade extender
   • 1 1/4 inch Telescopic aluminum poles with tapered collar ends fit into rod holder mounts
   • Holds up fine while moving at high speeds, or even while trailering your boat
   • Heavy-duty nylon tie down straps with adjustment buckles ensure a tight and secure setup
   • Height can be adjusted for comfortable seating or standing
   • Multiple sizes available

   Cons:

   • Some complaints about the tensioning once set up
   • Will require you to do some measuring on your vessel in order to purchase the right size
   • No color options

   The Oceansouth Bimini Extension Airflow Boat Shade is a straightforward and easy to implement solution for boaters who want simply want to extend their T-top or bimini shade coverage.

   Priced very reasonably and available in few different sizes to properly match your boat’s dimensions, this is an awesome go-to that will ensure everyone on board your vessel is out of the direct sun.

   Setup is remarkably easy once you determine the right size extension shade – just drop the adjustable height mounting poles into your rod holders at the stern, and then tension out the shade by securing the straps to cleats, or side rails. If your boat lacks rod holders, you may still be able to find a way to rig this unit, but carefully consider your alternatives before purchasing.

   This bimini extender holds up fine while moving at high speeds, or even while trailering your boat, so this is a shade system you can set and forget when you want to. The height can furthermore be adjusted for comfortable seating or standing, so you and your crew can make sure to maintain space for casting a fishing pole and other on-the-water activities.

   While you’ll have to spend a bit of time determining the right size and then think through the best install approach, we find the price point and innovative design here to be well worth the effort!

   Find more Oceansouth Bimini Extension Airflow Boat Shades information and reviews here.

10. 10. North East Harbor Boat Sun Shade Top Extension for Biminis & T-Tops

    

    Price: $86.99

    Amazon Customer Reviews

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    Pros:

    • Extends the sun shade area of biminis or T-tops
    • 7.8oz Marine-Grade 600 Denier heavy duty canvas top
    • Simple design - 1 1/8" diameter telescopic aluminum poles mount securely into rod holders
    • Adjustable pole height from 3.75 to 6 feet, perfect for sitting or standing
    • Adjustable tie-down straps ensure a tight and secure fit
    • Can be used while the boat is moving - but be mindful not to exceed high speeds
    • Multiple sizes available

    Cons:

    • Mounting may be difficult if your boat lacks rod holders, or if their placement proves challenging
    • Will require you to do some measuring on your vessel before purchasing
    • No color options

    North East Harbor’s Sun Shade Extension is another very reasonably priced option for expanding on the shade your boat’s bimini or T-top already provides.

    Built with an exceedingly simple design, 1 1/8-inch diameter telescopic aluminum poles mount securely into rod holders at the stern of your vessel, while adjustable tie-down straps help to keep the shade system in place and properly tension it. The shade extension is available in two different sizes, so it’s a fit for most sixed motor boats.

    The 7.8oz marine-grade 600 Denier heavy-duty canvas top should stand the test of time quite well, and is furthermore able to remain erected even when moving at fairly high speeds – a simple, but underrated feature.

    Featuring an adjustable pole height from 3.75 to 6 feet, this shade extender is perfect for both sitting and standing, so you can implement this accessory however you see fit.

    While this option will require you to do some measuring on your vessel before purchasing and then to determine the best way to mount it, you’ll find it’s well worth the added effort once you have it dialed.

    Find more North East Harbor Boat Sun Shade Top Extension for Biminis & T-Tops information and reviews here.

11. 11. Taylor Made Products T-Top Shade Kit

    

    Price: $563.70

    Amazon Customer Reviews

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    Pros:

    • Lightweight and easy to install sun shade for use on center console vessels
    • Tough marine-grade polyester fabric is built with high integrity and elasticity
    • Support poles seat into your boat's rod holders
    • Outer UV reflective coating for a 98% effective UV block
    • Secure fit-speed tested up to 30 knots
    • Sets up and breaks down quickly and easily and includes a nice carry bag
    • Includes a one-year warranty

    Cons:

    • Expensive sun shade
    • May be difficult to install if your boat lacks rod holders, or if their placement is awkward
    • No color options

    While this option is certainly more expensive than a lot of the listed alternatives here, the T-Top Shade Kit by Taylor Made Products is a quality-built, top-tier shade solution that will outperform and outlast the competition.

    This is a lightweight and easy to install sun shade for use on center console vessels designed with tough, marine-grade polyester fabric built with high integrity and elasticity in mind. Secure fit-speed tested up to 30 knots, you can furthermore run your boat at high speeds and leave this shade system erected in high winds without issue.

    Support poles seat into your boat’s rod holders at the stern, while the front of the shade kit simply lashes to your T-top, bimini, or center console. If your vessel lacks standard rod holders but you think you can rig this style shade kit anyway, we suggest maybe opting for a less expensive option and seeing how it plays out.

    The outer UV reflective coating provides a 98% effective UV block, so you and your crew will not have to worry about the dangerous effects of sun exposure while beneath this shade kit. 

    Including a one year warranty, you can purchase in confidence you’re scoring a built-to-last, quality product here.

    Find more Taylor Made Products T-Top Shade Kit information and reviews here.

12. 12. TeBaisea T-Top Bow Shade

    

    Price: $53.99

    Amazon Customer Reviews

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    Pros:

    • Specially designed to attach to T-tops in order to shade the bow
    • Available in several sizes ranging from 6 by 9 feet to 9 by 10 feet
    • Waterproof airflow material promotes air circulation and reduces the accumulation of heat and moisture
    • Excellent tear and abrasion resistance
    • Folds up neatly and compact for easy storage virtually anywhere onboard
    • Ropes at all four corners are used to secure the shade wherever you see fit
    • Great price point

    Cons:

    • Will not be able to view your surroundings when seated at the bow with the shade deployed
    • May or may not be able to see over the shade while driving - suggested to take down the shade while motoring
    • No color selection

    The TeBaisea T-Top Bow Shade is a unique shade option for your boat’s bow that sets up quickly and easily and breaks down remarkably compact for simple storage. Designed for use with T-tops, if your motor boat has some bow seating, you’ll love the ability to rapidly shade the front of the boat!

    Available in several sizes ranging from 6 by 9 feet to 9 by 10 feet, the brand has built this innovative boat umbrella with a waterproof airflow material that promotes air circulation and reduces the accumulation of heat and moisture, so it won’t get swampy under there. The fabric furthermore offers excellent tear and abrasion resistance, so it should hold up for quite a few seasons as long as you properly maintain it.

    Set up is fast and intuitive – simply utilize the ropes at all four corners to secure the shade to the T-top front, and wherever else you see fit in order to effectively close-off the bow.

    The only real downfall here is that the passengers at the bow will not be able to view their surroundings – so this full-coverage shade system does include this tradeoff. 

    Find more TeBaisea T-Top Bow Shade information and reviews here.

13. 13. MOOCY Sun Shade Canopy for Kayaks and Canoes

    

    Price: $41.99

    Amazon Customer Reviews

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    Pros:

    • Easy operation, quick-deploy sunshade compatible with kayaks, canoes, and other small watercraft
    • Offers approximately 8 square feet of coverage
    • Fits most kayaks using existing boat deck hardware or using easy owner-installed attachment components
    • Built from a coated sunscreen cloth and collapsible aluminum rods for an exceptionally lightweight and packable design

    Cons:

    • Not recommended for use in windy conditions
    • Installation will require some ingenuity if your vessel lacks fishing rod holders to place the two main supports
    • Limited color options

    Here’s a brilliant shade solution for kayaks, canoes, and smaller personal vessels that’s affordable, easy to install, and bound to turn heads on the water! The MOOCY Sun Shade Canopy is a game-changer when it comes to beating the summer heat while out for a leisurely paddle.

    Offering easy operation, quick deployment, and approximately eight square feet of shade coverage, this is a killer piece of gear to own for all sorts of paddling contexts that’s compatible with most canoes and kayaks utilizing the existing deck hardware.

    Built from a coated sunscreen cloth and collapsible aluminum rods, this unit is built to be exceptionally lightweight and packable, so it can come with you virtually anywhere. The one real downfall here is that if conditions are especially windy, it may be a bit much for the MOOCY Sun Shade to handle.

    A brilliant accessory to own for sunny days on the water, as well as a thoughtful and unique gift for a kayaker in your life, this is a wonderful product to have on your radar for all sorts of applications!

    Find more MOOCY Sun Shade Canopy for Kayaks and Canoes information and reviews here.

The Harmful Effects of the Sun Are No Joke!

According to the EPA, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. UV radiation exposure is a serious thing to consider if you like to recreate outside, and boating is one of the highest exposure activities you can partake in when it comes to the harmful effects of the sun.

Too much UV exposure can result in Melanoma, cataracts, premature aging of the skin, and other skin damage - but the good news is you can dramatically reduce your risk by utilizing sunblock, and minimizing your time in the direct sun by using shade systems, and sun garments.

Center Console and T-Top Extensions

Extending the shade that already exists on your boat is a great way to ensure everyone on board is covered from the harmful effects of the sun. Shade devices that simply attach to your vessel's T-top or center console are furthermore easier to set up than boat umbrellas or biminis that require more permanent installations and are typically less expensive.

While most of these devices work by utilizing the integrated rod holders at a vessel's stern as anchoring points for the rear support poles, there are likely some workarounds when it comes to set up if your boat doesn't have rod holders, or you require them to remain free for fishing.

Some of our favorite boat umbrellas and shade systems of this type include:

• SureShade PTX Power Shade
• Universal Boat Shade Extension by SugarHouse Industries
• Oceansouth Bimini Extension Airflow Boat Shade
• North East Harbor’s Sun Shade Extension
• TeBaisea T-Top Bow Shade
• Taylor Made Products T-Top Shade Kit
• Dolphin PRO2, PRO3 T-Top Canopy Extension Kit

Bimini Tops

If your boat's design is compatible with a bimini top, it may be the go-to shade system for you. Biminis, once properly installed, can be almost instantly deployed and broken down, and remain in place on your vessel. It's a brilliant solution for when you want to get out of the UV for a bit, and then return to soaking up the sun.

While purchasing and installing a bimini top will require some forethought and measurement (most bimini tops need to be somewhat precisely matched to your boat's dimensions) the added effort of selecting the right unit and then installing it is well worth the convenience and performance.

A few bimini tops worth checking out include:

• Naviskin’s Bimini Top Covers
• VIVOHOME Bimini Top
• MSC Bimini Top Boat Cover
• KAKIT 750D Bimini Top
• Leader Accessories Bimini Tops

Personal Umbrellas

Don't overlook the brilliance of utilizing a simple personal umbrella on board your vessel. While these shade systems typically only provide coverage for one person, they are very affordable, and can be utilized virtually anywhere.

Most models employ an easy to use clamp or clip, so you can secure them to seats, railings, arm rests and more - the applications are endless! A versatile style shade system that will work well as a boat umbrella, beach, umbrella, and so much more! 

Our top picks include:

• Sport-Brella Versa-Brella
• G4Free UPF 50+ Adjustable Beach Umbrella with Universal Clamp
• Franklin Sports All Position Umbrella with Universal Clamp
• Prospo Adjustable Beach Umbrella with Universal Clamp

Mounting Your Own Boat Umbrella

Don't overlook the practicality of installing a deck-mounted umbrella holder on your boat for simply using a standard patio or beach umbrella! If you have a space on your vessel to fix a quality umbrella mount, this may be both an affordable and effective go-to shade solution.

Here are a few different style umbrella holders worth checking out for creating a DIY shade system on your boat:

• Millennium Marine Shade Tree Umbrella Holder
• Deck Mount Umbrella Holder by Homydom 
• Original Umbrella Stand
• JINHAN Outdoor Umbrella Clamp