A bimini top serves as protection from the sun when riding a motorboat. They are usually open-front canvases supported by a metal frame. Apart from direct sunlight, bimini tops shield boaters from other elements such as rain and snow.Bimini tops may be composed of different materials. A very cheap and common material is cotton duck. Though inexpensive, this type of bimini material does not last long, leaks, and degrades rather easily under intense heat. Vinyl is also a common fabric used for bimini tops. Their reliability as being waterproof and being easy to clean has made them a favorite choice as material for bimini tops. Acrylic, on the other hand, is the most expensive, yet most durable of all materials for the bimini top. They can withstand harsh temperatures, not to mention they are very durable.