Best UV Umbrella for Sun Protection

You can stand under my umbrella, ella, ella ey. Oh! Hi Guys! Today we are going to explore the world of umbrellas. Yep this is a sun safe blog and, believe it or not, umbrellas are an important part of sun protection.

On overcast days you may not even think about sun protection, but did you know that you can still get sunburnt even when the sun isn’t shining.

When I think about umbrellas my first thought is rain, but when I take a second and think about it, umbrellas and sun are a marriage made in heaven. There are specific umbrellas you take to the beach, ones to place over your pool for shade, and golfers are always using umbrellas!

Before you ask if it is really necessary to use one if you already have on sunscreen – the answer is yes. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied, multiple times, after swimming, before heading outside, I mean look at the common mistakes people make when using sunscreen. In reality, sunscreen should be your last defence after sunglasses, a hat, clothing, and… an umbrella!

Now don’t get me wrong, sunscreen is still a must, but umbrellas also provide something sunscreen doesn’t, shade! Some days it is just simply too hot to be out in direct sun!

You want to take a dip, get the kids outside, or go for a walk but you’re worried you will melt. Well worry no more guys because today we are going on the hunt for the best UV umbrella for sun protection.

Buyer’s Guide on UV umbrella for Sun Protection

Let’s make sure you are throwing out some serious shade. When looking for the best sun protection umbrella you are going to want to keep your eyes out for some of the following features:

Size

Large or small can make a big difference in the umbrella world.

• Do you intend on using it alone or will you be needing one big enough for two?
• Do you intend on using it in big crowds?
• Or are you headed out on the golf course?

All of these things will have some impact on what size umbrella you are going to need to look for.

Now firstly, umbrella sizes are measured across the arc rather than the width so make sure you have got your head around that so we can you properly covered. A ‘regular’ umbrella size is between 40 to 50 inches with ‘golf’ umbrellas reaching up to 68 inches!

Before you buy – check your size!

UPF Rating

Pardon, a UP what rating?

Let me explain, UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor rating provides important information on how much of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays may penetrate fabric and potentially harm your skin.

It is important to remember, UPF rated items can be ineffective if you don’t use them correctly so it’s important to remember the following:

• Fabric sun protection items should not be pulled too tight as it may become thin and transparent, resulting in less effective protection.
• Items may become significantly less effective when it becomes wet.
• Old items should be replaced as it may 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

Material/Make

So you want to buy a sun umbrella and you are a bit baffled by the material options. Check out my list below to help get your head around some of the ones you may come across.

• Carbon Fibre – strong, sturdy and won’t rust or weather.
• Fibreglass – built strong and safe for use in storms.
• Nylon – perfect for protection you from rain and sun.
• Printed fabric – 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 fabrics – Corporate and classy. Plain print umbrellas are available in a large number of colors.

Use

If you are after an umbrella dedicated to sun use it could be different to an umbrella you want to use in the rain.

A clear bubble umbrella might be perfect for the rain but it isn’t going to much use to you in the sun. Some parasols may be ideal for use in the sun but are horrible for rain protection.

So be sure to decide whether you want an umbrella that can do both or just sun or rain. The last thing I want is for you to get sunburnt or soaking wet!

Manual v Push Button

This is all about how you are going to get your umbrella open and protecting you from the sun.

Some umbrellas will open at the press of a button. Others will require you to push them open yourself. To make the comparison easy here are my pros and cons for both:

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

Umbrella prices can range anywhere from pocket change into the hundreds of dollars for some brands.

You want to look for a quality umbrella that isn’t going to fall apart on you in your hour of need, or flip inside out on a hot windy day (come on I know you have seen this happen before!).

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 UV Umbrella Comparison

5 Best Umbrellas for Sun Protection

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 UV umbrellas for sun protection.

All of these umbrellas feature the above buyer’s guide factors we talked about including various size options, budget friendly options and various materials and makes.

1. SunTek 68 Inch UV Protection Wind Cheater Vented Canopy Umbrella

Last update on 2023-12-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The SunTek UV Protection Wind Cheater Umbrella is a great allrounder and, in my opinion, the best UV protection umbrella. SunTek have designed this umbrella to be the only one you ever need – rain, hail or shine.

Coming in at a massive 68 inches it’s big enough to fit two people comfortably. The shaft and ribs are made from high quality fibreglass resulting in a super sturdy and safe umbrella.

The Wind Cheater Umbrella canopy is 100% nylon and has a UPF rating of 50 giving you the best sun protection available. The external color has a silver coating to reflect away UV rays to help cool you down on hot days.

Suntek have also created a Vortec venting system to prevent the umbrella inverting in high winds.

This umbrella is designed to 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 colors depending on your taste including black, blue, green and yellow. Each umbrella also comes with a matching cover so no need to shake it off when you arrive at your destination.

A mid-range budget option that will suit everybody.

2. BAGAIL Double Layer Inverted Umbrella

Last update on 2023-12-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Well guys, where have I been? Under a rock apparently because I didn’t even know these existed! And honestly, I am impressed! The BAGAIL inverted umbrella is an innovative design to make your life easier.

Designed with both sun and rain in mind, the UPF rating on this one is 50 so they have got you covered for sun protection. The inverted design means this umbrella folds upwards so no more drips and … getting in and out of the car is an absolute dream!

An additional flair, this umbrella has is the convenient ‘C’ shaped handle that 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 free.

Just over 42 inches across the arc, this umbrella is ideal for one person. The shaft and skeleton are made out of carbon fibre for a sturdy make that is built to last and prevents rusting.

For colors and patterns there is a whopping 24 is 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.

3. Coolibar UPF 50+ 62 Inch Titanium Golf Umbrella

Last update on 2023-12-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Coolibar Titanium Golf Umbrella was designed to keep you covered in all weather conditions. This UPF 50 rated option is silver on the outside to repel UV rays and features a green inner layer to absorb UV rays.

Made from 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 that is thrown its way, resisting gusts of wind up to 35 mph.

It has a nice a big 62 inch arc that will snuggly 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.

It’s a one color option for the Coolibar Titanium Golf Umbrella, however, 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 sun protection.

4. Sport-Brella Versa-Brella All Position Sun Umbrella

Last update on 2023-12-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Sport-Brella Versa Brella is another innovative design taking umbrellas and sun protection to the next level.

This smart, innovative design is to be used on golf carts, prams, or eskys. Instead of a handle it features an innovative universal clamp that can be attached to almost anything. It has a 4 way, 360 degree swivel you can manipulate this umbrella to keep you covered from an angle.

Available in two sizes (regular and extra large) and 3 different colors.

When opened the regular umbrella reaches a span of 40 inches by 42 inches and the larger umbrella has a diameter of 44 by 44 inches. Both of these sizes are ideal for one person and also are manual opening.

The design of this one it isn’t great for rain so keep this one for the UV rays which you are super protected against with the UPF 50 rated fabric.

A great option for those watching a kids soccer game or walking around the golf course. The Sport-Brella also is super budget-friendly.

5. Coolibar UPF 50+ 42 Inch Titanium Travel Umbrella

Last update on 2023-12-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Coolibar Titanium TravelUmbrella is my pick for compact travel umbrella for sun protection.

It’s sleek design measures a 42-inch arc fitting one person comfortably but packs up to a nice and compact 11 inches so it will comfortably fit in your handbag, glove box or baby bag.

A UPF 50 rated nylon cover has you protected in stormy and sunny conditions. The Coolibar Travel Umbrella also features a double canopy with a mesh insert to assist with ventilation and windy conditions.

Easy one push auto open and an auto close has you covered and stored away FAST. Each umbrella also comes with a matching cover so you don’t get water everywhere.

So colors… it does come in 3, however, they’re subject to availability with black the most commonly available color.

As with all Coolibar products they are at the higher end of the price range.

FAQs on Umbrella for Sun Protection

Q: What is a UV umbrella?

A: A UV umbrella is a shield that provides protection from the sun’s rays. Protective UV umbrellas are made from special fabrics such as polyester and acrylic that block harmful UV rays. These umbrellas ensure to protect your skin from sun damage on sunny as well as cloudy days. 

Q: How effective are UV umbrellas?

A: UV umbrellas can provide moderate protection from UV radiation. They work by blocking more than three-quarters of ultraviolet (UV) light on a sunny day. Pair your UV umbrellas with sunscreen and hats; you will have maximum protection against sun damage. 

Q: Why is UV umbrella more effective in blocking UV rays than ordinary umbrella?

A: An ordinary umbrella is mostly used as protection from rain, hail, or snow. However, a UV Umbrella is used to block and protect you from the sun’s ultraviolet rays (UVR) which are responsible for the harmful effects of skin cancer.

A common misconception about a UV Umbrella is that it can be made out of any material since it only protects against the sun’s rays and has little to do with blocking water drops. The truth, though, is that blocking sunlight isn’t enough on its own to prevent harm coming from UVR. That’s why UV umbrellas come with a UPF rating printed on them alongside their style name, so you know how well they actually protect against UVR.

Q: Can you still get sunburned using a UV umbrella?

A: Although some people think that a sun umbrella will protect them from the harshness of sunlight, this is not true. The reflective quality of light makes it impossible for any physical object to completely obstruct its rays. 

This means that although you are in the shade, there is still an increased risk for skin damage and potential cancer due to UV exposure under your arm or around your neck, where most umbrellas don’t typically cover those areas. Be sure to always wear sunscreen when outside so as not to put yourself at unnecessary risks!

Wrap Up on Best UV Umbrella

This article is for everyone looking to cast some shade with an umbrella. Whether it’s rushing from A to B in the sun or sitting down watching their kids sporting games.

A high rated UPF 50 umbrella will have you super protected from the sun’s harsh rays. I covered small and large options, simple and innovative. If you are in the market for a new umbrella I hope this article has provided some useful guidance. Remember to look for the features in the buyers guide to make sure you get the best one for you.

SimplySunSafe recommends the SunTek 68 Inch UV Protection Wind Cheater Vented Canopy Umbrella as our best UV umbrella 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.

Remember an umbrella is great for giving you some much needed shade but should be used with other sun protection.

I love hearing from you guys, so 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’ll 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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