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Stormy days require the right tool: a high-quality umbrella that will not only shield you from the elements but also comes in an easy-carry design that fits comfortably in your hand, pocket, or bag. We've done the legwork to help you find exactly what you'll need to stay dry when it counts.
After researching dozens of popular umbrellas of all shapes, sizes, and price points, we purchased a mix of top-selling styles for in-depth analysis. Our testers examine each in a “lab” setting, conducting side-by-side testing, including a wind tunnel-like test to emulate high-wind conditions that might generate collapse. We then put them to work in rainy locations in both our backyards and around the world to determine which will deliver high-caliber protection.
Among those we liked best, the EuroSCHIRM Swing Trek Liteflex is a great all-arounder we'd recommend for most people. It's incredibly easy to use and has impressively high-quality construction, all in a surprisingly lightweight package. For a more compact umbrella, the Balios Double Canopy is the perfect choice, an ideal low-cost option you can toss in a bag or leave in the car in case of surprise spring showers or a passing summer storm.
The EuroSCHIRM Swing Trek Liteflex blew us away — figuratively, of course — earning high marks in all of our metrics with its fluid (albeit manual) operation and generous canopy design. This model minimizes the number of moving parts and joints that could eventually fail or break. When collapsed, it sports a very handy shoulder sling for hands-free carrying. Our lead reviewer, Sara Aranda, loved this extra, noting, “I found the shoulder sling made a big difference in how easy it was to transport.” However, it was not the highest-scoring model for rain protection. For that, either the totes Clear Bubble (which wraps around you) or the G4Free Golf Umbrella (which has a huge 52-inch diameter) are the best options. However, those models aren't as easy to transport and use and don't have the same top-tier quality construction.
The length of the Swing Trek at 25.25 inches is too long to tuck away into a bag/backpack/purse, but it is so lightweight and well-balanced that it still bested some compact models for how easy it was to transport and use. In terms of style, the bold, technical-looking design may not be everyone's favorite. We think this umbrella's best application is a rainy day commute. Still, we also found it so lightweight and functional that it is appropriate for hiking in inclement weather or traveling. One tester commented, “I easily rigged the Swing Trek to a backpack shoulder strap for a hands-free hike.” The Repel Windproof Travel is a great compact alternative that also scored well for its sturdy construction and versatility, despite having a far more complicated, albeit compact, design than the EuroSCHIRM.
The chic, compact Balios Double Canopy is well-made and durable. Balios designed this umbrella with careful attention to the finer details. In most testers' opinions, its ergonomic handle feels nice in the hand and is quite good-looking. Lead tester Sara Aranda points out, “Its timeless appearance is one I think could complement a wide variety of wardrobe styles, so it's an easy buy when you need versatility.” The canopy is impressively large for a compact model, making it both fashionable and functional. Similarly, the Davek Elite has a classic crook handle and received high marks for quality and its chic style. It differs in how it handles, as it is fixed in length and does not collapse to stow away easily. It is also 7x more expensive off the shelf, a significant investment not every shopper is ready to make.
Despite being compact, the Balios Double Canopy is on the heavier and larger side of the smaller models we reviewed. Although not as lightweight, it still tucks into most bags or backpacks without complaint. This Balios umbrella is suited for casual use, and its tasteful design could also work well as an accessory in more formal settings. If you want something simpler for everyday use, the Lanbrella Reverse Travel Windproof has a similarly functional vibe without the more sophisticated aesthetic. While rather plain, the Lanbrella offers an expansive canopy for a compact umbrella, selling at a budget-friendly price. But for a great balance of design, performance, and price, you can't do much better than the Balios.
The totes Auto Open Wooden looks and feels classic. It's on the larger side, but the wooden hooked handle makes transport easier and stabilizes grip. As outdoor gear specialists, we often have to keep our outdoorsy bias in check when reviewing products that may not be as practical in the woods — such as this model with its “old-school” length and style. Nonetheless, we enjoyed the design quality, generous coverage, and the fluidity with which we can open and close the canopy. Even with a length of 36.5 inches, the umbrella feels light. “I had no problem using and carrying this umbrella throughout the day, thanks to its relatively lightweight size,” said our reviewer. But for the best scorers in the ease of transport metric, compact models like the SY Compact Automatic and the Lewis N. Clark stand out for how little they weigh.
The main drawback of the totes Auto Open Wooden is that you must think more about how you will carry it than all the others we've recently tested. Its length can be an obstacle, making it harder to stash away in a car or bag. Our testers found they had to make special accommodations to bring it with them on various outings, based on what other tools were available to facilitate its carrying each time (bags, cars, an extra sets of hands, etc). Still, the totes Wooden offers excellent rain protection, providing a broad canopy and a more dome-like shape than others in the lineup.. If this style feels outdated, consider the Blunt Metro with its unique shape. While the Blunt doesn't provide as much rain protection as the totes, it is built well and is very easy to use, so it's an easy grab if you want something on hand for sudden storms.
The totes Clear Bubble is a fun, niche umbrella with excellent rain protection. One reviewer says, “I often want to hide in the depths of my umbrella canopy when the rain hits, but doing so costs me visibility — this clear umbrella is a great solution.” The clear plastic lets you see your surroundings better, even when tucked inside. The depth and shape offer the most thorough rain protection of the bunch we've tested. Other notable models with high rain protection are the totes Auto Open Wooden, G4Free Golf, and Davek Elite, largely due to their canopy dimensions and shape.
The totes Clear Bubble is on the longer and heavier side of the spectrum, and the materials used aren't the most confidence-inducing. The hook handle is made of plastic, and the ribs are quite thin. Such construction quality just isn't the best we've seen, and it leaves doubt about the potential lifespan of the model. The Bubble is also not particularly easy to use, with a manual slide that can easily pinch your hands if you are not careful. Still, this umbrella is a nice choice for casual use, and it ensures you will stay dry as you travel to and from your destinations. We also really appreciate its fun yet practical style. If you're looking for something eye-catching but the clear bubble look is not your thing, consider the SY Compact Automatic, which also comes in an array of patterns and colors.
The G4Free Golf Umbrella offers ample rain protection with a wide and relatively deep canopy that can deliver expansive coverage for you alone or even with another person. The auto-open is smooth and more gradual than the lightning-quick deployment of smaller, compact models (which we appreciate simply because of how large the canopy is). The storage sleeve has a sling attached to help carry it or to allow you to hang the umbrella. One reviewer noted just after a fall storm: “The G4Free offers great coverage — it easily protected my friend and I from getting soaked when we got caught in a downpour.” The two models in our lineup that come closest to offering as much coverage as the G4Free are the totes Auto Open Wooden and the Davek Elite.
Of course, due to its size, there are some potential drawbacks to the G4Free Golf Umbrella, such as its added weight and length. We wouldn't consider this design an ideal travel umbrella. It's best used in casual settings and during shorter commutes when you don't need to weave through crowds or narrow spaces. While weighing in at 24.6 ounces is hardly something to complain about given its overall size, it is one of the heavier umbrellas in the group. That said, the extra weight brings with it a reliable, sturdy construction that's worth noting. If you prefer a step down from the oversized G4Free, consider a fixed-length model like the totes Auto Open Wooden or the even more compact Balios Double Canopy. While not nearly as large as the G4Free, both still have spacious canopies and score equally well (if not better) for their construction quality and versatility. They will both be easier to carry along on average everyday outings.
Lengthy and on the heavier side, but worth it for the extra rain coverage.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
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The best umbrellas are the dependable ones, thoughtfully made with quality materials and broad canopies.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
How We Tested
We've been testing umbrellas since 2014 and always begin our test process with thorough market research of the various models available. Once we narrow our contenders down to the most popular and promising models, we purchase them all and whisk them off to the rainy wilds of our testers' home regions. We set out with a clearly defined test plan to evaluate all of the most important aspects of any umbrella. To test these attributes, we walked in the rain, hosed them down, tested wind resistance in a moving car, and examined how easy it is to pack and operate each model. We tested them through light rain and downpours, used them as sunshades, and asked many of our friends and family for opinions regarding the various models.
We tested umbrellas using five different performance metrics:
Rain Protection (30% of total score weighting)
Ease of Transport (25% weighting)
Construction Quality (20% weighting)
Ease of Use (15% weighting)
Versatility (10% weighting)
See our full How We Test article for more about our umbrella testing regimen.
In trying to be as thorough as possible, we gather data on each model and utilize repeatable tests in addition to real-world use.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Why Trust GearLab
This comparative study was put together by Review Editor Sara Aranda. Currently based in Southwest Colorado, Sara is no stranger to unexpected afternoon showers, where a good umbrella is a must. Sara is an avid climber and trail ultrarunner with over a decade of experience interacting with technical gear in backcountry environments. Her attention to detail brings a critical eye to the technical writing that gear reviews demand. In addition, her passion for creative writing is directly linked to her athleticism and travels, elevating social, cultural, and body awareness.
An expansive canopy and wood accents make for an excellent combination.
The Weatherman Travel is small enough to fit in a backpack or purse.
We got our hands on each umbrella for measurements and extensive tests.
Our testers devised a series of evaluations to find the very best umbrellas.
Analysis and Test Results
With so many gas station models out there, why not just grab a random umbrella and call it good? Well, we've been disappointed one too many times by this method. We also recognize the difficulty of picking the right model based on a retail webpage. For this review, we wanted to analyze the best of the best and showcase the ones that prove to be reliable time and time again.
What's the Best Value?
Which contenders offer the highest performance for their price? This outdoor category has a surprisingly broad range in cost, from single-digit (and almost single-use) to options in the triple digits. Our testers have found that while you can spend a lot of money on an umbrella, it's rarely a requirement and doesn't necessarily equate to greater performance. All of our recommendations are relatively affordable options, especially the Balios Double Canopy, which is more than adequate for most users at an affordable price. The totes Auto Open Wooden is also an incredible value, especially if you want a more classic design.
From the super-compact to tried and true traditions, each model varies in its intent and relative versatility.
Credit: Sara Aranda
Rain Protection
No surprise, shelter from the rain is the primary reason to buy one of these products. How well any given model can protect you from the rain depends primarily on the canopy's size and shape. At the most basic level, bigger is better. A larger canopy will cover more area and give you a bigger bubble of protection. This is, of course, relative to your torso size. A child may not need the largest canopy available, but a full-grown adult might want to opt for a few extra inches in diameter. We measured the canopy diameter by tracing it from edge to edge at the widest points, when fully deployed, for an accurate measurement. The depth of the canopy is also a factor in how well it shields you from the elements and is something for which we also take measurements.
Of all the products we tested, the G4Free, totes Auto Open Wooden, Davek Elite, and totes Clear Bubble have canopy depth and diameter combinations that offer the best rain protection. Notably, the G4Free is extra large, allowing two people to share the canopy. The EuroSCHIRM Swing Trek Liteflex also has a combination of measurements that work well, although it has a smaller footprint than the others just mentioned. The Lanbrella Reverse Travel umbrella has a larger diameter than the Swing Trek. Still, its depth is shallower at 8 inches, detracting from its ability to provide as much of a protective shelter. The chart below illustrates each umbrella's canopy depth from our lab measurements.
Shorter users practically disappear under the large canopy of the G4Free (for reference, our lead tester here is 5'4" in height).
If you want large and effective umbrella coverage, you can't go wrong with the large canopy of the totes Auto Open Wooden.
At this angle, you can better see the coverage over the shoulders and the depth of the canopy. The Davek design is excellent for rain protection.
Generous canopy dimensions usually make for better rain protection.
Be aware that some manufacturers report arc length as canopy size, which is when you run the tape measure along the outer arc of the canopy, resulting in a larger measurement. We believe our canopy diameter and depth measurements are more useful for judging a product's ability to protect you from the rain.
The rest of the umbrellas in our review are of a fairly standard shape, including the Weatherman Collapsible, Weatherman Travel, and Repel Windproof Travel. We believe the Balios Double Canopy offers the best balance of shape in this standard sense, with a generous depth and diameter while maintaining its ability to stow away in a compact form. The wind vents included in a handful of the models, like the Balios and the Samsonite Windguard Auto Open/Close, also contribute to their versatility and overall protection from the elements. However, the Samsonite Windgard's relative lack of depth makes its rain protection score lower. The Blunt Metro is an example of a model with a design that conflicts with its function, as the scoop shape shrinks its footprint and effectiveness.
Hosing down the canopy is a great way to test for leaks in addition to getting a feel for how the model may perform during a downpour.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
When strong gusts of wind accompany the rain, you need a product that will not flip inside out, rip, or fail in some other manner under the force of the wind. When a canopy inverts, you're exposed to the rain until you can right it again. We observed a wide range of performances in our wind tests. The Lewis N. Clark, Weatherman Travel, and Zomake Travel did not fare well in the driving wind test, as they suffered from structural or canopy failure and became unusable or misshapen after the test. On the other hand, the SY Compact and Samsonite Windguard collapsed at relatively low speeds, but at least nothing broke.
Not every umbrella can withstand 55 mph winds but the Weatherman collapsible gave us no trouble at all.
Credit: Sara Aranda
The Swing Trek Liteflex went sideways at relatively low speeds (though the canopy retained its domed shape), but it bounced right back as if nothing happened. This ability to bounce right back is critical for continued shelter from a blustery storm. Both the totes Auto Open Wooden and Davek Elite were so sturdy in the wind that we couldn't get them to safely invert without inducing fear of sailing away like Mary Poppins. The Lanbrella, despite its reverse design, surprised us during the wind test and proved able to withstand 40 mph driving speed before collapsing. The one umbrella in our lineup to reach manufacturer claims of 55 mph before being compromised was the Weatherman Collapsible.
Measuring the specs of each umbrella is important for us to better compare each model.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Ease of Transport
We found ourselves much more likely to carry compact models than the non-compact ones since they can easily be stashed into a bag or tucked under a car seat and forgotten until needed. This metric is primarily based on the product's weight and compactness. We also consider features like leashes and sleeves that help ensure that transport is less of a chore.
Some compact versions stood out for their sufficient rain protection and easy transport. With a packed length of only 11.25 inches and a weight of 11 ounces, the SY Compact shares top scores with the 11-inch, ten-ounce Lewis N. Clark.
The Repel Windproof Travel, Samsonite Windguard, and Weatherman Travel were also notable for being on the smaller end of the measured packed length spectrum. These models come with sleeves to pack into tidy bundles, and they each have a leash attached to their handles for easy grabbing or hanging.
The smooth sleeve helps this model slide into any pockets on a backpack.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Most of the umbrellas in our test group come with a storage sleeve. We like this feature because when the rain stops, you can slide it into its sleeve and tuck it into your bag without worrying about soaking your belongings. The one umbrella that did not come with a sleeve was the totes Auto Open Wooden.
For protection while hiking in rain and sun, we recommend models that are easy to rig to your favorite backpack for hands-free walking.
There is variance among the length of the compact/travel models, but they all still fit in most totes and backpacks.
An example of where one might carry an umbrella.
Being lightweight and compact means fitting easily into a standard tote bag.
Most compact models fit in a standard backpack.
Some sleeves have features that improve transport, such as the Swing Trek Liteflex and G4Free. Both have a shoulder sling that makes their longer lengths less cumbersome to transport, especially the G4Free with its 39.75-inch packed length.
The middle-of-the-road to lower performers are the ones that are somewhat compact but still bulkier and larger than others. This includes the Blunt Metro, which is 14.9 inches when packed and weighs 12.5 ounces, and even more so, the Weatherman Collapsible, which is 19.5 inches when packed and a surprising 1.44 pounds.
We also measured the length of each umbrella when fully deployed, which will determine whether you're holding your elbow higher in the air to allow for more headroom or whether you can keep your elbow comfortably at your side. The longest model was the G4Free Golf, at 40 inches, and the shortest was the 21.3-inch Lewis N. Clark Travel.
Sling or leash, multiple competitors are shown hanging, which is more versatile and convenient than those without any such accessories. Plus, one model is shown with reflective trim, increasing visibility at night or when trying to find the umbrella in dimly lit places, like the car.
Credit: Sara Aranda
Construction Quality
Considering the trade-offs necessary between scoring well in the Ease of Transport and the Construction Quality metrics is important. For example, an incredibly lightweight and compact umbrella can sometimes suffer from durability issues. Size and weight may not be as important if you're not going to be traveling a lot and are prioritizing quality or reliability time and time again. This metric includes several factors: the materials used, how sturdy they are once put together, and the number of moving parts. When you're investing in more than just a convenience store model, you should be able to expect your umbrella to function for years, not just once.
Compact models inevitably have to sacrifice some of their general durability. These umbrellas are designed with many more moving parts than their full-sized counterparts and, therefore, have more potential points of fatigue and failure. Some, such as the Balios, both Weatherman models, and the Repel Windproof Travel, are sturdily constructed, instilling confidence in the steel or reinforced fiberglass despite their compact design. The Lewis N. Clark, Zomake Travel, and SY Compact feel and look rather cheap or delicate and weren't as reliable during hose testing or our driving wind test. The Swing Trek Liteflex and Davek Elite score well in this metric due to not having as many moving parts as well as their high-density fiberglass construction, quality canopies, and smooth and well-made operating mechanisms.
An array of structure materials, from steel to wood to plastic, all offering varying degrees of sturdiness, comfort, and function.
The structure of the Davek is of high quality, utilizing thicker components to ensure greater stability and wind resistance.
There is a lot of variety in material choices and combinations
We like to see more fiberglass than steel because fiberglass can more readily bounce back, whereas steel may snap when overloaded. The Swing Trek Liteflex collapsed and even sounded like it was breaking at high wind speeds, but then snapped right back into shape when the wind died down, with no apparent breakage. The Blunt Metro is built of reliably strong materials — some of the highest quality in this review — yet still it suffers when exposed to serious wind. The Lewis N. Clark has metal parts that are highly likely to deform or snap with force, which we observed during our high-wind test, compromising the longevity of its function. But sometimes fiberglass isn't enough on its own. The Zomake Travel suffered a snap in one of its fiberglass ribs after our driving wind test, which we attribute to a possible lack of reinforcement in its structural design.
Inspecting construction quality goes hand in hand with our data collecting phase of testing, but during our wind test, quality will ultimately speak volumes.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Ease of Use
Ease of use is an important attribute but not a make-or-break metric. For this, we consider how manual versus automatic operating mechanisms compare, how things sound and feel, and whether or not designs are intuitive as opposed to complicated and confusing.
We spent a lot of time exploring what made each product harder or easier to use and eventually found ourselves drifting toward certain ones for various reasons. Ultimately, umbrellas just aren't very user-friendly to begin with, as they require one hand, sometimes two, and once you add a coffee cup to the mix for your morning stroll, convenience isn't always a given.
Going through the motions of opening, holding, and utilizing the mechanisms involved in this particular model.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
If you have a compatible trekking backpack with a Velcro tab designed to hold a hydration hose, the Swing Liteflex can be used hands-free, a neat (although niche) feature. Overall, umbrellas with full or partial manual operation scored well in the Ease of Use metric. The totes Auto Open Wooden, Davek Elite, and Blunt Metro have a button to auto-deploy the canopy, but you must manually pull the canopy down to close everything up. The designs are smooth, and the mechanics aren't fighting you like most of the fully automatic compact models tend to do.
The transitions between spaces can be tricky with umbrellas and we feel that compact models with auto-open capabilities tend to perform better.
Credit: Sara Aranda
The Repel, SY Compact, Lanbrella, Weatherman Travel, Samsonite Windguard, Zomake Travel, and Lewis N. Clark are compact designs that both auto-open and auto-collapse. The auto-collapse notably allows you to close the canopy before lowering it at the press of a button, which is an excellent option when you find yourself in a crowded area and you don't have as much space to conveniently lower (or open) a fixed-length canopy, like the enormous G4Free Golf Umbrella. However, since the mechanism requires tension, closing them up is often a struggle. Sometimes, if you don't push everything together with all of your might, the umbrella will deploy itself again. The Lewis N. Clark is so lightweight that pushing everything closed is easy despite these tension-requiring features.
If you want an umbrella to block the rain as you exit your car, we found the auto-opening models significantly more convenient.
The Swing Trek Liteflex, which is entirely manually operated, doesn't require as much muscle to close due to its lighter weight. In contrast, using hefty umbrellas makes it more difficult to hold them for long periods or to operate them smoothly, such as the weighty, auto-open G4Free and Weatherman Collapsible models.
The totes Auto Open Wooden was easy and smooth to open and close.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
We also took note of the comfort and security of each product's handle. A well-designed handle nests into your hand comfortably. This will serve you best for long-term carrying and give you a secure grip for those unexpected wind gusts. The top models cater to the ergonomic shape of a hand, with a length that matches most adult hands. The curved, cane-like handles on the traditional models are also highly comfortable and secure, even in strong winds. And even when wet, the soft grip of the Swing Trek Liteflex is comfortably cushioned with excellent friction. We also love the smooth, wooden handle of the Balios. Many compact designs have much shorter and rubberized handles or handles with textured designs, which help maintain grip even when wearing gloves. But sometimes small is too small, such as the Samsonite Windgaurd handle, where even a person with small hands may have trouble gripping the handle for long periods.
The nuances of how each model felt and operated depended on their shape, construction quality, and on any specialized design features. We certainly prefer handles that are big enough for the whole hand to maintain a firm grip.
Credit: Sara Aranda
Versatility
This category is highly subjective, considering both the style of the umbrella and its diversity of use across different activities. For some shoppers, an umbrella is a unique opportunity to add color to the gray and rainy months. There are two approaches to style with the canopies we tested: fun/funky/cool/wacky designs or a discrete and unassuming aesthetic. We assessed each model for its versatility in use based on our interpretation of the manufacturer's approach. If it has an old-school look, does it represent this classic niche well? If it's a lighthearted, fun design, will people who want that actually love it? We then used each model across as many diverse situations as possible, from commuting in the rain to wet hikes and long travel days across blustery landscapes.
If you want a model to simplify your look and match anything in your closet, the Balios is sleek and compact. It is well-made and tidy and is appropriate for professional settings. The Lanbrella also offers a similar appeal. If you appreciate a traditional throwback, you might enjoy the totes Wooden or Davek Elite. If the crook handle and long shaft are too much of a commitment for you, the Repel Windproof Travel, Weatherman Travel, Zomake Travel, and SY Compact stand out for their array of styles or colors to choose from as well as their collapsibility. The Swing Trek Liteflex is somewhat in the middle of the fashion spectrum — not too stylish but also not too drab. It has some technical aspects and a bolder canopy color, but it's also a straightforward, familiar design.
Even though this design is more technical, we still think it offers enough style points to blend well between both the trail and the city.
Certainly very youthful, we enjoy the cute and fun touches.
Having a sky pattern like this is fun and cute, but may not be ideal in bright conditions.
Colors and patterns are always fun and offer a different take on the umbrella experience.
You might appreciate the flowery look of the Blunt Metro if you want to make a unique statement. You may even consider the bright color options of the Lewis N. Clark, which are quite bold —- perhaps too bold. Both Weatherman models have a few different colors to choose from, spanning from dark to bright, each with a reflective outline for visibility at night. The Collapsible model also has a mini stash pocket in the canopy. Of course, we can't forget the super fun totes Clear Bubble with its nostalgic shape and clear views. Some design options even come with polka dots.
But style isn't everything when it comes to versatility. We considered how well each model would function in full sun to provide shade or whether or not the umbrella makes sense for light hiking or general travel. Compact designs are perfect for travel, and we feel that they are more likely to be useful across various activities and settings. The fixed-shaft Swing Trek Liteflex can be attached to the strap of a daypack or backpack, keeping your hands free as you walk through sun or rain.
The sin shines brightly through this yellow canopy, which isn't the most ideal for those seeking shade.
We appreciate that the sun is more diffused despite the color of the canopy, making it a little more suitable for creating shade.
If wanting shade from the sun, this canopy appears to only slightly diminish the brightness.
These are examples of how sunlight may still be able to shine through a canopy.
The canopy color or opaqueness is definitely something to consider when it comes to sunlight and shade. An umbrella with a darker color will help absorb and avert the light away from your eyes, but it will also retain more heat. The ultralight Lewis N. Clark, Samsonite Windguard, and the SY Compact we tested are examples of bright-colored canopies that were too blinding for us in the sun because of how easily the patterns or colors refract light.
A group of our top performers in all their varying sizes and style features.
Credit: Sara Aranda
How to Pick the Best Umbrella for You
Rain or shine, an umbrella can be a handy tool to keep you shielded. Before purchasing an umbrella, it is important to consider its size, portability, and durability based on your needs.
What Type of Umbrella Will Work Best?
There are two main types of umbrellas: compact and fixed-shaft. Compact models are lightweight and fold up for easier storage, while fixed-shaft models are larger and heavier. When closed, the canopy spokes rest alongside the shaft for a cane-like look. If compact models are easier to get around, why opt for a fixed-shaft? Fixed-shaft umbrellas tend to be sturdier and flip inside-out less often in high winds. Compact models have more joints that can cause trouble after continuous opening and closing. Regardless, both styles come in various sizes.
The fixed shaft of the large G4Free Golf umbrella is heavier and more sturdy than many other smaller options, but it's also less convenient to carry when you have longer distances to cover or your hands are full.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
How Much Coverage Do You Need?
There are two main considerations with size: canopy and depth. Larger canopies will provide more protection from rain or snow falling straight down or at a slight angle. Meanwhile, a deeper model will curve around your body more, shielding against wind or precipitation with a steeper angle. All umbrellas have some level of depth; often, a deeper model can make up for a smaller canopy. When considering size, think about how compact your umbrella needs to be. A larger canopy weighs more and takes up more space, regardless of type. If you want to share, opt for a double canopy or one with a larger diameter and a smaller depth.
Measuring the diameter of the G4Free Golf's canopy. Large canopies like this one will keep you shielded from the elements but will cost you weight and space.
I can easily hide more of my upper body due to the grater depth of the Davek.
Depth and canopy width are both key to determining how well-protected you will be once conditions turn wet.
How Important is Portability?
Compact models are small enough to go just about anywhere with you. The telescoping mechanism allows it to fold comfortably to fit in a purse, backpack, or glove compartment. If you live in a rainy place and aren't keeping up with the daily weather, a compact model stowed away with your day-to-day belongings might be best. The same can be said for travels to rainy places. These compact options will have no trouble fitting in your carry-on if you don't pack too much!
Portability might not be much of a concern to you, though. You'll want something sturdy if you plan to use your umbrella in windy places, say, the Great Plains. Fixed-shaft, or traditional-style umbrellas, have few joints and hinges. Instead, the long wooden or metal shaft and canopy spokes can handle more wear and tear. Though these models won't fit inside your backpack, the J-shaped handles can hang on your arm or subway handrails.
The Davek is easily carried by hand or by arm due to the crook shape of the handle.
Examples of models hung by either a crook handle or by a lanyard attached to the handle, which makes for more convenient storage.
Whether made with a crook handle or a small handle with a lanyard, there are various ways to approach portability.
Is Durability Essential?
The short answer is that it depends. Fixed-shaft models are more durable than compact models. This comes down to the minimal joints and sturdy center shaft. There are simply fewer moving parts when they are opened and closed. That being said, you are sacrificing weight and portability. Compact models have many more moving parts, with joints along the canopy, making them more susceptible to being blown inside out during high winds. This wear and tear can cause them to break more easily. However, these are undoubtedly the best options to take on your vacation due to their packable size. So, if you need something to withstand high winds, a durable fixed-shaft umbrella is in your best interest. If you need something casual and discreet, a compact model is the best choice, though it won't be as sturdy and may have to be replaced earlier than a fixed-shaft model.
At about a foot long, the Weatherman Travel is great for stowing in backpacks or carry-on luggage, but it won't stand up to the high winds or heavy-use quite as well as larger, heavier umbrella options.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Conclusion
It can be difficult to sift through the umbrella market to find something just right that is made well and reasonably priced. We've spent months braving the weather and putting these products through a battery of challenging tests to learn which ones will stand up to a gale, which is the easiest to keep on you “just in case,” and which will shield you and a friend. No matter your weather or budget, we hope our intensive laboratory and field testing have helped you narrow your choices.
