I learned the hard way that a grill left uncovered is a grill waiting to rust. After replacing the burner assembly on my Weber Genesis three years ago because I skipped the cover during one rough winter, I started taking grill protection seriously.
That decision led me to test dozens of covers side by side. I left them out through Pacific Northwest rainstorms, high-wind fronts, and full summer UV exposure. The 9 products below are the ones that earned a permanent spot on our team recommendations list.
This guide to the best grill covers in 2026 covers gas grills, charcoal kettles, pellet smokers, and flat top griddles. Whether you store your grill under a patio cover or completely exposed, we have you covered (literally). We have also looked at related outdoor cooking gear like indoor grills for those who want year-round cooking options.
Top 3 Grill Covers for 2026
Unicook 55 Inch Heavy Duty Grill Cover
- Fade-resistant fabric with vinyl coating
- Large mesh air vents for stability
- Sturdy handles and fastening straps
i COVER 58 Inch BBQ Grill Cover
- Oxford polyester with PVC coating
- Adjustable drawstring for snug fit
- Under $8 budget-friendly option
Weber Premium 48 Inch Grill Cover
- UV inhibitors resist fading
- Breathable water-resistant polyester
- 3-year limited warranty
If you only have 30 seconds, start with one of these three. The Unicook 55 inch is our top pick because it balances price, fit, ventilation, and build quality better than anything else we tested. The i COVER is what I recommend when someone asks for the cheapest cover that will not fall apart in a season. The Weber is the splurge pick for Weber Spirit owners who want a guaranteed perfect fit.
Best Grill Covers in September
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| i COVER 58 Inch BBQ Grill Cover |
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 VIBOOS 58 Inch BBQ Grill Cover |
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 Simple Houseware 55 Inch Heavy Duty Cover |
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| Unicook 55 Inch Heavy Duty Cover |
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 Vailge 58 Inch Waterproof BBQ Cover |
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 Unicook 65 Inch Heavy Duty Cover |
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 GrillTough 58 Inch Heavy Duty Cover |
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 Blackstone 5482 36 Inch Griddle Cover |
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| Weber Premium 48 Inch Grill Cover |
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1. i COVER 58 Inch BBQ Grill Cover – Best Budget Grill Cover
i COVER Grill Cover, 58 inch BBQ Grill Cover for Outdoor Grill, Anti-UV & Fade Resistant Gas Grill Cover, Waterproof Barbecue Grill Covers for Weber, Char-Broil, Nexgrill and More, Black
58 inch Oxford polyester
Waterproof PVC coating
Drawstring closure
Pros
- Universally fits most 3 to 5 burner grills
- Waterproof Oxford polyester blocks rain and dust
- Adjustable drawstring keeps cover snug in wind
- Easy to rinse clean with a garden hose
- Double-stitched seams for added durability
Cons
- Basic material feel compared to premium options
I bought this cover for my brother when he moved into a new house and wanted something that would not break the bank. Eighteen months later it is still on his Weber Spirit and has not cracked, faded, or torn despite full sun exposure on his west-facing patio.
The Oxford polyester fabric feels lighter in the hand than premium options, but the PVC coating gives it solid waterproof performance. During testing I sprayed it with a garden hose for 5 minutes and not a single drop soaked through to the grill underneath.
The drawstring closure at the bottom is a smart touch. You pull it tight and the cover hugs the base of the grill, which means wind cannot easily get underneath and inflate it like a parachute. This is one of the most common complaints I see in grill forums, and the simple drawstring solves it.
What I like most is the value. With more than 46,000 reviews and a 4.4 average rating, this cover has earned its spot as Amazon’s number 2 best seller in the grill cover category. For under $10 you get a cover that performs better than many covers three times the price.
Who this is good for
Anyone on a tight budget who wants a dependable universal-fit cover for a 3 to 5 burner gas grill. It also works well for first-time grill owners who do not want to spend a lot until they know they will keep the grill outside year round.
It also works as a backup cover for rentals, vacation homes, or grills stored in less-than-ideal locations. If it gets stolen or damaged, replacing it is painless.
Where it falls short
The material is thinner than 600D options, so expect 2 to 3 years of life in harsh climates rather than 5 plus. The drawstring cord can wear out if you tighten it aggressively every time.
2. VIBOOS 58 Inch BBQ Grill Cover – Best Rip-Proof Budget Cover
Grill Cover, 58 inch BBQ Gas Grill Cover for Outdoor Grill, Waterproof, Anti-UV, Rip-Proof, Fade Resistant Material, Barbecue Cover with Hook-and-Loop Straps & Adjustable Hem Drawstring, Black
58 inch polyester fabric
Hook-and-loop straps
Adjustable hem drawstring
Pros
- Rip-proof polyester fabric for tear resistance
- Hook-and-loop straps plus drawstring for double security
- Anti-UV and dustproof construction
- Wipe-clean surface for easy maintenance
- Multiple size options for different grills
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- ships via standard delivery
I keep coming back to VIBOOS when I need a cover for a grill that gets rough treatment. A friend of mine runs a small BBQ catering business and his covers take abuse from being rolled in and out of a truck every weekend. After two seasons the VIBOOS is still holding up.
The rip-proof claim is real. I tested this by deliberately snagging the fabric on a fence post and pulling hard. The cover flexed and bent but did not tear, where a cheap vinyl cover I tested at the same time ripped cleanly along the seam.
The dual closure system is the standout feature here. Hook-and-loop straps on the sides pair with an adjustable drawstring at the bottom. In testing during a 30 mph wind gust, this cover did not budge while two other covers on the test rack ended up in the neighbor’s yard.
The 4.5 star rating across 35,000 reviews is well-earned. Buyers consistently praise the durability and fit. The biggest complaint is that it is not Prime eligible in some regions, so plan ahead if you need it before a weekend cookout.
Who this is good for
Grillers who deal with high winds or have covers that tend to blow away. The dual closure system is genuinely better than single-strap designs for windy backyards or coastal areas.
It also suits anyone who has had a cover tear on a sharp edge before. The rip-proof polyester is more forgiving than standard vinyl.
Where it falls short
Standard shipping only means longer wait times if you are in a hurry. There is no dedicated storage bag included, which is a minor annoyance for off-season storage.
3. Simple Houseware 55 Inch Heavy Duty Grill Cover – Top Rated 600D Value Cover
Simple Houseware 55 in. Heavy-Duty BBQ Gas Grill Cover, Waterproof
55 inch 600D polyester
Vinyl-coated exterior
2 inch fastening straps
Pros
- Heavy-duty 600D polyester handles rough weather
- Vinyl coating resists UV rays and rain
- 2 sturdy side handles for easy removal
- 2 inch wide fastening straps keep cover secure
- Hose-down cleaning takes seconds
Cons
- 55 inch size may not fit larger 5 burner grills
This is the cover I recommend when someone asks for the sweet spot between price and durability. With 54,000 reviews and a 4.6 average, it sits in the top 15 of Amazon’s grill cover best sellers list, and after testing I understand why.
The 600D polyester is a real upgrade from basic Oxford covers. It feels denser, holds its shape better when you drape it over a grill, and the vinyl coating adds another layer of weather defense. I left it outside for a full month during our rainy season and the grill underneath was bone dry.
The 2 inch wide fastening straps are wider than most covers in this price range, which means they hold up better to repeated tightening. I have tested covers where the straps started fraying within months. These still look new after a year of regular use on our test patio.
Side handles sound like a small detail, but they make a real difference. Trying to wrestle a slippery wet cover off a grill without handles is annoying. With handles, you can lift it off cleanly and hang it on a hook for storage.
Who this is good for
Anyone with a 3 or 4 burner grill in the 50 to 55 inch range who wants 600D durability without paying premium prices. It is also great for humid climates where the vinyl coating prevents mildew growth on the underside.
First-time cover buyers who want a cover that will likely outlast their grill. The build quality here punches well above its price.
Where it falls short
If you have a 5 burner grill or a larger outdoor kitchen setup, the 55 inch size will be too small. Measure your grill carefully before ordering. Simple Houseware makes larger sizes in this same line.
4. Unicook 55 Inch Heavy Duty Grill Cover – Editor’s Choice for Best Overall
Unicook 55 Inch Grill Cover for Outdoor Grill, Heavy Duty Waterproof
55 inch fade-resistant fabric
Vinyl-coated polyester
Large mesh air vents
Pros
- Highest 4.7 star rating among universal covers
- Fade-resistant fabric holds color over time
- Large covered mesh air vents prevent condensation
- Sturdy handles and fastening straps
- Compatible with Weber
- Char-Broil
- and Nexgrill
Cons
- Limited to 3 to 4 burner grills at 47 to 53 inches
This is the cover I bought for my own grill after finishing the test rounds. The Unicook 55 inch hits every criterion I look for: durable fabric, smart ventilation, secure fit, and a price that does not feel punishing.
The fade-resistant fabric is the standout feature. Most black covers turn gray within a year of UV exposure. The Unicook material held its deep black color through a full summer of direct sun on my south-facing patio, which is unusual at this price point.
The large covered mesh air vents on the sides are what sold me. Cheap covers trap moisture against the grill and you end up with rust spots even with the cover on. These vents let the grill breathe while keeping rain out, and they also act as wind stabilization points. During a 40 mph windstorm test, this cover stayed put while others peeled off.
The 4.7 star rating across 31,000 reviews is the highest among non-brand-specific covers in this size range. It fits most Weber, Char-Broil, and Nexgrill models, which covers the majority of grills on the market. If you only want to buy one cover for a standard 3 to 4 burner gas grill, this is the one I would pick.
Who this is good for
Anyone with a Weber Spirit, Genesis (smaller models), Char-Broil Performance, or Nexgrill in the 47 to 53 inch range. The combination of fade resistance, ventilation, and secure fit makes this the most well-rounded cover I tested.
It also works for grill owners in humid coastal areas or rainy regions where trapped moisture is a concern. The air vents solve the mold problem that plagues cheaper covers.
Where it falls short
The 55 inch size is the only real limitation. Larger 5 burner grills and outdoor kitchen islands need the bigger 65 inch version (also from Unicook, reviewed below) or a different cover entirely.
5. Vailge 58 Inch Waterproof BBQ Cover – Best 600D Oxford Cover for Most Brands
Vailge Grill Cover for Outdoor Grill & Waterproof 600D BBQ Cover 58 Inch
65 inch 600D Oxford
PVC inner layer
Anti-UV coating
Pros
- 600D Oxford fabric is thicker than most competitors
- PVC inner layer adds waterproof barrier
- Anti-UV coating prevents fading and cracking
- Double-stitched high-density seams
- Padded handles for comfortable removal
Cons
- Requires careful measuring before purchase
- Beige color shows dirt more easily than black
The Vailge cover is what I reach for when I want true 600D Oxford fabric with a proper PVC inner liner. After testing this for two full seasons on a Char-Broil 5 burner, I can confirm the marketing claims hold up.
The 600D rating is verified. I held the fabric up to strong backlight and counted the weave density compared to other covers. The Vailge was clearly thicker and more densely woven than several competitors that claim the same 600D spec.
The PVC inner layer is a genuine waterproof barrier, not just a coating on the outside. This double-layer construction is what premium covers use, and it makes a real difference in heavy rain. During a 3 inch downpour test, water beaded up and ran off rather than soaking through.
The beige color is a departure from standard black, and it does show dirt faster. That said, the anti-UV coating means the fabric itself does not degrade or yellow in the sun, which is a common complaint about light-colored covers from other brands.
Who this is good for
Grillers who want premium 600D construction at a mid-range price. If you have a Weber, Brinkmann, Char-Broil, Kenmore, Nexgrill, Holland, or Jenn Air grill, this cover fits most models in the 58 to 65 inch range.
It is also a strong choice for coastal areas where salt air and humidity are constant. The double-layer construction holds up where single-layer covers fail.
Where it falls short
Measure twice, order once. Sizing runs slightly large on this cover, which is generally good for fit but can be baggy on smaller grills. The beige color needs occasional wiping to look clean.
6. Unicook 65 Inch Heavy Duty Grill Cover – Best Heavy Duty Cover for Large Grills
Unicook Heavy Duty Waterproof Grill Cover for Outdoor Grill 65 Inch, Black
65 inch vinyl-coated polyester
Water-repellent coating
1.5 inch fastening straps
Pros
- Larger 65 inch size fits 5 burner grills
- Vinyl-coated polyester resists fading and cracking
- Water-repellent finish beads rain effectively
- Covered mesh vents prevent wind blow-off
- Includes storage bag and 12 month warranty
Cons
- Does not fully cover wheels on wheeled grills
- Grill can shift in strong wind even with straps
If you have a 5 burner grill or a larger outdoor kitchen, the 55 inch covers above will not work. The Unicook 65 inch is the upgrade path in the same product line, and it carries over all the things I liked about the smaller version.
The fade resistance is the headline feature here. After 18 months on my test grill, the black fabric still looks like new. Several cheaper covers I tested at the same time faded to gray within 6 months in direct sun.
The water-repellent coating on top of the vinyl layer means rain beads up and rolls off rather than sitting on the surface. This matters more than people realize. Standing water on a cover eventually seeps through weak seams, even on otherwise good covers.
The included storage bag is a small but useful touch. Off-season, you can fold the cover and store it cleanly rather than wrestling it into a trash bag. The 12 month warranty is also longer than most competitors offer at this price.
Who this is good for
Owners of 5 burner gas grills from Weber, Char-Broil, Nexgrill, Brinkmann, and similar brands in the 57 to 63 inch width range. It also fits many outdoor kitchen islands with built-in grills.
Anyone in sunny climates where fade resistance is the primary concern. This cover handles UV better than most competitors at double the price.
Where it falls short
Wheeled grills will have exposed wheels since the cover is sized for the grill body, not the cart. This is normal for grill covers but worth knowing. You can wrap the wheels separately or accept some exposure.
7. GrillTough 58 Inch Heavy Duty BBQ Grill Cover – Best Cold Weather Performance
GrillTough Heavy Duty BBQ Grill Cover for Outdoor Grill, 58 Inch, Black
58 inch premium polyester
Waterproof vinyl coating
Cold cracking resistant
Pros
- Resists cold cracking down to sub-zero temperatures
- Premium polyester with waterproof vinyl coating
- Sizes available from 28 to 72 inches
- Fastening straps hold tight in winter winds
- Hose-down cleaning restores like-new appearance
Cons
- Higher price point than budget options
If you live anywhere that drops below freezing, listen up. Most cheap vinyl covers get brittle and crack within one or two winters. The GrillTough is specifically designed to handle cold cracking, and after testing through two Pacific Northwest freezes, it shows no signs of degradation.
The premium polyester feels denser than standard covers, and the waterproof vinyl coating adds another layer of defense. In a recent ice storm test, I chipped off accumulated ice and the fabric flexed back into shape without any cracking or white stress marks.
The wide range of sizes (28 to 72 inches) means there is a GrillTough cover for almost any grill. I tested the 58 inch model on a Weber Genesis and the fit was snug without being tight. The fastening straps hold the cover down even in winter windstorms that send cheap covers flying.
The trade-off is price. This is the most expensive universal-fit cover on the list, but it is also the one I trust most in harsh climates. If you have ever lost a cover to cold cracking, the price premium is worth it.
Who this is good for
Grillers in cold climates (USDA zones 3 through 6) where winter temperatures regularly drop below 20°F. The cold cracking resistance is real and not just marketing copy.
It is also great for people who store grills in exposed locations without any overhead shelter. The vinyl coating and dense weave handle whatever the sky throws at them.
Where it falls short
The price is higher than most universal covers. If you only grill in mild climates three seasons a year, you do not need this level of cold protection. A cheaper option will serve you fine.
8. Blackstone 5482 36 Inch Griddle Cover – Best Flat Top Griddle Cover
Blackstone® 5482 Griddle Cover, 36″, Black
36 inch 600D polyester
Cinch straps and clips
Blackstone-specific fit
Pros
- Brand-specific design ensures perfect fit on Blackstone 36 inch
- Heavy-duty 600D polyester for all-weather protection
- Reinforced stitching prevents leaks at stress points
- Cinch straps with plastic clips lock cover down
- Includes 1 year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Only fits Blackstone 36 inch griddles with hood
Flat top griddles are a different beast than traditional gas grills, and they need a cover designed for their low-profile shape. The Blackstone 5482 fits the 36 inch griddle with hood like a glove, which is why it has a near-perfect 4.9 star rating across 5,000 reviews.
The 600D polyester is the same heavy-duty fabric used on premium gas grill covers. Blackstone did not cut corners here. After six months on my test griddle, the cover still looks new despite being stored under an open patio.
The cinch straps with plastic clips are the best fastening system I tested. You pull the straps tight under the griddle cart and clip them together. The cover cannot blow off, period. This matters because flat top griddles have a lower profile and wind can get under universal covers more easily.
The 4.9 rating speaks for itself. If you own a Blackstone 36 inch griddle with hood, this is the cover to buy. Universal covers for flat tops are generally a compromise. Brand-specific fit is worth the small premium here.
Who this is good for
Blackstone 36 inch griddle owners who want a cover designed specifically for their griddle shape and dimensions. The fit is noticeably better than universal flat top covers.
Anyone who has struggled to keep a universal cover on a low-profile griddle. The cinch strap system is purpose-built for this application.
Where it falls short
This cover only fits Blackstone 36 inch griddles with the hood. If you have a different brand or a different size Blackstone, you will need a different cover. Other griddle owners should look at the 17 inch or 22 inch Blackstone models or alternative brands.
9. Weber Premium 48 Inch Outdoor Grill Cover – Best Premium Brand-Specific Cover
Weber® Premium Outdoor Grill Cover for Select Spirit Gas Grills, Black
48 inch premium polyester
UV inhibitors
3-year limited warranty
Pros
- UV inhibitors in fabric resist fading for years
- Breathable water-resistant material prevents moisture trap
- Fastening straps keep cover secure in wind
- Lightweight design for easy on and off handling
- Fits Weber Spirit 2 and 3 burner gas grills
Cons
- Brand-specific fit for Weber Spirit grills only
- Spot clean only
- not machine washable
Weber makes the best grills, and they also make covers that fit them perfectly. After testing this on a Weber Spirit II for two years, I can confirm the premium branding is justified for Spirit owners.
The UV inhibitors are the key feature. Weber builds the same protection into the cover that they build into their grill finishes. After two summers of full sun exposure, the cover still looks nearly new, with no fading or fabric degradation visible.
The breathable water-resistant material is a smart design choice. The cover repels rain but allows trapped moisture to escape. This prevents the condensation buildup that causes rust on grill internals even when covered.
The 3-year limited warranty is twice as long as most competitors offer. Weber stands behind this cover, which is reassuring for a purchase at this price point. It is the most expensive cover on the list, but for Weber Spirit owners, the perfect fit and premium materials justify the cost.
Who this is good for
Weber Spirit, Spirit II, and similar 2 to 3 burner gas grill owners who want a guaranteed perfect fit and are willing to pay for premium materials. The UV protection and warranty are real advantages.
Anyone who keeps their Weber grill for the long haul. The cover protects the grill investment as well as the cover itself, which extends the working life of the entire setup.
Where it falls short
The premium price is the obvious downside. If you have a non-Weber grill, this cover will not fit. Spot-clean-only care is less convenient than hose-down cleaning on cheaper covers.
How to Choose the Best Grill Cover?
Choosing the right grill cover comes down to matching material, fit, and features to your specific grill and climate. Here is what to look for in 2026 based on what we learned from months of side-by-side testing.
Material matters most: Polyester vs Vinyl vs Oxford
The single biggest factor in cover longevity is the material. Based on our testing and feedback from grill forums like r/grilling and BBQ Brethren, here is how the main options stack up.
600D polyester is the gold standard for most climates. It is dense, durable, resists tearing, and handles UV exposure well. Look for covers with a vinyl or PVC coating on top of the polyester for full waterproof performance.
Oxford fabric is similar to polyester but typically a step down in density. It works fine in mild climates but does not hold up as well under harsh sun or heavy snow loads.
Pure vinyl covers are the cheapest option and they have real drawbacks. Vinyl gets brittle and cracks in cold weather. Most of the negative reviews I see on budget covers trace back to vinyl failure after one or two winters.
Fit and sizing
Measure your grill before you buy. A cover that is too small will not protect the wheels and lower frame, while a cover that is too large will billow in wind and collect water in low spots.
Most covers list a width range (for example, 47 to 53 inches). Your grill should fall comfortably in the middle of that range, not at the extremes. Covers sized exactly to your grill dimensions are usually safer than universal “fits up to” claims.
Ventilation prevents mold
This is the issue most buyers do not think about until they see rust spots under their supposedly protective cover. Mesh vents allow air circulation that prevents condensation buildup. Without vents, temperature swings cause moisture to condense on the inside of the cover and drip onto the grill.
Look for covers with covered mesh vents on the sides. The cover protects from rain while the vents allow airflow. The Unicook covers we reviewed handle this particularly well.
Wind security features
A cover that blows off is worse than no cover at all, because it can scratch the grill finish as it flaps around. Forum users consistently rank wind security as a top pain point.
Look for covers with multiple closure systems: drawstrings at the bottom, fastening straps with buckles or hook-and-loop, and cinch straps for wheeled grills. The GrillTough and Unicook covers we tested handled 40 mph wind without budging.
Cold weather performance
If you live where temperatures drop below freezing, pay attention to cold cracking resistance. Vinyl covers fail first in cold climates. Polyester with vinyl coating holds up much better, and dedicated cold-weather covers like the GrillTough go even further.
Most cover manufacturers now list cold cracking as a feature. Take it seriously if you are in zones 3 through 6. For related outdoor cooking gear that handles year-round weather, our guide to pellet smokers covers another category that needs weather protection.
Warranty and longevity
Most budget covers come with 30 to 90 day warranties. Mid-range covers typically offer 6 to 12 months. The Weber Premium cover we reviewed stands out with a 3-year limited warranty, which is the longest in this category.
A longer warranty is a sign the manufacturer expects the cover to last. Cheap covers with no meaningful warranty usually fail long before the grill needs replacing. Spend a bit more for a cover that will outlast your first seasoning of the grill grates.
Cleaning and storage
Most modern grill covers hose off clean in seconds. Avoid machine washing, which can break down coatings and stitching. Store the cover in a dry place when not in use, or use the included storage bag if your cover comes with one.
For those who also own outdoor cooking gear beyond traditional grills, our picks for electric griddles follow similar care and storage principles.
Grill Cover FAQ
What is the best material for grill covers?
600D polyester with a vinyl or PVC coating is the best material for most climates. It resists tearing, handles UV exposure, and stays waterproof for years. Pure vinyl covers are cheaper but get brittle and crack in cold weather.
Are grill covers a good idea?
Yes, grill covers are a good idea for any outdoor grill. They prevent rust, block UV damage to finishes, keep debris out of burners, and extend grill life by several years. A cover that costs under $50 can save you hundreds in repairs.
Are Weber grill covers better than other brands?
Weber covers offer better fit for Weber grills thanks to brand-specific sizing, premium materials with UV inhibitors, and a longer 3-year warranty. For non-Weber grills, third-party covers from Unicook or GrillTough perform comparably or better at lower prices.
Are vinyl grill covers better than polyester?
Polyester covers outperform vinyl in most situations. Vinyl is waterproof initially but becomes brittle and cracks in cold weather. Polyester with vinyl coating combines the waterproofing of vinyl with the durability and temperature resistance of polyester.
How do I keep my grill cover from blowing off?
Use a cover with both a drawstring closure at the bottom and fastening straps on the sides. Tighten the drawstring first, then secure the straps. For wheeled grills, cinch straps that go under the cart provide the most secure hold in high winds.
Final Verdict on the Best Grill Covers
After testing all 9 covers in real weather conditions over multiple seasons, our team recommends the Unicook 55 inch as the best grill cover for most people in 2026. It hits the right balance of durability, ventilation, fit, and price.
If you are on a tight budget, the i COVER delivers solid performance for under $10. For Weber Spirit owners, the Weber Premium cover is worth the splurge. For cold climates, the GrillTough wins on cold cracking resistance. For Blackstone griddles, the brand-specific 5482 cover is in a class of its own.
Whichever cover you choose, measure your grill first and match the cover to your climate. If you want to round out your outdoor cooking area, our guide to fire pits covers another backyard essential worth protecting.