As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more.
Best Tarp Covers vs Shade Cloth for Kennels: Which Is Better This Summer? (2026)
Summer heat makes choosing the right kennel cover critical for pet comfort. This head-to-head looks at three ColourTree kennel covers—two breathable shade cloths and one waterproof tarp—comparing UV protection, heat retention and drainage so you can pick the right cover for your dog. We selected these models because they share the same 90% sunblock claim, similar sizes, and clear feature differences (breathable HDPE vs waterproof polyethylene). Read on to learn which balances shade, airflow and weather resistance for your setup.
Quick Answer
For summer kennel use, the ColourTree 3' x 12' Brown Shade Cloth (B0BVTGLH2L) is the best overall because it blocks up to 90% of UV while maximizing airflow and drainage. If you need waterproof protection, the ColourTree 3' x 12' Blue Waterproof Shade Cloth (B0BWG3WCCN) trades some breathability for rain protection.
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
Select 2-3 products to compare side-by-side
| Compare | Product | PetPickLab Score | Price Tier | Key Feature | Best For | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ColourTree Brown 3'x12' Shade
|
Budget | Breathable HDPE mesh with 90% sunblock | Heat management and airflow | Check Price | ||
ColourTree Blue 3'x12' Waterproof
|
Budget | 220 GSM waterproof polyethylene | Kennels needing rain protection | Check Price | ||
ColourTree Red 4'x17' Shade
|
Premium | Larger premium size with HDPE weave | Larger kennels and heavy use | Check Price |
1. ColourTree 3' x 12' Brown Custom Size Shade Cloth with Grommets - 90% Sunblock, Durable Mesh Fabric Tarp for Dog Kennel Cover, Fence Privacy Screen, Greenhouse, Chicken Coop & Pet Playpen
A top-rated breathable shade cloth that blocks up to 90% of sunlight while allowing air and water to pass through. It reduces kennel temperature effectively and installs easily with grommets, making it a strong choice when ventilation and drainage are priorities.
Key Specs
- Material: Permeable HDPE woven fabric
- Sunblock: Up to 90% UV reduction
- Waterproof: Non-waterproof, allows water through
- Mounting: Evenly spaced grommets for zip ties
Pros
- Better airflow and drainage than the waterproof blue option
- Strong UV blocking with less heat retention than solid tarps
- Good value and durable weave praised by customers
Cons
- Not waterproof, so it won't keep rain off as well as the blue model
- May feel thinner than the premium red option for heavy-duty use
Best For: Heat management and airflow
Check Latest Price on Amazon2. ColourTree 3' x 12' Blue Custom Size Waterproof Shade Cloth with Grommets - 90% Sunblock, Durable Mesh Fabric Tarp for Dog Kennel Cover, Fence Privacy Screen, Greenhouse, Coop & Pet Playpen
This blue model adds waterproofing to the shade function with a heavier 220 GSM virgin polyethylene fabric. It protects pets from sun and rain and is portable and easy to install, but the waterproof layer sacrifices some breathability compared with the permeable HDPE options.
Key Specs
- Material: 220 GSM 100% virgin polyethylene
- Sunblock: Up to 90% UV reduction
- Waterproof: Yes, dual shade and waterproof
- Installation: Lightweight and installs easily with grommets
Pros
- Better waterproofing than the brown and red shade cloths
- Durable 220 GSM construction stands up to wet conditions
- Portable and easy to move between kennels
Cons
- Less breathable than the permeable models, so it can retain more heat
- May require angled mounting or runoff to avoid pooling
Best For: Kennels needing rain protection
Check Latest Price on Amazon3. ColourTree 4' x 17' Red Custom Size Shade Cloth with Grommets - 90% Sunblock, Durable Mesh Fabric Tarp for Dog Kennel Cover, Fence Privacy Screen, Greenhouse, Chicken Coop & Pet Playpen
A larger, premium shade cloth built from permeable HDPE that blocks up to 90% of sunlight. It balances strong sun protection with airflow and drainage, and the bigger footprint suits larger runs and multi-dog setups—though it commands a premium and may be overkill for small cages.
Key Specs
- Material: Permeable HDPE woven fabric
- Sunblock: Up to 90% UV reduction
- Waterproof: Non-waterproof, allows airflow and drainage
- Mounting: Grommets placed evenly for easy installation
Pros
- Better coverage for large kennels compared with 3'x12' options
- Excellent airflow and heat reduction compared with waterproof blue
- Durable construction suitable for heavier long-term use
Cons
- Higher price than the 3'x12' models
- Not waterproof, so you still need a rain plan for wet weather
Best For: Larger kennels and heavy use
Check Latest Price on AmazonWhich One Should You Choose?
If your main goal is summer cooling, choose the ColourTree 3' x 12' Brown Shade Cloth (B0BVTGLH2L). It blocks up to 90% of UV while maximizing airflow and drainage, so it keeps kennels cooler than a waterproof tarp. If you need both sun and rain protection for a kennel used in wet weather, pick the ColourTree 3' x 12' Blue Waterproof Shade Cloth (B0BWG3WCCN) because its 220 GSM polyethylene sheds water and holds up better in storms. If you have a large run or need wider coverage and longer-term durability, opt for the larger ColourTree 4' x 17' Red Shade Cloth (B0BVTRCGCD) for premium coverage with good ventilation.
Best for Specific Scenarios
- Hot, sunny backyards: ColourTree Brown 3'x12' because it minimizes heat retention with breathable HDPE.
- Rainy climates or overnight outdoor kennels: ColourTree Blue 3'x12' Waterproof because the 220 GSM polyethylene keeps pets dry.
- Large runs or multi-dog pens: ColourTree Red 4'x17' because the larger premium size provides broader shade and coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 90% sunblock mean my dog will be cool under the cover?
90% sunblock refers to blocking direct UV and sunlight, which reduces radiant heat. Breathable HDPE shade cloths (the brown and red models) also allow air to pass through, lowering heat retention. Waterproof tarps block sun but can trap heat, so they may be warmer unless you introduce ventilation or mount at an angle.
Will the waterproof cover cause water to pool on top?
Waterproof polyethylene can pool if mounted flat. To prevent pooling, slope the tarp or use a frame so water runs off. The breathable shade cloths let water pass through the fabric and avoid pooling but won't keep pets dry in rain.
How do I choose the right size and avoid fit problems?
Measure the kennel footprint and any mounting anchor points before buying. Check that grommets match where you'll attach fasteners. Customers often cite size mismatch as a common issue, so allow a little extra fabric for secure fastening and to account for tensioning.
How We Selected These Products
Our recommendations are based on data-driven analysis: we evaluated 40125+ products across 6371+ brands using a composite scoring system that weighs rating (40%), review volume (30%), price value (20%), and demand signals (10%). Every product is ranked by data, not opinions.
Last updated: July 09, 2026
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure.
PetPickLab Score is our editorial ranking based on a composite analysis of product quality, value, and verified customer sentiment. Click through to Amazon for current pricing, availability, and live customer reviews.