Freespirit 270 Awning V2: 80.7 Square Feet of Wraparound Shade

Most awnings give you a roof. Freespirit Recreation's 270 Awning V2 gives you a roof that turns the corner. Tacoma Lifestyle spotlights it for Toyota Tacoma campers, and the headline number is 80.7 square feet of cover wrapping the side and rear of the vehicle.

Why the 270 shape matters

The rear section is squared off, which keeps shade running around the corner toward the tailgate. That's the spot where you're usually digging out the stove, the cooler, or the one bag that's always at the bottom. Rain or sun, the tailgate zone stays covered.

Rigid arms, no pole juggling

The awning uses a freestanding rigid-arm design, so in normal conditions it stands without support poles. Freespirit says it deploys in under a minute. That's about one song on the camp speaker, or one short debate about where to park.

Wind is a different story. Guy lines and stakes come in the box, and the maker recommends using them in wind or when awning walls are fitted.

Fabric and lighting

The canopy is 600D Oxford Ripstop with a waterproof coating. Ripstop is woven so a small snag is less likely to turn into a big tear.

Lighting is built into the main arms. It's dual-color and dimmable, and it runs on USB power from a compatible battery bank. The battery is sold separately, so budget a spot in the gear pile for that.

What changed from the original

Freespirit lists three V2 updates:

• Redesigned swing hinges that add more support.
• An improved canvas cover that protects the mechanism from hazards like low branches.
• An integrated Keder rail in the backplate.

A Keder rail is a track that slides accessories in and out. Here it lets you swap between the included gear grid, support pole bag and small accessory bag. You can also add compatible awning walls.

Fitment, size and weight

The awning comes in driver-side and passenger-side versions. It works with FSR Evolution and Aspen rooftop tents through the FSR awning bracket system, and universal brackets are included. It mounts along the side of a compatible rack system.

Packed size is about 90.5 x 5.9 x 5.9 inches, which is a little over seven and a half feet long. Weight is about 43 pounds. That's a real bundle to hang off a rack, so it's worth checking your rack's limits before you commit. The source doesn't list a price.

The takeaway

If your camp setup involves a rooftop tent, a rear-of-the-rig kitchen, and a habit of cooking through weather, a wraparound awning is a neat way to stretch your covered space. The V2 pairs that shape with hinge upgrades, a cover that guards against branches, and lights already on board. Check the side you want, the rack it needs, and the battery bank you'll have to supply.

Shade that follows you around the corner. Your tailgate has been waiting for this.

Source: Tacoma Lifestyle. Photo by Chris Holder on Unsplash.