Finding the perfect tarp for sun exposure can be challenging, with countless options flooding the market. This review dives deep into five top contenders, meticulously comparing their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision. Whether you need sun protection for camping, protecting your car, or creating a temporary shelter, this guide will illuminate the key features to consider, such as thickness, material, size options, and overall durability. We'll explore the pros and cons of each tarp, highlighting which excels in specific situations.This comprehensive review covers a range of tarps, from lightweight and portable options ideal for RVs and gardens, to heavy-duty behemoths built to withstand extreme weather conditions. We'll examine materials like woven polyethylene and the impact of thickness on sun and rain protection. By the end of this review, you'll be equipped to choose the best tarp to meet your unique needs, ensuring optimal protection from the sun's harsh rays and whatever else Mother Nature throws your way.
Pros And Cons
- Weatherproof, waterproof, UV resistant
- Withstands windy atmospheres
- Made of 100% virgin polyethylene
- Rust-proof grommets and reinforced plastic edges
- Available in 16mm thickness only
- 16 mil thickness, exceptionally durable
- All-weather protection
- UV resistant and waterproof
- Metal grommets spaced every 18 inches for easy tying
- Lightweight (5 milliliters thickness)
- Withstands heavy rain and harsh environments
- Available in three colors (blue, brown, green) and numerous size options
- Poly rope sewn into hem to prevent tearing and distortion
- Good durability and protection
- 5mm thickness
- Piping border for strength under tensile stress
- Waterproof and sunproof
- Available in only a single color
Read more: 5 Best PVC Camping Tarps for Your Next Adventure
Bear Grizzly Tarps: Durable and Versatile
The Bear Grizzly tarp boasts woven polyethylene fibers, ensuring excellent durability and sun protection. Its 5-millimeter thickness provides substantial shielding against harsh weather. The reinforced piping border enhances its tensile strength, preventing tears under stress.
It's impressively waterproof and sunproof, making it suitable for both rainy and sunny days. While only available in a single color, various sizes cater to diverse needs.
This tarp is a solid option for anyone needing reliable sun and rain protection, especially useful for RV camping or outdoor seating.
Trademark Tarp Cover: Wide Range of Sizes
The Trademark tarp cover offers an extensive size selection, ranging from small (6x8 feet) to extra-large (100x100 feet). This variety ensures you'll find the perfect fit for your specific needs. Its thick, protective material provides reliable shielding against sun, rain, and wind.
This tarp's resilience against various weather conditions makes it a versatile choice for various applications, offering excellent value for money. The sheer variety of sizes alone makes this a great contender.
Expose Safety Brown Poly Tarp: Lightweight and Versatile
The Expose Safety Brown Poly tarp is a lightweight option at 5 millimeters thick, ideal for RVs, home gardens, or other situations where portability is key. Despite its lightweight nature, it capably withstands heavy rain and harsh weather conditions.
It's available in blue, brown, and green with a range of sizes to choose from. The poly rope sewn into the hem enhances durability, preventing tearing and distortion.
This is a practical and functional option for those seeking a balance between weight and protection.
Core Tops Extra Heavy-Duty Tarp: Rugged and Resistant
The Core Tops Extra Heavy-Duty tarp is designed for extreme conditions. Its weatherproof, waterproof, and UV-resistant construction can handle even the windiest environments. The 16mm thickness provides exceptional strength and durability.
Made with 100% virgin polyethylene, rust-proof grommets, and reinforced plastic edges, this tarp is built to last. Its versatility allows for use as car cover, wood protection, tent, or even a temporary roof.
This is a premium option for those needing the toughest and most reliable tarp available.
Expose Safety Multi-Purpose Brown Tarp: Durable and Versatile
The Expose Safety Multi-Purpose Brown tarp is a 16-mil thick, exceptionally durable option offering excellent all-weather protection. Its UV resistance and waterproof capabilities make it suitable for a variety of outdoor applications.
Metal grommets are spaced every 18 inches for easy and efficient tie-down. Its versatility extends to protecting cars, wood, buildings, and even construction sites.
This tarp stands out for its combination of durability, weather resistance, and convenience.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Tarp
After evaluating all five tarps, the Bear Grizzly tarps emerge as my top pick. Its thickness, strong grommets, and versatility make it a compelling choice for diverse applications. However, the other options offer distinct advantages depending on individual needs and priorities.
The Trademark Tarp excels in size variety, the Expose Safety Brown Poly tarp offers lightweight portability, while the Core Tops Extra Heavy-Duty tarp is the most durable option. The Expose Safety Multi-Purpose tarp provides a balance of thickness and convenience.