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Best Umbrellas
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Durability
No one wants to be that person whose umbrella is turned inside out by a sudden gust of wind. So, how do you avoid that? Quality of materials and smart design. Ribs that are made from reinforced fiberglass hold up better than older models that used flimsy steel materials that are easily bent. Also, when canopies are made from one solid piece of material, they can act like a sail when held at the right angle and can take flight if you aren’t holding on tight enough. Smarter designs put slits in the middle of each panel that allows for air to flow through so you don’t run the risk of losing it when the wind picks up at just the right angle.
Weight
This feature is especially important for campers that want to be able to throw in into their backpacks without weighing them down too much and taking up too much room. We were drawn to umbrellas that have telescopic poles that could fold down to a third of their original size and could be placed into a small carrying case that is typically about 12 inches long. Not only is that design perfect for campers, but it also makes it easy to throw it into your purse or into your glove box. The older models without the telescopic poles are great for fending off robbers, but they aren’t ideal for busy people that need room in their backpacks or purses.
Use
You might not think that it is something very important, but they can serve a variety of purposes. If you are planning on attending something like a golf tournament, standing under that hot sun all day can get really hot and it can do a number on your skin if you don’t have any sunblock. Most notably, an umbrella can help in a pinch if it starts to rain. Also, if you are out on a camping trip, sometimes the weather can turn on you and you could be left out in the wilderness for 5 days during nothing but rain and wind. While a poncho might help keep your clothes dry, the constant pounding of rain on your head can really begin to wear on hikers by the end of the day. Throwing one of these into your backpack for such an occasion can really make all the difference. Like we said earlier, there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad preparedness.
Materials
Obviously, one of the most important features consumers should look for in an umbrella is its ability to keep them dry! If it doesn’t keep you dry, then it is just for decoration, and we have far surpassed the era where people wore these as an arbitrary accessory to their ensembles. As with any piece of outdoor gear, you really need to pay attention to the materials that umbrellas are made from. Inferior materials equal an inferior product. An interior product means one thing: you are going to get wet. A really great durable material to look out for is nylon taffeta that helps with keeping the umbrella water-resistant and has a coating finish on it. This acrylic coating that is on the underside helps with allowing the water to drip down without going through the umbrella and extends its lifespan.
Top 10 Picks
1. Totes
You know that you have seen people use them out and about, and wondered if they are really more effective: the clear, bubble-like design. The way this umbrella differs is because instead of offering a wide, low profile canopy, it covers you the way a bubble that is opened at one end would. Contrary to what you may have thought- it does an excellent job of keeping you dry.
Read moreDesign
The design of this is one of its best features. Not only will you look stylish and trendy- but you will also have a better field of view because the exterior is made out of a clear vinyl (think that of a clear blow-up pool toy). It also hugs up closer to your body so that you won’t run the risk of snagging or bumping into anything with a larger canopy.
Weight and Dimensions
The weight of this model runs pretty par for the course and weighs in at just 15.5 ounces. When it is completely unfolded, the canopy measures in at 52 inches. When folded, it measures in at 36 inches.
Durability
Sporting a black model when it rains blocks out the light, and it can also make a dark and dreary day darker and drearier. With a clear canopy, the user can light what light there is out there in while always having a sense of their surroundings. It has a classic hooked handle that is easy to hold and easy to hang while not in use.
Value
If it’s popular and trendy- it’s going to be more expensive. Fortunately, in this case, the price tag- while more expensive than any other model on this list- is still considered to be affordable. You probably spend a lot of time picking out the perfect clothes for the day- it would be a shame if no one got to see them because it is raining.
Summary
If looking good and staying dry is something that is important to you, and you don’t care as much about portability and folding up small, this is a really unique model that is sure to draw some attention out of the sidewalk and bring some light into a dreary day.
2. Repel
Repel makes the tanks of the umbrella world with this model. It does everything that a user would want from an item that keeps them dry. It is lightweight and easy to store, and it is built like a tank. There will be no risk of it turning inside out on blustery days with this design.
Read moreDesign
There are no gimmicks, no variations in designs- just model that comes in solid black. It comes with a black handle, and it comes with a black carrying case so you can put it away wet back into your backpack or purse without getting everything else wet as well.
Weight and Dimensions:
When it is all folded up and put into its carrying case, it weighs in at under 1 pounds and measures to be just 11.5 inches long. This makes it simple to throw into your purse or your backpack and completely forget about it until you need it.
Durability
The way that it holds up to even the most extreme elements is one of the reasons this model is landing the top stop. The reason why most of these products turn inside out when it is windy is because the inside ribs are not composed of high quality and sturdy materials. Most designs out there only have 6 to 8 rubs, but Repels model has 9 fiberglass ribs that are resin reinforced. The fabrics used are coated with Teflon, so when the clouds clear, you won’t be stuck with something wet for very long.
Value
The price of this unit is another one of its better features. Sure, you won’t get the opportunity to choose a color that suits you, but you will have the knowledge that when it becomes you against the elements- you are going to win this time. Plus, it comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee if the weather ever does penetrate through this tough model.
Summary
If you are looking for something that is tough but comes in a smaller package- Repel has the perfect product that will keep you dry when the rains really start to fall.
3. Spar.Saa
It has probably been a while since you have had the need to purchase one of these products- and you might be surprised that they do not all look the same. There have been, in fact, improvements to the original umbrella. The Spar.Saa takes everything that you hated about using these products and improved upon it.
Read moreDesign
The design is what makes it truly unique. Instead of folding in on itself, it folds outwardly- they way it would look if it got caught in the wind. By using this way of folding, the wet part of the fabric won’t come in contact with the inside of your car. The design of the handle is different as well. Instead of sporting the classic hook or straight design, this model has a loop with an opened end. This loop can be affixed to your wrist so that you can keep dry but you can also keep your hands free to carry things
Weight and Dimensions
This unit weighs just over 1 pounds (1.1 pounds to be exact) so it won’t become too heavy when the rains really start to pour. When it is unfolded it measures in at 42.5 inches, and when it is folded it measures to be 31.5 inches.
Durability
If the wind ever does catch this unit, you won’t have to worry about it being ruined because the wind will just be folding it back up for you. However, that shouldn’t really be a problem because the 8 panels of durable fabric are held together by a fiberglass frame.
Value
The cost of this design will likely set you back about the same amount of money it would cost you to take yourself out for a nice lunch. The innovative design and myriad of color options make this product well worth the price.
Summary
If you are the type that is adventurous and likes to try new and unique designs- even improvements upon tried and tested models- you are sure to be pleased with the purchase of this product. Be prepared to tell curious onlookers where you bought it.
4. EEZ-Y
You are a minimalist- you don’t need anything too flashy or that will draw too much attention to yourself. All that you want is something that will keep you high and dry when the rain and wind really begin to pick up, and it compact enough that you can keep it in your purse or backpack. It this is you, you will love EEZ-Y’s model.
Read moreDesign
When completely folded, it packs up as a small rectangle that can fit right in your glovebox or purse/backpack when you need it. It is available in many different colors such as black, gray, yellow, red, blue, white, as well as a few others. It also comes with a matching carrying case so you don’t have to worry about getting all of the stuff inside of your backpack wet when it comes time to put it away.
Weight and Dimensions
This umbrella is super lightweight and checks in at under 1 pound- 15.2 ounces to be exact. If you are backpacking during the rainy season, you can add this to your pack with adding too much additional weight or taking up too much space. When it is opened, the canopy that will shield you from the rain is 42 inches across, ensuring that every part of you stays nice and dry.
Durability
While the ribs are made from high quality and sturdy materials EEZ-Y went one step above and beyond to ensure that you aren’t that sad sack wrestling with the busted inside-out product on those, particularly nasty days. This model has vents panels in the fabric to allow high winds to pass right through while keeping you in control and- most importantly- keeping you dry.
Value
This might be a little bit more expensive than some of the others out there- but it is in no way unaffordable. Considering it might be the last one that you would ever need to buy (unless you happen to misplace it), it is well worth the slightly padded price tag. Plus, if you are unhappy with it within the first 90 days, they will offer a full refund.
Summary
If you need something that will keep you dry and has minimal risk of turning inside out when the winds start to pick up- this is an excellent model that might be the last one that you would ever have to purchase.
5. Rain-Mate
The people have spoken- and they adore this umbrella. It is incredibly durable and dependable when the rains really start to pour. It comes in a variety of colors that is sure to appease most tastes and will more than likely be the last one that you will ever have to buy.
Read moreDesign
The design options are a little bit different than some of the other umbrellas on the market. While it comes in many of the basic colors that users prefer, it also comes with a rainbow design (that resembles those helicopter hats from cartoons) and a blue and white cloud design so that you can look up and pretend that it isn’t actually raining. It has an automatic open a close button so you won’t be left standing in front of your car door struggling in the rain to get it closed.
Weight and Dimensions
This is a little bit heavier than some of the others- but not by a whole lot. It checks in at just 1.12 pounds and is able to fold down to just 12 inches. When fully opened, 42 inches of waterproof fabric stand between you and the pounding rain.
Durability
While some designs only have 6-8 panels, this model has 9. It has fiberglass ribs that are reinforced to guarantee you won’t be left with a model that is inside out when the winds really start to pick up. The single button touch will both open and close this design, making it a snap to use.
Value
What users love most about this umbrella is the affordable price. While it is not the least expensive model out there, it is nowhere near the most expensive. When you tack on a 100 perfect lifetime warranty in case anything goes wrong- you cannot be the price.
Summary
If you have ever been one of those being struggling along the sidewalk with a product that has been turned inside out from the wind, and want to ensure that that will never happen to you ever again- the Rain-Mate design might be your best bet.
6. G4Free
This G4Free umbrella is the monster truck of all of the other products to make this list. If you insist on having a design that will ensure that not an inch of you will become wet, or you love sharing the canopy with a friend or loved one comfortable, this will be an excellent tool to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable.
Read moreDesign
This design is made for golfers, so you can rest assured that it is sleek and unassuming. It is available in many neutral colors that are sure to apply to your own personal style. It has a long arm with a soft EVA grip.
Weight and Dimensions
While normal sized products typically have a canopy that measures around 37-42 inches- this model has an impressive canopy of 62 inches, which makes it incredibly roomy for just you, or ideal for you and a friend. When folded down, it measures in at around 39 inches wide.
Durability
The fabric that the canopy blocks out 99 percent of the sun’s harmful rays, so it will not only keep the rain off of your back- but the sun as well. The vents that are located in the middle of each panel are designed to catch the wind as it blows through so you never have to worry about it turning inside out or losing control when the weather really starts to get scary.
Value
The price of this model runs par for the course. While it is not the most expensive one out there, it’s not the least expensive either. Considering that it is enough to keep two people out of the rain, and yet it comes at the same price as the smaller ones- this comes in at an incredible deal.
Summary
If you need something big enough to ensure that not a drop of water hits your shoulders, or the shoulders of a friend that also needs to take cover- this will be the perfect fit without adding any extra strain on your wallet
7. Bagail
BAGAIL makes an excellent option for those that are looking for something a little different. It comes in a variety of trendy colors and designs to appeal to most users, and sports that unique inside-out design that is easier to use and wicks away water easily.
Read moreDesign
If you are looking for something that is a little outside of the box- this is the model for you. It comes in a variety of polka dotted, floral, and solid colors that will pop against the dreariness of a rainy fall afternoon.
Weight and Dimensions
This umbrella weighs exactly 1 pound, which is about normal compared to many of the other models on the market. When it is folded is measured in at approximately 30 inches long. While it isn’t the most compact umbrellas out there, it does make up for it in the way that it folds to dry quickly.
Durability
The inside-out model is perfect to prevent it from being turned inside out with a gush of high winds. It as a C-shaped handle that is perfect for placing on your wrist to keep your hands free while you carry your car keys and coffee. When it is not in use, it will stand up on its own and will drip dry more quickly.
Value
The cost of this model is about the price you would expect to pay for a quality product. While it is not the most inexpensive model on the market, the innovative design makes it well worth the price tag.
Summary
If you were in the market for something a little different that is available in a lot of fun colors and designs, and is affordable enough to pick more than one- this is an excellent option to keep you looking good and dry on dreary rainy days.
8. Bodyguard
If you are looking for something that you can throw into your backpack or glovebox to save for the times that you will really need it- this is an excellent and compact option. Not only is it compact- but it is also sturdy and strong if you ever get caught in some pretty nasty weather.
Read moreDesign
The design of this umbrella is pretty minimalistic. It doesn’t come in as many colors and designs as some of the others- it is only available in basic black with the addition of a faux leather carrying case. It is perfect for keeping in your glovebox and will never run the risk of sticking out or going out of style.
Weight and Dimensions
This umbrella weighs in at just under 1 pounds- .95 pounds to be exact. It expands to just be a tad bigger than the norm- when opened the canopy covers approximately 46.5 inches. When folded, it is just over 12 inches long.
Durability
What makes this design unique is the use of 10 panels instead of the typical 6-8 panels. More panels mean more ribs and hardware, and more hardware means less of a chance of it turning inside out when the winds really start to kick up. Plus, the smooth grip is comfortable for the hand and is able to be opened with just the press of one button.
Value
This unit runs in the middle of the road in terms of price, and will likely set you back the same amount that it would cost you to take a friend out for a nice lunch to brighten up a rainy day. In addition to a great price point, Bodyguard also offers a 100 percent lifetime warranty if anything goes wrong with your purchase.
Summary
If you are looking for something that is sleek, durable, and will fit into your glovebox for the next 20 years without running the risk of ever going out of style- this is an excellent choice.
9. SY Compact
This is a great option for someone who wants something that is both compact and super durable. It is perfect for popping into the glove box of your car or into your backpack for when the rains really start to pour. The sturdy design is great for those windy days, too.
Read moreDesign
This umbrella comes in a basic black that that comes with a similar black carrying case. If you were looking for something that was a little more fun, SY also offers a light blue design with a cloud design so that while you are walking you can look up and pretend that it is actually a bright and sunshiny day.
Weight and Dimensions
This model is a little bit lighter than some of the others out there, and checks in at approximately 12 ounces. When the canopy is fully opened, it is 41 inches wide- which is pretty standard for models that aren’t considered to be mini or oversized.
Durability
The inside has 8 panels that are composed of a waterproof 210T pongee material. This material wicks away water and is also incredibly quick drying. It opens with the press of a button, and when you need to close it back up, simply press that button again, fasten the ribs in place, and put it into the carrying case that it comes with. SY claims that this model can withstand winds that are up to 60 miles per hour.
Value
Thos cost of this item is one of it’s best features. It is one of the most inexpensive designs to make this list and will set you back about the same amount of money that it would cost you to buy a nice cup of coffee for you and a friend. Plus, if anything happens to your model, SY offers a money-back guarantee.
Summary
If you are looking for something affordable, but is also strong and will hold up to strong winds without breaking the bank- this is an excellent option t keep you high and dry on those dreary and rainy days.
10. Punming
For those of you that want something that is compact, but it just a little bit bigger than some of the standard models out there on the market- this is an excellent decision. It has a shard design, is perfect come rain or shine, and will not put any strain on your wallet.
Read moreDesign
This model comes to you in a basic black, or a maroon top with a black interior. It is able to be opened with the simple press of a button, and the interior has 10 ribs.
Weight and Dimensions
It is a little bit heavier than some of the other umbrellas on the market and weighs in at about 1.2 pounds. When fully opened, it covers 45.7 inches of space to keep you dry, When folded up, it is only 13 inches long which makes it perfect for throwing into a tote bag or glove box.
Durability
The canopy is made from a thick and durable material that is coated with a waterproof material that will wick water away and will be fast drying. The 10 ribbed design distributes pressure from high winds more evenly to prevent it from turning inside out of those incredibly windy days. Plus, it opens and closes with just the simple press of a button.
Value
The cost of this umbrella is one of its best features, and it one of the least expensive models to make this list. It will likely set you back the same amount of money you spend on your lunch today. If for any reason something happens to this model, they will send you a free replacement for life.
Summary
If you are in the market to upgrade your old model but don’t want to spend a whole lot of money on some of the more pricey designs- this is an excellent choice that doesn’t sacrifice quality.
Sources
- , The 7 Best Travel Umbrellas of 2019, Article
