Repel Windproof Travel Review

The Repel Windproof Travel, a well-made umbrella, is somewhat easy to operate and offers average rain protection for its dimensions. Of the compact class, packing and carrying it around is one of its more notable advantages.

Performance Comparison

Rain Protection

Translating advertised canopy sizes into actual rain protection can be difficult. For this metric, we measured each umbrella in the same way (because not all manufacturers report the same type of measurement). Case in point, Repel claims a 42-inch canopy for this model, but what they mean is the arc length, which we confirmed with our own measurement of the arc. The diameter, however, is 36.5 inches — not quite as expansive as the former measurement would have you believe. The depth of the canopy measured to be 7.5 inches, which is quite average among the compact models we tested.

Overall, the Windproof Travel provides fairly average rain coverage without compromising visibility, which can happen with deeper canopies. The depth, we found, is a delicate balance between better rain protection and excellent visibility when walking through a downpour.

Ease of Transport

This model isn't the smallest or lightest in our review, but it is still considered a compact umbrella due to its telescoping design. It is 11.75 inches long when packed and weighs 16 ounces. This is a little bulky but still easy to carry or stash in a backpack. Besides durability, ease of transport is this product's best attribute.

Construction Quality

The Windproof Travel initially failed our high wind test, snapping several ribs, which was alarming. We extended our testing period and warrantied the umbrella, which was an easy and fast process (customer service was very friendly). In our second test, we did not have the same failure and found the umbrella to, in fact, be quite sturdy after several rounds of testing.

The nine resin-reinforced fiberglass ribs (as opposed to a more standard 8) seem to increase wind resistance. In our second successful test, the canopy started to buckle at 20 mph but bounced right back without any damage. The shaft would compress like a shock absorber, which made the canopy smaller but prevented permanent damage. It also inverted at 15 mph when positioned to catch the wind, which isn't too out of the ordinary. It flipped back to normal easily, and the auto open and close feature still worked.

Overall, this umbrella has a sturdy feel, with a smooth and tight open/close action. It appears to be made well with attention to detail. The Teflon-coated canopy stretches out nicely when deployed, remains tight during use, and helps the umbrella feel particularly sturdy.

Ease of Use

The auto open and close is an impressive feature that makes it even easier to duck into your car in a hurry or slide inside from a crowded sidewalk without poking anyone's eyes out. Because of this feature, however, the mechanics involved require a lot of tension to reset the springs. Closing up this umbrella is one of the more difficult tasks. We had to use a lot of muscle to push everything back together, which can become frustrating.

The ergonomic, comfortable handle fits securely in the hands, with a big button that is easy to hit (but not so easy that it could misfire). We like the size of this handle over the more lightweight/compact models because it is much easier to maintain control when the winds pick up.

Versatility

The Windproof Travel is a simple, discrete umbrella. It is well made, with a tight canopy and sturdy feel, which helps it look more “dressed up.” However, being a compact, telescoping model, it isn't as elegant as more traditional models. This is not an umbrella that will necessarily make a fashion statement, but we do appreciate the fun under-canopy pattern. Too, having a dark canopy fabric over the pattern fabric helps mitigate sunlight. We enjoyed the cloud pattern on a sunny day but were also grateful that the black outer layer blocked out the sun. This design choice certainly increases the versatility of the model.

Should You Buy the Repel Windproof Travel?

A bit more expensive than similar compact umbrellas but still far from designer umbrella prices, the Windproof Travel is somewhat middle of the road. We think the durability, quality manufacturing, and tidy look give it decent value over that of bargain store umbrellas. Overall, it is still an excellent compact model for business and travel use. It is easy to operate, and it has a good amount of style flair if you choose a pattern. This is a great product for the casual user and small enough to keep with you on your daily commute or your next urban adventure.

What Other Umbrellas Should You Consider?

If a compact umbrella is exactly what you're looking for, but you'd like to consider more options, view the SY Compact Automatic for its more lightweight but similar design. The Lewis N. Clark Travel also has bright colors to choose from and is even more lightweight.