Also known as instant shades, portable shades are structures which are designed to be easily carried around and can provide a user with instant shade on the fly. They are generally lighter than their fixed counterparts, as a result can be a bit more flimsy and easy to break. However, this is compensated by the fact that portable shades can be stored in small spaces and assembled with a minimum of effort.
The reasons why people use portable shades are quite varied. A lot of use is devoted to recreational purposes starting from home. A party held in the backyard sometimes spills over into the lawn or other unshaded areas. Near the house there may be an awning or pergola, but far from the house the guests become exposed to the sun. To protect the guests portable shades can be quickly brought out and set up. There are also people who use portable shades primarily for business.
We describe a few of the portable shades for each of the occasions described above.
Fixed awning structures are placed over windows and doors primarily to block light from entering the house and heating it up, but can also be used in a direct fashion for those who want to stand outside. The bamboo roll up blinds provide a similar benefit. The portable version has a similar structure: it is supported at two points and then extends over a space unsupported at the other end. Portables can also be adjusted for their angle of shading. Best of all, they are not tied to the house and can be shifted into useful positions.
For those who are near a pool, one option is to stick with the table umbrellas. However, another possibility is the cabana. A portable cabana is essentially a mini housing structure with fabric top and walls on a little building frame, large enough to accommodate one or two people. The primary role is either for a few people to be able to sit in an area protected from wind and sun, or for people to change into and out of regular clothes.
The outdoor canopy is typically a medium to massive structure that can house dozens of people at once. Placed onto a patio it becomes a deck canopy. It is supported by strong steel poles, a system of ropes to hold the wall and room fabric together. The portable canopy is much simpler, consisting of four poles, an overhead frame and a top fabric piece only. This makes it easy to carry around and many businesses use them when the sales force is out on the streets and need shelter. The top fabric can serve as an advertisement with the company’s logo.
Portables do not have to be static structures assembled and dissembled all the time. The portable umbrella is mounted onto a metal frame or hitch that is affixed to a vehicle. This is very convenient if the users are constantly moving from spot to spot in a vehicle and need quick assembly of an outdoor shade. Tailgate party goers may find this portable shade to be most useful.
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