Test result preview
The automatic beach shell from EXPLORER left an extremely positive impression during our test and proves to be the ideal companion for spontaneous visits to the beach or trips to the countryside. The uncomplicated handling was particularly impressive, as it can be opened like an umbrella and can be set up in just a few seconds thanks to the automatic function. The beach shell is immediately ready for use without any great effort, leaving more time for rest and relaxation. The construction proves to be stable and reliable, so that the shell stands securely even in light winds. The integrated UV protection factor 80+ (UV 801) effectively protects against harmful sunlight and provides additional comfort on sunny days. Measuring 190 x 100 x 110 cm, it offers enough space for up to two people and creates a cosy retreat. The low weight of just 1.32 kg and the compact packaging make it particularly easy to transport. In addition, the large sand pockets and the pegs supplied provide additional stability to securely fasten the shell in windy conditions.
All in all, the EXPLORER automatic beach shell combines comfort, stability and functionality, making it the perfect companion for relaxing days at the beach or in the park.
Advantages
- Fast assembly
- Stable construction
- UV protection
- Lightweight and transportable
- Transport bag
Disadvantages
- Limited colour selection
The first impression
Packaging and contents
Here we take a closer look at packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, adequate protection of the product must of course also be guaranteed. Are the contents of the packaging complete and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product straight away?
Here we take a closer look at packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, adequate protection of the product must of course also be guaranteed. Are the contents of the packaging complete and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product straight away?
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Remark
Points achieved*
Product protection
Carton is sturdy, product sufficiently protected
Points
Sustainability Packaging
No unnecessary packaging waste, no use of plastic
Points
Package contents & scope
Complete
Points
Instructions for use
Illustrated instructions, understandable in German
Points
TOTAL
100
Points
Weighting: 20%
*Themaximum score is 100 points
The beach shell is carefully packed so that it is optimally protected during transport. The sturdy cardboard box provides a reliable layer of protection to ensure that the beach shell arrives at its destination undamaged. Attention has also been paid to sustainability by avoiding unnecessary packaging waste and reducing the use of plastic. The packaging contains the automatic beach shell, pegs for fastening and a practical transport bag. It also comes with illustrated German instructions describing the simple assembly process.
The first time in your hand
Product processing and appearance
Before we start the practical test, we take a close look at the workmanship of the products. How high quality are the materials used? Are the look and feel satisfactory?
Before we start the practical test, we take a close look at the workmanship of the products. How high quality are the materials used? Are the look and feel satisfactory?
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Remark
Score achieved*
Visual appearance
Attractive design in blue-grey or green-grey
Points
Processing
Very good workmanship
Points
Stability
Very stable
Points
Sustainability of the product
No details, but use of high-quality materials
Points
TOTAL
93
Points
Weighting: 20%
*Themaximum score is 100 points
The automatic beach shell impresses with its simple but modern design in blue-grey or green-grey, which is ideal for various outdoor activities . The workmanship is high quality, with no visible defects such as loose threads or untidy seams. The hard-wearing materials give the beach shell a high level of stability even in changing weather conditions. At first glance, the automatic mechanism appears user-friendly and solidly constructed, which means it can be set up quickly and easily in just a few seconds. Although no specific information is given on sustainability, the high-quality workmanship indicates a durable product that remains reliable even with frequent use and therefore contributes to sustainable use.
This is what our practical test showed
Does the manufacturer keep its advertising promises?
Our practical test has the highest relevance and therefore weighting. Here, the product has to undergo a wide range of criteria and tests. We check the functions and product promises of the test article.
Our practical test has the highest relevance and therefore weighting. Here, the product has to undergo a wide range of criteria and tests. We check the functions and product promises of the test article.
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Remark
Score achieved*
Assembly
Quick and easy assembly
Points
Stability in windy conditions
Very good wind stability thanks to lateral sand pockets and pegs
Points
Space inside
Ample space, ideal for privacy and sun protection, also available in the dimensions 220 x 150 x 130 cm
Points
Transportability
Lightweight and compact foldable, low weight, carrying bag included
Points
Cleaning
Easy to clean, wipeable surface, quick-drying material
Points
TOTAL
100
Points
Weighting: 45%
*Themaximum score is 100 points
The automatic beach shell was extensively tested in practice and the results documented. It was quick and easy to set up: the automatic mechanism made it possible to set it up in just a few seconds without additional poles or complicated handling, as the poles are already integrated. The stability was supported by the ground pegs supplied. In light winds, the shell remained stable; in stronger winds, the side sand pockets and pegs provided the option of increasing stability and additionally weighting down and securing the shell. At 190 x 100 x 110 cm, the interior offers enough space for two people and smaller items. It was a little cramped for three people in the test. However, there is also a larger version measuring 220 x 150 x 130 cm, which could be more suitable for larger groups. Certified UV protection is an important plus point. With a sun protection factor of UV 80+, the beach shell offers optimum protection against harmful sunlight and is therefore particularly suitable for longer stays outdoors. The shell also proves to be very practical in terms of transportability. With a weight of 1.32 kg and compact packaging , it is easy to transport and store. The carry bag supplied makes transport even easier. Cleaning is also no problem. The polyester 190 T material is water-repellent and waseasy to remove sand and dirt in the test; a damp cloth was usually sufficient. Overall, the test showed that the compact EXPLORER automatic beach shell offers a good mix of comfort, protection and user-friendliness.
Test plan
A detailed insight into the evaluation criteria of the practical part of the test and the distribution of points can be found here. If you are also interested in the evaluation of our other test criteria, please read our document on the evaluation process.
Price/performance ratio
and ratings from consumers
Finally, we analyse how the product compares to the competition. Can it keep up with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend buying it? We also look at the consumer reviews and check whether the critical and positive reviews are actually justified.
Finally, we analyse how the product compares to the competition. Can it keep up with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend buying it? We also look at the consumer reviews and check whether the critical and positive reviews are actually justified.
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Remark
Points achieved*
Price / performance ratio
Very good performance in the lower price segment
Points
Rating cut
4.5 out of 5.0 on Amazon
Points
TOTAL
83
Points
Weighting: 15%
*Themaximum score is 100 points
On the Amazon platform, consumers rate the product with an average of 4.5 stars. In individual cases, there are complaints that the poles break after a few assemblies. On the other hand, the quick and easy assembly and the good quality are emphasised positively. In our practical test, we were able to confirm that the beach shell is very quick to set up and the quality is impressive. We cannot confirm the criticism from consumers.
Prices of up to €107.90 are charged on the internet for equivalent products. Very affordable products are available from as little as €20 . The automatic beach shell from EXPLORER is therefore currently in the lower price segment with a price of €49.90. For the quality and performance received, the price-performance ratio is very good.
Overall result
Weighting
Points achieved*
1. packaging & contents
20%
Points
2. product processing & appearance
20%
Points
3. in the practical test
45%
Points
4. price/performance & consumer reviews
15%
Points
TOTAL
Points
*Themaximum score is 100 points
