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AWNING BUYING GUIDE
So, you’re in the market for an awning but don’t know which one to get. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you with this handy guide to buying an awning.
If your needs are simple and you just need a basic awning that will throw some shade on your worksite or campsite, then the Sunseeker or DOME 1300 will suit you down to a T. However, if you have a family and need to provide shade over a larger area or you want to be able to fully enclose it, the Batwing Awning has your needs covered.
A range of handy accessories are available for both the Sunseeker and Batwing Awnings and you needn’t worry about fitting it to your existing roof rack system as Rhino-Rack has a range of mounting solutions.
Batwing Awning
The Batwing awning from Rhino-Rack and extends from side to rear, fanning out across a whopping 270 degrees. Although it can be extended out from either side of your vehicle, you must choose which side at the time of purchase – either a left or a right hand side version.
Available in a standard size or a compact size, the size of your rig will inform which option is most applicable to you. The Batwing Compact has a 500mm reduction in length to accommodate smaller vehicles and those with fewer shade demands.
Although both span the full 270 degrees, the standard size offers 10m2 of coverage while the Batwing Compact offers 6.4m2.
Whichever one you choose, you can rest assured that the Batwing offers maximum sun protection. Made from heavy-duty, water and mould-resistant materials, it’s been tested and rated to UPF 50+.
The Batwing Awning comes with the latest Stow It Awning Brackets with Zwifloc, allowing for quick install and removal of the awning when not in use. Drop your Batwing in anywhere on your Pioneer Platform, without the need to move other accessories.
Batwing Accessories
There are a wide range of compatible accessories including extensions, sidewalls and sand screws. But one particularly handy set of accessories for the Batwing Awning is the Tapered Zip Extension and Tapered Extension With Door, allowing you to enclose your shady area for privacy and protection from the elements.
Another accessory specific to the Batwing Awning is the Batwing Mesh Floor. Made from a Polyethylene mesh cloth, it’s cut perfectly to mirror the shape of your Batwing Awning providing protection underfoot and preventing sand and mud from ruining your little slice of paradise under the awning.
Sunseeker Awning
The Sunseeker is Rhino-Rack’s side awning solution and can be mounted from either side of your vehicle. You have the choice of a 2m and 2.5m wide option, and both extend straight out 2m – depending on the vehicle and shade requirements you can choose a Sunseeker Awning size to suit your needs.
The Sunseeker awning is designed as a quick set-up. Simply mount it to your roof rack and roll out the awning for watching sports, camping, picnics, lunch breaks on the job site or lazy days at the beach. When it’s not in use, simply pack it away in its heavy-duty PVC bag until next time.
Made from rip-stop polycotton canvas with a UV50+ rating, this water and mould-resistant awning weighs in at only 10kg, making it ideal for those that require a lightweight solution.
Sunseeker Accessories
Both Sunseeker awning sizes can be fitted with either a sidewall or extension. The sidewall adds an additional 2m of coverage for extra shade and privacy. Simply secure it at the top and peg it down to the ground at an angle.
The Sunseeker awning extension also extends the shade coverage by a further 2m. However, it can be erected either by using the provided telescopic poles to provide a much larger roof shade area or pegged to the ground in a similar fashion to the sidewall.
Dome 1300 Awning
The Dome 1300 Awning with Stow iT is Rhino Rack’s solution for a huge 6m2/64ft2 coverage. It works by mounting to the side, the rear of your vehicle or ute tub so you can enjoy the extra height its innovative pop up design offers (over a standard awning). Extending 2.4m/94“ from the edge of vehicle and spreading out 2.5m/98", it’s ideal for families looking to hang out in a protected and sheltered area on their adventure. Made from mould resistant ripstop fabric, you can rely on its sun protection rated to UPF 50+.
The Stow iT Awning bracket is included, which allows for swift and easy removal of the awning when it’s no longer needed. The Stow iT mounting bracket utilises the brand new patented Zwifloc channel nuts, which allows for personal customisation. What this means is brackets can be placed anywhere on your Pioneer or Reconn-Deck, removing the necessity to remove or move around your other accessories.
Dome Accessories
If you’re looking for more space or additional protection from the setting sun, you have the option to purchase the extra side wall. The Dome 1300 Side Wall provides a generous additional 2m x 2m of coverage for your designated area. Because it’s constructed from the same material as the Sunseeker Awning, the Side Wall is also UV protected, waterproof and mould resistant, allowing it to last the distance on all of your future adventures to come!
Awards
Rhino-Rack is honoured that the Batwing Awning received the Gold Design Award in the Product Design - Sport & lifestyle category at the 2018 Good Design Awards. The Good Design Awards are Australia’s oldest and most prestigious international awards for design and innovation.
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