How To

How to Choose an Umbrella

By eHow Fashion, Style & Personal Care Editor

Rate: (8 Ratings)

Everyone needs an umbrella! Whether you're searching for a basic, collapsible rain umbrella or an umbrella with artistic flair, read on to make an educated purchase.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Umbrellas
  • Umbrellas
Step1
Consider the weight and bulk of the umbrella. If you're a frequent traveler, lighter and more compact is better.
Step2
Find an umbrella that is easy to open and close. Again, if you're a traveler who may have bags and other items to carry, consider an automatic opening button. Some umbrellas also close automatically, another boon to the traveler or shopper.
Step3
Think about the size of the umbrella hood when opened. Collapsible umbrellas can open to between 42 and 44 inches, which provides excellent coverage.
Step4
Get an umbrella that is weatherproof and windproof, meaning it won't rust and won't turn inside out in high winds.
Step5
Choose a Teflon-treated hood. The nylon repels water and the hood will dry quickly.
Step6
Consider the color and design. You won't have many matching dilemmas if you opt for a basic, neutral color such as black, beige or gray.
Step7
Make sure the umbrella has its own pouch for storage. It's also handy if the pouch has a clip or loop to carry the umbrella easily.
Step8
Check the warranty. Some umbrellas actually have lifetime warranties.
Step9
Ask about the return policy, in case you decide to return or exchange the umbrella.

Tips & Warnings

  • If you're buying an umbrella as a gift, be conservative in the color or design that you pick, especially if you don't know the recipient's tastes. You may like cats, but Uncle George may not like pictures of kitties all over his umbrella. A basic, neutral color such as black or gray is the best choice.
  • Some umbrellas come with amazing features, such as small lights on the handle to illuminate the user's way in the dark.
  • You can purchase an inexpensive umbrella for less than $10, but you'll probably want to spend between $20 and $30 for a good-quality umbrella.

Comments

| View All Comments

said

Flag This Comment

on 8/8/2006 Some new umbrellas have special built-in plastic cases to prevent the wet umbrella from dripping on the floor, which is dangerous. I believe it is called a No Drip Umbrella.

Post a Comment

POST A COMMENT

Request a New How-To Article

Looking for more How To information? Chances are there’s an eHow member who knows how to do what you’re looking to do. Submit an article request now!

eHow Article: How to Choose an Umbrella

eHow Fashion, Style & Personal Care Editor

Related Ads