We all need at least one umbrella in our lives—here is a guide to make sure you choose the right one for your needs. 

Coverage vs Convenience

The first thing to decide is whether you’ll want a long shafted umbrella or a folded, compact model.  In general, a long-shafted stick umbrella will typically offer more coverage while in use, due its longer rib length.  Folded umbrellas usually come in 2-fold, 3-fold, 4-fold or even 5-fold systems, depending on how compact it is when closed (the more folds, the more compact).  Where the folded umbrella might offer less coverage while in use than its full length counterpart, it makes up for it in convenience.    A fold system can be as small as 7 inches when closed, easy to carry along in any handbag or back pocket.  Try lugging around a golf umbrella during your busy day and you’ll see what we mean. 

So what’s more important to you:  coverage or convenience?  If you need maximum coverage, go for the long-shafted model.  If portability is a priority, opt for a more compact folded model. 

Lightweight vs Strength

The next thing you’ll want to decide on is the weight of the umbrella.  In general, if you want an umbrella that lasts, you will need one with a steel shaft.  The shaft is the foundation of the umbrella’s frame and will often determine how long it lasts.  Choosing an umbrella with a steel shaft will add years to its life—but also to its weight.  If featherweight is your preference, then you’ll need to find an umbrella comprised mostly of lightweight aluminum.  Generally speaking, if you choose a super lightweight umbrella, be prepared to buy several.  

Arc-Diameter vs Straight Diameter

Umbrellas are typically measured in “arc-diameter”—or the distance from one end of the canopy to the other across the top of the canopy.  The “straight diameter” is the distance from one end of the canopy beneath the canopy.  While the straight measurement will give you the amount of coverage from rain, the arc-diameter is important because it will denote also the depth of the umbrella’s dome.  In general, you’ll appreciate a deeper dome, or the umbrella with a greater arc-diameter. 

Disposable vs Long Lasting

There was once a time when there was no choice—all umbrellas were disposable.  Today, things are a bit different and there is more choice.  For the right moment, disposable is always an option, especially if you are caught in a surprise shower—get that $5 umbrella from CVS pronto!   However, there is a movement going on, which we call “luxe utility”—the idea of injecting luxury into everyday goods.  It’s happening all around us.  Suddenly dishwasher soap containers actually look nice on the kitchen counter.  Strollers look like cars, Dyson vacuum cleaners cost more than $500 and a Nest thermostat is a design marvel.   These utilitarian products incorporate authentic, premium materials into a beautiful design, and offer genuine functional benefits beyond utility.  The common thread throughout these brands is that, although they may cost more than their disposable counterparts, they offer higher performance and more long term value to its owners. 

A long lasting umbrella will set its owner back around $50 or more, depending on the brand.  In the long run, however, buying one high quality product that lasts for many years may be better for you than an endless stream of replacements.