We buy all the products we test — no freebies from companies. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission, which helps support our testing.
We purchased 12 umbrellas for side-by-side testing in rainy places around the world. We used a wind tunnel-like test to see which collapsed in gusty conditions.
The EuroSCHIRM Swing Trek Liteflex is what most people should buy due to its incredible ease of use and construction quality in a surprisingly lightweight package. For the best value option, get the Balios Double Canopy.
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, and it can easily be rigged to a backpack shoulder strap, so you can also hike hands-free. 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, neither of those options is easy to transport and use or has the same construction quality.
The length of the Swing Trek is too long to tuck away into a bag/backpack/purse, but it is so lightweight and well-balanced that it has beat some of the more compact models for its ease of transport and use. However, the bold, technical-looking style may not appeal to everyone. This umbrella's best application is commuting in the rain, but it's so lightweight and functional that it's also suitable for hiking in inclement weather or traveling. The Repel Windproof Travel is a great, compact alternative. With high construction quality and versatility scores, the Repel is sturdy and reliable despite its more complicated, 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. Its ergonomic handle feels nice in hand and is quite good-looking, lending it a timeless appearance that will complement a wide variety of wardrobe styles. The canopy is impressively large for a compact model, making it fashionable and functional.
These benefits come at a small cost. The Balios Double Canopy is on the heavier and larger side of the compact models we reviewed. However, although it's not as lightweight, it's still small enough to tuck into most bags or purses. This product is suited to casual use and can travel seamlessly with you to more formal events. Want something simpler? The Lanbrella Reverse Travel Windproof has a similar vibe minus the extra style points. While rather plain, the Lanbrella still offers an expansive canopy for a compact umbrella and is very affordable.
The totes Auto Open Wooden has a quality feel. It's on the larger side, but the wooden hooked handle makes transport easier and enhances grip stability. 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, the generous coverage, and the fluidity of opening and closing the canopy.
The main drawback of this umbrella is the ease of transport compared to all the others we've recently tested. The length can be an obstacle when trying to stash away in a car or bag. We had to make special adaptations to bring it with us. The totes Wooden is ideal for casual commutes and made with comfort from the elements in mind. If this style feels outdated, consider the Blunt Metro with its unique shape. While the Blunt doesn't provide as much rain protection, it offers quality and is very easy to use.
The totes Clear Bubble is a fun, niche type of umbrella with excellent rain protection. We often find ourselves wanting to hide in the depths of a canopy but do so at the expense of visibility. The clear plastic resolves that dilemma by allowing you to still see your surroundings even when tucked inside. The depth and shape allow for the most thorough rain protection of the bunch.
In addition to being on the longer and heavier side of the spectrum, the materials used aren't the most confidence-inducing as far as long-term use goes. The hook handle is made of plastic, and the ribs are quite thin. Ease of use also isn't particularly high with this model, as the manual slide can easily pinch the hands. Still, the totes Clear Bubble is good for casual use to and from your destinations, and we appreciate its fun and useful style. If style is your thing, but you don't want the clear bubble look, consider umbrellas like the SY Compact Automatic, which comes in an array of patterns and colors.
The G4Free Golf Umbrella offers ample rain protection with its wide and relatively deep canopy, whether you want the extra coverage for just yourself or for you and 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 sewn sling attached to help carry or hang the umbrella.
Due to its size, there are, of course, some potential drawbacks, such as the added weight and length. We wouldn't consider the G4Free Golf Umbrella an ideal travel companion; it's best used in casual settings and during short commutes. If you're looking for a step down from the size of G4Free, consider the Weatherman Collapsible. While not nearly as large, it still has a spacious canopy and scored well in construction quality and versatility.
Lengthy and on the heavier side, but worth it for the extra rain coverage.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Compare Products
The best umbrellas are the dependable ones, thoughtfully made with quality materials and broad canopies.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
How We Test Umbrellas
We've been testing umbrellas since 2014, and we always begin our test process with thorough market research of the various models available. Once we narrow down our contenders 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 sun shades, 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 to learn 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 personality 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.
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 first to consider its size, portability, and durability based on your needs.
What Size Umbrella Do You Need?
There are two main types of umbrellas: compact and fixed-shaft. Compact models are lightweight and fold up for easier storage, while fixed-shaft 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 fip 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.
There are two main considerations with size: canopy and depth. Larger canopies will provide more protection from rain or snow that is falling straight down or at a slight angle. Meanwhile, a deeper model will curve around your body more, shielding against wind or precipitation that has a steeper angle. All umbrellas have some level of depth, and 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 will weigh more and take up more space, regardless of type. If you're looking to share, opt for a double canopy or one that has 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.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
How Important is Portability?
Compact models are small enough to go just about anywhere with you. The telescoping mechanism allows it to fold up to comfortably 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, as long as you don't pack too much, of course!
Portability might not be much of a concern to you, though. If you're planning on using your umbrella in windy places, say the Great Plains, you'll want something sturdy. 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 in your backpack, the J-shaped handles can be used to hang it on your arm or subway hand rails.
Is Durability Essential?
The short answer is 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 a lot 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 without a doubt, the best option 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.
At about a foot long, the Weatherman Travel is great for stowing in backpacks or carry-on luggage.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
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. However, we also recognize how difficult it is to pick 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, 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 necessary, and it doesn't necessarily equate to greater performance. In fact, all 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 “as the crow flies” from edge to edge, at the widest points, when fully deployed. The depth of the canopy is also a factor in how well it shields you from the elements.
Of all the products we tested, the G4Free, totes Auto Open Wooden, and totes Clear Bubble have canopy depth and diameter combinations that offer the best rain protection. Notably, the G4Free is extra large, allowing for two people to share the canopy. The EuroSCHIRM Swing Trek Liteflex also has a combination that works 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, but its depth is shallower at 8 inches, detracting from its ability to provide as much as an inclusive 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.
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 that 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 generous depth and diameter while also maintaining its ability to become compact when stowed. The wind vents included in a handful of the models also contribute to their versatility and overall protection from the elements. The Blunt Metro is an example of a model with a design that conflicts with its function, as the scoop-shapes shrink its footprint and therefore its 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. As soon as 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 and Weatherman Travel did not fare well in the driving wind test, as they suffered from structural or canopy failure and became unusable after the test. The SY Compact, on the other hand, collapsed at relatively low speeds, but at least nothing broke. 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. The totes Auto Open Wooden was so sturdy in the wind, however, that we couldn't get it 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 was able to withstand 40 mph driving speed. The one umbrella in our lineup to actually reach manufacturer claims of 55 mph before being compromised was the Weatherman Collapsible.
Not every umbrella can withstand 55 mph winds but the Weatherman collapsible gave us no trouble at all.
Credit: Sara Aranda
Additionally, some of the models in this review have utility beyond rainy weather protection, such as providing shade. The canopy color is something to consider for this. 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 umbrella 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.
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 the seat of a car 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.
A couple of compact versions stood out to us for having sufficient rain protection while also being easy to 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 Weatherman Travel was also notable for being on this smaller end with a length of 12 inches. 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
Many 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 in its sleeve and tuck it away into your bag without worrying about soaking your belongings.
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.
Most compact models fit in a standard backpack.
Some 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 arm high in the air to protect yourself, or whether you can keep it comfortably by your side. The longest model was the G4Free Golf, at 40 inches, and the shortest was the 21.3-inch Lewis N. Clark Travel. This length
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
It's important to consider the trade-offs that occur between the Ease of Transport and the Construction Quality metrics. For example, sometimes, an incredibly lightweight and compact umbrella can 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, the quality of construction, and the number of moving parts. When you're investing in more than just a convenience store model, you should be able to expect it 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 and SY Compact feel rather delicate and didn't withstand the forces we used during hose testing or even low speeds in a car. The Swing Trek Liteflex reigns in this metric due to it not having as many moving parts, the high-density fiberglass, quality canopy, and how smooth the manual operation is, no matter which direction of push/pull.
An array of structure materials, from steel to wood to plastic, all offering varying degrees of sturdiness, comfort, and function.
Credit: Sara Aranda
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 comprised of excellent materials, some of the highest quality in this review, but 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.
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 can be used hands-free, which is a neat (if not niche) feature. Overall, umbrellas with full or partial manual operation scored well in the Ease of Use metric. The totes Auto Open Wooden and the Blunt Metro have a button to auto-deploy the canopy, but you must manually pull 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, and Lewis N. Clark are examples of 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 to perform, 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. Impressively, the Lewis N. Clark is so lightweight that the motion of pushing everything closed is easy to do 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 to be 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 tends to make it more difficult to hold them for long periods of time or to operate 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, which is best for long-term carrying and gives you a secure grip for those unexpected wind gusts. The top models cater to the ergonomic shape of a hand, with a length that also 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 love the smooth, wooden handle of the Balios as well. Many compact designs have much shorter and rubberized handles or handles with textured designs, which help maintain grip even when wearing gloves.
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 of our testers, an umbrella is a unique opportunity to add some color to the gray and rainy months. There are essentially two approaches to style with the canopies we tested: companies either make them look fun/funky/cool/wacky, or they make them discrete and unassuming. For style, we assessed each model based on our interpretation of the manufacturer's approach. If it has an old-school look, does it represent its niche well? If it's more fun and cute, will people who want this actually love it? We then used each model in as many different situations as possible, from commuting in the rain to wet hikes to traveling across blustery landscapes, and evaluated their ability to handle diverse situations and conditions.
If you want a model to simplify your look and match anything, the Balios is sleek and compact. It is well-made and tidy with the added perk of how professional it can appear. The Lanbrella also offers a similar appeal. If you're someone who appreciates a traditional throwback, you might enjoy the totes Wooden. If the crook handle and long shaft are too committing for you, the Repel Windproof Travel, Weatherman 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 much bolder canopy color, but it's also straightforward.
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, from dark to bright, with a reflective outline for visibility at night (and the Collapsible model has a mini stash pocket in the canopy). Of course, we can't forget the super fun totes Clear Bubble with its more nostalgic shape and clear sheen. 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 to use for light hiking or general travel. Compact designs are perfect for travel, and we feel that they are more likely to be found useful across a variety of activities and settings. Alternatively, many of the fixed-shaft models are easy to attach to the strap of a daypack or backpack, keeping you hands-free as you walk through sun or rain.
A group of our top performers in all their varying sizes and style features.
Credit: Sara Aranda
Conclusion
It can be difficult to sift through the umbrella market to find something just right that is made well and is of a reasonable price. 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 both you and a friend. No matter your weather or your budget, we hope our intensive laboratory and field testing have helped you narrow the choices down.
