Best Windproof Umbrellas
The best umbrellas aren't just designed to protect you from the rain; they're also designed to be windproof as well. Cheaply-made or overused umbrellas can only withstand a certain amount of wind damage. Many people have been through the unfortunate event of having an umbrella be turned inside-out by heavy winds. If you are tired of having to struggle through a windstorm, you should invest in a solidly constructed, windproof umbrella. They don’t always come cheap, but they are worth the expense.
Windproof umbrellas are designed to work smartly and practically. They often have two-layered canopies with a gap in between that lets the wind escape and prevent damage to the umbrella. When shopping for a windproof umbrella, you should consider canopy size, wind resistance, special features, material, and design. There are definitely some knockoffs out there, so it’s advised to do your research and learn as much as much as you can about windproof technology.
The infamous GustBuster boasts an exclusive patented design that was certified by the College of Aeronautics to withstand a minimum of 55 mph wind (it was literally tested to survive a wind tunnel). They sell for about $30-$40 and you can find them online. You can choose from the Metro style at 43 inches in diameter to the Doorman style at 68 inches. The GustBuster has a double canopy design and signature “Raindrop-Shaped Wind Release Vents.”
Senz umbrellas by Totes are smart, practical, and stylish. The Senz Extra Large model can withstand 70 mph of wind. The handle is designed with air infused rubber and the stick is made from silver ABS, which is a material used by the Navy for wind/water resistance. The best part is the unique canopy design that has the front slanted down to protect your face from rain. The canopy opens up to 46 by 44 inches. A Senz usually sells at $40-$45 and comes in a few sizes, even mini. Totes umbrellas come in a variety of colors.
Both elegant and functional, a ShedRain umbrella has a special auto open-and-close feature and a useful vented canopy engineered to resist wind. The new models have a fiberglass frame and ribs that increase durability; they usually range from about $20 to $50 depending on the retailer. The ShedRain Windpro is a classic bestseller, while the ShedRain WalkSafe has a 360 degrees 3m reflective technology. The ShedRain Wind Jammer is has aerodynamic wind resistance and is especially designed for extreme sports.
Davek New York provides strong, sturdy, and sleek designs. The Davek Solo is an ideal compact umbrella with a distinct metropolitan style. It features a carbon WindFibre Frame System and auto open-and-close technology. The Davek Duet canopy is 55 inches in diameter, which is good for two people. It has corrosion-resistant ribs and is flexible. Davek umbrellas are relatively expensive; the Solo and Duet models are $100 plus, while the Traveler is about $80.
Other good windproof umbrellas fall under the category of golf umbrellas and start at as low as $20. Although they are meant to protect both a golfer and his /her golf cart, these umbrellas are often used by non-golfers. The large size of the canopy, usually at 60 plus inches in diameter, prevents the umbrella from turning inside-out. The Hurricane 345 Tour Plus by Haas-Jordan is lightweight and has wide-vented panels. The Intech Windcutter Wind-Proof Umbrella has unique flow-through vents that help control its shape. Nike Golf windproof umbrellas are also popular and good for sports-related activities.
Last but not least, the Classic Clear Bubble Stick Umbrella by Totes has a timeless style. It’s a PVC umbrella with a canopy arc of 52 inches and 17 inches of headroom! The dome shape protects your face from a storm and allows you to see clearly; you can find these for $20 or under.
All of the aformentioned umbrellas can be found online, mainly on Amazon.com or eBay.com and usually at a more affordable price than the retail price. Many of them come with lifetime warranties. In the long run, you may find that it’s more economical to purchase one expensive but well-constructed umbrella, instead of going through multiple cheap ones. Once you find an umbrella that has the basic windproof technology, you may want to look into other features, like a Velcro closure system or a compact size for traveling. Whichever style you are interested in, it’s recommended to browse the brand website and read reviews before purchasing your very own windproof umbrella. After all, when it comes to your umbrella, the only thing you should have to worry about is leaving it at the bus stop!
