A Bimini top is an open-front canvas top for the cockpit of a boat, usually supporte by a metal frame. Most biminis can be collapsed when not in use, and raised again if shade or shelter from rain is desired. Bimini tops differ from dodgers in that dodgers include protection in front and on the sides, while a bimini does not. The bimini is used mostly as protection from the sun, especially on motorboats, because there is no protection from wind, rain, and spray when moving forward at any speed. Rain protection is only given if the boat is stationary and there is not any wind.