Best Rain Umbrellas in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 29, 2024
A nice rain umbrella can become your best companion in a bad weather, as it can provide a reliable shelter from the weeping melancholic ...Read more
PROS

A patented handle is individually crafted and finished by hand. There’s a subtle variation in grain and colour between all of the different models and that is the result of a natural process that ensures a unique look to each parasol. You can press a button to correct the ribs if the umbrella ever happens to invert.

CONS

The button might feel a bit stiff the first few times you use it.

OUR VERDICT

If you’re a fan of a more traditional approach and appreciate a classic and conventional craftsmanship, this Balios umbrella should prove to be right up your alley. Despite the orthodox look, the model employs all of the latest advancements in the field.

detailed parameters
Type

Compact, fully collapsible

Size

Length: 35 cm

Canopy diameter: 39.4"

Material

Nylon, Polyester

Design

Automatic

Number of Ribs

8

Weight

400 g

Handle

Straight

Warranty

1 year

PROS

Even the most fierce winds wouldn't be able to pose a real threat to the model in question thanks to a strong aluminum alloy central rob and 16 durable fiberglass ribs that will easily be able to prevent the umbrella from flipping inside out, keeping you and your loved one safe and sound. The model also comes with a matching pouch.

CONS

The model is a bit too long for a short person. 

OUR VERDICT

The Becko 4414023 Auto Open Umbrella might just very well be the best umbrella if you aren't just looking for a classy and stylish accessory but would also like to shield yourself and your significant other from anything that nature might throw your way.

detailed parameters
Type

Full-sized, stick

Size

Length: 95 cm

Canopy diameter: 47"

Material

Polyester

Design

Semi-automatic

Number of Ribs

16

Weight

550 g

Handle

J-shaped handle

Warranty

18 months

PROS

The model in question comes equipped with 9 resin-reinforced fiberglass ribs that implement a certain amount of built-in flex in order to withstand the windiest weather conditions without breaking. The Dupont Teflon technology will allow the canopy to remain dry even throughout the entire rainy season. 

CONS

The strap on the handle wears off sooner that you'd want. 

OUR VERDICT

Representing the very name of the company behind this product, the model from Repel will easily be able to repel the murkiest rain and withstand the fiercest wind, meaning that this is a parasol for those who value their comfort and wish to always have a reliable tool at their disposal.

detailed parameters
Type

Compact, fully collapsible

Size

Length: 30 cm

Canopy diameter: 42”

Material

Dupont Teflon

Design

Automatic

Number of Ribs

9

Weight

400 g

Handle

Straight

Warranty

Lifetime Replacement Guarantee

PROS

An inverted design of the whole thing will be able to keep the wet side of the umbrella inside. Since the outside will always remain dry, it will never soak your floor or your car seat. An array of laser holes placed with scientific precision will be able to reduce the tension from gale and that, in turn, will protect the umbrella and its user from strong wind and heavy rain.

CONS

The caps on the ribs are a bit loose. 

OUR VERDICT

The TOOGE TG-FXS-001 Reversible Umbrella is the perfect choice for drivers and for those people that would like to free their hands of the burden of carrying the parasol, leaving them open for more important or exciting prospects.

detailed parameters
Type

Full-sized, stick

Size

Length: 80 cm

Canopy diameter: 41”

Material

Double layer high-density water-repellent fabric

Design

Automatic

Number of Ribs

8

Weight

560 g

Handle

C-shaped handle

Warranty

90-day quality warranty

PROS

The parasol offers the customers an array of different design choices that would be able to satisfy the absolute majority of children out there. From a set of different dinosaurs to a flock of butterflies, any kid will be able to find the one that suits his taste and style. A special safety slider for opening and closing will ensure that your kid's little fingers are always kept safe.

CONS

A smell of plastic might be there the first few times you use it.

OUR VERDICT

The fact that the Bugzz BUFG Clear PVC Umbrella is relatively cheap, features all of the necessary safety precautions, and incorporates the right materials makes it a great choice for any child above the age of three.

detailed parameters
Type

Full-sized, stick

Size

Length: 66 cm

Canopy diameter: 27.5"

Material

PVC

Design

Manual

Number of Ribs

8

Weight

Not specified

Handle

J-shaped handle

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

Traditional Craftsmanship

Ever since a brave Englishman that went by the name of Jonas Hanway decided to proudly parade the streets of London with an umbrella in the middle of 18th century, this little accessory has become a sign of exquisite taste in fashion not just in the female population of England but also for men throughout the world.

Experts at Balios follow in the footsteps of this tradition, presenting an umbrella that combines the modern approach to practical design and fashion with that traditional spirit of craftsmanship. The best example of the latter is a patented handle that is individually crafted and finished by hand. There’s a subtle variation in grain and colour between all of the different models and that is the result of a natural process that ensures a unique look to each parasol. Aside from an elegant look, the handle is also quite comfortable, featuring an ergonomic design with finger notches that won’t just secure a better grip but also reduce the feeling of stress and fatigue in your wrist.

The canopy and the frame themselves are nothing to scoff at either, with the latter being comprised of high-grade steel shaft & premium fiberglass ribs, both elements forming a solid foundation of sturdiness and durability, and the former made of 300 thread count (300T) high-density fabric, ensuring a nearly perfect protection against wind and rain. And if you happen to live in a windy area, a vented double canopy technology will absolutely come in handy whenever you feel like the weather isn’t quite on your side. Before bringing this review to the conclusion, we would also like to mention the fact that the model is also incredibly easy to use since all it takes is a single press of a button to open or close the whole thing. You can also press the same button to correct the ribs if the umbrella ever happens to invert. So, if you’re a fan of a more traditional approach and appreciate a classic and conventional craftsmanship, this Balios umbrella should prove to be right up your alley. Despite the orthodox look, the model employs all of the latest advancements in the field.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B01LZCY6YN

A Giant Umbrella

The Becko 4414023 Auto Open Umbrella is another great example of classic design meeting a more contemporary style. This isn’t just the model you get if you want a reliable and durable parasol to protect you from precipitation or offer some shelter on a windy day, this is a fashionable unisex accessory that could effortlessly class up the look of even the most dapper ladies and gentlemen.

The orthodox black canopy measures up to about 96 centimetres (38 inches) in length and 120 cm (47 inches) in diameter when open, meaning you will be able to use this product to shield up not just yourself but also your significant other from any weather’s misfortunes (though the length might be a bit of an overkill if you land on the shorter side of the height spectrum). Aside from the size, we would be remiss not to mention that even the most fierce winds wouldn't be able to pose a real threat to this umbrella thanks to a strong aluminum alloy central rob and 16 durable fiberglass ribs that will easily be able to prevent it from flipping inside out, keeping you and your loved one safe and sound.

Since we're talking about a product that more than pays a homage to that traditional umbrella design, you shouldn't be surprised to find a sturdy wooden J-handle that doesn't just provide a comfortable grip but also plays a core role when it comes to achieving that orthodox classic look. Though it does offer a more contemporary solution in a form of a matching pouch that comes with a strap for slinging the closed umbrella over a shoulder. All in all, the Becko 4414023 Auto Open Umbrella might just very well be the best umbrella if you aren't just looking for a classy and stylish accessory but would also like to shield yourself and your significant other from anything that nature might throw your way.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £21.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00U6ULK62

Repel the Nasty Weather

Getting straight to the point, the Repel Dupont Teflon Travel Umbrella isn't the kind of product that necessarily lacks in terms of looks. On the contrary, this is a fairly stylish model that would be able to satisfy even the most demanding crowd, and the manufacturer offers up to 8 different colours to choose from for those that are tired of the traditional black pattern. But the biggest selling point of this parasol isn't its looks. After all, the primary function of an umbrella is to protect the user from rain and wind, and this is exactly where the people behind this product decided to focus most of their attention.

To start with, where most umbrellas generally incorporate 6 or 8 aluminum ribs in their construction, the model in question comes equipped with 9 resin-reinforced fiberglass ribs that implement a certain amount of built-in flex in order to withstand the windiest weather conditions without breaking. Naturally, for any citizen of the Foggy Albion, the wind is only half the problem, and that is where the Dupont Teflon technology comes in. With the help of the latter, the canopy will be able to remain dry even through the entire rainy season, ensuring an amount of comfort that very few other models could hope to match.

Of course, if you're still worried about the winds, we could mention the fact that this windproof umbrella also incorporates a three-fold chrome plated metal shaft and a strong metal frame, both of which are there in order to secure some additional stability in high winds. Ultimately, representing the very name of the company behind this product, the model from Repel will easily be able to repel the murkiest rain and withstand the fiercest wind, meaning that this is a parasol for those who value their comfort and wish to always have a reliable tool at their disposal.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $209.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B01LX9UCA0

A Different Approach

Though an umbrella is an accessory that has been with us for thousands of years and is arguably not the most complicated tool there is, certain manufacturers still manage to figure out new approaches and find different ways to improvise, creating fresh solutions to some of the oldest issues. Now, the team of experts at Tooge would certainly fall under that category, and their latest automatic umbrella is as good of an example as any when it comes to innovations in this particular field.

Though the model might seem like a fairly regular parasol at first, it wouldn't require too close of an inspection to figure out that every single aspect of it features a slightly different solution. An inverted design of the whole thing, for instance, will be able to keep the wet side of the umbrella inside. Since the outside will always remain dry, it will never soak your floor or your car seat. An array of laser holes placed with scientific precision will be able to reduce the tension from gale and that, in turn, will protect the umbrella and its user from strong wind and heavy rain. The handle isn't the one to trail behind in terms of creative design either, offering a standing C-shaped form that will allow you to free your hands from the burden of carrying this strong umbrella yourself. As you would imagine, the quality isn't the kind of aspect that the manufacturer would skimp on as well, which is why they equipped this parasol with an aluminium alloy frame and a canopy made of double-layer high-density water-repellent fabric. In conclusion, the TOOGE TG-FXS-001 Reversible Umbrella is the perfect choice for drivers and for those people that would like to free their hands of the burden of carrying the parasol, leaving them open for more important or exciting prospects.

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B01DJ18KDK

Childrens Umbrellas From Bugzz

If your little one is old and tall enough to walk on his own, there's a good chance it might be the right time to get him his first umbrella. Of course, a boring orthodox parasol won't be able to satisfy a child, which is exactly why people behind the Bugzz BUFG Clear PVC Umbrella offer the customers an array of different design choices that would be able to satisfy the absolute majority of children out there. From a set of different dinosaurs to a flock of butterflies, any kid will be able to find the one that suits his taste and style.

Of course, an expressive colour palette is all well and good, but there are still a few boxes that an umbrella for children would have to check in order to deserve the parent's trust. A special safety slider for opening and closing, for instance, to ensure that your kid's little fingers are always kept safe. A durable high-quality fiberglass frame wouldn't hurt either since we all know how often careless children can be with their possessions. A canopy made of a material like polyvinyl chloride is not a bad choice for children as well, especially given that it is quite durable and requires little to no maintenance. Naturally, a regular J-shaped handle would suffice because you wouldn't want your little one getting used to an unorthodox model with an odd handle in the first place. And that's about all there is to it. The fact that the Bugzz BUFG Clear PVC Umbrella is relatively cheap, features all of the necessary safety precautions, and incorporates the right materials makes it a great choice for any child above the age of three.

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B0030MDRU0

Infographics


What Is a Rain Umbrella?

Unless you are in the mood to dance and sing in the pouring rain, you would certainly appreciate an opportunity to hide under a welcoming canopy. The rain umbrella is a truly universal accessory, which can provide a shelter from the heavy rain, shield you from the chilling wind, as well as protect you from direct sunlight. Nowadays, there are a lot of different options to choose from in size and type, style and design. In this review, you will find a piece of advice on how to choose the right rain umbrella to fulfil your whims and needs, as well as the description of the best models currently available on the market.

If you can't imagine a weekend or a summer day without a quality time with your family and friends outdoors in the open air, for instance, near the house or a pool, then we recommend you to have a look at our review of patio umbrellas. No matter if it drizzles or sizzles, you will always be able to safely savour the delicious coolness of the fresh air in the protecting shade of a nice patio umbrella.

Also, for those who want to protect their car from bad weather conditions, we recommend purchasing one of the special carports presented in our review.

What Features to Compare

Type

When choosing a rain umbrella, first of all, you need to pay attention to its type. All umbrellas can be divided into two categories - full-sized non-collapsible and compact fully-collapsible. Full-sized non-collapsible models are the umbrellas in which the supporting pole cannot be compressed; only the canopy can be compressed as it folds tightly around the non-collapsible central shaft. In the folded state, this umbrella reminds of a gentleman's cane or a stick but suits both men and women alike. Fully-collapsible rain umbrellas, in turn, have a compact design, which allows reducing their length by several times. Such models are very convenient to carry around just in case the rain starts to sprinkle as they can be easily tucked into a small bag or a glove compartment in your car.

Design

With regard to the construction, you need to decide what kind of design will suit your needs and preferences best: manual, semi-automatic or automatic; as each design has its pros and cons.

A manual umbrella for rain is generally considered as more reliable and with a longer lifespan. This model gives the owner all the power and control. It won’t surprise you with accidental openings nor will it upset the innocent bystanders by spraying drops of water over them. The only drawback of this model is the amount of effort the owner needs to put to open or close this rain umbrella. 

A semiautomatic model is one of the most common types. Such models open automatically with a press of a button but have to be folded manually. In comparison with manual umbrellas, this design will allow you to save some time and effort when opening the unit with one hand whenever you need it.

An automatic open close umbrella boasts the most functional design as it can be opened and closed at the touch of a button. It may be very convenient in a nasty weather, pouring rain and strong wind. The disadvantage of this model is a larger load on the structural working parts, which increases the probability of a breakdown and reduces the lifespan of such models.

Size and Dimensions

When choosing a rain umbrella, perhaps everyone has their own preferences regarding the size and dimensions of the model, depending on their lifestyle, needs, and weather conditions in the region. Still, we would like to point out that the dimensions of the umbrella and the canopy diameter will directly affect its ability to shed you against the rain or the wind. 

What are you looking for: a sturdy and reliable shelter in the downpours or a portable and unobtrusive protection in case of a mild rain? In the folded state, a full-sized non-compressible model (or a stick) normally has the length of around 40 inches, while compact models in a compressed state have the length of only 10-11 inches. The optimal canopy diameter ranges between 32 and 45 inches.

Besides, when purchasing your umbrella pay attention to the number of ribs in the construction or the structural base of the canopy. As a rule, the number of ribs in umbrellas varies from 5 to 24. More ribs are commonly used in models with larger canopies and usually come at a correspondingly higher price. The optimal number of ribs should be at least 8. If the winds in your area get too strong, make sure you select a model with more ribs, that can ensure the sturdiness of construction and provide you with desired reliability and durability in use.

FAQ:

Q: Which umbrella is better with manual opening or automatic opening?

A: There is no definite answer as this is an age-old debate that is still open. Yet, many people have come to the agreement that this is simply a matter of taste. However, there are indeed the pros and cons to support each option. Opening an automatic umbrella is easy as a breeze. The canopy pops wide open with a single touch of a button. With a manual umbrella, you will have to manhandle the opening, but many users believe that this mechanism is more reliable and will serve you much longer.

Q: What is the best waterproof fabric for a canopy?

A: Nowadays, most modern umbrellas feature a watertight fabric, such as nylon, polyester or cotton. Regardless of the material, the canopies are usually coated with Teflon finish in order to repel water more efficiently and dry out more quickly.

Q: What material should the umbrella be made of?

A: Usually, a single glance at the frame’s appearance would tell you how long it will last. The frame material must be both sturdy and yet flexible at the same time to withstand the wind. The ribs must be bendy, being able to give to the wind and then bounce back to the original shape.

We can name the following materials in the descending order of their durability: brass, nickel, and black painted. Fiberglass will probably be the most preferred choice amongst many umbrella manufacturers for many years to come, as it is highly flexible, reliable, and ultralight. Only tempered spring steel can compete with the fibreglass when it comes to stability; it offers better stability at the expense of heavier weight. The lightest of all are the frames made of aluminium, but they will easily bend in the strong wind.

Q: Does my umbrella need a special care?

A: Here are a few tips you may wish to take into account to increase the lifespan of your umbrella:

  • We recommend drip-drying your umbrella in the open state after each use until the frame is completely dry and free from the droplets of moisture. Some umbrellas would appreciate wiping with damp cloth.
  • We suggest rolling your umbrella up with care, taking the time to align the handle with the tips of the canopy, and only then rolling them carefully around the shaft.
  • Some umbrella lovers go a little too far believing that the delicate mechanism of their umbrella would benefit from oiling. After such a therapeutic session, all they can do is start looking for its replacement. Certainly, the oil can do no harm to the release system and the frame, but it can leave indelible stains on the fabric of the canopy.
  • Note, the umbrellas are not quite suitable for playing around with. Just to be on the safe side, we advise you to refrain from spinning an open umbrella, as the centrifugal force at the top can be immense.

Q: How to properly wash my umbrella?

The umbrellas with the textile canopies may need occasional washing. Below you may find a piece of advice on how to wash it properly without damaging its construction.

To refresh your umbrella or get rid of some stains on the fabric, all you can do is to wash your accessory gently and carefully by hand. It is strictly forbidden to put an umbrella in the washing machine (as it would undoubtedly lead to the damage of both, the umbrella and the machine). As a rule, almost any washing powder intended for hand washing can be used. Nevertheless, it would not be excessive to mention the process itself. The hand washing can be done in several consecutive stages that include:

  • Soaking the product in warm water for 20-30 minutes with a small amount of powder;
  • Wiping the item with a sponge cloth (paying special attention to the places where it folds);
  • Opening the canopy and its subsequent rinsing in the running water.

Sources:

1. Ross Robinson and Jared Dean How to Choose the Best Rain Umbrella, OutdoorGearLab. November 5, 2015.

2. Bobi Jurcic The Gentleman’s Guide to Umbrellas, The Art of Manliness. October 13, 2015.

3. The Complete Umbrella Buying Guide, eBay. March 3, 2016.

4. Umbrella etiquette: How to choose the right brolly, BT. September 26, 2015.

5. How to Choose an Umbrella, eHow.

6. Umbrella, Wikipedia. February 23, 2016.

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