Ever finish a long day on the trails, pull off your helmet, and feel like you’ve just eaten a pound of dust? We’ve all been there. You install a front windshield on your Can-Am Commander for protection, only to create a swirling vortex of dust, dirt, and debris that gets sucked right into the cab from behind. It’s frustrating, messy, and can ruin an otherwise perfect ride.
I promise you, there’s a simple, effective, and affordable solution to that cockpit dust storm. In this guide, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about the can am commander rear mesh screen.
We’ll cover the massive benefits, how to choose the perfect one for your machine, a step-by-step installation you can do yourself, and the pro maintenance tips to make it last for years. Let’s get that cab clean and your rides more comfortable.
Why Your Commander Needs a Rear Screen: The Top Benefits
You might think a rear screen is just an aesthetic add-on, but it’s one of the most functional upgrades you can make. It directly solves the “vacuum effect”—that annoying phenomenon where air flows over your front windshield and sucks dust in from the rear opening.
Here are the core benefits of can am commander rear mesh screen installation that you’ll notice on your very first ride.
Drastically Reduces Dust and Debris
This is the number one reason riders install a rear mesh screen. It acts as a barrier, significantly cutting down on the amount of dust, mud, and trail debris that gets pulled into the cab.
This means a cleaner interior, cleaner gear, and most importantly, you and your passengers breathe cleaner air. No more gritty feeling in your teeth after a few hours on the trail.
Cuts Down on Sun and UV Exposure
The mesh material provides excellent shade, reducing the sun’s glare and protecting you and your passengers from harsh UV rays. It’s like having a tinted window that still lets the breeze through.
This makes for a much more comfortable ride on those long, sunny days, reducing fatigue and the risk of sunburn.
Maintains Airflow Without the Backdraft
Unlike a solid polycarbonate rear window, a mesh screen allows for fantastic airflow. You get a nice, cooling breeze without the violent backdraft of dust and wind.
It’s the perfect balance of protection and open-air freedom, keeping the cab from feeling stuffy or stagnant while still blocking the junk you don’t want inside.
Helps Contain Your Gear
Here’s a bonus benefit many people overlook. A taut rear screen acts as a cargo net, preventing loose items like jackets, hats, or small cooler bags from bouncing out of the bed or rear seating area on rough terrain.
It’s a simple layer of security that can save you from losing valuable gear on the trail.
Choosing the Right Can-Am Commander Rear Mesh Screen: A Buyer’s Guide
Not all mesh screens are created equal. Making the right choice upfront will save you headaches down the road. This can am commander rear mesh screen guide will help you pick the perfect one for your rig and riding style.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Options
You’ll find screens from BRP (Can-Am’s parent company) and a host of quality aftermarket brands like SuperATV, Kolpin, and Moose Racing.
OEM screens typically guarantee a perfect fit and finish, but often come at a premium price. Aftermarket screens offer a wider variety of features, materials, and price points, often providing better value. Do your homework and read reviews to ensure the aftermarket brand you choose has a good reputation for fitment on your specific Commander model.
Material Matters: Mesh Density and Durability
The heart of the screen is its material. Look for a heavy-duty, UV-resistant vinyl-coated polyester mesh. This material is incredibly tough, resists tearing, and won’t fade or become brittle after a few seasons in the sun.
The mesh density is also important. A tighter weave will block more fine dust, while a more open weave will offer slightly better visibility. Most quality screens find a great balance between the two.
Attachment Systems: Straps, Snaps, or Bolts?
How the screen attaches to your roll cage is a key factor. Most use a combination of heavy-duty Velcro straps and cinch buckles.
This system is fantastic for a DIYer because it’s easy to install, requires no drilling, and allows you to get the screen incredibly taut. Look for straps with reinforced stitching and strong buckles that won’t slip over time.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options
When considering a sustainable can am commander rear mesh screen, think about longevity. Buying a high-quality screen made from durable materials means you won’t be replacing it every other season, which is the most eco-friendly approach.
A durable product reduces waste and the resources needed to manufacture and ship a replacement. Investing in quality is a core tenet of being an eco-friendly can am commander rear mesh screen owner.
How to Install Your Can-Am Commander Rear Mesh Screen: A Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, let’s get our hands dirty. This is a job anyone can tackle in their garage in under 30 minutes. Here’s how to can am commander rear mesh screen installation is done right the first time.
Tools and Prep Work
You don’t need much, which is the beauty of this mod. Gather these items:
- Your new mesh screen
- A couple of clean rags
- A bottle of all-purpose cleaner or soapy water
Before you start, give your Commander’s rear roll cage a good wipe-down. A clean surface will prevent dirt and grit from getting trapped under the straps, which could chafe your paint over time.
The Installation Process
- Unpack and Inspect: Lay the screen out on a clean surface. Check for any shipping damage and identify the top, bottom, and sides. Most screens are labeled or shaped in a way that makes this obvious.
- Start at the Top: Drape the screen over the rear portion of your roll cage. Loosely attach the top two corner straps first. Don’t crank them down yet; just get them snug enough to hold the screen in place.
- Work Down the Sides: Move to the vertical bars of the cage. Attach the side straps, again keeping them just snug. Make sure you are alternating from side to side to keep the screen centered.
- Secure the Bottom: Once the top and sides are holding the screen in position, attach the bottom straps. This is where you’ll start to pull the tension.
- Tighten Everything Systematically: Now, go back to the top and begin tightening all the straps. Work in a pattern, much like you would when tightening lug nuts. Go from a top corner to a bottom corner on the opposite side, then repeat. This ensures even tension across the entire screen.
- Final Check: The goal is a taut, wrinkle-free finish. The screen should be tight like a drum. If you see any loose spots or wrinkles, adjust the tension on the surrounding straps until it’s smooth.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Fit
Here are a few can am commander rear mesh screen tips from the pros:
- Install on a Warm Day: If possible, let the screen sit in the sun for 15-20 minutes before you install it. The warmth makes the material slightly more pliable and easier to stretch for a perfect, tight fit.
- Mind Your Accessories: Double-check that the straps don’t interfere with any other accessories you have mounted, like a roof, speakers, or cargo racks.
- Tuck the Tails: Once all the straps are tight, neatly tuck or wrap the loose ends so they aren’t flapping in the wind while you ride.
Common Problems & Troubleshooting Your Rear Mesh Screen
Even the best gear can have issues. Here’s a quick rundown of common problems with can am commander rear mesh screen setups and how to fix them fast.
Problem: The Screen is Flapping or Making Noise
This is almost always due to insufficient tension. Go back through the tightening sequence. Pay special attention to the corners, as this is where looseness usually starts. Ensure every single buckle is cinched down tight.
Problem: The Zippers (If Equipped) Are Sticking
Trail dust is the enemy of zippers. Never force a stuck zipper. Clean it first with a brush and some water. Once dry, apply a zipper lubricant, silicone spray, or even just a bit of wax from a candle to help it glide smoothly.
Problem: A Small Tear or Fray in the Mesh
For small punctures or tears, you can often find heavy-duty mesh patch kits online or at outdoor gear stores. For larger tears, or if the stitching along the border is coming undone, it might be time to consider a replacement for safety and effectiveness.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance Best Practices
A little bit of care goes a long way. Follow this can am commander rear mesh screen care guide to maximize the life of your investment and keep it looking great.
The Right Way to Clean Your Screen
The most important of all can am commander rear mesh screen best practices is proper cleaning. Do not use a high-pressure washer on your mesh screen! It can stretch the material and damage the vinyl coating.
Instead, use a garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle, a soft-bristled brush, and a bucket of mild soapy water (car wash soap or dish soap works great). Gently scrub both sides, rinse thoroughly, and let it air dry.
Off-Season Storage
If you remove your screen for the winter, clean it thoroughly first. Once it’s completely dry, roll it up instead of folding it. Folding can create permanent creases in the material. Store it in a dry, safe place away from rodents and direct sunlight.
Pre-Ride Inspections
Before any big trip, just give your screen a quick once-over. Check that all the straps are still tight and that the stitching and buckles are in good shape. A 30-second check can prevent a problem on the trail.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Commander Rear Mesh Screen
Can I use a rear mesh screen with a hard front windshield?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, that’s the ideal combination. The front windshield provides primary protection, and the rear mesh screen manages the airflow to prevent the dust-sucking vacuum effect. They are designed to work together.
Will a rear mesh screen completely stop rain?
No, it is not waterproof. It will significantly reduce light mist and spray from getting into the cab, but in a heavy downpour, water will pass through the mesh. Its primary function is blocking dust and debris, not water.
Does a rear mesh screen reduce engine noise?
It can provide a very minor reduction in engine and exhaust noise, but it’s not designed as a sound-deadening device. The primary acoustic benefit is reducing wind noise and flapping compared to having a fully open back.
How tight should the screen be installed?
It should be very taut. A properly installed screen will have very few, if any, wrinkles and should not flap or billow when you’re driving at speed. Think of it like the surface of a drum—tight and uniform.
Installing a can am commander rear mesh screen is one of the quickest, most affordable, and highest-impact mods you can make. It transforms the comfort of your cab, keeps your gear secure, and makes every ride more enjoyable by leaving the dust where it belongs—on the trail.
Now get that screen ordered, follow this guide for a perfect install, and enjoy the ride. Stay safe and stay comfortable out there!
- Can-Am Outlander Years To Avoid – A Mechanic’S Guide To Buying Smart - November 30, 2025
- Polaris Sportsman 570 Vs Can Am Outlander 700 – The Ultimate Off-Road - November 30, 2025
- Can Am Outlander Fuel Pump Problems – Your Complete DIY Diagnostic & - November 30, 2025