The best umbrellas you can buy to be ready for the next rainy day
Britain is rainy, a cliche we know all too well. While 2017 was ever-so-slightly less rainy than usual, according to the Met Office, the months from June to September were unseasonably wet.
All this means that, while we're out enjoying barbecues and picnics in the sun, rain is never far away - especially with the current heatwave causing a few tropical showers - so it's vital to pack an umbrella at all times.
In the UK, we spend around £10m per year on umbrellas, often panic buying poor-quality ones when the weather quickly turns. Checking the forecast is rarely a sufficient insurance policy.
But splashing a little more cash on a brolly - one that doesn't immediately blow inside out when the wind picks up - will give you a much better experience. And who knows, if you spend more, you may even be more inclined to look after it.
How to pick the right umbrella for you
Umbrellas come in several price brackets and levels of quality. In general, if you spend less than £10 you'll get something quite flimsy.
There are two main types of brolly. First there's the full-length walking umbrella, the kind you could use as a walking stick at Royal Ascot and that's held by The Queen during downpours at official engagements. These tend to be more elegant.
More convenient, usually, is the folding umbrella, which retracts neatly into a transportable size - you can pop it in your rucksack or handbag when not being used.
Beyond those two staple styles, golf umbrellas are great not just for playing the sport, but for any time spent outdoors. They're big- often covering two people - and durable, as they're built for exposure to wind on the golf course. Windproof umbrellas are designed with vents so that gusts don't alter the shape.
Nifty automatic umbrellas open at the push of a button - great if you've got your hands full. Then there's the handle itself. Rubber or plastic is comfortable to hold, while chicer varieties wooden varieties make more of a fashion statement.
1. Mango print folding umbrella
This chic Mango folding umbrella is extremely convenient, retracting to a perfect size for slotting into a handbag and transporting. We particularly like the design - a striking maroon with a playful tartan check, and an elegant curved handle.
For a cheap and cheerful brolly, you'll struggle to find much better.
2. Fulton G807 Commissioner walking umbrella
Fulton Umbrellas have been making brollies since 1956, and they remain some of the best around.
This umbrella is super traditional, with a large black canopy and curved solid light wood handle. As a simple, black classic, it'll go with almost any outfit.
But the best thing about Fulton is its durability. If you're tired of wind blowing your brolly inside out and looking a fool, it's the one for you.
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3. Hunter Original Moustache bubble umbrella
Hunter are famous for their wellies, but their country-style umbrellas are a hit, too. The bubble brollies are large, and their domed shape means you'll be better protected from the rain.
The rubber handle is comfortable to hold, and the design juxtaposes a see-through top with a coloured bottom (or moustache). There are eight other colours to choose from, including pink, black and yellow, but our favourite is this colourbook style.
More one for a country walk than commuting, however, as it's rather big.
6. Fulton birdcage clear dome umbrella
Another classic from UK-based umbrella specialists Fulton. The transparent domed canopy gives excellent coverage - ideal for the all-too-common rain-sodden British days. It's also strong, light, and easy to open. The birdcage design and curved white handle give it an elegant feel. This is one that would look great at both formal and casual events.
5. Becko clear bubble umbrella
A dainty bubble brolly from American umbrella specialists Becko. The hearts and flowers provide an fun touch, but it's still an umbrella that would suit any formal occasion. Also available with a stylish black rim.
6. GustBuster Proseries 62-inch golf umbrella
For functionality there's nothing better than a golf umbrella. While they are designed for the sport, and certainly worth having if you play golf, they're also incredibly useful for non-golfers.
This model from GustBuster is favoured among professionals because of its durability and size - you'll easily cover two people with one umbrella. The thick black and red stripes give it a sporty feel. The best fit for country walks, outdoor sports or watching sporting occasions in the rain.
7. Blunt XS Metro windproof folding umbrella
For a good quality windproof umbrella you'll have to pay a little more, but for £50 you can get an extremely sturdy accessory.
This jet black number has a comfy rubber handle and a tube for protection, and is very light despite its strength. A good windproof umbrella like this will withstand all but the most extreme of gales.
8. Pieni Unikko mini manual umbrella
For vibrant colour and something more unique, why not go for this fun umbrella from Pieni Unikko, who make ultra-light, durable umbrellas. This model folds up extra small, ideal for slotting into a handbag or briefcase, and has a comfortable rubberised plastic handle. It also opens at the click of a button.
For the less adventurous, there's a black option, too.
9. Missoni Aggie Automatic mini umbrella
For a high-end brolly which makes you stand out from the crowd, this stylish option from Italian fashion experts Missoni will do the trick. Missoni's signature pattern is displayed in several vibrant colours, the umbrella itself is strong beyond its size, and it folds up very neatly. A sleek, colourful, summery option.
Our favourites
If you're looking for something sturdier and more elegant than your average umbrella, it's worth spending a little more than a fiver on the roadside.
For a timeless design and austere elegance, we like the Fulton G807. If it's colour you're after, the Amara offers a fun design. And for practicality, you can't go far wrong with a good golf umbrella, like the GustBuster Proseries.
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