Utah Boat Show Game Plan

We’re excited to announce that SugarHouse Industries is exhibiting at the Utah Boat Show—and we can’t wait to see you there! If you love boating season (or you’re already counting down until the ice is gone), this is one of the best events of the year to check out what’s new, get inspired, and follow a Utah Boat Show game plan that helps you shop smarter.

What to Bring to the Show (So You Don’t Guess)

If you want to make confident purchases at the show (and avoid “oops… that doesn’t fit”), come prepared with a few basics.

Your Boat Show Checklist

• Boat make, model, and year

• A few photos of your boat
  • Exterior side view
  • Seating/interior layout
  • Flooring area
  • Any shade setup you currently have
• Your top boating goals for the year
  Examples:
  • “Make cleanup easier”
  • “Update our interior”
  • “More shade for kids”
  • “Better protection during storage”
• A rough budget range (even if it’s wide—this helps narrow options)

Pro tip: If you have photos on your phone, you’re already ahead of most people.

5 Quick Measurements That Make Shopping 10x Easier

You don’t need a full blueprint of your boat—but a few simple measurements can make a huge difference.

Here are the top five we recommend:

1. Seating and cushion sizes (basic length and depth)
   • This is helpful when looking at upholstery upgrades or replacements.
2. Flooring area you want to cover
   • Even a rough measurement helps determine the scope of a flooring refresh.
3. Where the sun hits hardest on your boat
   • Think about your most common setup: mid-day cruising, anchored time, surfing, hanging out at the dock, etc.
4. Your current cover/tie-down setup
   • If you have snaps, straps, or specific attachment points, make note of them.
5. Your storage and towing situation
   • Different needs apply depending on whether your boat is stored indoors, outdoors, covered, or trailered often.

Questions to Ask Before You Buy

Boat shows are full of deals—BUT the best buys happen when you ask the right questions.

Here are a few go-to questions that can save you money and headaches later:

• What material holds up best in sun, water, and wear?
  • Marine use is tough on materials. UV exposure alone can fade and break down products faster than people expect.
• What’s the easiest option to clean?
  • If you boat with kids, snack, or pets…easy-clean wins every time.
• Is this made specifically for my boat – or a universal fit?
  • Fit matters more than people think, especially for covers and tops.
• What does the installation or setup look like?
  • Some upgrades are simple, some require a bit more planning – either way, it’s good to know upfront.
• What’s the realistic turnaround time if I order soon?
  • If you want to be ready for spring and summer weekends, timing matters.

The Best Boat Upgrades to Shop for at the Show

If you’re walking the Utah Boat Show and want the upgrades that bring the biggest payoff, start here:

1. Boat Covers (Yes, They’re Worth It!)
   • A high-quality boat cover helps protect against dust, moisture, UV exposure, and storage wear—especially during the off-season. If you’ve been holding off because it feels like a “boring” purchase… it becomes very exciting the first time it saves your interior.
2. Upholstery Upgrades (Comfort + Looks = Big Impact)
   • If your seats are faded, cracking, or just looking tired, upholstery is one of the fastest ways to make your boat feel new again.
3. Marine Flooring (Because Cleanup Shouldn’t Be a Full Workout)
   • Marine flooring upgrades can make a boat look sharper and feel more comfortable—and they’re usually one of the most noticeable improvements for families and frequent boaters.
4. Tops and Shade Solutions (More Shade = More Hours on the Water)
   • Shade isn’t just a “nice to have.” It changes your entire day on the water. Less sunburn. Less heat. Happier passengers.

Don’t Sleep on Shade: Why Wakeshade Is a Boat Show Favorite

If you’ve ever been on the lake thinking, “Why are we baking right now?” this part is for you.

Adding a Wakeshade can:

• Make long boating days more comfortable
• Give kids and guests a place to cool down
• Reduce harsh sunlight and glare
• Help you spend more time enjoying the day (instead of hiding from the sun)

If you’re coming to the show, stop by the Wakeshade booth (#250) to check it out in person.

Boat Show Specials

If you’re planning upgrades this year, the Utah Boat Show is one of the best times to do it.

SugarHouse Industries Boat Show Specials

• 10% OFF Marine Products
  Includes: covers, tops, upholstery, and flooring
• Wakeshade for $850 (normally $1,150)
  • PLUS an extra $100 OFF if you purchase at the show

If you’re already attending, make it count—this is the time to lock in your upgrades. If you can’t make it, no worries! Give us a call at 801-563-9600 to take advantage of this special.

SugarHouse Ind. has served its clients in the Intermountain West since 1941. In that time, we have become Utah’s largest provider of awning, boat tops, and specialty canvas covers. After over 80 years, our focus is still to provide customers with the highest quality products and the best prices. We remain a family-owned company, and we remain committed to putting a personal touch into everything we do. That’s why we make every product that we offer in our 30,000 ft² facility in Midvale, Utah.