Best pool shade

Keep the sun away with these fabulous pool shades.

Ladies looking at pool shades
(Image credit: Unsplash)

Having a pool in your backyard is becoming more common as the prices drop. Pool shades are important though, especially if you live in very hot climates, to keep you from being burned alive while enjoying the water. We've compiled a list of our favorite shades right here, just for you.

Best for coverage

Rectangular shade

(Image credit: Amazon)

Shade&Beyond Rectangle Sun Shade

It's like a sail for your yard

These large canvas sunshades work amazingly well to keep the UV rays that cause sunburn at bay while allowing breezes to blow through and keep you cool. This rectangular shade can be placed above the entire pool to shade you while you swim.

Just the corner

Triangular Shade

(Image credit: Amazon)

Shade&Beyond Triangle Sun Shade

Perfect for adding shade and shape

I like the triangle shade over the rectangle — though they are the same material — as they offer a more dynamic shape. Multiple shades can be used to create overlapping shaded areas. It's important to note that while these stop the sun, they don't stop the rain!

For the poolside

Personal shade

(Image credit: Amazon)

Sport-Brella Adjustable Umbrella

More than one use

This is a much more personal shading option than any of the others. With a built-in clamp it can be attached to your sun lounger and moved around as you need it. You can also unclamp it and take it with you as you move around the yard.

Privacy and shade

Blackout Curtains

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RYB HOME Outdoor Patio Curtains

Blackout and waterproof

Not all shade needs to be overhead. These blackout curtains are enormous and work perfectly to keep your hot tub areas safe from prying eyes and the sun. They are fully waterproof too, so can stand up to any amount of splashing you might do in the pool. 

Throw some shade

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Having at least one shaded area when you are outside is vitally important to help fight off sunburn. When you are in a pool it's even more important as the water amplifies the burning effect.

Using a large shade like the Shade&Beyond Rectangle Sun Shade to cover your entire pool is the best solution, and the loose weave allows for cooling breezes as well as UV protection.

James Bricknell

Ever since James bought his first home, he has been obsessed with making it the perfect space. From curtains, paint, and pictures to grills, mixing bowls, and pots and pans, nothing is too small an item for James to adore!