In this review, beach pool guide takes an in-depth look at the ZiggyShade, a lightweight and compact beach sunshade designed for easy setup and solid performance. Originating from Australia, the ZiggyShade is available in three sizes and four colors.
Key Features of the ZiggyShade
- Dimensions (fully stretched): 5 feet 3 inches by 6 feet 6 inches
- Weight: Less than 4 pounds, making it exceptionally portable
- Availability: Comes in three sizes and four colors (purchase links provided in the description)
- Fabric: Made from polyamide, which is stretchy and soft but not waterproof
- Sun Protection: Offers UPF 50+ protection
- Design: Features a simple structure with four anchor sandbags and two aluminum poles
Setup Process: Simple and Quick
Setting up the ZiggyShade is incredibly straightforward:
- Find a suitable spot on the beach with your back to the wind.
- Lay the sunshade flat, spread out the four anchor bags, and fill them with as much sand as possible. Matty emphasizes the importance of packing the bags tightly for maximum stability, especially in windy conditions.
- Tighten the drawstrings and pull the sandbags outward to stretch the fabric taut.
- Assemble the poles, which are designed for easy assembly.
- Raise the canopy by placing the poles under the corners of the sunshade and securing the foam balls on top of the poles.
Matty notes that in windy conditions, tilting the poles slightly toward the wind can enhance stability. If the wind shifts and the canopy begins to bow inward, adjusting the pole positions can quickly resolve the issue.
Wind Performance: Holds Up to 10-13 mph Winds
The ZiggyShade is particularly notable for its ability to withstand moderate winds between 10-13 mph. Matty points out that the wind flows through the sunshade, which is advantageous on hot beach days, as it allows for excellent airflow and keeps the area cool.
The simplicity of the design—featuring no grommets or eyelets, just four sandbags tied to the corners—makes setup easy. However, proper anchoring is essential to prevent the canopy from collapsing. Once correctly set up, the ZiggyShade provides solid stability even in winds up to 13 mph.
Space and Comfort: Enough Room for 2-3 Adults
The ZiggyShade offers ample headroom, measuring about 5.5 feet tall at its highest point, making it suitable for 2 adults and accommodating up to 3 adults comfortably, especially when seated in beach chairs. While it may not match the spaciousness of larger beach tents, it serves as an effective option for small groups seeking a compact and easy-to-carry shelter.
Durability and Protection
Matty mentions that the ZiggyShade has performed well after over a dozen uses, showing no significant damage to the fabric or poles. The polyamide fabric is designed to stretch, providing durability and resilience against the elements without tearing. Although the UPF 50+ sun protection claim appears legitimate, Matty notes that the canopy does allow for some shadowing, so using additional sun protection is advisable.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable (under 4 pounds)
- Easy to set up, even for solo beachgoers
- Good wind resistance (up to 13 mph)
- Excellent airflow for hot days
- Affordable, priced around $85
- Simple design that is user-friendly
Cons:
- Not waterproof, making it unsuitable for rainy weather
- Limited privacy compared to full beach tents
- UPF 50+ protection is effective but not absolute; additional sun protection may be needed
Final Verdict: A Solid Choice for Simplicity and Portability
For anyone seeking a compact and lightweight beach shelter, the ZiggyShade is a commendable option. It is easy to carry, provides good shade, and performs well in moderate winds. While it may not offer the same level of privacy or rain protection as larger tents, it is ideal for a day at the beach with friends or family. Matty C highly recommends the ZiggyShade for those in search of a simple, portable, and effective beach canopy.
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly and lightweight beach shelter, the ZiggyShade is definitely worth considering!
