One of the elements that distinguishes a high-quality shade sail from a cheaper, low-quality one is the shade fabric used in its construction. At Shade Sails America, we use four different types of high-quality fabrics: Commercial Grade Light, Commercial Grade Heavy, Commercial Grade Dual Colour, and Waterproof.

1. Commercial Grade Light

Our Commercial Grade Light fabric is the standard material used in all of our premium shade sails. Developed in Australia by one of the world’s leading and most established shade fabric manufacturers, it delivers an ideal balance of weight, durability, and UV protection.

This material is particularly well-suited for residential and smaller-scale commercial installations. Its specialized lock-stitch knit allows for enhanced air flow, offers approximately 4% stretch, and is both fade- and tear-resistant—ensuring it won’t crack, rot, or fray over time.

Backed by a 15-year manufacturer’s warranty against UV degradation and made from 100% recyclable materials, it’s an environmentally responsible and a long-lasting choice.

  • GSM: 340
  • UVR Protection: 90–98%
  • Construction: Monofilament & Tape
  • Manufacturer: Gale Pacific

2. Commercial Grade Heavy

Imported from Australia, the home of tensile shade, Monotec fabric is an industry-leading 100% Monofilament cloth, best suited to larger-span sails over 25ft. We use this heavier grade shade fabric on most of our large-scale commercial projects, however, they can also be used in a residential setting for those wanting the highest quality fabric. Heavier in weight than our Light and Waterproof fabrics, these fabrics come in a range of vibrant colours you won’t find in our other ranges. These fabrics have superior durability and performance, especially in excessively high wind conditions and come with a 15-year manufacturer’s warranty against UV degradation.

  • GSM: 376
  • UVR: 84-98%
  • Construction: 100% Monofilament (No Tape)
  • Manufactured by: Monotec

Availability

  • Low levels in Yellow, Black, Blue, Red, Terracotta
  • Out of Stock in Green, Orange, Purple

Please contact us for any order in these colours

3. Commercial Grade Dual Colour

Shade fabric dual colour offers a premium, visually striking option for projects needing both performance and style. Designed with patent-pending technology, this commercial-grade material features two distinct colours—one on each side—enabling unique aesthetic effects, especially when paired with varied post heights to create dynamic hypar shapes.

Built for longevity, this durable fabric boasts a strong 350 GSM weight, crafted from a high-quality blend of monofilament and tape yarns. It delivers excellent UV protection and comes backed by a 15-year UV degradation warranty. Made from HDPE, the material is also fully recyclable, supporting sustainable design.

  • GSM: 350
  • UVR: 93.6%
  • Construction: Monofilament + Tape
  • Manufactured by: Gale Pacific


Please contact us for any order in these colours

4. Waterproof

Our premium waterproof shade cloth is made from a blend of monofilament and tape, finished with a durable waterproof coating. This design extends the usability of your shade sail into the shoulder seasons, offering year-round performance.

The fabric provides up to 100% UV protection while allowing natural light transmission. At 280 gsm, it’s lighter than our other fabrics yet maintains excellent tear and fray resistance. It comes with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty against UV degradation and is 100% recyclable.

Proudly manufactured in South Africa, this fabric is ideal if you’re seeking an all-weather shade sail that performs beautifully and sustainably.

Note: With some vibrant waterproof colours, you may notice a slight change in the colour of the light passing through your shade sail.

Specifications

  • GSM: 280
  • UVR: 93–100%
  • Construction: Monofilament & Tape (Coated)
  • Manufactured by: Multiknit Industries

Availability

  • Low stock in Navy Blue, Turquoise, Black, Royal Blue, Desert Sand
  • Out of stock in Olive, Rainforest

Please contact us for any orders in these colours.