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Best Shade Sails! 4 Best Sun Shade Sails

Updated: September 18, 2019     Eric Clark

Contents

  • 1 Best Shade Sails (Triangular)
  • 2 Best Sail Shade (Rectangular)
  • 3 Patio Sun Sails
  • 4 Shade Sail Reviews
    • 4.1 Windscreen4Less Custom Size Cut-to-size Sun Shade Sail Triangle
    • 4.2 New ProSource Sand Color 16′ Oversized Sun Shade Sail Shade canopy Sun Shelter
    • 4.3 Apontus Sun Shade Sail Rectangle UV 18′ x 18′, Sand
    • 4.4 Shade Sails Square 18×18 ft Sun Sail Shade Cover – Tan
  • 5 Shade Sail Buying Guide
    • 5.1 Patio Environment
    • 5.2 Material
    • 5.3 Shape
    • 5.4 Size
    • 5.5 Mounting Hardware
    • 5.6 Color
  • 6 Conclusion: The Best Sun Shade Sail

Best Shade Sails (Triangular)

After many hours of research, examining all of the qualities of the best shade sails available, we have determined that the triangular Windscreen4Less line of sails are the best sail shades on the market. These lofty fabric patio covers are made of 180GSM knitted high-density polyethylene fabric, with durable steel D-rings on each corner and included nylon cords for easy suspension.

They are covered under a 3-year warranty, which is outstanding.

Best of all, they are available in a wide array of colors, and 17 size configurations! You’ll be able to get the exact size you need for your patio space. Windscreen4Less has put together the ideal triangular shade sail package, ready for your home.

Windscreen4less 16' x 16' x 16' Sun Shade Sail Canopy in Ice Blue with Commercial Grade (3 Year Warranty) Customized Sizes Available
Windscreen4less 16' x 16' x 16' Sun Shade Sail Canopy in Ice Blue with Commercial Grade (3 Year Warranty) Customized Sizes Available
  • 16' x 16' x 16' (4.9m x 4.9m x 4.9m) triangle...
  • Curved sides add 1"-8" for each side of sail, and...
  • Constructed with brand new 180GSM high density...
  • D-ring design on each corner, with 16 feet PE rope...
  • Has a 3-year warranty, and it’s easy to clean...
$54.98
Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

For a complete review of the Windscreen4Less Shade, please see our Product Reviews section below.

Best Sail Shade (Rectangular)

If you’re looking for a rectangular or square wind sail shade, the Talentstar Apontus square shade sail line is a great starting point. Available in two sizes, but in only one color, these shade sails are UV protected for long-lasting sun protection, and durable in gusty conditions. Made of a knitted polyethylene fabric these are not waterproof, but will keep you cool!

For a full review of this shade sail, please see our Product Reviews section below.

Talentstar 18 x 18 ft Square UV Apontus Sun Shade Sail, Sand
Talentstar 18 x 18 ft Square UV Apontus Sun Shade Sail, Sand

Last update on 2023-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Patio Sun Sails

One of the Best Shade Sails
One of the Best Shade Sails

Sun Shade Sails can bring great beauty to a patio, deck, or pool area. They can create a pleasant oasis with a different ambiance than umbrellas or other shade devices can. Reminiscent of a bird in flight, they billow softly and blow in the wind, making a sweeping, dramatic design accent.

The best shade sails are also quite useful: they can block the sun over a pool that otherwise could not be covered. Or maybe they shade a patio area with no central poles or other obstructions in the way.

And if they’re UV-protected, they are helpful in protecting the skin from harmful over-exposure to sun!

They have certain setup requirements, however. You must properly secure all of the mounting points on your shade sail, regardless of whether there are three or four mounting points. Take a look at our detailed guide to setting up an outdoor sun shade sail for more. This guide is not specific to any particular patio shade sail but is rather a general guide to give readers a sense of what to consider, and what installation will involve.

Also included is a buyers guide that goes over several of the qualities to consider when shopping for a patio wind sail.

Shade Sail Reviews

In this section, we will examine several of the best sun sails for patios and consider the pros and cons of each. Here we will also look at the additional mounting bracket information needed to fully install the sun shade sails for various applications.

We’ll start with a comparison table, and then move onto our shade sail reviews. We’ll conclude with a roundup of our favorites.

Windscreens4LessNew ProsourceTalentstar ApontusShade Sails Square
Windscreen4Less Shade SailSun Shade Sail Over a PoolApontus Shade SailSquare 18x18 ft Sun Sail Shade Cover - Tan
ShapeTraingularTriangularSquareSquare
Dimensions17 size options16' x 16' x 16'12' x 12', 18' x 18'18' x 18'
Colors9 Color OptionsTanTan, BrownTan
Price on Amazon

Windscreen4Less Custom Size Cut-to-size Sun Shade Sail Triangle

Windscreen4Less Shade Sail
Windscreen4Less Shade Sail

Our first entry is the Windscreen4Less Custom Size Cut-to-Size Sun Shade Sail Triangle. The 2nd Generation is a really great option, as they offer 17 different sizing options, which means you can get exactly the cut you need, tailor-made for your space!

Windscreen4Less supplies their sails in nine delightful colors, making them a compelling offering!

The Windscreen4Less line of shade sails is made of high-quality screen fabric, which offers UV Protection, blocking up to 90% of the sun’s rays. It also allows for cool air to travel through the membrane, but prevents hot air from getting through, resulting in a pleasant shaded environment.

The sail is semi-water resistant, stopping misty rain from getting through, but allowing heavy rain pass through. This means there will be no heavy pool of water weighing down the sail after a downpour.

If you want to make a multiple patio sail display, the Windscreen4Less series may be your best bet, as there are so many different configurations to choose from, with different sizes and colors but similar materials.

Mounting Hardware and Details

The Windscreen4Less 2nd Generation Custom Cut Sun Shade needs mounting hardware in order to suspend it. We recommend the CosCool Triangle Hardware Mounting Kit.

The CosCool mounting kit consists of three brackets that install to something structural, such as a house wall, a deck board or column, a tree, or a post with a cement footing.

It also includes two adjustable turnbuckle hooks that attach to the sail, and one carabiner, and all necessary screws to support the system

COSCOOL Sun Shade Sail Hardware Kit Anti-Rust Stainless Steel for Outdoor Patio Triangular Shade Sail Installation, 6 Inch
COSCOOL Sun Shade Sail Hardware Kit Anti-Rust Stainless Steel for Outdoor Patio Triangular Shade Sail Installation, 6 Inch
Stainless steel(304) hardware kit for Triangle sun shade sails installation.
$14.99

Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Bottom Line

The 2nd Generation Custom Cut Triangle Sun Shade Sail offers by far the greatest number of configurations and options and can be made to work in almost any environment.

We love the color selection, the sizing options, and the overall setup of the order process. And we especially love the three-year warranty Windscreen4Less offers.

These are the best triangular shade sails on the market!

Windscreen4less 16' x 16' x 16' Sun Shade Sail Canopy in Ice Blue with Commercial Grade (3 Year Warranty) Customized Sizes Available
Windscreen4less 16' x 16' x 16' Sun Shade Sail Canopy in Ice Blue with Commercial Grade (3 Year Warranty) Customized Sizes Available
  • 16' x 16' x 16' (4.9m x 4.9m x 4.9m) triangle shaped sunshade sails...
  • Curved sides add 1"-8" for each side of sail, and enhances pull...
  • Constructed with brand new 180GSM high density polyethylene knitted...
  • D-ring design on each corner, with 16 feet PE rope makes it easy for...
  • Has a 3-year warranty, and it’s easy to clean with mild detergent...
$54.98
Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


New ProSource Sand Color 16′ Oversized Sun Shade Sail Shade canopy Sun Shelter

New ProSource Sand Color 16' Oversized Sun Shade Sail Shade canopy Sun Shelter

The New ProSource Sand 16′ Sun Shade is an attractive product start to our list. The triangular shade sail is made of highly UV Protecting Polypropylene fabric which blocks out 89%-92% of the sun. The end result is a significantly cooler and more comfortable space under these fabric patio covers.

The New ProSource sail is 16’9″ on all three sides when pulled tightly.

It is water-resistant and disperses water somewhat, but it does allow rainwater to get through the sail.

Currently, this unit is only available in the sand color. The color is pretty and mild, as shown in the above photo (note: the above photo shows two sails).

Mounting Hardware and Details

The ProSource Sand Sun Shade needs mounting hardware, and we recommend the CosCool Triangle Hardware Mounting Kit.

The CosCool mounting kit consists of three brackets that install to something structural, such as a house wall, a deck board, a tree (be gentle!), or a post with a cement footing. It also includes two adjustable turnbuckle hooks that attach to the sail and one carabiner.

COSCOOL Sun Shade Sail Hardware Kit Anti-Rust Stainless Steel for Outdoor Patio Triangular Shade Sail Installation, 6 Inch
COSCOOL Sun Shade Sail Hardware Kit Anti-Rust Stainless Steel for Outdoor Patio Triangular Shade Sail Installation, 6 Inch
Stainless steel(304) hardware kit for Triangle sun shade sails installation.
$14.99

Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Bottom Line

The New ProSource 16′ Triangle Sun Shade Sail is an excellent option among wind sails for patios and is an ideal option for those looking for a large sail at a decent price.

We wish it was available in more color options, but as is it is quite a good choice for many looking for beautiful, soaring shade.

ProSource New Sand Color 16' Oversized Sun Shade Sail Shade Canopy Sun Shelter, Tan
ProSource New Sand Color 16' Oversized Sun Shade Sail Shade Canopy Sun Shelter, Tan
  • Blocks 89-92% of UV
  • Reduces the temperature under the shade
  • Easy to install
  • Made of Heavy-Duty Polyproplyene
  • Includes steel D-rings in each corner
Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2023-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Apontus Sun Shade Sail Rectangle UV 18′ x 18′, Sand

Apontus Sun Shade Sail Rectangle UV 18' x 18', Sand

The Apontus Patio Shade Sail type of shade sail to the New ProSource, but it is rectangular in shape. It comes in two configurations, one a 12′ x 12′ rectangular sail, and the other an 18′ x 18′ rectangular sail.

There are two color configurations, tan and brown, and we wish there were more options!

The Apontus is made of UV-protecting polyethylene fabric, and is configured for pleasant ventilation and is quite breathable. Cool air is allowed through the fabric, but hot air is repelled, resulting in an agreeable environment underneath.

The 18′ x 18′ unit shades 20-30 people on a deck, or would comfortably shade a significant portion of a pool.

The Apontus can be attached to the house, the deck, to a tree, or to posts with concrete footings.

Its rectangular design makes it a bit more complicated to secure than a triangular shade sail, as you will need two points not connected to the back of the house, which many people don’t have easy access to.

Mounting Hardware and Details

For mounting brackets, we recommend the CosCool Rectangle and Square Shade Sail Mounting Kit.

This hardware kit is similar to the CosCool Triangle mount kit mentioned above and is quite flexible. It is designed for rectangular fastening and includes four brackets, two adjustable turnbuckles, and two carabiners. All additional necessary hardware is included.

COSCOOL Sun Shade Sail Hardware Kit Stainless Steel Anti-Rust for Outdoor Patio Rectangular/Square Shade Sail Installation, 6 Inch
COSCOOL Sun Shade Sail Hardware Kit Stainless Steel Anti-Rust for Outdoor Patio Rectangular/Square Shade Sail Installation, 6 Inch
Stainless steel(304) hardware kit for Rectangle/Square sun shade sails installation.
$17.99

Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Bottom Line

If your yard configuration works with it, the Apontus rectangular sail is one of the best sun shade sails you can choose. It is reasonably priced, has two size options, and is fairly stylish.

Again, we wish there were more color options available! The two color choices are nice, but more exciting colors would be a big improvement.

Talentstar 18 x 18 ft Square UV Apontus Sun Shade Sail, Sand
Talentstar 18 x 18 ft Square UV Apontus Sun Shade Sail, Sand
Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2023-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Shade Sails Square 18×18 ft Sun Sail Shade Cover – Tan

Square 18x18 ft Sun Sail Shade Cover - Tan
Square 18×18 ft Sun Sail Shade Cover – Tan

The Shade Sails Square 18′ x 18′ Shade Sail is also an excellent option for a shade sail and comes in an attractive tan color.

This sun sail is made of durable polyethylene fabric (185GSM) and is designed for optimal airflow. The fabric allows cool air to penetrate it and travel to the shaded environment, but it repels hot air, resulting in a pleasant shaded experience. It also offers UV Protection, blocking out 89%-93% of UV rays.

The fabric is mildly water resistant — the unit will prevent light, misty rain from getting through the sail, but it will allow heavy rain though, so water won’t pool and weigh everything down.

The Shade Sails Square 18’x18′ can be mounted in a similar fashion to the previous shade sails: on the side of the house, attached to the deck or a post, to a tree, or to a post in the ground with a concrete footing.

Mounting Hardware and Details

For mounting brackets, just as on the Shade Sails Square sun shade sail, we recommend the CosCool Rectangle and Square Shade Sail Mounting Kit.

This hardware kit is of similar design to the CosCool Triangle kit above and is quite flexible.

It is designed for rectangular fastening and includes four brackets, two adjustable turnbuckles, and two carabiners.

This fastener kit does not include the mounting screws, so be sure to pick them up as well.

COSCOOL Sun Shade Sail Hardware Kit Stainless Steel Anti-Rust for Outdoor Patio Rectangular/Square Shade Sail Installation, 6 Inch
COSCOOL Sun Shade Sail Hardware Kit Stainless Steel Anti-Rust for Outdoor Patio Rectangular/Square Shade Sail Installation, 6 Inch
Stainless steel(304) hardware kit for Rectangle/Square sun shade sails installation.
$17.99

Last update on 2023-03-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Bottom Line

The Shade Sails 18′ x 18′ Sun Shade is a beautiful option, certainly and is a good choice for a rectangular shade sail.

Like some of the other shade sails on our list so far, we wish that the color selection was significantly more expansive. Exciting color options make shade sails much more interesting, in general! If you’re cool with the color, these are among the best sail shades around.

Square 18x18 ft Sun Sail Shade Cover - Tan
Square 18x18 ft Sun Sail Shade Cover - Tan
  • Effective Harmful UV Blocking
  • Optimum Ventilation: The fabric enables cool air to penetrate the...
  • Air Circulation Possible - Specially Knitted Polyethylene Fabric
  • Ideal for Deck, Gardens, Patio, Backyards, Entryways, Pools &...
  • Each corner of the shade has metal hooks and it takes minutes to set...
$129.09
Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2023-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Shade Sail Buying Guide

Purchasing a wind sail shade is a difficult decision. There are many different configurations of sail available, and many different aspects to consider when shopping for a patio sail. Among these aspects are the patio environment, material quality, shape, size, mounting hardware, and color. This buying guide covers each of these aspects in order to give some context to the reviews on this page.

Patio Environment

The most important part of a shade sail design is a deep consideration of the environment around the patio sail. Proper mounting points are needed in order to support the sun sail design, and this may require additional work.

OutsideModern has supplied an in-depth guide to proper installation of patio sails so please click here for more information.

Material

Material type and quality are important to consider when looking at canvas patio covers. You want a durable fabric capable of withstanding the wind and the elements, but also not so thick that it does not allow air to flow through the weave. Polyester and nylon are common fabric types for patio sails.

Shape

There are two common shapes to be found among shade sails. Typically these sails are rectangular or triangular in shape. Mounting considerations change depending on the shape of the sail and the patio environment, so consider your design and how the shapes of the sails you choose will impact that design.

Size

The size of a shade sail must be in proportion to the area in which it is installed. There needs to be enough space around the sun sail in order to properly secure it to its mounting points. Be sure to leave enough area around the sail to secure it, while also choosing a patio sail large enough to shade the area you wish to protect.

Mounting Hardware

Different outdoor sails require different types of mounting hardware. In these reviews, each of the sails we cover has a matching set of mounting hardware designed to work with that sail. If you are looking at sails outside of this guide, check with the manufacturer to determine the best mounting hardware that will work with your patio sail.

Color

Consider the color options available when shopping for a patio sail. The color will impact the overall aesthetic of the patio, and if you are looking for multiple sails, using different colors can create a dramatic effect.

Conclusion: The Best Sun Shade Sail

All of the outdoor patio sun shade sail canopy products on this list are great, and any of them will work for you, depending on your needs. However, when it comes down to it, the Windscreen4Less line of triangular shade sails is without a doubt the best shade sail for most buyers.

They offer complete size and color customization, a high-quality product, and an outstanding warranty. What’s not to like?

WINDSCREEN4LESS 16' x 16' x 16' Sun Shade Sail UV Block Fabric Canopy in Sand Triangle for Patio Garden Patio Customized
WINDSCREEN4LESS 16' x 16' x 16' Sun Shade Sail UV Block Fabric Canopy in Sand Triangle for Patio Garden Patio Customized
$27.98

Last update on 2023-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


 

Filed Under: Outdoor Shade Tagged With: best patio shade sail, best shade sail, best sun shade sail, best sun shade sails, shade sail reviews, wind sail shade

About Eric Clark

I am a modern patio design and outdoor living enthusiast. Professionally and personally, I love working with patio and garden design and decor, as well as gardening.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jenni says

    February 26, 2016 at 8:42 pm

    Hi Admin,

    Thank you for posting this information about best shade sails. These are helpful so that I can choose the best shade sail for my patio. Off to share it now. Keep on posting.

    Reply
  2. Cindy Tesler says

    January 4, 2017 at 5:23 pm

    Thanks for pointing out that the most important part of a shade sail design is consideration of the environment around the patio sail. You also said that you need proper mounting supports. I think it’s important to choose a material for your sun shade that is easy to take down and clean.

    Reply
  3. Nora Zerbo says

    October 25, 2018 at 12:25 pm

    Are sail canopies waterproof?

    Reply
    • OutsideModern says

      October 25, 2018 at 2:33 pm

      It depends on the material and manufacturer. Generally, they will provide protection from light rain but will become saturated in heavier rainfall and start to drip through.

      Reply
  4. Jeremy Shade says

    January 19, 2020 at 2:36 am

    The process is usually the other way around with the sail being measured last. You just need to make sure your attachment points are in the correct place so the sail fits. Be sure to remember the posts usually angle out so this needs to be taken into account when planning.

    Reply
  5. Jeremy says

    August 16, 2020 at 12:00 am

    The hardest part of installing a pre made sail is getting the attachemtnpoints to match the sail. In custom design the attachment points are installed then the sail is measured to suit.

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. COUNTERSTRIKE says:
    May 30, 2016 at 11:06 pm

    COUNTERSTRIKE

    Thanks very useful. Will share site with my good friends

    Reply

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