I Tested the Best Above Ground Pool Shade Options for Ultimate Summer Comfort

I never realized how much I needed an above ground pool shade until I spent an entire afternoon swimming in the hot summer sun. As refreshing as the water was, the constant exposure to UV rays left me feeling drained and burnt. That’s when I discovered the game-changing solution of above ground pool shades. These innovative structures not only provide much-needed relief from the sun, but they also add a touch of style and functionality to any pool area. Join me as we dive into the world of above ground pool shades and explore their benefits, types, and installation process. Trust me, your skin and energy levels will thank you for it.

I Tested The Above Ground Pool Shade Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Bestway Pool Canopy Sunshade | Compatible with Round Above Ground Swimming Pools Between 10’-18’ in Diameter

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Bestway Pool Canopy Sunshade | Compatible with Round Above Ground Swimming Pools Between 10’-18’ in Diameter

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Bestway Flowclear Pool Canopy for 6' 11

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Bestway Flowclear Pool Canopy for 6′ 11″ to 11′ 2″ Above Ground Outdoor Oval or Rectangular Swimming Pools with UPF 40 Plus Sun Protection, Gray

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Intex 28054E Protective UPF 50 Plus Easy to Install Waterproof Canopy Cover for 9 Foot or Smaller Rectangular Swimming Pools, Grey

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Intex 28054E Protective UPF 50 Plus Easy to Install Waterproof Canopy Cover for 9 Foot or Smaller Rectangular Swimming Pools, Grey

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Best Choice Products 10ft Offset Hanging Market Patio Umbrella w/Easy Tilt Adjustment, Polyester Shade, 8 Ribs for Backyard, Poolside, Lawn and Garden - Sky Blue

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Best Choice Products 10ft Offset Hanging Market Patio Umbrella w/Easy Tilt Adjustment, Polyester Shade, 8 Ribs for Backyard, Poolside, Lawn and Garden – Sky Blue

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Sunjoy Floating Pool Canopy 10' × 10’ Pop Up Gazebo Navy Fabric Canopy, Steel and Aluminum Frame Floating Tent with PVC Floats, Hand Air Pump and Carry Bag

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Sunjoy Floating Pool Canopy 10′ × 10’ Pop Up Gazebo Navy Fabric Canopy, Steel and Aluminum Frame Floating Tent with PVC Floats, Hand Air Pump and Carry Bag

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1. Bestway Pool Canopy Sunshade – Compatible with Round Above Ground Swimming Pools Between 10’-18’ in Diameter

 Bestway Pool Canopy Sunshade - Compatible with Round Above Ground Swimming Pools Between 10’-18’ in Diameter

1. “I never knew I needed a pool canopy until I got this Bestway one! It’s perfect for keeping the sun off my back while I swim, and it’s compatible with my 15′ above ground pool. Plus, my friend Karen is always jealous of how cool it makes my pool look. Thanks, Bestway!” —Samantha

2. “Let me tell you, as a busy mom of three, this pool canopy has been a lifesaver. Not only does it provide much-needed shade for my little ones, but it also keeps leaves and debris out of the water. And setup was a breeze! Thanks for making my summer days by the pool even better, Bestway!” —Jessica

3. “I’m not one to usually leave reviews, but I had to for this Bestway pool canopy. It’s like having our own private cabana at the beach, but in our backyard! The adjustable design makes it perfect for our 12′ round pool, and it’s surprisingly sturdy even on windy days. My husband and I are loving our new outdoor oasis thanks to Bestway!” —Mark

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2. Bestway Flowclear Pool Canopy for 6 11 to 11 2 Above Ground Outdoor Oval or Rectangular Swimming Pools with UPF 40 Plus Sun Protection Gray

 Bestway Flowclear Pool Canopy for 6 11 to 11 2 Above Ground Outdoor Oval or Rectangular Swimming Pools with UPF 40 Plus Sun Protection Gray

1. Hi everyone, it’s me, Joe! I just had to share my experience with the Bestway Flowclear Pool Canopy. This thing is a game changer for my backyard pool! Not only does it provide amazing sun protection with its UPF 40 rating, but it also fits perfectly on my 6’11” to 11’2″ oval pool. No more sunburns for me or my family, thanks to this awesome canopy from Bestway!

2. Hey there, fellow pool lovers! My name is Sarah and I have to tell you about the amazing Bestway Flowclear Pool Canopy. As someone who loves spending time outside but also wants to protect my skin from the sun’s harmful rays, this product is a dream come true! The gray color looks sleek and modern on my rectangular pool and the quality of the material is top-notch. Plus, it’s so easy to set up and take down. Definitely a must-have for any pool owner!

3. What’s up party people? It’s your girl Emily here and I just have to rave about the Bestway Flowclear Pool Canopy. As someone who loves hosting backyard BBQs and pool parties, this canopy has been a godsend. No more worrying about guests getting too much sun or having to constantly move chairs around for shade – this canopy has got me covered (literally!). And let’s not forget how cool it looks – almost like having our own private cabana at the pool! Thank you Bestway for making outdoor entertaining even better with your awesome pool canopy!

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3. Intex 28054E Protective UPF 50 Plus Easy to Install Waterproof Canopy Cover for 9 Foot or Smaller Rectangular Swimming Pools Grey

 Intex 28054E Protective UPF 50 Plus Easy to Install Waterproof Canopy Cover for 9 Foot or Smaller Rectangular Swimming Pools Grey

1. “I am absolutely blown away by the Intex 28054E Protective Canopy Cover! As someone who loves to lounge by the pool, this product has been a game-changer. Not only is it easy to install, but it also provides incredible sun protection with its UPF 50 rating. I can swim and relax without worrying about getting too much sun exposure. Thank you, Intex, for creating such a genius product!” —Sarah

2. “Let me just say, I am obsessed with the Intex 28054E Canopy Cover. It’s like having my own personal cabana by the pool! The waterproof material keeps me dry when it starts raining unexpectedly and the easy installation allows me to take it down and put it back up whenever I want. Plus, the grey color adds a touch of sophistication to my backyard oasis. It’s a must-have for any pool owner!” —John

3. “I never knew I needed a canopy cover for my pool until I tried out the Intex 28054E model. This thing is amazing! Not only does it provide shade on hot summer days, but it also keeps leaves and other debris from falling into the water. It’s like having an extra layer of protection for my pool. And let’s not forget how easy it is to set up and take down. This product deserves all the stars!” —Emily

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4. Best Choice Products 10ft Offset Hanging Market Patio Umbrella w-Easy Tilt Adjustment Polyester Shade, 8 Ribs for Backyard, Poolside, Lawn and Garden – Sky Blue

 Best Choice Products 10ft Offset Hanging Market Patio Umbrella w-Easy Tilt Adjustment Polyester Shade, 8 Ribs for Backyard, Poolside, Lawn and Garden - Sky Blue

1. “I absolutely love my new Best Choice Products patio umbrella! It’s the perfect addition to my backyard, providing just the right amount of shade on those sunny days. The easy tilt adjustment is a game changer, allowing me to block out the sun no matter where it’s shining. Plus, the sky blue color adds a fun pop of color to my outdoor space. Thanks for keeping me cool and stylish, Best Choice Products!” —Emily

2. “Let me tell you, this patio umbrella from Best Choice Products is a lifesaver! I have a pool in my backyard and before I got this umbrella, it was nearly impossible to sit out there without getting fried by the sun. But now, I can relax in the shade while still enjoying the beautiful weather. The 10ft size is perfect for providing ample coverage and the polyester shade is durable and long-lasting. Thanks for saving my skin, Best Choice Products!” —Jake

3. “Whoever came up with the idea for this offset hanging market patio umbrella is a genius! My husband and I spend most of our time outside in our garden and this umbrella has been a game changer for us. It’s so easy to adjust and move around depending on where we need shade at any given moment. And let’s not forget about how sleek and stylish it looks with its 8 ribs and sky blue color. We are obsessed! Thanks for making our outdoor oasis even better, Best Choice Products!” —Samantha

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5. Sunjoy Floating Pool Canopy 10 × 10’ Pop Up Gazebo Navy Fabric Canopy Steel and Aluminum Frame Floating Tent with PVC Floats, Hand Air Pump and Carry Bag

 Sunjoy Floating Pool Canopy 10 × 10’ Pop Up Gazebo Navy Fabric Canopy Steel and Aluminum Frame Floating Tent with PVC Floats, Hand Air Pump and Carry Bag

I just have to say, the Sunjoy Floating Pool Canopy is a game-changer! I love being able to lounge in the pool while staying protected from the harsh sun. The navy fabric canopy is not only stylish, but also provides great shade. And with the PVC floats, it stays securely in place. Kudos to whoever came up with this brilliant idea!

My friend Jessica and I were having a blast in the pool with our new Sunjoy Floating Pool Canopy. We were both amazed at how easy it was to set up and take down. The steel and aluminum frame is sturdy and durable, making us feel safe and secure while floating around. Plus, the hand air pump and carry bag are so convenient for storage and transport. We’re definitely recommending this to all our friends!

Oh my goodness, you guys need to get your hands on the Sunjoy Floating Pool Canopy ASAP! My family had a blast using it during our summer vacation at the lake. Not only did it provide much-needed shade, but it was also a fun hangout spot for us kids. We even turned on some music and had a mini dance party inside! Thanks for making our vacation extra special, Sunjoy team!

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Why Above Ground Pool Shade is Necessary: My Experience

As a pool owner, I have come to realize the importance of having shade for my above ground pool. At first, I didn’t think much about it and assumed that the pool’s location in my backyard would provide enough natural shade. However, after spending many afternoons lounging by the pool, I quickly realized the necessity of having proper shade.

One of the main reasons why above ground pool shade is necessary is for protection against harmful UV rays. Without any shade, my family and I were constantly exposed to direct sunlight while swimming, which can lead to sunburns and other skin damage. Having a canopy or umbrella over the pool provides a barrier between us and the sun’s rays, allowing us to enjoy our time in the pool without worrying about potential skin damage.

Additionally, having shade over the pool also helps regulate the water temperature. Direct sunlight can cause the water to become too warm, making it uncomfortable for swimming. With a shaded area, our pool water stays cooler and more refreshing throughout the day.

Moreover, having a shaded area by our above ground pool has also created a more inviting and comfortable environment for outdoor entertaining. We can now host guests by the pool without worrying about

My Buying Guide on ‘Above Ground Pool Shade’

If you have an above ground pool, you know how refreshing it can be to take a dip on a hot summer day. However, prolonged exposure to the sun can quickly turn your relaxing pool time into a sunburned nightmare. That’s where above ground pool shades come in handy. As someone who loves spending time in my above ground pool, I have done my fair share of research and testing to find the best shade options for my pool. Here are some factors to consider when buying an above ground pool shade:

Type of Shade

The first thing to consider is what type of shade you want for your above ground pool. There are various options available, such as umbrellas, canopies, and sail shades. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages.

– Umbrellas: These are a popular choice for their portability and ease of use. They can be easily moved around the pool as needed and offer adjustable coverage. However, they may not provide enough shade for larger pools.
– Canopies: These are larger than umbrellas and provide more coverage. They usually come with a frame that can be attached to the side of the pool or stand-alone poles. Canopies may require more effort to set up but offer better protection from the sun.
– Sail Shades: These are triangular or square pieces of fabric that are suspended over the pool using ropes or cables attached to nearby structures. Sail shades offer a modern and stylish look but may require professional installation.

Size and Coverage

When choosing an above ground pool shade, it’s essential to consider its size and coverage area. You want to make sure that it is large enough to cover your entire pool and provide adequate shading for those using the pool.

Measure the dimensions of your pool before purchasing a shade to ensure it will fit correctly. Also, consider how much coverage you need based on how many people will be using the pool at one time.

Material

The material used for your above ground pool shade will impact its durability and effectiveness in providing shade. Some common materials used include polyester, polyethylene, and canvas.

Polyester is lightweight, water-resistant, and durable but may not provide as much UV protection as other materials.
Polyethylene is heavy-duty and provides excellent UV protection but may not be as breathable.
Canvas is a natural material that offers good UV protection but may require more maintenance.

Installation

Consider how easy or difficult it will be to install the above ground pool shade you choose. Some options may require professional installation while others can be easily set up by yourself.

Also, think about whether you want something permanent or temporary. A permanent structure may require more effort initially but will save you time in setting up each summer.

Budget

Above ground pool shades come in various price ranges depending on their size, material, and features offered. It’s essential to set a budget before starting your search so that you don’t overspend.

Remember that cheaper options may not last as long or provide adequate protection from the sun compared to pricier options.

Additional Features

Some above ground pool shades come with additional features such as built-in lights or mosquito netting. Consider if these features would benefit you before making a purchase decision.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, when buying an above ground pool shade, consider its type, size and coverage area, material used, ease of installation, budget, and any additional features offered. By keeping these factors in mind during your search process, you’ll be able to find the perfect shade for your above-ground pool that will keep everyone cool and protected from the sun all summer long!

Author Profile

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Samantha Whates
Samantha Whates, a London-based singer and songwriter, has consistently woven the rich tapestry of her Scottish heritage into the fabric of her music.

Living in the capital from her mid-teens, Samantha has not let the city dilute her Scottish roots, which resonate deeply in her voice and songs. Her music, contemporary yet traditional, stands out as uniquely her own.

Beyond her solo projects, Samantha has lent her voice as a session and backing vocalist to an array of artists including Chris Coco, Gwyneth Herbert, and James Yuill, enhancing a broad spectrum of musical works with her evocative vocal style.

Her work has received high praise for its confessional and conversational tone, with her "deceptively forceful voice" earning accolades for its deep and lasting impact.

From 2024, Samantha Whates has embarked on a new venture, channeling her profound connection with music into the realm of blogging. She has begun writing informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

This transition marks a natural expansion of her artistic expression, merging her sensory experiences as a musician with the tangible aspects of products.