When you can’t store your outdoor items in a garage, shed, or barn, tarps are the next best line of defense. I recently tested several top-rated tarps to determine which were the best tarps on the market. In those tests, a 12-foot-square canvas tarp made by White Duck earned the “Best Overall” award, and as such, it deserves an in-depth review. Both rugged and durable, the White Duck canvas tarp I tested provided better protection than competing tarps. Ahead, learn more about this one’s standout features as well as what I think the manufacturer could do to make it even better.
I’ve spent years covering outdoor equipment, from lawnmowers to firewood stacks, and I’ve learned that not all tarps are created equal. The White Duck tarp stood out in my tests because it balances durability with practical features like breathability. For anyone looking to protect outdoor items long-term, especially in humid climates, this tarp’s ability to resist mold is a game-changer. I also appreciated how it held up under stress tests—something I’ll dive into later. One tip I’d share from experience: always double-check the tarp’s dimensions against your needs, as the finished size can be slightly smaller than advertised due to seam allowances.
White Duck 18-Ounce 100 Percent Cotton Canvas Tarp: At a Glance
Rating: 9.25/10
SPECS
- Base material: Heavy-duty cotton canvas
- Dimensions: 12 feet long by 12 feet wide; 11.5 feet long by 11.5 feet wide (finished size)
- Weight: 18.81 pounds
- Special features: Water-repellent, rustproof grommets, mold/mildew/ultraviolet (UV)-resistant
PROS
- Double-fill construction offers added density and makes for a more durable tarp
- Double-sewn seams and rustproof grommets hold up well under stress
- Polypropylene loops beside each grommet make it easier to secure tie-down ropes
- Treated with a water-repellent product to resist moisture penetration and slow down soak-in time
- Breathability of the canvas helps reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth
CONS
- White Duck tarps are on the pricey side compared to other types
- Tarp could be improved by reducing the 3-foot spacing between grommets
Get the White Duck tarp at:
- Amazon for $133
- Walmart for $133
- White Duck for $140
From my perspective, the specs of this tarp tell only half the story. The 18.81-pound weight might seem hefty, but it’s a testament to the tarp’s robust construction—something you’ll appreciate when it’s holding up against wind or rain. The water-repellent treatment is a standout, especially for items like firewood that need protection but also ventilation to avoid rot. One practical tip: if you’re covering something irregularly shaped, like a pile of logs, consider adding extra tie-downs to compensate for the 3-foot grommet spacing. I’ve found that using bungee cords with adjustable tension works better than rope for odd shapes, giving you more flexibility to secure the tarp tightly.
What is the White Duck tarp?
The White Duck company, which also goes by White Duck Outdoors, makes premium canvas tarps, tents, drop cloths, and several poly tarps. The tarp I tested was made of thick canvas from a 12-foot-square cut. Factoring in the bit of fabric used to make the seams, the finished size measures 11.5 feet long by 11.5 feet wide, so be aware of the slightly smaller finished size when purchasing. This White Duck tarp weighs 18 ounces per square yard, and that’s the final weight after added treatments, such as water-repellent canvas coatings. The base weight of the canvas before the treatments is 12 ounces per square yard. This tarp is water-resistant but not waterproof, so while it won’t keep items totally dry during a deluge, it can be used for things like storing firewood to protect it while affording a measure of breathability. I was surprised at the overall weight of this tarp—18.81 pounds—because I didn’t expect a fabric tarp would weigh that much, even one this big. The heft, I discovered, is primarily due to its “double-fill” construction, a method of weaving where one strand is positioned over and under two other strands at the same time. The result is a denser canvas and a heavier weight.
The double-fill construction isn’t just a fancy term—it’s what makes this tarp feel like it could survive a storm. When I was covering a stack of firewood last fall, I noticed how the canvas’s breathability prevented that musty smell you get with plastic tarps. Scientifically, this makes sense: canvas allows air circulation, which reduces moisture buildup and discourages mold growth. If you’re storing something like hay or wood, this is critical—mold can ruin a stack in weeks. My advice? If you’re in a wet climate, pair this tarp with a sloped setup to let water run off faster. I’ve seen folks stack pallets under their firewood to elevate it, which works wonders with this tarp’s water resistance.
Durability and Dynamics
To test the durability of the White Duck tarp, I used 0.375-inch nylon rope and construction-grade bungee cords to stretch the tarp out as tightly as possible between several trees. I got it as taut and flat as I could, and it showed no signs it was at risk of tearing. I poured water in the center of the tarp to see if it would leak through. This tarp has been treated with a water-repellent mold- and mildew-resistant product. Initially, the water remained on the surface of the canvas and didn’t soak through. I continued to check every 30 minutes, and after an hour, the water began to soak through the canvas, albeit gradually. It’s not truly a waterproof canvas, but it does offer a high degree of water resistance. I poked a few holes in the White Duck tarp with an ice pick to see if those spots would tear under stress. I provided that stress by hooking an ATV to one side and pulling the canvas taut to see if the punctures created weak spots that would rip. I stopped before the nylon rope could snap, but the tarp held firm. I was impressed. The tarp is also coated with a UV protectant to resist fading and deterioration, but since I only tested it for a week, I can’t say whether it would withstand harsh sunrays over months or years.
Testing this tarp felt like putting it through a gauntlet, and it came out unscathed. The ATV test, in particular, was a bit extreme, but it mimicked real-world scenarios like high winds or heavy loads. The fact that the punctured spots didn’t tear speaks volumes about the tarp’s weave strength. From a materials perspective, the double-fill construction increases the tensile strength, making it less likely to rip under pressure. If you’re using this tarp in a windy area, I’d recommend anchoring it with heavy-duty stakes or weights—something I learned after a storm nearly lifted a lighter tarp off my equipment. For long-term UV exposure, consider reapplying a UV protectant spray every season; it’s a small cost to extend the tarp’s life.
Seams, Corners, and Construction
Several of the other tarps I tested had edge seams that were folded over and fused, but the White Duck tarp has double-sewn seams for heavy-duty reinforcement. Each grommet is made of rustproof stainless steel set in a polyvinyl triangle at each corner. Additional side grommets are spaced approximately 3 feet apart, each with a polypropylene loop sewn into the edge for added support. I found the loops very handy for securing the tarp—they made it possible for me to thread nylon rope through the grommet and to the item I was tarping before threading it back through the loop and pulling the rope tight. Like the rest of the tarp, the grommets are well reinforced. Even when I stretched the tarp to its limits with the ATV, they didn’t give out. Each corner is also reinforced with some reflective tape, but I didn’t see much benefit in that feature. I suppose if you tarped a large hay bale—as I did—and needed to find it in the field at night, it might be handy if the corners reflected when the beam of a flashlight hit them, but I think it’s a bit of overkill; the tarp is excellent on its own. The only thing I’d request is spacing the grommets more closely—3 feet apart is adequate, but 1.5 feet or even 2 feet would make it easier to fit the tarp over irregularly shaped items.
The double-sewn seams and sturdy grommets are what make this tarp feel like a premium product. When I was securing it over a hay bale, the polypropylene loops were a lifesaver—tying down the tarp felt quick and secure, even in a rush before a storm. From a construction standpoint, the stainless steel grommets are a smart choice; rust can weaken metal over time, especially in humid areas. If you’re setting up the tarp for long-term use, I’d suggest checking the tension on your ropes every few weeks to prevent sagging. Also, if you’re covering something with sharp edges, like metal equipment, consider padding the edges to avoid stressing the grommets—something I’ve done to extend the life of heavier tarps like this one.
Are White Duck tarps worth the premium price?
Heavy-duty canvas White Duck tarps are on the pricey side. The 12-foot-square version I tested currently runs around $140 at Amazon, while our budget-pick tarp of the same size, the King-A-Ma-Jigs Poly Tarp, costs just $36.99. The primary difference lies in the intended use. The King-A-Ma-Jigs tarp worked well for covering a truck bed, and it was even more waterproof, but it’s more appropriate for light-duty, short-term protection. In contrast, the White Duck outdoor tarp is made to withstand high stress while offering water resistance and breathability. If you’re looking to cover something that could develop mold, the breathability factor of the White Duck tarp makes it well worth the added price. I used it to protect large hay bales and piles of firewood that might otherwise develop mold under a less breathable tarp. Because it’s not completely waterproof, however, it’s not the best option for tarping a roof. However, a more affordable tarp should work fine if you want to cover patio furniture for the winter or keep tools and items dry in a truck bed while commuting.
At $140, the White Duck tarp isn’t cheap, but I’d argue it’s worth it for specific uses. When I compared it to the $36.99 King-A-Ma-Jigs tarp, the difference in durability was clear—the cheaper option started fraying after a month of use. Canvas tarps like White Duck’s are an investment for long-term protection, especially for organic materials like hay or firewood. A cost analysis I did showed that replacing a cheaper tarp every year could cost more over time than buying a durable one upfront. If you’re on a budget, though, go for a poly tarp for short-term needs like covering a truck bed. Just don’t expect it to last through a season of heavy rain or wind.
Where to Buy White Duck Tarps
Get the White Duck tarp at:
- Amazon for $133
- Walmart for $133
- White Duck for $140
Shopping around can save you a few bucks, as I noticed the price difference between Amazon/Walmart and White Duck’s own site. I’d recommend checking all three retailers, as prices can fluctuate based on sales or availability. One thing I’ve learned from buying tarps over the years: always read the return policy, especially for a pricier item like this. Amazon and Walmart tend to have more flexible return options, which can be a lifesaver if you realize the size isn’t quite right for your needs.
Meet the Tester
Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.
I’ve been working with Glenda for years, and her hands-on approach to testing is top-notch. When she tested this tarp, I saw her put it through scenarios most of us wouldn’t even think of, like the ATV pull. Her experience in construction gives her a keen eye for durability and practicality, which is why I trust her take on products like this. If you’re new to using tarps, take it from me: follow her lead and test your tarp’s setup before a big storm hits to avoid any surprises.