Umbrellas, brollys, bumbershoots. Whatever you call them we all know how important they are in the rain. But did you ever consider how important they are from protecting you from the sun’s ultraviolet rays? Possibly not.
When you think about it umbrellas provide your own instant shade. Super popular at beaches, sporting matches and even at weddings, some cultures have been using umbrellas as sun protection for years.
Umbrellas are a great first defence against the sun. But if you want complete protection, don’t forget about sunglasses, hats, clothing, and your last line of defence – sunscreen.
After thorough research into requirements for umbrellas to be effective sun protection, SimplySunSafe recommends BAGAIL Double Layer Inverted Umbrella as the best option for casting some shade on your precious skin. Read on for a detailed buyer’s guide, comparison table, and in-depth reviews of the top 5 umbrellas for sun protection.
Buyer’s Guide
When you are trying to find your new umbrella you might be thinking that it’ll be pretty simple! But there are loads of little features you might want to keep in mind when you’re on the hunt for the best umbrella.
Size
Umbrellas are available in both large or small.
You may not have realised this, umbrella sizes are measured across the arc rather than the width. There can be a big difference between the width and arc so make sure you are looking at the correct size when picking your umbrella.
Before you buy, make sure you know what you’ll need it for. No one wants to stand awkwardly under a little umbrella shoulder-to-shoulder with someone because your umbrella is too small.
If you are after an umbrella that’s small and just for yourself look for sizes between 40 to 50 inches.
If you want something bigger umbrellas can reach up to 68 inches which will give you plenty of shade and room for two.
UPF Rating
No not SPF… UPF. It stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and it’s actually quite similar to SPF, but it’s for material instead of sunscreen. The rating gives you important information on how much of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays may reach your skin and cause irreversible damage.
As with all sun protection, UPF rated items may be ineffective if you don’t use them correctly so it’s important to remember the following:
- Fabric sun protection are ineffective if they become thin and transparent, resulting in less effective protection.
- Items may become significantly less effective when if it becomes wet
- If your item is old, frayed and tattered it should be replaced as it could lose its ability to protect you from those rays. Go on just buy a new one!
See the table below for further information on UPF ratings:
| UPF Rating | Protection Category | Percentage of UV Blocked |
| 15-20 | Good | 93.3 – 95.9% |
| 25-35 | Very good protection | 96.0 – 97.4% |
| 40 and over | Excellent protection | 97.5% or more |
Remember UPF umbrellas do not take the place of sunscreen!
Material/Make
Umbrellas come in so many options when it comes to materials, fabrics and colors. I have listed some of the more popular ones below to help you get started.
- Carbon Fibre – this is a great option for a strong umbrella that won’t flip with the first gust of wind. This material also won’t rust or weather.
- Fibreglass – another tough option for standing up to windy conditions. It’s also safe to use in storms
- Nylon – perfect for protection you from rain and sun.
- Patterned fabrics – Let your personality shine through with a bold print or pattern. There is no need to think umbrellas are boring! There are lots of options for you to explore.
- Plain colors – Corporate and classy. Plain print umbrellas are available in a large number of colors.
Use
It may shock you to know that not all umbrellas are built for both rain and sun!
Most of the umbrellas I will look at today do both, but if you’re after an umbrella dedicated to sun use it could be different to an umbrella you want to use in the rain.
A clear umbrella won’t be much use to you in the sun. Lots of parasols may be ideal for use in the sun but are horrible for rain protection.
Make sure you know if you want protection for both before starting your hunt to narrow down your options.
Manual v Push Button Opening
I’m talking about opening mechanisms here. Umbrellas may come as automatic spring loaded which will open with one press of a button. Others will require you to push them open yourself.
To make the comparison easy to consider check out my pros and cons for both below:
Push Button Opening
Pros
- Easy to use – especially for children and the elderly
- Fast opening
- May be more expensive
Cons
- Once broken are difficult to fix
- May be unable to be used if broken or malfunctioning
- May cause injuries if opened unexpectedly or by children
Manual Opening
Pros
- Easy to use
- User controls opening and closing
- May be cheaper
Cons
- Can be fiddly and tricky especially for younger children or the elderly
- Requires some coordination and hand strength
Price
With the humble umbrella now seen as a fashion accessory they range anywhere from some small change into the hundreds of dollars for some brands.
You want to look for a quality umbrella that isn’t going to fall apart or flip inside out on a hot windy day.
It’s always ideal to look for a quality umbrella within your budget to start off with but if you think a higher priced umbrella will provide a better quality then don’t be afraid to spend a little extra.
Best Umbrella Comparison
| BAGAIL Inverted Umbrella |
 SunTek UV Protection Umbrella |
 Rainbrace Travel Sun Umbrella |
 Coolibar Golf Umbrella |
 Repel Travel Umbrella |
|
| Protection | Sun & Rain | Sun & Rain | Sun & Rain | Sun & Rain | Mainly Rain |
| Size (inches) | 42 | 68 | 38 | 62 | 38 |
| Opening | Manual | Manual | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Color options | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| UPF Rating | 50 | 50 | 50 | 50 | N/A |
| Price | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon | See it at Amazon |
5 Best Umbrellas
After thorough research that combined discussing issues with customers, reviewing customer feedback, examining manufacturer specifications, and participating in sun shelter and safety forums, SimplySunSafe has chosen the 5 best umbrellas for sun protection.
All of these ‘brollys’ feature the above buyer’s guide features we talked about including various size options, budget friendly options and various materials and makes.
1. BAGAIL Double Layer Inverted Umbrella
- ANTI-ULTRAVIOLET - UPF>50+ Sunscreen fabric production, Double layer protection, Light transmittance is "0".
- Hands&Drip free: Great for phone user and mothers, Cross the C-shape handle over your arm, made your hands free for holding a baby, bag or mobile if needed. Creative investing design, inside-out design prevents water from dripping, keeping floors and cars dry.
- INVERTED DESIGN - The surface of the umbrella cloth wet will cleverly folded. So it won't get wet when you get in or out of the car.
- Durable Windproof: The double layer inverted umbrella made of pongee cloth, durable black electric ribs and double layer ribs make the cars umbrella more sturdy, enhance its windproof effect
- Easy To Storage: It can stand up on its own, ideal for when you have nowhere to prop your umbrella up against. It will also keep the wet part of the umbrella inside once you've closed it, so things don't get dripped on when you put it away after coming indoors
Last update on 2020-07-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Since first reviewing these I have seen them everywhere. That’s why I have picked this as the best umbrella to buy. If this is your first time seeing these, the BAGAIL inverted umbrella is an innovative design to make your life easier. It’s one of the best rated umbrellas on the market today.
It’s got you covered for both sun and rain. A UPF 50 rated cover has you protected so that a majority of the sun’s ultraviolet protection won’t reach your skin.
The inverted design means this umbrella folds upwards so no more drips and… getting in and out of the car is a lot less awkward!
A smart designed ‘C’ shaped handle allows this umbrella to be used hands-free. Perfect for those who are constantly on their phones or busy mums and dads who need their hands for more important things.
At just over 42 inches this umbrella is ideal for one person. A carbon fibre make that is built to last, the material is made to prevent rusting.
For colors and patterns there is a large range of 24 to choose from. They have everything from clouds to sunflowers and solids colors if that is more your style.
A mid-range budget option that is perfect for you if you are after something that has just enough coverage for one person and is a little different.
- UPF 50
- Large range of color and pattern options
- Carbon fibre for a sturdy make with no rusting
- Innovative design
- Handle design to assist with hands free use
- Does not fold down into compact size
2. SunTek 68″ UV Protection Wind Cheater Vented Canopy Umbrella
- UV PROTECTION – Silver coating reflects heat to cool you down with a 50+ UPF rating to block 99% of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB solar rays
- WIND & WEATHER RESISTANT - 100% nylon, double-canopy, Vortec venting system prevents the umbrella from inverting during high winds; built to provide protection from sun, rain, hail, snow, and sleet
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION - Fiberglass shaft and ribs not only make this umbrella durable and lightweight but also provide extra safety in the event of a lightning storm
- EXTRA LARGE CANOPY – Oversized 68” arc, 57” diameter is big enough to provide shade for two people; umbrella stands 42.5” and comes with a matching sleeve for convenient storage
- ERGONOMIC HANDLE - provides comfortable grip for both left and right-handed users and fits into most golf cart umbrella mounts
Last update on 2020-07-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The SunTek protection Wind Cheater umbrella is a great allrounder. SunTek designed this umbrella as the only one you’ll ever need. It covers you in all weather conditions!
It’s a huge 68 inches which is big enough to fit two people comfortably. The shaft and ribs are made from high quality fibreglass resulting in a super sturdy and thunderstorm safe umbrella.
The Wind Cheater umbrella canopy is 100% nylon and has a UPF rating of 50 giving you the best sun protection available. Built with sun protection in mind the external color has a silver coating to reflect away UV rays to help keep you cool. A venting system also reduces the impact of high wind conditions.
It’s universal sized handle will fit in most golf carts and has an ergonomic design that will make both left and right handers happy.
The Wind Cheater umbrella is available in 4 different internal colors depending on your taste including black, blue, green and yellow. Each umbrella also comes with a matching cover for protection.
A mid range budget option that will suit everybody.
- UPF 50
- Color options
- Large enough for 2 people
- Fibreglass make for a sturdy make and storm safe option
- Large size may not suit everyone
- Does not fold down into compact size
3. Rainbrace Compact Travel Sun Umbrella
- [UPF50+ SUN PROTECTION] Super waterproof pongee fabric canopy with a new black vinyl layer inner coating which filters out almost 99% direct UV and reflect it away. The black inner lining works best than any other colors in absorbing indirect UV rather than concentrating it onto your head and face. This umbrella will keep the heat out even when standing in the sun.
- [WATERPROOF & WINDPROOF ] This travel sun & rain umbrella has been tested up to 60 mph. With 8-Ribs structure which is engineered by high-grade stainless steel and flexible fiberglass strictly in the line, it provides all parts works flexibility to fights the wind. Meanwhile, canopy opens to 38.58" /98cm in diameter, big enough to provide you with superior protection from the rain and sun when travel or outdoor walk.
- [COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT] When folded, the umbrella is quite small (10.63 " /27cm long) that it can easily fit into most handbags, backpacks, briefcases, car etc. And you can put it in a storage bag, your hand bags won't get wet. Lightweight design (0.86 pounds/390g) makes it perfect for both men and women to use while traveling.
- [ADVANCED AUTOMATIC] Automatically open and close with just one press button allows for easy one-handed operation, very convenient. And the high quality rubber handle provides you with a good non-slip grip for those windy rainy days.
- [TOP CUSTOMER SERVICE]If you have any issues about our new umbrella,do not hesitate to contact us.Best customer service and best in customer satisfiction.
Last update on 2020-07-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Rainbrace are a brand committed to providing the best umbrella and raincoat products. Their name means ‘embrace rain’ so they definitely have a good idea about rain but what is also great is that they also incorporate sun protection too.
The Rainbrace UV Sun Umbrella is rated UPF 50 providing you with the highest sun protection available. Sun protection is also amped up to the next level with an inner black vinyl layer which also assists in keeping you cool.
The fibreglass make means it’s not likely to flip inside out in heavy winds and is also strong enough to stand being thrown around in your bag.
This umbrella is perfect for travel as it’s lightweight and compact, perfect for those who like to take an umbrella on hikes or ‘just in case’. It’s effective but won’t weigh you down.
Even though it’s compact once folded, it opens up to a generous 38 inches perfect for providing personal protection.
Easy open and close operation with an automatic system. One push of a button and you’re protected. The handle is ergonomically designed and rubberised for easy grip.
The Rainbrace is available in two designs which come with a matching cover. A great compact budget friendly option.
- UPF 50
- Lightweight and compact
- Auto open and close
- Fibreglass make for a sturdy make and storm safe option
- Limited color options
4. Coolibar UPF 50+ 62″ Titanium Golf Umbrella
- UPF 50+ and water repellent durable nylon fabric
- Generous 62 inch arc with patented double-canopy design with mesh insert for optimum ventilation and stability; Outside blocks harmful UV rays while the underside reduces glare bouncing off surrounding surfaces
- Auto-open mechanism with pinch-less runner and ergonomically designed Pro-grip rubberized handle
- Corrosion-resistant fiberglass frame, ribs, and spreaders; Resists gusts up to 35 mph
- Closed: approximately 38 inches in length, weighs 1.95 lbs; Color coordinated nylon sheath included; Imported
Last update on 2020-07-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Coolibar has a reputation as the best umbrella brand. The Coolibar Titanium Golf Umbrella is designed to be used no matter what the weather throws at you. This UPF 50 rated option has a silver outer layer designed to to repel UV rays and a green inner layer to absorb UV rays and assist with keeping you cool.
Featuring a tough water-repellent nylon fabric, Coolibar has crafted an amazing umbrella not just for golfers but anyone who needs great sun coverage. It’s fibreglass frame is strong and will stand up to just about anything Mother Nature has in store, resisting gusts of wind up to 35 mph.
A large 62 inch size will fit two people underneath. An auto open mechanism means it’s quick and easy to use and features a pinch-less runner and ergonomically designed handle.
Although it’s a one color option for the Coolibar Titanium Golf Umbrella, silver is the best color for sun umbrellas due to its UV reflecting powers so they picked it with sun protection in mind. Coolibar’s reputation for sun protection products is outstanding which is why this one comes in a little higher on the price scale but Coolibar knows how to do sun protection.
- UPF 50
- Sturdy make
- Reputable brand
- Large size for 2 people
- Large size may not suit everyone
- Does not fold down into compact size
- Higher price range
- No color options
5. Repel Teflon Travel Umbrella
- AUTOMATIC, COMPACT, AND LIGHTWEIGHT - Auto open close function allows for easy one-handed operation. Measuring just 11.5" long and weighing less than 1lb the folding handheld umbrella is extremely packable in purses, briefcases, backpacks, luggage and more.
- WIND-DEFYING, DOUBLE VENTED, 9-RIB CANOPY - Most small or mini umbrellas are made of 6 or 8 aluminum ribs but Repel is fortified with 9 resin-reinforced fiberglass ribs and a vented double canopy that flex slightly to withstand powerful gusts without turning inside out.
- SUPERIOR REPELLENCY - Waterproof, weatherproof and instantly dry, the foldable and durable Repel Travel Umbrella defends against the elements like nothing else.
- QUALITY WORKMANSHIP - Designed with a three-fold chrome plated black metal shaft, and strong metal frame to allow for greater stability in high winds. The ergonomic, slip-proof, and rubberized grip handle with wrist strap allow for easy carrying. A protective travel sleeve is included. Perfect for men, women, teens and kids.
- WORLD RENOWNED AND CRITIQUED - Featured on Good Morning America, Rated by Wire Cutter as the Best Umbrella in 2019.
Last update on 2020-07-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
So my lovely readers, this umbrella made the cut because I absolutely adore the print on the canopy. I could not look past the gorgeous astronomical design (and there’s more to choose from!). Obviously it also has some other great features that will work to ensure you are protected from the sun all day long.
The canopy section provides both rain and sun protection. It is coated with Teflon to ensure rain slides off the umbrella’s surface and dries instantly. Nine durable resin-reinforced fiberglass ribs will stand up against windy conditions. This one has an automatic opening and closing mechanism.
This compact travel option opens is just 11 ½” long and weighs less than 1lb – a great size for travelling.
They also have comfort in mind with an ergonomic handle and hand strap.
Repel have a number of colors and designs available, all reasonably priced. A must look at if you’re in the market for a tropical vibe compact travel umbrella.
- Teflon coating
- Lightweight and compact
- Resin-reinforced fiberglass ribs for strength
- Focused on rain protection
Conclusion
If you are on the lookout for a new umbrella this article is for you. Not only useful in rain it is also an important method of sun protection.
A high rated UPF 50 umbrella will have you protected from the sun’s harsh rays. This list aimed to cover something for everyone. There are some great compact umbrellas out there but if you’re after something a little bigger we covered that too!
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the buyers guide features we looked at to see what you should look for when making your purchase.
SimplySunSafe recommends the BAGAIL Double Layer Inverted Umbrella as our champion pick and the umbrella you should definitely consider purchasing. After taking into consideration all the features in the buyers guide, this was the product that came out on top.
If one of the other four better suits your needs, go ahead and choose that one because ultimately the decision is about you and your needs.
Come and have a chat, if you purchase one of these items or find another umbrella that suited you better please let me know about it in the comments. I love researching and will update my guide. I hope you enjoyed my article on the best umbrellas for protecting you from the sun.
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