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The "EZ-UP Canopy"

by Brent Laskowski

Our 2nd review takes a look at the EZ-UP Canopy. International E-Z UP, Inc. invented the portable, quickly erectable shelter in 1983 and created the saying "Worlds Fastest Shelter™".

We have used the Express II design for the past two seasons and our satisfaction has been quite high. The benefit of this canopy is, as its name implies, ease of use. Two people can put the structure up in a matter of minutes. It is scalable in design so that many added accessories can be purchased from year to year. I will go into more detail on this later under the accessories section.

While we have certainly enjoyed the one EZ-UP that our tailgate uses, cost has been a detractor from purchasing more. The canopy can range in price from $100-$180. When compared with basic pole canopies that you can buy from Wal-Mart in the $40.00 range, it is understandable why someone would not have a fleet of these.

In addition to the cost the size and weight are a detractor as well. Because of the superstructure that supports the top, the canopy is rather heavy. The wheeled carrying case is a must, but even that does not make it all that easy to maneuver around your favorite tailgate spot.

The EZ-UP that we use is also rather large, the newer designs are a little shorter so that they fit more readily in a trunk. But even so, when you start to add all of your other tailgate gear, this can really eat up space that you need. In my last car, a 95 T-Bird (rest her soul) I was able to fit ours across the back seat, but it was a struggle.

ACCESSORIES:

SIDES:

We have used these many times and as the season gets later and the breeze gets cooler, these can really make a big difference. We have used them in the rain to keep food and gear dry. We have also used them in November to create a little tent where can use a Catalytic heater to warm up the area.

WEIGHT BAGS:

If you plan to use the EZ-UP on pavement year round then you should definitely consider this purchase. While canopy is very sturdy, it can also get lifted by a heavy wind and on pavement there is no way to anchor it effectively. You can probably come up with a homemade version of this, but if you want "no muss-no fuss" you can go this route and save the hassle.

If you are a serious tailgater with a rain or shine attitude then this purchase is eventually a must and you might as well get it over with and be able to enjoy it longer.

WHERE TO BUY:

Click here for a complete listing of Retail Locations on EZ-UP's web site.

Around us we have found that our local Sam's Club carries a new model, the Express III with cathedral ceiling and includes 4 weight bags, wheeled carrying case and stakes for $179.82.

If you need just the basics to get started we have seen the Dome II 10'X10' in our local Wal-Mart for $99.96 and the E-Z Up Escort 10 x 10 Canopy Blue/White at Dick's Sporting Goods, both in store and online for $99.97.

While I still like the Express II and III designs, we sometimes can't be picky. I would however make sure that the model you buy is of high quality, as that extra $20 or $30 should pay for itself over and over again.

PROS V. CONS

PROS:

* Ease of Use. 2 people can put them up in less than 5 minutes.
* Durability. They are well built and if properly cared for will last for many tailgating years to come.

CONS:

* Size and Weight. Unless you have a SUV or truck, you will use a lot of your "tailgate gear space" to fit this in.
* Cost. At approximately $100.00 for a standard EZ-UP, it isn't cheap. Then add the accessories that all cost extra and you are talking some serious coin.

SUMMARY:

All in all we are very happy with our EZ-UP, although it would be nice if the prices came down a bit.

We give the EZ-UP a rating of "B." However, if the price came down, then we could easily move this to our top picks list.

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