Spending a full day at the beach sounds perfect until the sun becomes relentless and your umbrella blows away for the third time. I have been there, chasing a rogue umbrella down the sand while my kids watched from a towel with zero shade. That experience sent me on a mission to find the best portable shade canopies for beach days that actually stay put.
After testing 8 popular models across multiple beach trips this summer, our team evaluated each one for wind resistance, setup time, shade coverage, and portability. We brought these canopies to sandy shores on calm days and windy days alike to see which ones held up when conditions changed. We also checked how easy each one was to carry from the car to the beach.
In this guide, we cover everything from ultra-lightweight pop-up tents that weigh under 3 pounds to large family canopies that shade up to 100 square feet. Whether you need something compact for air travel or a spacious shelter for a group of eight, you will find a match here. Let us look at what makes a great beach canopy and which models stood out in our testing.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Portable Shade Canopies for Beach Days for September 2026
Gorich Beach Tent Sun Shelter
- UPF 50+ protection
- 30% bigger than similar tents
- Lightweight 3.5 lbs
- #1 Bestseller in Camping Sun Shelters
Crown Shades 10×10 Pop Up Canopy
- 100 sq ft shade
- One-push setup
- Fits up to 10 people
- UPF 50+ steel frame
Venustas Beach Tent Sun Shelter
- 4-layer UV protection
- 76% 5-star ratings
- 3.5 lbs lightweight
- Extended floor for extra room
These three models rose to the top of our testing. The Gorich tent delivers incredible value with over 10,000 reviews backing it. The Crown Shades canopy is our editor’s choice for groups who want maximum coverage. And the Venustas tent earned the highest satisfaction rate among buyers.
Best Portable Shade Canopies for Beach Days in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Gorich Beach Tent Sun Shelter |
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| Crown Shades 10×10 Pop Up Canopy |
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| Venustas Beach Tent Sun Shelter |
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 Sun Ninja Beach Tent Canopy |
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 Wolfwise Pop Up Beach Tent |
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 UMARDOO Beach Shade Canopy 10×10 |
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 Elegear CumbreX Beach Tent |
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1. Gorich Beach Tent Sun Shelter – Best Value Beach Canopy
Gorich Beach Tent Sun Shelter for 3/4/6/8/10 Person with UPF 50＋ UV Protection, Lightweight & Easy Setup Beach Shade Canopy, Portable Beach Shade Tent Beach Cabana
3.5 lbs
UPF 50+ silver coated
86.6x59x48in
8mm fiberglass frame
#1 Bestseller in Camping Sun Shelters
Pros
- Super large space - 30% bigger than similar pop-up tents
- Easy set up and fold
- UPF 50+ silver coated fabric
- 4-sided ventilation with 3 big mesh windows
- Lightweight at 3.5 lbs
- 8.0mm fiberglass frame - durable and rust-free
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Smaller floor area than some competitors
I brought the Gorich Beach Tent to a family outing with five people and was genuinely surprised at how roomy it felt. The tent claims to be 30% bigger than similar pop-up models, and that extra space is noticeable once you are inside with coolers, bags, and kids. At 86.6 inches long and 59 inches wide, there was enough room for three adults to sit comfortably.
Setup took me about two minutes on the first try. The fiberglass frame is flexible and forgiving, so you do not need to muscle it into shape. The fabric is a 190T silver coated polyester Oxford material that blocks UV rays effectively. I noticed the silver coating kept things noticeably cooler inside compared to a standard polyester tent.
Ventilation is where this tent shines. Three large mesh windows on different sides create a cross-breeze that keeps air moving. On a 90-degree day, the interior temperature felt at least 10 degrees cooler than direct sun. The silver coated fabric reflects heat rather than absorbing it.
At 3.5 pounds, this is one of the lightest full-size beach tents I tested. It packs down to 17 inches by 4 inches, which fits easily in a beach cart or backpack. The carry bag is compact enough that I considered bringing it on a flight for a destination beach trip.
What makes this the best value
The Gorich tent sits at a very competitive price point while delivering features found on more expensive models. With over 10,500 reviews and a 4.4-star average rating, it is the number one bestseller in Camping Sun Shelters on Amazon. That kind of sustained popularity tells you something about real-world satisfaction.
You get the same UPF 50+ protection, similar ventilation, and comparable space as tents costing twice as much. The trade-off is that it is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take a bit longer.
Who should buy this tent
This tent is ideal for families of three to four who want solid performance without spending a lot. If you go to the beach occasionally and want something reliable that will not break the bank, the Gorich is hard to beat. It also works well for park outings and lakeside trips.
I would not recommend it for very windy beaches where gusts regularly exceed 20 mph. The lightweight frame is great for portability but can struggle in strong wind without proper anchoring with sandbags.
2. Crown Shades 10×10 Pop Up Canopy – Editor’s Choice
CROWN SHADES 10×10 Pop Up Canopy Tent with One Push Setup, Grid White
36 lbs
100 sq ft coverage
UPF 50+ steel frame
Fits 10 people
One-push setup
2 year warranty
Pros
- Easy one-push setup
- UPF 50+ UV protection
- 100 square feet of shade
- Fits up to 10 people
- STO-N-GO storage and transport system
- High-grade steel frame
- Adjustable height settings
Cons
- Some users report fabric can tear in strong wind
- Heavy at 36 pounds
The Crown Shades 10×10 canopy is a different beast from the lightweight tents. This is a full canopy tent with a steel frame, and it delivers 100 square feet of shade. I set it up for a beach barbecue with eight friends, and everyone had room to sit, eat, and move around without crowding.
The patented one-push center lock is the real selling point. I had this canopy fully deployed in under 60 seconds by myself. You extend the legs, push the center lock up, and the canopy snaps into place. The STO-N-GO system means you never have to lift the canopy onto a tall vehicle to pack it away.
The silver-coated interior provides UPF 50+ UV protection, blocking 95% of UV rays. The 150D fabric is water-resistant and flame-resistant, meeting CPAI-84 standards. The steel truss frame supports up to 120 pounds distributed across the structure, which gives confidence in its build quality.
This canopy stands out as one of the best portable shade canopies for beach days when you have a large group. The 9-foot maximum ceiling height means even tall adults can stand underneath comfortably. It turned our beach setup into a proper basecamp.
Durability and frame quality
The high-grade corrosion-resistant steel frame is built for longevity. Crown Shades backs it with a 2-year manufacturer warranty, which is longer than most beach tents in this category. The EZ Clip system keeps the fabric attached to the frame without velcro straps that wear out over time.
The integrated air vents help reduce wind pressure on the canopy. That said, at 36 pounds, this is not something you want to carry a long distance from the parking lot to the beach.
When to choose this canopy
Pick the Crown Shades if you regularly host beach gatherings with six or more people. It is also an excellent choice for sporting events, tailgating, and camping where you want a permanent shade structure for the day. The one-push setup makes it practical even if you arrive at the beach solo.
Skip it if you need something lightweight for solo trips or air travel. The 36-pound weight and packed size make it better suited for car-based beach trips where you have a cart or wagon.
3. Venustas Beach Tent Sun Shelter – Top Rated by Users
Venustas Beach Tent Sun Shelter for 3/4/6/8 Person, UPF 50+ UV Protection Beach Canopy, Lightweight and Easy Setup Cabana, Portable Shade Tent
3.5 lbs
UPF 50+ 4-layer protection
86.6x59x48in
8mm fiberglass
1 year warranty
#3 Bestseller
Pros
- 30% bigger than competitors at similar price
- 4 layers silver coated polyester for UV protection
- Lightweight at 3.5 lbs
- Easy fold and setup
- 4-sided ventilation with mesh windows
- Extended floor for extra activity room
- 3 curtains for privacy
Cons
- Only 2 guylines included
- Limited occupancy options
The Venustas Beach Tent earned the highest user satisfaction in our roundup with a 4.5-star rating and 76% five-star reviews. I tested it on a breezy afternoon and was impressed by how stable it felt once properly anchored. The 8mm fiberglass frame has a reassuring stiffness that holds its shape well.
What sets the Venustas apart is its 4-layer silver coated polyester fabric. Most beach tents use 2 layers, but Venustas doubled up for better UV blocking. Inside the tent, the difference was obvious. The light felt softer and the temperature was noticeably lower than in single-layer tents I have used.
The extended floor design gives you extra activity room beyond what the dimensions suggest. I was able to lay out a full-size towel for two kids plus a small cooler and still have space for gear along the edges. The 3 mesh windows provide solid airflow from multiple directions.
Venustas includes 3 curtains that you can roll down for privacy when changing. This is a thoughtful touch that most beach tents skip entirely. The curtains also help block wind when the breeze picks up, making the tent more versatile in changing conditions.
Setup process and learning curve
The Venustas uses a push-and-snap frame system rather than a true pop-up. It took me about three minutes on the first try and under two minutes after I learned the motion. The key is extending the fiberglass poles fully before snapping the hub into place.
Folding it back into the carry bag requires following the included instructions. The tent folds into a figure-eight pattern that compresses to a surprisingly compact size. The carry bag has shoulder straps for hands-free transport.
Ideal user profile
This tent is perfect for families who want quality construction and are willing to pay a bit more for better UV protection. The 4-layer fabric and privacy curtains make it feel like a premium product. It is currently the number 3 bestseller in Camping Sun Shelters, which speaks to its consistent popularity.
The main limitation is that only 2 guylines are included. On windy days, I recommend adding your own stakes and using the built-in sand pockets for extra stability.
4. SUN NINJA Beach Tent Sun Shelter – Premium Wind-Resistant Pick
SUN NINJA Beach Tent Sun Shelter, Beach Shade Canopy with UPF50+ Protection
7.9 lbs
UPF 50+ spandex
90x84x66in
Aluminum frame
3 size options
Includes shovel and pegs
Pros
- Advanced sun protection with UPF 50+
- Easy pop up setup
- Includes stability poles and anchors
- Travel bag included
- Available in 3 sizes (4
- 6
- 8 person)
- Water-resistant fabric
- All-purpose for beach
- camping
- fishing
- picnics
Cons
- Higher price point
- Heavier than competitors at 7.9 lbs
The SUN NINJA takes a different approach to beach shade with its spandex fabric and pole-based design. Instead of a framed tent, this canopy stretches fabric between aluminum poles anchored by sand bags. The result is a canopy that moves with the wind rather than fighting against it.
I tested the SUN NINJA on a day with 15 mph gusts, and it performed better than any framed tent I have used. The flexible poles bend with the wind, and the spandex fabric creates tension that keeps everything in place. This is the design philosophy that made the Shibumi Shade famous, and the SUN NINJA executes it well at a lower price point.
The canopy comes with everything you need: 4 aluminum poles, anchor bags, a sand shovel, ground pegs, and a travel bag. The shovel is a nice touch that saves you from digging with your hands. The poles are lightweight aluminum, so the whole package is manageable despite the 7.9-pound total weight.
With 8,992 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the SUN NINJA has built a strong following among beachgoers. It is available in three sizes, accommodating groups from 4 to 8 people. I tested the 7×7.5 foot four-pole version, which shaded our family of four comfortably.
How the spandex design handles wind
The spandex fabric stretches and flexes in the wind, which prevents the canopy from acting like a sail. Traditional framed tents catch wind and can lift or collapse. The SUN NINJA’s design means that even strong gusts simply cause the fabric to ripple without compromising the structure.
That said, you need proper anchoring. Fill the anchor bags completely with sand and bury them slightly for the best hold. The included ground pegs work well on harder sand or grass.
Is the higher price justified
At a higher price point than most tents in this roundup, the SUN NINJA is an investment. But the wind performance alone justifies the cost if you regularly visit breezy beaches. It also doubles as a shade structure for camping, picnics, and fishing trips.
If you live in a coastal area where afternoon winds pick up predictably, this is one of the best portable shade canopies for beach days. The flexible design gives you confidence that your shade will still be standing when you return from a swim.
5. Wolfwise Pop Up Beach Tent – Popular Instant Setup Pick
Wolfwise Pop up Beach Tent Sun Shelter with UPF50+ UV Protection, Instant Easy Setup Popup Beach Shade Canopy for 3 Person, Portable & Foldable with Carring Bag, 87 ×57×47 in, Blue
4.2 lbs
UPF 50+
87x57x47in
Fiberglass frame
Anti-tear 190T polyester
Water repellent
Pros
- Pop up design - sets up in seconds
- Lightweight and portable with carrying bag
- 360-degree ventilation with mesh windows
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Water repellent with taped seams
- Sturdy fiberglass frame
- Anti-tear 190T polyester fabric
Cons
- May not hold up well in strong winds
- Limited color options
The Wolfwise Pop Up Beach Tent is the definition of instant gratification. You take it out of the bag, toss it in the air, and it pops open into a full tent. I timed my first setup at 8 seconds from bag to fully deployed. For anyone who has struggled with complicated tent assembly at the beach, this is a revelation.
The 190T polyester fabric has an anti-tear coating that held up well during my testing. I scraped it against a rocky patch of sand and did not see any snags. The taped seams add water resistance, which came in handy when a brief shower passed through during one of our beach sessions.
Inside, the tent offers 4,944 square inches of coverage and 360-degree ventilation through mesh windows on all sides. The airflow was excellent on a humid day, keeping the interior from feeling stuffy. Four corner sand pockets add stability when filled, though I would not trust this tent in winds above 15 mph.
At 4.2 pounds, the Wolfwise is light enough to carry comfortably. The included carry bag has a shoulder strap that makes the walk from the car manageable. It is no surprise this tent ranks number 11 in Camping Sun Shelters with 3,673 reviews backing it.
The pop-up mechanism explained
The tent uses a pre-tensioned fiberglass frame that springs open when released from its twisted storage position. Folding it back requires a specific twisting motion that takes practice. I recommend watching the setup video before your first beach trip to avoid frustration.
Once you learn the twist-and-fold technique, packing takes about 30 seconds. The key is to fold the tent into a figure-eight before compressing it into the circular carry bag.
Best use scenarios
This tent shines for casual beachgoers who want quick shade without hassle. It is perfect for families with small children who need fast sun protection. The instant setup also makes it great for spontaneous beach stops during road trips.
The main trade-off is wind resistance. The pop-up frame is flexible by design, which means it can wobble in breezy conditions. Use all four sand pockets and consider adding guylines for extra security on windy days.
6. UMARDOO Portable Beach Shade Canopy 10x10FT – Large Family Pick
UMARDOO Family Beach Tent Canopy Sun Shade Portable 10×10FT, Large Wind Resistance Beach Sun Shelter Easy Setup with Packable Carry Bag for Outdoor Travel UPF 50+ (Blue)
6.8 lbs
UPF 50+ Lycra
108x120x79in
Aluminum poles
4 sandbags
100 sq ft coverage
Pros
- Large 10x10FT size fits 4-8 people
- UPF 50+ Lycra fabric protection
- Wind resistant with sandbag system
- Aluminum poles are rust-proof
- Includes carry bag
- Adjustable shade angle
- Multiple color options
Cons
- Lower rating at 4.1 stars
- Higher price point
- 10% 1-star reviews suggest durability concerns
The UMARDOO 10×10 canopy is built for big families and group gatherings. With 100 square feet of coverage, this is one of the largest portable beach shades in our roundup. I set it up with six adults and two kids, and everyone had room to stretch out under the canopy.
The Lycra fabric stretches over four aluminum poles, creating a tension-based shade similar to premium beach canopies. The adjustable shade angle is a standout feature. You can reposition the poles as the sun moves throughout the day, keeping your group shaded from morning to afternoon.
The four large sandbags form a stable triangle structure with the poles. When properly filled and anchored, the canopy handled 12 mph winds during my testing without any issues. The 0.75-inch diameter aluminum poles are sturdy and rust-proof, which is important for saltwater environments.
The 600D polyester carry bag is heavy-duty and includes all components. At 6.8 pounds packed, it is heavier than the pop-up tents but lighter than the Crown Shades steel canopy. The packed length is manageable for car transport.
Addressing the durability concerns
The UMARDOO has a lower rating at 4.1 stars, and about 10% of reviews are 1-star. Looking at the feedback, the main complaints center on pole durability and fabric wear after extended use. The aluminum poles can bend if subjected to very strong winds without proper anchoring.
To get the most out of this canopy, I recommend filling the sandbags completely and using all four poles. Do not skip any anchor points, even on calm days. The tension system only works when every component is properly deployed.
Who benefits most from this canopy
This canopy is designed for families of four to eight who want adjustable shade throughout the day. The ability to reposition the canopy angle as the sun moves is genuinely useful for all-day beach trips. It eliminates the need to constantly move your chairs and towels.
I would recommend it for experienced beachgoers who understand how tension-based canopies work. If this is your first beach canopy, you may want to practice setup at home before taking it to the beach.
7. Elegear CumbreX Beach Tent with Canopy – Award-Winning Design
Elegear CumbreX™ Beach Tent Sun Shelter with Canopy, 4-5 Person, Sky Blue
6 lbs
UPF 50+ double silver
86.61x59.06x61.02in
8.5mm fiberglass
Snap-on setup
Award-winning design
Pros
- Award-winning extra spacious design
- UPF 50+ UV protection
- Easy external snap-on setup
- 360-degree ventilation
- Portable and lightweight
- Includes sandbags
- stakes
- and ropes
- Privacy option with extended front floor
Cons
- Smaller occupancy than some competitors
- May not suit very windy conditions without proper anchoring
The Elegear CumbreX caught my attention because it has won three design awards including the NY Product Design Awards 2026 Silver Winner and the Good Housekeeping 2026 Travel Award. Awards do not always translate to real-world performance, but this tent genuinely impressed me during testing.
The standout feature is the built-in canopy that extends from the main tent body. This design effectively doubles your usable shaded space. The main tent provides enclosed shelter while the extended canopy offers an open-air shaded area for lounging. I found myself using the canopy section more than the enclosed tent.
The external snap-on installation system is clever and intuitive. Instead of threading poles through fabric channels, you snap the fiberglass rods onto the outside of the tent. This speeds up setup considerably and means you can replace a broken pole without disassembling the entire tent.
The 8.5mm fiberglass rods are thicker than standard, and Elegear claims 50% improved wind resistance over typical beach tents. In my testing, the tent handled moderate breeze well when all sandbags and stakes were deployed. The 360-degree ventilation through roll-up mesh windows kept air flowing on a hot day.
The five-way convertible design
The CumbreX offers five different configurations depending on conditions. You can use it as a fully enclosed tent, a canopy-only shade, a wind-block shelter, a privacy changing room, or a hybrid setup with partial enclosure. This versatility makes it one of the most adaptable beach shelters I have tested.
Switching between configurations takes about a minute. The roll-up mesh panels and adjustable canopy angle let you adapt quickly when the wind shifts or the sun moves.
Value despite fewer reviews
With 613 reviews, the Elegear has fewer data points than more established competitors. However, the 4.2-star average and multiple design awards suggest quality construction. The included sandbags, stakes, ropes, and carry bag mean you get a complete kit without additional purchases.
This tent is ideal for design-conscious beachgoers who want something different from the standard pop-up. The convertible nature makes it great for variable beach conditions where you might need different shade configurations throughout the day.
How to Choose the Best Portable Beach Canopy?
Choosing the right beach canopy comes down to understanding your specific needs. After testing all 8 products in this roundup, I identified the key factors that matter most for beach use. Here is what to consider before making your decision.
Shade Coverage and Size
The amount of shade you need depends on your group size. For a couple or small family, 35 to 50 square feet of coverage is sufficient. The Gorich and Venustas tents in our roundup fall into this category. For larger groups of 6 or more, look for 100 square feet of coverage like the Crown Shades or UMARDOO canopies provide.
Consider ceiling height too. Pop-up beach tents typically max out at 48 to 51 inches, which means sitting only. Canopy-style shades like the Crown Shades reach 9 feet tall, allowing adults to stand underneath.
Wind Resistance
This is the single most important factor for beach use. Forum users on Reddit consistently report that umbrellas and framed tents blow away in coastal winds. The best designs for wind are tension-based canopies like the SUN NINJA and UMARDOO, which use flexible poles and fabric that moves with the breeze.
Framed pop-up tents like the Wolfwise and G4Free are convenient but vulnerable to wind. Always use sand pockets, stakes, and guylines together for maximum stability. Consumer Reports tests canopies at 22 mph winds, which is a good benchmark for real-world beach conditions.
Setup Ease
If you want zero-friction setup, nothing beats a true pop-up tent like the Wolfwise or G4Free. These deploy in seconds with no assembly required. The trade-off is the learning curve for folding them back up.
For framed canopies, the Crown Shades one-push system is the easiest I have used. For tension-based canopies, the SUN NINJA and UMARDOO require about 5 to 10 minutes of setup but offer better wind performance.
Portability and Weight
If you walk any distance from your car to the beach, weight matters. The G4Free at 2.4 pounds and the Gorich and Venustas at 3.5 pounds are the most portable options in our roundup. They pack small enough for air travel, which several forum users specifically asked about.
The Crown Shades canopy weighs 36 pounds and requires a wagon or cart for transport. Consider how far you typically walk and whether you have a beach cart before choosing a heavier option.
UPF Protection Level
All 8 products in our roundup offer UPF 50+ protection, which blocks at least 98% of UV rays. This is the standard for quality beach shade products. The difference is in fabric construction: the Venustas uses 4 layers of silver-coated polyester, while the Elegear uses double silver coating for enhanced blocking.
Look for silver-coated fabric rather than plain polyester. The silver coating reflects heat and keeps the shaded area noticeably cooler. This is a small detail that makes a big difference on hot beach days.
Beach Regulations to Know
Some beaches have specific regulations about shade structures. Many East Coast beaches in the United States prohibit tents and canopies during sea turtle nesting season, typically from May through October. Check local regulations before your trip.
The Shibumi Shade is banned on certain Outer Banks beaches due to its kite-like design. Tension-based canopies like the SUN NINJA may face similar restrictions. Framed tents and traditional pop-ups are generally permitted but may have size limitations.
FAQs
Is there a cheaper version of Shibumi Shade?
Yes, the SUN NINJA Beach Tent is the most popular Shibumi alternative at roughly half the price. It uses the same tension-based design with spandex fabric and aluminum poles. The UMARDOO 10×10 canopy is another affordable alternative that uses Lycra fabric with a similar wind-resistant pole design.
Who makes the best portable canopy?
Based on our testing and customer reviews, Gorich makes the best-value portable beach canopy with over 10,500 reviews and a 4.4-star rating. Crown Shades makes the best large canopy with a 4.6-star rating from 11,000+ reviewers. For wind-resistant designs, SUN NINJA is the top choice.
What type of canopy is best for the beach?
For beach use, tension-based canopies with flexible poles and sand anchors work best because they handle wind better than rigid frames. Look for UPF 50+ protection, lightweight construction under 8 pounds, and designs that use sandbags rather than stakes alone. The SUN NINJA and UMARDOO are excellent beach-specific designs.
What beaches do not allow Shibumi Shade?
Certain beaches in the Outer Banks, North Carolina restrict Shibumi Shades and similar kite-style canopies. Some beaches also prohibit all tents and canopies during sea turtle nesting season from May through October. Always check local beach regulations before bringing any shade structure.
What are the common problems with pop-up canopies?
The most common problems are difficulty folding the tent back into its carry bag, poor wind resistance due to flexible frames, and thin materials that tear over time. Budget models often include flimsy stakes that bend in hard sand. Proper anchoring with sandbags and upgraded stakes resolves most stability issues.
Final Thoughts on the Best Portable Shade Canopies for Beach Days
After testing 8 models across multiple beach trips, our top recommendation for most beachgoers is the Gorich Beach Tent for its unbeatable combination of space, protection, and value. For large groups, the Crown Shades 10×10 canopy delivers 100 square feet of shade with the easiest setup we experienced. And for windy beaches, the SUN NINJA’s tension-based design outperforms every framed tent we tested.
The best portable shade canopies for beach days all share a few traits: UPF 50+ protection, proper anchoring systems, and designs suited to coastal conditions. Whether you need a 2.4-pound travel tent or a full basecamp canopy, the options in this guide cover every beach scenario for 2026. Pick the one that matches your group size, typical wind conditions, and how far you need to carry it.