One of the most mandatory items on any outdoor excursion is the tent. A tent is a temporary shelter erected by placing a flexible sheet over a framework of rods and ropes, which may be resting freely on the surface of the ground or tied to stakes driven into the soil. The sheet cover of the tent, commonly made of strong cloth or canvas is called the canopy. The strength and durability of the canopy is of utmost importance as it is this component of the tent that protects the occupant from the detrimental vagaries of nature. The canopy provides a shield from rain, scorching sun, insects, and even wild animals. The resilience and fabric of the canopy material used depends on the location, and size of the tent. Tent sizes can vary from those suitable for only one person to huge tents like those used in circuses. It goes without saying that canopies used in circus tents are much thicker and stronger than those used for small tents. In addition, in areas of heavy rainfall, a waterproof canopy is a must, whereas in hot locations, a canopy made of a heat reflecting material would be ideal. Normally, canopies are made of cotton, polyester, or nylon. Water resistance of a canopy is measured in terms of the hydrostatic head, which is the water pressure needed to penetrate the fabric. Canopies suitable for use under normal annual weather changes should have a minimum hydrostatic head of 2000 millimeters, the figure going up for extreme conditions. Besides being waterproof, nowadays canopies even act as fire retardants and Ultra-Violet ray protectors. The canopy is a versatile item to keep at home, finding use in the backyard for a barbeque party or even a beach picnic. Canopies come in various sizes, materials, and colors, depending on user preferences.