Developed in Australia over 50 years ago from tough, durable exterior-grade materials, Coolaroo Shade Sails are made to withstand extreme weather conditions. Here in sunny South Africa we can certainly identify with the need for portable summer shade.
Competition: Win a Coolaroo Shade Sail worth R1 900
The first thing you’ll notice about the ready-to-hang Coolaroo Shade Sail is its compact travel size. When packed, it’s got the surface area of an open Getaway magazine and roughly the thickness and weight of a hefty Harry Potter novel. The poles come separately and are heavier, but thanks to the clever design you may not need them (unless you’re on a beach with nothing but sand for company).
There’s six metres of rope stitched into each corner of the 3,6-metre by 3,6-metre square fabric covering (which has a three year warranty – other sizes also available) and provides ample shade depending on how high you suspend it. It’s easier than packing and carrying an umbrella and requires little effort to set up – attach the lengthy ropes to trees, fences, a roof rack or similar sturdy structure to create shade for your picnic or camping area.
The fabric is breathable but still offers up to 90% protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays (read about the dangers of sun exposure from skin experts interviewed by Getaway here).
No tools are needed to hang up the shade sails and the durable fabric resists rips, tears, mildew and fraying. Simply hose it down to clean and leave out to dry. The colour is also great – an unassuming beige which won’t stick out on the beach or in the bush.
The Coolaroo Shade Sails come in different sizes and shapes which you can check out on their website here.
The 3,6-metre by 3,6-metre sail costs R1 900 from Coolaroo.
