It will have escaped no one's notice: the weather hasn't been exactly clement these days. Unless we stay under the covers - which we've all considered - we're going to have to equip ourselves to face it.
With a bit of luck, you have a coat with a hood that covers you well enough and stays in place. Otherwise, you can opt for a head covering , but it protects more from the cold than from the weather. This is especially true with rain, against which the perfect ally is... the umbrella.
The problem is that it is difficult to find your way around: what are the differences between models at €20 and others at €200? Should I go for a straight or folding umbrella? What are the criteria to look for? Which brands should I turn to?
That's what we're going to ask ourselves!
Anatomy of an umbrella
Whatever the umbrella, it will always be made up of the same parts. It is mainly the materials chosen that will make the difference.
The mast and the handle
The mast is a bit like the backbone of the umbrella, onto which all the other parts will be grafted.
Generally, it is made of metal or wood. The first will be more fragile but will gain in flexibility , compared to the second, rigid but more solid.
The mast fits into the handle. That said, on some high-end models, both are carved from a single piece of wood.
Jupiter model from the Ayrens brand, with mast and handle hand-carved from a single piece of maple. At €660, it is also equipped with a GPS chip. Yes, yes...
The canvas
Most are made of nylon or polyester, for waterproofing.
During my research I read that polyester versions are preferable but I cannot confirm this. That said, the most high-end brands – we will come back to this in the selection – do indeed tend to turn towards this option.
When it comes to design, you can find absolutely everything.
We can also find some rare blends based on cotton or silk. On the other hand, those benefiting from technical treatments are increasingly numerous.
The whales
These are the "rods" that connect the canvas to the mast and unfold once the accessory is opened, giving it its shape.
When an umbrella is "broken", it is often because a rib has given way. Steel ones are the most fragile, prefer carbon or fiberglass. Their flexibility makes these materials less brittle.
There are 8 ribs for the classic versions. The more there are, the more wind resistant it will be.
Wind resistance depends on the number of ribs.
The different types of umbrella
We can identify two main types.
First, the straight umbrella. Also called a "cane umbrella", it ends with a stem that can hit the ground when you walk.
It is the most elegant of the alternatives , in addition to being durable. The only problem: its lack of practicality.
The total height of a straight umbrella ranges from 90 to 100 cm.
It is the opposite of the folding umbrella. Although less aesthetic, its format makes it much more practical.
Compact, you can carry a folding umbrella around without any constraints. That said, it has a smaller canvas than straight models, therefore a smaller protective surface.
There is a third category: the golf umbrella, designed to shelter two people. It is bulky and is not suitable for an urban context.
Think about its use
Before making your choice, ask yourself how you will use your umbrella.
For example, if you don't like to be weighed down, a folding model is what you need. Likewise if you are simply looking for "extra protection". On the other hand, if you travel by car, or if you don't mind holding a cane, why not get a straight umbrella?
Price-wise, there is also a trade-off to be made. Will you be careful? Do you want an object with a sophisticated design? Are you the type to lose it?
Personally, I forget my umbrella every time I sit on a terrace. For this reason, I will have to pass on this sublime Il Marchesato model with cobra-shaped handle...
Take the time to think about it to make your choice as wisely as possible!
Tips for recognizing the quality of an umbrella
Obviously, the selected materials will be the first indicator .
Also check the uniformity of the canvas , that it does not have any defects. For this, use a light source and pass it underneath. The imperfections will appear.
As with any piece of fabric, the regularity of the seams here also gives us an indication of the quality. On the bottom, the edges of the canvas must be reinforced to prevent it from fraying.
If you can, open and close your umbrella several times to test the "fluidity" of its mechanism. But not indoors, it brings bad luck!
A few words about style
When it comes to style, there is no universal rule.
You can't go wrong with a navy blue, black, dark green model...
Why not also move towards light colours, just as easy, which are a change from the usual shades?
That said, the umbrella remains an accessory: we can therefore allow ourselves a little fantasy . More and more efforts are made on the design of the canvas, playing on nuances and patterns.
Piganiol tartan umbrella . The colours are very sober, allowing the pattern to remain subtle, whilst bringing a little "something" to the object.
Folding umbrellas are not far behind. (Fulton)
If you want to go further, it can be used to introduce that touch of "unexpected", the little twist that changes an outfit.
Le Flageolet camouflage umbrella . In a casual outfit made up of sober pieces, why not!
The canary yellow umbrella complements the dressy look well, its shade contrasting with the neutral tones of the rest of the outfit.
The shopping corner
- Isotoner : without being phenomenal, the manufacturing holds up. It is a very correct entry level.
- Fulton : The British brand supplies the Queen of England's court, which is rather reassuring when it comes to tailoring. There is no risk-taking in the design, despite a few patterned models.
- Ayrens : dating back to the end of the 19th century, the brand has been honored by the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant label. There is a real plurality in the styles, with a range of prices where everyone can find what they are looking for.
- Le Véritable Cherbourg : inspired by the film by Jacques Demy, the brand offers models made in France, manufactured with care. On the other hand, the range is limited.
- Piganiol : another large French manufacturer, it has been offering umbrellas made by hand in Aurillac since 1884.
- Il Marchesato : manufacturer of my famous cobra umbrella, the Italian brand offers precious models in noble materials (crystal details, gold plating...). Just for the pleasure of the eyes, I invite you to take a look!
The final word...
The umbrella is an accessory with real practical interest.
Depending on your habits and what you prefer, it is up to you to choose the most suitable format between the straight and folding models. Stay vigilant about the quality of the materials and the care of the finishes.
In terms of style, you can't go wrong with a plain and sober model. That being said, you can allow yourself a little more fantasy and use it as a way to complete your looks. Manufacturers are competing in inventiveness, and there are now umbrellas for all tastes.
Now all you have to do is not forget it when you leave in the morning!
