The best pergola shade will protect you from sun glare and UV rays while you're enjoying your yard or patio. Many of the pergola shades in our roundup are super affordable and easily assembled, such as out top pick, the LOVE STORY Rectangle Sand Sun Shade Sail Canopy. Simply pull taut over your pergola and secure it to add some shade to even the sunniest spots. Some of the pergola shades in our roundup include retractable technology which makes it easy to extend and retract your shade so you can adjust throughout the day.
We've also included waterproof pergola covers for year-round use, and triangular pergola covers which allow you to customize your shade coverage.
LOVE STORY Rectangle Sand Sun Shade Sail Canopy
Great value and great quality
Available in 12 colors and 10 sizes, this is one of the most versatile pergola shades you can buy.
Pros:
- 10 size options
- 12 colors to choose from
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Not waterproof
The LOVE STORY Rectangle Sand Sun Shade Sail Canopy is an affordable pergola cover in a variety of sizes and colors. This includes cream, brown, terra cotta, and even green stripes. All the edges are slightly curved so it can be stretched fully taut over your pergola, and the breathable fabric allows it to cool off easily.
Windscreen4less Retractable Shade Canopy
A retractable pergola canopy in three colors
This pergola shade can be retracted for those who want easy access to both shade and sun.
Pros:
- Easily retracted
- Simple installation
- Stylish 'U' shaped drape
Cons:
- Expensive
Retractable pergola shades are more expensive than regular options, but they come with the convenience of easy retraction without having to take down the entire shade. The Windscreen4less Retractable Shade Canopy is a great option because it drapes in a stylish 'U' shape, and can be secured in sections to customize your shade coverage.
AsterOutdoor Sun Shade
A low price pergola shade with 95% UV block
Available in a variety of sizes and colors, you can get this pergola shade for a reasonable price.
Pros:
- Eight available sizes
- 95% UV block
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Rope isn't the sturdiest
For an inexpensive pergola shade with the same great features, consider the AsterOutdoor Sun Shade. This pergola shade has 95% UV block, which means you can sit out even on the sunniest days without exposing your skin to sun damage, and it's available in eight sizes total. You'll want to make sure you invest in turnbuckles to keep it from sagging, but for the price it's hard to beat.
iCOVER Sun Shade Sail
Add a nautical element to your yard with this shade sail
A triangular pergola cover to create a balance of sun and shade.
Pros:
- Not too expensive
- Mix and match to customize coverage
- Adds a nautical element
Cons:
- Limited color and size range
Triangular pergola shades can add a nautical feel to your pergola thanks to their sail-like shape. The iCOVER Sun Shade Sail can be doubled up to create a stylish and alternative take on a classic pergola cover, and this sun shade is also relatively inexpensive. It doesn't come in a huge range of sizes, but you can always buy multiples to create a triangular shade pattern across your pergola.
Ankuka Waterproof Sun Shade
A weatherproof pergola shade
Protect your pergola from sun and rain, year-round.
Pros:
- Waterproof
- 100% UV protection
- Plenty of sizes and colors
Cons:
- Sides curve in
Waterproof pergola covers have the distinct advantage of offering a safe and dry space year-round, meaning you can sit out in evenings or uncertain weather without worrying about getting wet. The Ankuka Waterproof Sun Shade has 100% UV protection and will serve your needs all year round.
LOVE STORY 9' 10'' x 9'10'' Square Brown Sagging Sun Shade
The best pergola shade with corners
This pergola shade has a classic corner element which will make you feel protected and secure.
Pros:
- Corners make you feel secure
- Affordable
- Design increases shade area
Cons:
- Available in one color
Most pergolas can be stretched taut across your pergola, which can leave gaps thanks to the curvature of the outer edges. The LOVE STORY 9' 10'' x 9'10'' Square Brown Sagging Sun Shade has corners which fold over the side of your pergola to create more of a classic cover and offer greater shade. Another variation of the classic pergola shade shape is the LOVE STORY 9' 10'' x 9'10'' Square Brown Sagging Sun Shade, which has corners to add more shade and a roof-like touch.
The verdict
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When selecting the best pergola shades, the LOVE STORY Rectangle Sand Sun Shade Sail Canopy stood out to us as a versatile pergola cover with plenty of available sized and colors. Like the AsterOutdoor Sun Shade, it's an affordable option. If you're willing to spend more for the convenience of retractable pergola shade, the Windscreen4less Retractable Shade Canopy is a stylish choice with 'U' shaped drapes. The iCOVER Sun Shade Sail allows you to mix and match your coverage thanks to its triangular shape, but the Ankuka Waterproof Sun Shade will keep you 100% dry and UV-free if it's a waterproof option you're looking for.