Each year on February 10, National Umbrella Day is celebrated across the United States. Umbrellas protect us through wind, rain, and sun and can also act as stylish accessories. First developed more than 4,000 years ago, the basic umbrella has gradually evolved into umbrellas of numerous sizes, designs, materials, and functions. In honor of National Umbrella Day, I’ve gathered a list of the most popular types of umbrellas and their benefits.
Patio Umbrellas
Patio umbrellas provide protection from the sun. ATTRIBUTION: Wicker Paradise (Flickr)
Many of us love to spend the warmer months of the year relaxing on our patios. Unfortunately, unfavorable weather conditions such as rain and direct sun can make this leisure time unpleasant. To maintain comfort while outdoors, many people rely on patio umbrellas. You can add a patio umbrella to many different outdoor furniture sets or set it up on its own with the help of a free-standing umbrella stand.
Patio umbrellas offer a plethora of benefits in addition to protection from rain and the heat of the sun. When the right fabric is selected, the canopy can also provide protection from harmful UV rays. Many patio umbrellas also feature canopies that can be tilted to block the sun from all angles. Patio umbrellas can also be equipped with lights to illuminate your outdoor living space at night.
One of the biggest advantages of patio umbrellas is their versatility. You can find these outdoor umbrellas in a wide array of colors, styles, and designs to complement your home and patio furniture. Most types of patio umbrellas are round or square in shape and can be found in many different sizes to accommodate groups of guests. While not as common, patio umbrellas can also be found in oval, triangular, and octagonal shapes.
Travel Umbrellas
Stay dry in rainy conditions with a travel umbrella. ATTRIBUTION: Y’amal (Flickr)
When heading out into gloomy weather, a travel umbrella is a must. There are many types of travel umbrellas, from modern, foldable umbrellas to umbrella hats that you can wear directly on your head. Here’s a look at some types of travel umbrellas.
- Classic: Traditional umbrellas offer full rain coverage and are typically made of hard wood, plastic, or rubber-coated plastic. They often feature a stick or U-shaped handle and a nylon, vinyl, or treated polyester fabric that creates a waterproof canopy.
- Automatic: Automatic umbrellas can be opened and closed with the push of a button. They are available in compact or full sizes, depending on your individual needs.
- Bubble: Bubble umbrellas feature a distinct spherical canopy, typically made of clear plastic. These types of umbrellas are designed to cover the user’s face and offer extra protection from the elements.
- High-Wind: In areas prone to harsh winds, a high-wind umbrella is able to resist winds that blow hard and upward. High-wind umbrellas are typically constructed of durable, reinforced materials and may be double-layered for strength.
- Designer: Designer umbrellas are both functional and fashionable. These umbrellas can be found in a wide range of colors and styles to suit all tastes and budgets. Higher-end umbrellas may have upscale features, such as leather wrist straps or brass hardware.
- Golf: Golf umbrellas have large canopies that typically span more than 70 inches in diameter. They are used to shield golfers from the sun and rain.