Platinum Sun & Shade is mostly known for cantilever parasols, but the brand also offers centre pole parasols, granite parasol bases, AeroCover covers and shade sails. What can you expect, and what should you look out for? In this article you'll read what Platinum offers, what T1 and T2 mean, how premium and standard fabrics differ, what the product information says about bases, covers and warranty, and which points you should check yourself. To be upfront: we don't collect our own customer reviews. Everything we mention comes from the product information we compare.
In brief: Platinum is mainly a shade brand: cantilever and centre pole parasols, bases, covers and shade sails. For cantilever parasols, T1 or T2 tells you how the parasol tilts, and premium means a Spuncrylic fabric. Almost every parasol comes without a base, so factor that into your budget. For parasols, bases and covers there is a 2-year manufacturer's warranty, and for the Coolfit shade sails there is a five-year warranty on the fabric.
What does Platinum Sun & Shade offer?
Where Garden Impressions mainly makes furniture and Madison mainly cushions, at Platinum everything revolves around shade. The range we compare looks like this:
| Category | Series | View |
|---|---|---|
| Cantilever parasols | Challenger, Nexus, Icon, Beaufort, Voyager | Cantilever parasols |
| Centre pole parasols | Riva, Lisboa | Centre pole parasols |
| Parasol bases | Modena granite, ground-insert base | Parasol bases |
| Covers | AeroCover parasol and furniture covers | Parasol covers |
| Shade sails | Coolfit, Dreamsail, Prosail | Shade sails |
In addition, Platinum sells the Nesling Coolfit cantilever parasols. Their specifications list Nesling as the brand, with a canopy made from the same Coolfit fabric as the shade sails. You can see all available products on the Platinum brand page. If you want to see the brand alongside others, read what is a good garden furniture brand? or the best garden furniture brands of 2026.
Cantilever parasols: T1, T2 and premium
A cantilever parasol hangs from an arm beside the pole, so there is no post in the middle of your table or lounge set. If you're still unsure about the type, read cantilever or centre pole parasol. At Platinum, the series differ mainly in how they tilt and which fabric they have.
| Series | Tilt | Canopy |
|---|---|---|
| Voyager T1 | Backwards | Polyester 220g |
| Challenger T1 | Backwards | Polyester or Spuncrylic |
| Challenger T2 | Sideways and backwards | Polyester or Spuncrylic |
| Nexus T2 Premium | Sideways and backwards | Spuncrylic 240g |
| Icon Premium | Backwards | Spuncrylic 240g |
| Beaufort Premium | Not tiltable | Spuncrylic 240g |
What do T1 and T2 mean?
The T number tells you how the parasol tilts. A T1 model tilts backwards, while a T2 model tilts sideways and backwards. The Voyager, Challenger, Nexus and Icon also rotate through 360 degrees. With T2 you can follow the sun for longer without moving the base, which is handy if the sun comes low across your patio in the afternoon. The Beaufort is different: according to the specifications it doesn't tilt or rotate, but the description says it is extra sturdy thanks to a scissor mechanism.
Premium or standard canopy?
Platinum works with two fabric classes. The premium models have a 240g Spuncrylic canopy, while the standard models have a polyester canopy: 220g for the Voyager and Riva, and 300g for the Challenger. The description states up to 98% UV protection for Spuncrylic. For polyester, the figure is up to 96% or up to 98%, depending on the model. According to the description, all canopies have a water- and dirt-repellent coating.
Would you like to see these models alongside other brands? Read the best cantilever parasols of 2026 and the best parasols of 2026.
Centre pole parasols: Riva and Lisboa
Alongside cantilever parasols, Platinum has two series of centre pole parasols, handy above a table or on a balcony.
- Riva: round, square and rectangular, from ø250 to ø400 cm. According to the description, the Riva has an easy-up crank system, canopy tensioners and a tilt function, except for the ø350, ø400 and 275 x 275 cm sizes. Most versions have a 220g polyester canopy, while the Riva premium uses Spuncrylic.
- Lisboa: a smaller parasol with a push-up system for opening. It is height-adjustable, tiltable and has a split pole, so it's easy to store. It comes in round sizes and a narrow 210 x 150 cm rectangle.
Which size you need depends on your table and patio. Read what size parasol do you need.
Parasol bases: what isn't included?
This is the most important point with Platinum. For almost all the parasols we compare, the specifications say "Parasol base included: No". Only the standard Nesling Coolfit 300 x 300 cm, not the PLUS, states that the base is included. So factor the base into your choice.
- Modena 120 kg: black polished granite on swivel castors with brakes. According to the description, suitable for the Beaufort, Challenger, Voyager and Nesling Coolfit, among others.
- Modena 150 kg: also granite on swivel castors with brakes, 70 x 70 cm. According to the description, suitable for the Icon, among others.
- Ground-insert base: a base you set into the ground without concrete. Your patio stays clear when the parasol is stored. According to the description, suitable for the Challenger, among others.
- Adapter plate: for cantilever parasols with different hole spacings, so most brands' parasols fit Platinum bases. Screws are included.
The parasol description often states which base weight Platinum recommends. For the Voyager it is 90 kg, and for the Beaufort 120 kg. Also read which parasol base do you need? or browse the parasol bases on wheels and ground-insert bases.
When choosing a cantilever parasol, don't just look at the canopy, but also at what isn't included. A large parasol without a suitable base can't be set up safely, and a granite base of 120 or 150 kg affects how much you spend in total.
AeroCover covers
AeroCover is Platinum's cover range, with covers for cantilever parasols, centre pole parasols, table sets, lounge sets and sunbeds. According to the description, the parasol covers are breathable and water-resistant, protect against condensation and mould, and have a built-in pole so you can pull the cover over the parasol without a ladder. The seams are, according to the same description, splash-proof.
Each cover states which parasol sizes it's intended for. The H260 cantilever parasol cover is, according to the description, for cantilever parasols with a straight pole up to 320 x 320, 260 x 350 and 350 x 260 cm. The H292 is for a straight pole up to ø4.0 m, 3.5 x 3.5 m and 4.0 x 3.0 m, including the Icon. Measure your parasol in its closed position and compare that with the cover. You'll find more tips in how do I protect my parasol?
Shade sails: Coolfit, Dreamsail and Prosail
Platinum also sells shade sails: loose canopies you stretch between posts or against a wall, concertina shades that you slide open and closed, and roller blinds. The biggest difference lies in the fabric.
| Shade | Fabric | Water |
|---|---|---|
| Coolfit | HDPE 285 g/m² | Water-permeable |
| Dreamsail | Polyester 220 g/m² | Waterproof |
| Prosail concertina | Acrylic | Waterproof |
A Coolfit shade has an open structure and lets wind and water through. According to the description, it provides up to 95% UV protection and has fixing rings made of 316 stainless steel. A Dreamsail will keep out a summer shower, but according to the description it must hang at a minimum slope of 30 degrees so the water runs off. The loose Coolfit and Dreamsail shades don't include fixing hardware, but the concertina shades do. For how to stretch a shade properly, read hanging a shade sail. If you're torn between a shade sail and a parasol, see shade solutions for your garden.
Warranty
For the available Platinum parasols (excluding the Nesling Coolfit), bases and AeroCover covers we compare, the specifications list a 2-year manufacturer's warranty. The Coolfit shade sails, Coolfit concertina shades and roller blinds carry a five-year warranty on the fabric, while Dreamsail and Prosail carry a three-year warranty on the fabric. For the Nesling Coolfit cantilever parasols, the details contradict each other: the description mentions five years on the fabric, while the specifications state a shorter manufacturer's warranty. What isn't stated anywhere is exactly what the warranty covers. Ask the shop where you buy. They will also handle any claim.
Experiences: what can you expect?
At Boender Outdoor we don't collect our own customer reviews, and we won't make them up either. Buyers' experiences are best read at the shop where you order, preferably on the product page itself. What we can show is what the product information promises you and what you should check yourself.
What you can expect
- A wide choice per series. A Challenger or Riva comes in several shapes, sizes and colours, so you can match the parasol to your table or lounge set.
- Clear tilt details. For the cantilever parasols, the tags state whether the parasol tilts backwards or also sideways, and whether it rotates 360 degrees.
- Concrete canopy details. The fabric, weight in grams and UV protection are stated in the description, as is whether the canopy is water-repellent, waterproof or water-permeable.
- Advice on base and cover. For many parasols, the description states which base weight is advised and which AeroCover cover (with article number) is recommended.
What you should check yourself
- Contradictory details. For the Riva 300 x 200, the tags say it is tiltable, while the specifications say it isn't. For some Challenger T1 models in 400 x 300 cm, the specifications say "UV protection: No", while the description mentions up to 98%. In that case, look at the description and the photos, or ask.
- The base. For almost every parasol you have to buy the base separately, and a granite base can easily weigh 120 or 150 kg.
- Delivery and returns. Cantilever parasols and granite bases are delivered as large parcels. Check with the shop how delivery and returns are arranged.
Not sure yet what type of parasol or furniture you're looking for? Start with the selection guide.
Eight products from the range
To make the range concrete, below you'll find eight available products: four cantilever parasols, two centre pole parasols, a parasol base and a shade sail. The specs come from the product information, and you can see current prices on the cards.
| Product | Type | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Challenger T2 premium | Cantilever parasol | Tilts sideways and backwards |
| Nexus T2 Premium | Cantilever parasol | Rounded corners, fabric class 4 |
| Icon Premium | Cantilever parasol | 400 x 300 cm |
| Beaufort Premium | Cantilever parasol | Scissor mechanism, gas strut |
| Riva ø300 | Centre pole parasol | Tiltable |
| Lisboa 210 x 150 | Centre pole parasol | Narrow, split pole |
| Modena 150 kg | Parasol base | Granite on wheels |
| Coolfit 360 x 360 | Shade sail | Water-permeable |
Challenger T2 premium: tilts in every direction
A square cantilever parasol measuring 300 x 300 cm, with an anthracite aluminium frame, eight ribs and a 240g Spuncrylic canopy in Havana. It tilts sideways and backwards and rotates 360 degrees. Canopy tensioners keep the fabric taut, and the handle is cast aluminium. According to the description, it provides up to 98% UV protection. The base is not included.
Challenger T² premium 300x300 Havana
Nexus T2 Premium: soft shapes
The Nexus is a 300 x 300 cm cantilever parasol with an organic design: twisted ribs with no visible joints and a canopy with rounded corners. The canopy is 240g Spuncrylic in Manhattan, which according to the description is fabric class 4. Like the Challenger T2, it tilts sideways and backwards and rotates 360 degrees. Its height is 257 cm.
Nexus T² Premium 300x300 Manhattan
Icon Premium: large and rectangular
The Icon is a rectangular 400 x 300 cm cantilever parasol for a large terrace. The frame has an oak look, and the 240g Spuncrylic canopy comes in Faded black. It tilts backwards, rotates 360 degrees and, according to the description, has heavy-duty ribs and a wind stabiliser. Its height is 295 cm. According to the description of the 150 kg Modena base, it is suitable for the Icon, among others.
Icon Premium 400x300 Faded black
Beaufort Premium: sturdy, no tilting
A square cantilever parasol measuring 320 x 320 cm with a 102 mm pole. According to the description, it is extra sturdy thanks to a scissor mechanism, and you open it easily with a gas strut. The canopy is 240g Spuncrylic in Manhattan. According to the specifications, it doesn't tilt or rotate, so you position it where you need shade. Platinum advises a 120 kg base.
Beaufort premium 320x320 Manhattan
Riva ø300: round centre pole parasol
A round centre pole parasol measuring ø300 cm, with an anthracite aluminium frame and a 220g polyester canopy in taupe. According to the description, it has an easy-up crank system, canopy tensioners and up to 98% UV protection. It is tiltable, 238 cm high and has a 38 mm pole. The base is not included.
Lisboa 210 x 150: for balconies and small patios
A narrow rectangular centre pole parasol measuring 210 x 150 cm, with a 220g polyester canopy in anthracite. You open it with a push-up system, it is height-adjustable and tiltable, and the pole is split so you can store it easily. According to the description, it provides up to 96% UV protection. Its height is 242 cm.
Modena 150 kg: granite base on wheels
A parasol base of black polished granite, weighing 150 kg and measuring 70 x 70 cm. According to the description, it sits on extra-large swivel castors with brakes, so you can move the parasol. It is suitable for the Icon, among others. Engage the brakes on the castors as soon as the parasol is in position.
Modena 150 kg parasol base
Coolfit shade sail: airy shade
A square shade sail measuring 360 x 360 cm, made of densely woven HDPE (285 g/m²) in anthracite. The open structure lets wind and water through, the fabric is colourfast and, according to the description, provides up to 95% UV protection. The fixing rings are 316 stainless steel. Fixing hardware is not included. The fabric carries a five-year warranty.
Coolfit shade sail 360x360
Also worth a look:
Challenger T¹ 300x300
View parasol →
Voyager T¹ 250x250
View parasol →
Nesling Coolfit PLUS
View parasol →
What should you look out for with Platinum?
Platinum's product information for parasols is detailed, but not always consistent. These are the points we most often come across when comparing.
Choose T2 if the sun moves around your patio
If you sit in the same spot all afternoon and the sun moves from the front to the side, a T2 model keeps the shade in place for longer. If your patio gets sun mainly from one direction, a T1 model will do.
Read the description alongside the specifications
The description often contains more than the short specs, such as the recommended base weight, the matching cover and the UV percentage. If they contradict each other, check the photos or ask the shop.
Feel free to mix and match
You don't have to buy everything from Platinum. With the adapter plate, according to the description, most brands' parasols fit a Platinum base, as long as the hole spacing matches. Also read Madison experiences and Garden Impressions experiences.
Assessing a parasol in 5 steps
Unsure about a Platinum parasol? These five steps will quickly tell you what to expect.
Measure the spot where the parasol will go, and the table or lounge set that needs to be in the shade. Allow for the space the base and arm will take up. Read what size parasol do you need.
Look at where the sun is during the day. If you mainly follow it backwards, T1 is enough. If you also want to tilt sideways, choose T2.
Look at the fabric (polyester or Spuncrylic), the weight in grams and the UV percentage in the description. Compare the short specs with the description.
Check the description for the recommended base weight and whether a ground-insert base is possible. Choose an AeroCover cover to fit your closed parasol.
Buyers' reviews on the product page show how the parasol holds up after a few seasons, and how the shop handles questions.
Checklist before you order
Tick off what you've checked before ordering a Platinum parasol or fabric.
- The size of the canopy suits your table and patio
- You know whether the model tilts backwards (T1) or also sideways (T2)
- You know whether the canopy is polyester or Spuncrylic
- You have chosen a base of the recommended weight, or a ground-insert base
- You have chosen an AeroCover cover to fit your closed parasol
- For a shade sail, you know whether it is waterproof or water-permeable and whether fixing hardware is included
- You know the warranty and what it covers
How to choose quickly within Platinum
- Shade that follows the sun all day: a T2 model such as the Challenger T2 or Nexus
- Large patio: an Icon measuring 400 x 300 cm on a 150 kg base
- Balcony or narrow patio: a Lisboa or Riva centre pole parasol
- Airy shade over a fixed spot: a Coolfit shade sail
- Not sure about the type? Use the selection guide first
Common mistakes
Ordering a cantilever parasol without a base
Almost every Platinum parasol comes without a base. Without a suitable base, the parasol won't stand safely. Choose the weight recommended in the description and read which parasol base do you need.
Buying based on the brand name alone
Within Platinum, the tilt direction, fabric and size differ from series to series. Assess the parasol you want, not the brand in general.
Leaving the parasol open in wind
Even a sturdy cantilever parasol on a heavy base should be closed in strong wind, rain, and whenever you're away. The instructions say so too. Read which parasol handles wind best.
Putting a wet canopy into the cover
Let the canopy dry completely before closing the parasol or storing it in the cover. Otherwise you risk mould. Read cleaning and maintaining a garden parasol.
Frequently asked questions
Is Platinum Sun & Shade a good brand?
Platinum has a wide range of cantilever parasols, centre-pole parasols, parasol bases, AeroCover covers and shade sails. For the parasols, clear details are given on canopy fabric, tilt direction and whether the base is included. Whether a model suits you depends on the product: check the specifications, the warranty and customer experiences at the retailer.
What is the difference between T1 and T2 at Platinum?
The T-number indicates how the cantilever parasol tilts. A T1 model, such as the Voyager, the Challenger T1 and the Icon, tilts backwards. A T2 model, such as the Challenger T2 and the Nexus T2, tilts sideways and backwards. Both types rotate 360 degrees. With a T2 you keep the shade in the same spot for longer without moving the base.
Does a Platinum parasol come with a base?
Usually not. For almost all Platinum parasols we compare, the specifications state that the parasol base is not included. Only the standard Nesling Coolfit in 300 x 300 cm, not the PLUS, states that the base is included. So factor the base into your budget and choose the weight recommended in the product description.
What is the difference between a premium and a standard canopy?
The premium models have a 240 gram Spuncrylic canopy, while the standard models have a polyester canopy of 220 or 300 grams. The description for Spuncrylic mentions up to 98% UV protection. For polyester, the figure is up to 96% or up to 98%, depending on the model. Both canopies have a water- and dirt-repellent coating.
What warranty does Platinum offer?
For the parasols (except the Nesling Coolfit), bases and AeroCover covers we compare, the specifications state a 2-year manufacturer's warranty. For the Coolfit shade sails the warranty on the fabric is five years, and for Dreamsail and Prosail it is three years on the fabric. Ask the retailer what applies to your product and keep your proof of purchase.
Does Boender Outdoor collect customer reviews of Platinum?
No. Boender Outdoor does not collect its own customer reviews and does not sell anything itself. This article tells you what to expect based on the product information. It is best to read customer experiences at the retailer where you place your order.
