We’ve spent years researching and testing dozens of umbrellas, evaluating ease of use, durability, and size. The best-selling Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella has a sturdy fiberglass frame, a slip-proof handle, and a Teflon coating that stands up to rain and wind. Here are the best umbrellas available online. The all-star Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is number one on our list. This best-seller has a super durable Teflon-coated canopy to repel rain and withstand wind gusts of up to 50 miles per hour. Thanks to the nine reinforced fiberglass ribs, it won’t turn inside out when you need it most. The Repel umbrella is also compact, making it ideal for travel or everyday use. It also comes at an affordable price point, and the lifetime warranty will give you peace of mind about your purchase. Additionally, this pick opens and closes with the touch of a button, so there’s no more wrestling with your umbrella in the middle of a rainstorm. Over thirty thousand reviewers agree that this the durable and travel-friendly umbrella is worth the purchase. Plus, it has a wrist strap for convenient holding and storing. Price at time of publish: $32 Price at time of publish: $15 This dapper umbrella looks good and works as it should. It comes in classic black, navy blue, or copper and covers a spacious 44 inches when open. You can count on the Davek Elite to keep you dry and complement your look for years to come. Price at time of publish: $159 This umbrella has a vented double canopy, a stainless steel frame with nine ribs, and a stainless steel shaft. Considering its small size and lightweight design, it’s very good at repelling water and resisting wind. Price at time of publish: $40 With a 62-inch diameter, you’ll be protected from the wind, sun, and rain—even the shaft is lightning-resistant. You can finish all 18 holes, no matter the weather. Price at time of publish: $70 Price at time of publish: $28 Since it folds up away from you, you won’t get as wet when closing it. Also, the unique closure creates a protective cone shape to prevent water droplets from getting on your floors. Price at time of publish: $26 Price at time of publish: $24 ShedRain makes a range of high-quality umbrellas, and this one is no exception. The resilient materials and smart construction are made to last for years. Price at time of publish: $25 Weighing about a pound, this statement-making stick umbrella is easy to carry around. With such an aesthetically pleasing yet versatile design, you’ll want to show it off even when it’s not raining. Price at time of publish: $75
Price
Umbrellas, like anything, vary in price. You can opt for a cheap option if you’re looking to have something simple for running errands or protecting the kiddos at school, or you can go big and opt for all the bells and whistles. The latter might make more sense if you live in a crazy climate or if you’re planning on protecting more than just yourself. Higher priced items tend to be bigger, sturdier, or made with high-end microfiber that’s water repellant rather than water resistant.
Portability
A quality umbrella is one you can take with you because you never really know when inclement weather could happen. The best umbrellas are small enough to be portable, but large enough to cover you and perhaps even someone else. While small is convenient, that isn’t everything. A smaller size umbrella can fit in a purse or backpack, sure, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s effective at keeping away the elements. We suggest finding a happy medium.
Effectiveness
Does your umbrella do what it’s actually supposed to do? This is definitely important (obviously). Size, price, portability, and even durability aside, does it keep you dry? That’s the focus.
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This roundup was written by Theresa Holland. As a resident of the rainy Pacific Northwest, she’s seasoned in nearly year-round efforts of staying dry outside. Theresa also writes for MyDomaine and Byrdie. Additional reporting was done by Marisa Donnelly, a writer and editor with over 12 years of experience. Her work has appeared in Huffington Post, Bustle, BossBabe, Thought Catalog, and more.
Long answer: Arguably, the Chinese 4,000+ years ago or even as far back as ancient Greece and Egypt. There is evidence of usage of umbrellas (mostly to shade from the sun) in their art.