I have been using a Caravan pop-up for 6 years. The canopy and frame are in excellent shape, but the zippers in the sidewalls are shot. This is my second set of sidewalls and out of the 2 sets, I think I have two working zippers. These are the "plastic" sidewalls with plastic zippers. $99 for a set of 4 from Caravan.
Before I spend another $99, does anyone have another suggestion? I was wondering if EZ-Up sidewalls will work. The need to have velcro straps at the top and zippers up the corners.
One problem with the Caravan versions is that they seem to be 1-2 inches too short. Always a struggle to get that last zipper fastened.
Also, if anyone has any used sidewalls with good zippers, let me know! I'll buy them from you. Caravan is sold out right now.
Thanks,
Replies
Last year I bought vinyl waterproof sidewalls from the HutShop - that are designed to fit the EZ Up (although mine is a First Up and they were a bit long but that worked just fine.) and they were great. I used them several times in rain and showers. I called before I ordered and the people helped me with good information on the two types I considered and helped me make a good choice.
Christina
go to dick's sporting goods - online - bought sides for under $50
I was just about to update this thread today!
I found them online a couple weeks ago from several sources. I ordered from Amazon but I think they were not the cheapest (used them because of easy return policy).
Tried them out last weekend and was pleased. They are much thinner and almost see-thru, but worked great. They have the same zippers as the $99 set, so I figure they will last about the same 2-3 years.
One problem I had with the $99 original sides and replacements, was that they seemed to be an inch short. I was always tugging on the last two sides to get the zippers to line up. The cheaper, $50 sides, do not have that problem.
I have two sets of walls with zippers for ez up. I also found that was hard to close but if you are in my area you can have them. I also found out that Fluorish will make walls for the ezup but they cost 400.00. Another words You may start considering buying a trimline or lite dome. I just close my eyes and did it this year. Yes they are a pain to set up if compare to the ezup
I'm not in your area, but would love to get the sidewalls. Caravan sells "better" sidewalls for about $280. Elite Deals has the cheaper Caravan walls for $99 a set.
I like my Caravan Canopies, except for the walls. It's been through some rough weather that has destroyed EZ-Up and other canopies, but mine has stood strong. Part of that I attribute to the Flourish Stay-Bars and using gridwall for display racks (keeps the canopy from swaying and flexing)
I may have an extra set of EZ-Up sides with zippers on the sides and velcro straps on top; not sure about the sides. EZ-Up seemed to change them every few years. I've accumulated about 4 sets of side tarps over the years when I've bought new canopies, and had one set given to me when a friend's tent was destroyed. Most of them don't have much wear as I'm still using a set that I special ordered from Elaine Martin that I had an extra foot added onto at the bottom. That should tell you how long those have lasted. I'll be out at my storage locker probably tomorrow or Thursday, and can check out what's there.
Let me know what you find. I'd be interested in trying them instead of investing in another set of Caravan sides!
I purchased a replacement set for my EZup at either Sports Authority or Dicks Sporting Goods on line for $99. I think I got free shipping, but it's been a few years.
If you wanted to go the route of having new zippers put on your existing walls, the cheapest place is the local dry cleaners. They will have a connection for a person who does alterations of all kinds. I'll bet they could even add a bit of material on to make the side a little looser.
Never thought of dry cleaners. I was looking for a tent repair place. Thanks!
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