Bought this to hang in a semi-closed in patio area that has the sun beating in.  We opted for this instead of an umbrellas so that it would cover a larger area.  It works perfectly.  Its not really supposed to be water resistant....but it is!  We absolutely love it!  We have shade, but not darkness, it filters the light in, AND a bonus that we didn't expect, it keeps most of the water out unless its a soaker storm.  But, even with heavy rains, it only allows the water in at a much slower pace!  Highly recommend.