How to choose an umbrella? The following points are your must-sees

When choosing an umbrella, there are several factors to consider. One of them is the choice of umbrella frame. With the development of technology, umbrella materials have also changed. In the past, umbrella frames were mostly made of wood or bamboo.

Now, there are iron frames, steel frames, aluminum alloy frames (also known as fiber frames), electric frames, and resin frames.

Among them, steel frames are the most sturdy and durable, not easily broken, and have a longer service life. Iron frames are hard and not easily broken, with good wind resistance, but they can rust over time. Aluminum frames, electric frames, and resin frames are relatively lightweight and portable, and are used more in lightweight umbrella products. Umbrella frames generally have 6-8 ribs, with the maximum being 24 ribs, which are mainly used in straight pole umbrellas. The more ribs, the more sturdy it is, but also relatively heavier. The most common ones we see are 8-rib iron frames and steel frames. 8-rib and 16-rib frames are used more in umbrellas and parasols. 6-rib and 7-rib frames are used more in lightweight sun umbrellas, mostly made of aluminum alloy frames (fiber frames) or resin frames. High-end umbrellas pay attention to the design, and when designing umbrellas, they will consider the umbrella shape, rather than reducing costs by reducing the number of umbrella ribs.

Therefore, umbrellas with more ribs are better for umbrellas and parasols.

Secondly, the choice of umbrella fabric is also important. There are three main types of fabrics used for umbrellas, with costs ranging from low to high: polyester fiber, pongee fabric, nylon, and transparent plastic. Polyester fiber and pongee fabric are characterized by bright colors, but they have obvious creases and are not easy to restore. When rubbing, there will be resistance and a rustling sound. Silver-coated fabric has good UV protection, but after long-term use, the silver coating is prone to come off at the folded parts. Pongee fabric is a new type of fabric with a matte, dark color and a feel similar to cotton fabric, with good light blocking properties. Nylon fabric has bright colors and feels like silk when touched, but it is greatly affected by air humidity, and the umbrella fabric shrinks severely, sometimes even affecting the normal opening and closing of the umbrella surface. Transparent plastic umbrella fabric is made of POE or PVC plastic, some of which also have various patterns and colors.

In addition, the number of folds of the umbrella also makes a difference. Straight pole umbrellas or one-fold umbrellas are mainly used for rain umbrellas, and the umbrella frames are generally made of steel, which is sturdy and durable. They can also be used as walking sticks for the elderly. However, these umbrellas are relatively long and not very convenient to carry, taking up space. Two-fold umbrellas are generally high-end sun umbrellas or foreign umbrellas, with stable designs and fabrics such as embroidery and imported color rubber. They have good quality and design, but are slightly heavier than five-fold and three-fold umbrellas. Three-fold umbrellas are widely distributed, with good quality, long service life, good sun protection and wind resistance, and moderate weight. Five-fold umbrellas are small and compact, easy to carry, but the umbrella ribs have weaker ability to withstand strong winds and heavy rain, suitable for sun protection.

Finally, the size and handle of the umbrella should also be considered. The size of straight pole umbrellas is relatively large, with a diameter of the umbrella surface reaching 90 or more, which is enough for one person to use. If two people use it, a relatively large umbrella with a diameter of 100 or more is needed. Umbrella handles can be made of plastic, EVA (commonly known as sponge), wood, aluminum alloy, or wrapped in leather. Plastic handles have various styles and are easy to clean, making them the preferred choice for modern umbrella production. EVA handles have a good feel, are lightweight, and are commonly used for advertising umbrellas. Wood handles are commonly used for traditional Chinese umbrellas and have a Chinese aesthetic. Aluminum alloy handles are mostly used for golf umbrellas, lightweight and durable. Leather-wrapped handles are mostly used for high-end umbrellas, with an outer layer of leather, positioning them as high-end products.

In summary, choosing a suitable umbrella requires considering the material and quantity of the umbrella frame, the fabric of the umbrella, the number of folds, the size, and the type of handle. I hope the above information will help you choose the right umbrella for yourself!

An In-Depth Guide to Famous Umbrella Brands in the UK and Their Unique Characteristics