When it comes to canoe storage, a good canoe top cover is second to none. These form-fitting covers are custom-built to protect your canoe from the elements during outdoor storage.
Whether you’re storing your canoe for a few days or over winter, a good canoe top cover will protect your craft from sunlight, heat, moisture, and random debris. Many will work well both for indoor and outdoor storage, and provide a decent level of protection from a variety of hazards.
If you’re planning on storing your canoe outdoors over winter, then you’ll generally want to add an additional layer of protection over your canoe and cover. This will keep water from pooling on your craft, and prevent excess moisture from getting in and causing mold and mildew to develop.
Canoe top covers vary significantly in terms of design, materials, and functionality – making choosing the right one for your canoe a bit tricky. I’ll break down some of the best models for each use case, and help you find the ideal one for your craft.
Quick Answer: 5 Best Canoe Top Covers
- Best Overall: Classic Accessories StormPro Heavy-Duty
- Runner Up: Danuu Deluxe Canoe Storage Cover
- Partial Cover: Kohree Kayak Canoe Cover
- Budget Pick: North East Harbor Heavy-Duty Cover
- Also Consider: iiSPORT Waterproof Kayak Canoe Storage Cover
Canoe Cover Uses
Canoe and kayak covers have a number of different use cases, making them a great investment for any small boat owner.
They work well for short- and long-term storage, and also make excellent protective covers during transport on a trailer or car canoe carrier. If you store your boat indoors, then a cover will prevent dust, dirt, and small critters from turning your boat into a luxury villa.
Outdoors, they’ll work well for short-term storage, or in conjunction with a tarp suspended over top to prevent water from getting inside the hull for long-term storage.
Top 5 Canoe Top Covers for Outdoor Storage
Best Overall – Classic Accessories StormPro Heavy-Duty
This well-made canoe and kayak cover is the perfect choice when you’re looking for a full-sized cover that completely shields your craft. It’s made from heavy-duty 600D polyester that’s PVC-free, won’t shrink or stretch, and provides superior water-repellency.
The fabric offers complete UV protection, mold and mildew resistance, and waterproofing. Its also roomy enough to fit paddles, life vests, and other accessories inside the cover, so you won’t need to store these separately.
The zipper faces upward and zipped closed where the cockpit/gunwales are located, so if your planning on storing outdoors, you’ll want to flip it upside down with the zipper facing downwards. Two different sizes are available, a smaller version for canoes/kayaks up to 12-foot long, and a larger version for craft between 12 and 16 feet.
Key Features
- Made from heavy-duty 600D polyester fabric.
- Water-repellant, UV-protective, and mold and mildew resistant.
- Roomy enough to store extra accessories like paddles and life jackets.
- 5-year worry-free manufacturer’s warranty.
- Fits most kayaks or canoes up to 12-16 Long and is full-cut to allow extra room for accessories such as paddles, life vests, etc
- Includes stuff sack for cover storage and a 5 year Warranty
- Fabric coating technology for max water Repellency, protection, structured vents stay open to prevent wind lofting & are lined with mesh barriers resistance and all-weather protection
- Made with heavy duty 600D polyester that is PVC-Free, wont shrink or stretch, designed for extra durability
- NOT designed for Roof top travel
- For maximum water repellency, it is best to store kayak with cover upside down or on its side so water does not enter through the zip
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Runner Up – Danuu Deluxe Canoe Storage Cover
If you’re looking for the cream-of-the-crop canoe storage cover, then look no further – you’ve found it! Made from best-in-class UV-resistant polyester material with a water-resistant coating, and is fully adjustable providing a custom fit for your canoe. Like other canoe top covers, if you store it in direct sunlight, it’ll eventually fade and age somewhat – but better your cover ages than your canoe!
To tighten the cover in place, simply tighten the four side straps, tuck-in any excess cove, and pull the drawstring snug around the hull. An attached flag bag means you can deploy a red flag while your transporting the canoe on a car rack, while a center strap keeps the entire craft secure when the wind picks up.
There are no metal parts to corrode or rust, and all the seams are double stitched to prevent tears and abrasion. Three different sizes are available (skipper, ranger, and scout), so you can find the ideal size for your boat.
Key Features
- Made from heavy-duty UV-resistant polyester material.
- Fully adjustable for a custom fit.
- Attached flag bag and center strap for transporting on a roof rack.
- Three different sizes are available.
- 3 sizes to fit almost any canoe
- 100% UV-resistant polyester, with a water-resistant coating
- Double stitched and reinforced seams, 4 side adjustment straps, 1 center adjustment straps
- Drawstring perimeter and additional V-loop tiedown points
- Built in visibility/storage Flag
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
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Partial Cover – Kohree Kayak Canoe Cover
This well-made canoe and kayak cover is a great choice when you want a versatile cover for both indoor and outdoor storage. The cover material is made from premium polyester oxford with an added silver coating for better waterproof performance, UV protection, and heat dissipation. An elastic drawstring runs around the perimeter of the cover, allowing it to form-fit to a variety of canoes, paddleboards, kayaks, and rowing shells.
Two straps with buckles let you snap the cover in a secure position, and prevent strong wind from blowing your cover away! The cover is suitable for craft between 10.7 feet and 11.4 feet, although a longer version is also available for larger-sized craft.
An elastic drawstring lines the perimeter of the cover – allowing you to cinch the entire cover in place on your boat.
Key Features
- Partial cover can protect your craft whether its stored hull-side up or down.
- Versatile cover will fit a variety of different craft.
- Two straps with buckles keep the cover firmly in place.
- Made from thick and durable polyester oxford with silver coating.
- 【Protective Material】Made of premium polyester oxford with silver coated for better waterproof performance, UV protection and weather protection
- 【Straps Design】 Improved by adding two straps which can prevent the cover from being blew away and avoid collapsing because of rain gathering on the top
- 【Easy on/off】The built-in elastic drawstring makes the canoe top cover go on and off easily and stays in place, convenient to use
- 【Wide Usage】This cover offers protection for your kayaks, fishing boat, canoe rowing and paddle board
- 【Two Sizes Available】Model A:3.1-3.5m/10.17ft~11.48ft ; Model B:3.6-4m/11.8ft~13.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Budget Pick – North East Harbor Heavy-Duty Cover
Rugged, well-made, and reasonably-priced, this canoe cover provides excellent protection from the sun, snow, rain, and critters. It’s sized to fit both canoes and kayaks with ease and provides a quick and secure fit for craft up to 30 inches wide.
The fabric is made from durable 300D waterproof fabric, making it more than capable of withstanding heavy rain and snow. It also comes with a convenient mesh storage bag, so you can pack the entire cover away for easy transportation.
Three sizes are available – 10 ft, 13ft, and 16ft – so you can easily find the right sized cover for your craft. If your boat falls in between sizes, going one size up will ensure you get a good fit.
Key Features
- Full-sized cover provides complete protection from rain, sun, moisture, and critters.
- Durable 300D waterproof fabric.
- Entire cover folds up for convenient storage in the included mesh carry bag.
- Three sizes are available – 10ft, 13ft, 16ft.
- 420D Polyester Kayak Boat Cover
- Available in 3 Sizes- 10ft L, 13ft L and 16ft L
- Zipper Closure Provides a Quick and Secure Fit
- Protects From Snow, Sand, Bird Droppings, Tree Sap, Airborne Dust, Dirt and Sunrays
- Includes FREE Storage
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Also Consider – iiSPORT Waterproof Kayak Canoe Storage Cover
While it may be more of a dust cover than a heavy-duty outdoor cover, if you’re looking for a versatile cover for both indoor and light outdoor use – this one will fit the bill nicely. It comes in a wide variety of different colors, patterns, and sizes, so you can easily find the right one for your needs.
The durable weatherproof cover will protect your canoe from UV damage, and an elastic drawstring lets you pull it snug around the craft. It’s lightweight and easy to fold up and stow away when not in use.
Keep in mind theses covers work best for storing in a semi-protected environment like a boathouse, garage, or shed. If you’re storing your craft in direct sunlight, the cover will fade and weaken over time.
Key Features
- Wide variety of sizes, colors, and patterns available.
- Designed for indoor and light outdoor usage.
- Elastic drawstring for a snug fit around your craft.
- Not ideal for storing in direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
- Durable Weatherproof Fabric for Your Purpose - This kayak cover is made of sun ray reflecting and waterproof polyester material, which offers excellent weather protection for your kayaks, fishing boat, hobie Pro Angler, wilderness System Radar, rowing shell & paddle board!
- Easy On And Off Performance Makes This Dust Cover A Winner - The elastic draw string on it to pull it snug makes this top UV resistant canoe cover go on and off easily and stays in place, it really does a great job in windy and rainy days.
- Prolonging The Life & Look Of Your Beloved Kayak - This canoe storage cover is light and easily folded and packed, very durable to prevent sun & snow & rain & dust damage, excellent for any sort of undisturbed storage.
- Great Choice to Keep Your Investment Clean - You can choose a suitable size for your kayak with room to spare, good coverage for your kayak outdoors. And your can use it for your small boat stored in the garage to keep dust etc off.
- Satisfying Service for You - Any problems, please feel free to contact us by email,we will offer you a satisfying service or solution. Dont lose anymore valuable items from your kayaks stora
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
How to Pick the Right Canoe Cover?
While choosing the right canoe top cover might not seem like a difficult task, there are a few key features to keep in mind before you pull the trigger on a cover.
Size
First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure any cover you order will fit your canoe or kayak correctly. Covers come in a wide variety of different sizes, so pay close attention when placing your order. In addition to length, you’ll also want to pay attention to the maximum width (beam) of a given cover.
If your craft is in between two sizes, its generally best to order one size up. Most covers come with some form of tightening straps or elastic bungee that can tighten up any excess material.
If you plan to use your cover for transporting your canoe on a vehicle roof rack or trailer, then you’ll want to make sure the cover is up to the task. Partial covers aren’t great for this, as strong wind or rain can cause one end of the cover to come loose. Go with a sturdy, weatherproof, full-body cover when you’re transporting your craft by car.
Materials
Most covers are made from a durable high denier UV-resistant polyester material. This material will protect your craft from UV damage, water damage, and keep pesky critters from setting up shop inside your craft.
Like most other things, when it comes to cover material quality, you’ll generally get what you’re willing to pay for. More expensive covers feature better quality waterproofing and UV protection and will last significantly longer than cheapo covers.
Also, keep in mind that unprotected outdoor storage will weather any cover – no matter how expensive it is. Direct sunlight beaming down on your canoe top cover will cause fading and weathering eventually, but far better your cover suffers the damage than your canoe.
Storage Location
Your canoe storage location will have a major impact on the right cover to use. Indoor storage already provides protection from the sun and moisture, so a cover is only needed to protect from dust and critters. Lightweight and partial covers work well for this application.
Outdoor storage means your canoe will be subject to some degree of sun and moisture. Even if it’s well protected under a tarp or shade cover, the craft will still be subject to the heat and cold. Full-sized covers work well in this situation, as they’re better at keeping out the elements than partial covers.
Why Do You Need a Canoe Top Cover?
A canoe top cover for outdoor storage is an essential piece of equipment for anyone who plans on going out in their canoe. We’ll take a look at the reasons why you need a canoe top cover and how it can help protect your canoe against the elements.
Keeping Out Debris and Pests
A top cover for your canoe for outdoor storage will protect it from debris and stop pests from entering the inside of your craft. This includes things like leaves and twigs that may be caught in the wind, as well as bats, birds, and other small animals which could do damage to the interior of your canoe if they are able to get inside.
The cover also stops water from getting into the boat so that it stays dry even when it’s raining.
Protects Against UV Rays
A canoe top cover for outdoor storage can also protect your craft from UV rays. These rays can be damaging over time, particularly if you leave the boat exposed for days at a time when not in use. A canoe top cover will provide shade and protection from direct sunlight which can prevent any cracking or fading of paintwork or fabric covering on the vessel.
Reduces Wind Resistance
Having a top cover on your canoe can help reduce wind damage and stop flying debris from hitting your canoe while being stored outside.
Keeps Your Gear Secure
Finally, having a top cover for outdoor storage will ensure that any items stored inside your canoe remain secure and protected.
How to Tell if Your Canoe Top Cover Fits Correctly
While there are some standard sizes that canoe top covers come in, it’s always a good idea to make sure your canoe is properly sized before purchasing one.
Here are some tips for determining if your canoe top cover fits correctly:
- Measure the length and width of your canoe. Using a measuring tape, measure the entire length and width of your canoe from one end to the other. Make sure to take into account any extra features such as seating or storage compartments when measuring.
- Compare these measurements to the dimensions of the canoe top cover you’re considering. The dimensions listed on the canoe top cover packaging should indicate what size will fit your boat best. If they don’t match up, look for another option or consider having a custom cover for outdoor storage made for your specific canoe.
- Check for straps and tie-downs. It’s important that the top cover you choose has enough straps and tie-downs around it so that it can be securely fastened onto your boat.
Ensure there is enough room for ventilation. A well-fitting canoe top cover should allow enough air circulation underneath it so that moisture doesn’t become trapped inside the boat when stored properly. Without proper ventilation, mold and mildew could form over time which could damage both the fabric of the top cover as well as any contents held within the boat itself.
The right canoe top cover can make a world of difference. Stick around if you want to learn about all things watersports!
