Umbrellas range in price from about $3.00 to over $200 and, for the most part, the price reflects the quality of the umbrella. Although, some people prefer to buy cheap and replace the umbrella when it breaks, those who've had to deal with a cheap umbrella in a rainstorm often choose to pay a little more to avoid having their umbrella flip inside out, drip water on their head, or fall apart just when they need it most.
Still, not many people are willing to spend more than $50 or $75 for an object that is easily lost or misplaced. Fortunately, there are quite a few reasonably good quality umbrellas available in the moderate price range of $25-$40. Umbrellas are also available in various styles and choosing an umbrella may mean compromising one advantage for another.
Folding Umbrellas vs. Stick Umbrellas
Stick umbrellas are much stronger than folding umbrellas. Each joint where the umbrella folds is a point of weakness that could bend or break in the wind. However, even though folding umbrellas are less sturdy than stick umbrellas, the convenience of being able to tuck them into a bag or backpack often outweighs the benefit of increased durability.
The Umbrella Frame
To stand up to the wind, umbrella frames must be strong yet flexible. The rib material should be able to give, but spring back to its original form. The material used in the frame is often a compromise between weight and strength. Tempered steel is extremely strong, but quite heavy. Aluminum frames are light, but bend easily. Fiberglass is emerging as the best choice for ultralight frames that are flexible and strong.
Some eco-friendly umbrellas also use bamboo, which is quite strong and flexible and is a renewable resource and will decompose in the right environment. For umbrellas with metal frames, also look for a coated finish for more resistance to rust and corrosion.
Wind-Proof vs. Wind-Resistant Umbrellas
Some umbrella frames are designed to handle windy conditions. Wind-proof umbrellas are made to turn inside out in windy conditions and not break when pulled back into shape. Wind-resistant umbrellas are built for strength against the wind and can withstand fairly high winds without breaking or turning inside out. With all umbrellas, hold them towards the wind, not against it so they are in the best position to withstand the force of the wind.
Automatic vs. Manual Umbrellas
Manual umbrellas, the ones you push open using two hands, have the least working parts that can break and, thus, are more reliable. However, the convenience of opening an umbella with the push of a button is very appealing, especially for those who often carry other things -- briefcases, purses, shopping bags, and so on.
When choosing an automatic umbrella, there are two choices: automatic opening umbrellas that are spring loaded and automatic open and close umbrellas that use a spring and pulley system. Some spring-loaded opening umbrellas can be prone to breaking from the heavy pressure exerted on the frame when opening.
Release Latch
Regardless of whether using a manual or automatic umbrella, the latch needs to be easy to use. Some manual umbrellas have a metal catch that can be difficult to press. Automatic umbrellas often have buttons that are more convenient and easy to access, but collapsing the umbrella can be more difficult. If an umbrella has a plastic cover over the latch, it may provide a smoother surface for pressing the latch, but can also interfere with the ability to release it easily. On some cheaper umbrella models, the plastic covers can rotate so they are not completely covering the latch making it very difficult to release the umbrella.
Canopy cover
Umbrella canopies are typically made from nylon, polyester, or cotton treated with a water-proof coating. Teflon, a light-weight, quick-drying coating, is common. Other umbrellas have a clear, plastic canopy that lets the light through and makes it easier to see as you are walking in the rain. When choosing an umbrella, make sure the canopy is large enough to provide enough coverage, but not so large that the umbrella is unwieldy and difficult to manage when extended.
Also note that the larger the canopy the more susceptible it is to the wind. When the umbrella is open, the canopy should be tight across the frame so the individual segments do not flap. When selecting an umbrella, open it and hold it against a light source to check for defects.
The Umbrella Shaft
The umbrella shaft holds up the frame and canopy and must be sturdy. Aluminum shafts are light-weight but won't stand up to much wind before they bend. Shafts reinforced with fiberglass are light and strong. The shaft in stick umbrellas are stronger than those in folding umbrellas. When a folding umbrella is extended, the shaft should be straight and shouldn't wobble at the joints. The length of the shaft should allow you to hold the umbrella above your head comfortably.
The right umbrella is a balance between cost and quality, as well as convenience and durability. Spend the time to find a good quality, reasonably-priced umbrella and it will serve you well for years to come.
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