Awning review: Outwell Cove 340A
The base model in Outwell’s Nordic
Coast collection is full of clever touches
The smallest model in Outwell’s new Nordic Coast range is ideal if you are looking for a more compact awning, or one to take away on weekend breaks, says Nick Harding
A NEW MODEL for 2019, the Cove 340A from Outwell kicks off the firm’s Nordic Coast collection, all of which use Outwell’s Power Air system and Outtex Peak fabric – a 100% Oxford polyester with polyurethane coating, giving it a 3000mm hydrostatic head waterproof rating. This is in addition to taped seams. The Cove 340A is the base model, perfect if you just want an outdoor room for day or evening use, or a bit of extra storage space. Not quite enough? The Cove 400A is – no surprise – 400cm wide, with the same depth. There’s no annexe option for either of the Coves; for this, you’ll have to move to the next models up, Bay. As with any other awning, the trickiest part of setting up is probably threading it through your van’s attachment rail. Thereafter, single-point inflation and interconnected beams make light work of getting enough air into the structure via the footpump. The tubes themselves are pre-shaped, which means standing height is just that bit more throughout the awning. It comes with attached storm straps; although, as ever with an inflatable pole structure, they are unlikely to be needed, such is the way units like this yield to any strong winds. Always best to be on the safe side, though, and the straps have a reflective finish, which makes them easier to see at night. Tough, adjustable webbing at the main pegging points makes it easy to set up this awning. Among a number of innovative features, pole-free rear uprights keep the awning snug to the van’s sides. It’s a straightforward system of adjustable strapping and ground pegging, but if the 340A cuts across a window, there’s an answer – the padded seal blocks slip in to keep it all taut. These are an optional extra, as are the padded discs for popping under the poles, to ensure your awning is level. Features such as tinted windows (very effective in blocking out the sun, as well as offering extra privacy) are what we’ve come to expect from Outwell awnings. That whole front section can be removed, too, during good weather. At which point, you might wonder if it would be worth going for the option of medium or large Sailshade canopies.
VERDICT
A smart, stylish porch awning. Compact dimensions and easypitching inflatable technology should hold appeal, especially for weekend use.