Sky Ridge 270 vs 180XL Awning: Which Fits Your Rig?
By Body Armor 4x4 | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Sky Ridge 270 and 180XL awnings by coverage, mounting, and portability to find the right size for your overlanding setup.
Quick answer
Choose the Sky Ridge 270 if you want a dedicated driver-side awning with integrated mounting brackets; pick the 180XL if you need more covered square footage and don't mind a symmetrical setup.
Coverage vs. orientation
The 180XL provides 88 square feet of shade, while the 270 covers 80 square feet. The 270 is designed specifically for the driver side and comes with mounting brackets, making it a more targeted solution for side-specific overlanding setups.
If your rig already has a roof rack or bed rack, both awnings mount easily. The 270's brackets are included, saving you a separate purchase. The 180XL's brackets are also included, but its symmetrical design means you can mount it on either side without a dedicated orientation.
Material and durability
Both awnings use 280gsm poly cotton rip-stop fabric with a polyurethane coating rated for 2500mm waterproofing. That means either model will handle a sudden rain shower without soaking your gear.
The heavy-duty travel covers are UV-resistant on both models, so your awning stays protected during long stretches on the trail. There is no difference in fabric quality or waterproofing between the two.
Setup and portability
Both awnings are freestanding with telescopic legs (55 to 102 inches) and twist-lock fixtures. The extruded aluminum frame keeps weight low without sacrificing strength.
The 270's driver-side orientation means you only need to deploy it on one side of the vehicle, which can simplify setup when you're parked in a tight spot. The 180XL requires a bit more space because it extends further from the vehicle.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Coverage: 180XL offers 88 sq ft vs 270's 80 sq ft. If every square foot matters for your camp setup, the 180XL wins.
- Orientation: 270 is driver-side specific with included brackets. 180XL is symmetrical. If you need a specific side, the 270 simplifies mounting.
- Portability: Both pack similarly, but the 270's smaller footprint may be easier to store on a rack with limited space.
Product details at a glance
- SKY RIDGE 270 AWNING DRIVER SIDE WITH MOUNTING BRACKETS: Provides 80 square feet of covered space and includes mounting brackets for driver-side installation. If you want a dedicated driver-side awning that mounts out of the box, this saves you the hassle of sourcing separate brackets.
SKY RIDGE 270 AWNING DRIVER SIDE WITH MOUNTING BRACKETS - SKY RIDGE 180XL AWNING WITH MOUNTING BRACKETS: Provides 88 square feet of covered space and includes mounting brackets for symmetrical mounting on either side. The extra 8 square feet gives you more room for cooking or lounging, and the symmetrical design works on either side of your vehicle.
SKY RIDGE 180XL AWNING WITH MOUNTING BRACKETS
Which one should you choose?
Best for
- Overlanders who want a dedicated driver-side awning with included brackets
- Drivers who frequently park in tight spots and need a quick side-specific setup
Not for
- Those who need maximum shade coverage (choose the 180XL instead)
- Campers who want the flexibility to mount the awning on either side of the vehicle
