As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more.
Canvas vs Poly vs PVC Tarps: Which Is Best for Boats? (2026)
Boat owners choosing between canvas, poly and PVC covers need to weigh breathability, UV resistance and long-term marine durability. This guide compares three popular poly tarps from Trademark Supplies — a heavy 20 mil mid-range option and two 10 mil options (one large single tarp and one 2-pack). You’ll learn how material differences affect moisture, sun damage and fit, and get side-by-side pros/cons to decide which tarp suits your boat and storage style. Products were selected for size variety, reported durability, construction features (grommets, reinforced hems) and customer feedback on value and fit.
Quick Answer
For most boat owners a heavy polyethylene (poly) tarp is the best all-around choice — it offers superior waterproofing and UV resistance with manageable cost. Our top pick for marine use is the Trademark Supplies Large Waterproof Tarp (Heavy Duty 20 Mil, ASIN B07FTWSHRX) because its thicker poly balances durability and weather protection better than thinner poly or breathable canvas.
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
Select 2-3 products to compare side-by-side
| Compare | Product | HandleSmith Score | Price Tier | Key Feature | Best For | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
10 Mil Poly Tarp 20' x 40'
|
Budget | Very large coverage size | Large boats and full-coverage protection | Check Price | ||
20 Mil Poly Tarp 12' x 20'
|
Mid-Range | Thicker 20 mil poly for marine resilience | Boat owners wanting longer-lasting weather protection | Check Price | ||
10 Mil Poly Tarp 12' x 16' 2pk
|
Mid-Range | Convenient 2-pack for multiple small covers | Small boats, pontoons, or modular covering | Check Price |
1. Large Waterproof Tarp - Heavy Duty 10 Mil Thick Poly Tarpaulin Ideal for Canopy Tents, Boats, RV or Pool Covers - Multipurpose Protective Tarps with Grommets for Indoor and Outdoor Use | 20' x 40'
A budget-friendly, very large polyethylene tarp that gives broad coverage for big boats and outdoor storage. Offers basic UV and waterproof protection with reinforced hems and grommets; thickness is light compared with the 20 mil option so expect easier handling but slightly less longevity.
Key Specs
- Thickness: 10 mil poly
- Size: 20' x 40'
- Construction: Hemmed edges with rope reinforcement
- Hardware: Rust-proof grommets every 36"
- Properties: UV-resistant, waterproof, mildew-proof
Pros
- Cheaper per square foot than the 20 mil option
- Large size fits many boats better than the smaller 2-pack
- Lighter and easier to handle than thicker poly or PVC
Cons
- Less durable than the 20 mil model under long-term sun and abrasion
- Some users report rips or thinner spots more often than thicker tarps
Best For: Large boats and full-coverage protection
Check Latest Price on Amazon2. Large Waterproof Tarp - Heavy Duty 20 Mil Thick Poly Tarpaulin Ideal for Canopy Tents, Boats, RV or Pool Covers - Multipurpose Protective Tarps with Grommets for Indoor, Outdoor Use | 12' x 20' 2 Pack
This 20 mil polyethylene tarp balances toughness and weight for marine use — thicker material resists tears and holds up better in sun and wind than the 10 mil versions. It provides superior waterproofing and UV protection for trailers, boats and stored equipment while still being relatively easy to tie down with reinforced hems and grommets.
Key Specs
- Thickness: 20 mil poly
- Size: 12' x 20' (2 pack)
- Construction: Extra-thick weave, hemmed edges with rope reinforcement
- Hardware: Rust-proof grommets spaced every 36"
- Properties: UV-resistant, waterproof, mildew-proof, tear-resistant
Pros
- Better tear resistance and durability than 10 mil tarps
- Stronger UV and waterproofing than canvas in wet storage scenarios
- Good balance of durability and value compared with heavier PVC covers
Cons
- Less breathable than canvas, which can trap moisture under cover
- Heavier and slightly harder to handle than the 10 mil single-piece options
Best For: Boat owners wanting longer-lasting weather protection
Check Latest Price on Amazon3. Large Waterproof Tarp - Heavy Duty 10 Mil Thick Poly Tarpaulin Ideal for Canopy Tents, Boats, RV or Pool Covers - Multipurpose Protective Tarps with Grommets for Indoor, Outdoor Use | 12' x 16' 2 Pack
A practical two-pack of 10 mil poly tarps that suits small boats, trailers, and multi-piece covers. Offers the same waterproof and UV-resistant poly construction as the other Trademark Supplies tarps but in smaller, more manageable panels — good for DIY covers or separating bow/stern protection.
Key Specs
- Thickness: 10 mil poly
- Size: 12' x 16' (2 pack)
- Construction: Hemmed edges with rope reinforcement
- Hardware: Rust-proof grommets every 36"
- Properties: UV-resistant, waterproof, mildew-proof
Pros
- Two tarps provide flexibility and easier handling than one large sheet
- Good waterproofing like other poly options but easier to store
- Better fit for small boats than oversized single tarps
Cons
- 10 mil thickness means lower abrasion resistance than 20 mil
- Smaller panels may leave seams or gaps for larger boats
Best For: Small boats, pontoons, or modular covering
Check Latest Price on AmazonWhich One Should You Choose?
If you want the best overall marine protection with a clear balance of UV resistance, tear resistance and waterproofing, choose the Trademark Supplies Large Waterproof Tarp - Heavy Duty 20 Mil (ASIN B07FTWSHRX). Its thicker 20 mil poly gives better long-term resistance to sun and abrasion than the 10 mil options.
If budget is the top priority and you need very large coverage for a big boat or winter storage, go with the 10 mil 20' x 40' tarp (ASIN B07GZWRQLJ) — it gives the most coverage for the price but sacrifices some durability versus 20 mil material. If you want flexibility and easier handling for small boats or want two matching covers, pick the 10 mil 12' x 16' 2-pack (ASIN B07FTX4V6K).
Best for Specific Scenarios
- Long-term outdoor storage in sunny areas: Trademark Supplies 20 Mil (ASIN B07FTWSHRX) because its thicker poly offers better UV resistance and tear protection.
- One-season or budget winter cover for a large boat: Trademark Supplies 10 Mil 20' x 40' (ASIN B07GZWRQLJ) because it provides huge coverage at a low cost.
- Small boats, pontoons or modular covering: Trademark Supplies 10 Mil 12' x 16' 2-pack (ASIN B07FTX4V6K) because two smaller sheets are easier to handle and store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a poly tarp a good long-term boat cover?
Poly tarps are great for waterproofing and UV protection, especially thicker 20 mil options. For long-term storage, you’ll want to manage condensation (poly traps moisture) by adding vents, supports to avoid pooling, and occasional airing. In extremely sunny, abrasive environments, consider PVC or a heavier coated cover for the longest life.
When should I choose canvas over poly or PVC?
Choose canvas if breathability is the priority — it reduces condensation and mold risk for indoor or humid-storage situations. Canvas is heavier and needs maintenance (treating/sealing) to remain water-resistant, so it’s less convenient for frequent on/off use than poly.
How do I size a tarp for my boat?
Measure the boat’s length (bow to stern) and width at the widest point. Add several feet for tie-downs and coverage over the gunwales or trailer. If in doubt, pick a tarp slightly larger to accommodate straps and shrinkage; multiple smaller tarps can be used for modular coverage if a single large tarp is impractical.
How We Selected These Products
Our recommendations are based on data-driven analysis: we evaluated 100770+ products across 13951+ 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: June 06, 2026
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure.
HandleSmith 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.