Reasons to Choose Strong, Windproof Umbrellas!

In England, it rains. A lot. Especially if you live in the northwest of England, where sometimes the ground does not dry out for days. And also, rain in England often combines with wind. This means that cheap umbrellas often blow inside out, and so millions get lost or trashed each year.

Umbrellas are also pretty difficult to recycle. You have to separate the materials, then recycle the metal, and either pop the fabric frame in a textile recycling bank, or likely trash it, due to being made from nylon (plastic).

Over 1 million umbrellas are sold each year, the average one costing around £14. The average person loses over 6 umbrellas in one lifetime, with over 18 million lost or discarded each year, in the UK. These end up on landfills, the nylon breaking down into microplastics, which get washed away down drains, and go into the sea.

And as climate change causes more freak weather, it’s likely we’ll need more umbrellas for heavy downpours. It’s a better idea (if you can afford it), to invest in one  good umbrella that can cope with various weather and does not get lost in bad wind, so will last you years.

BLUNT Umbrellas (designed for windy weather!)

BLUNT Umbrellas were born in New Zealand, a place that knows a thing or two about wild weather. The brand set out to fix the weak points of typical umbrellas, then built products that stand up to gusts, sideways rain, and daily use. The result is a range that holds firm in heavy wind, looks smart, and packs down for city life.

After rain, leave your Blunt umbrella to dry completely (standing with the handle facing up in limited space) before placing it back in its protective sleeve. If a tip goes ‘pointy’ push it back into place. To clean, use warm water and a clean cloth to wipe off marks (do not use detergents or bristle brushes).

Also keep away from dogs (apparently some mistake umbrella handles for chew toys). You can send Blunt Umbrellas for repair, register an account first.

What Makes BLUNT Umbrellas Wind-Proof?

BLUNT’s strength starts with the frame. Standard umbrellas use thin metal ribs that kink under load. BLUNT uses fibreglass elements that flex under pressure, then return to shape. This controlled bend absorbs the hit from gusts so the frame does not snap.

The canopy is not loose fabric hanging from wire points. BLUNT uses a radial tensioning system that spreads fabric tension from the centre to the edge. The canopy is pre-tensioned, so it stays tight and smooth. There are no sharp tips at the edges either, which improves safety and reduces snagging.

In high wind, weak umbrellas invert because wind pressure spikes at a few stress points. BLUNT’s design spreads that force across reinforced ribs and a stiffened edge. The canopy keeps its shape and channels air around the structure. Independent tests have shown BLUNT models holding steady in gusts up to 110 km/h, a level that turns most umbrellas inside out.

Grip also matters. A contoured, non-slip handle helps you keep control when rain makes everything slick. That secure hold works with the balanced frame.

With free repairs for 2 years, these feature fully tensioned canopies for strength and performance, and come in a wide range of colours.

Always open upwards, dry while open, and store in its included protective sleeve. Clean with a sponge cloth and warm water.

Conventional umbrellas are little more than ‘rags on sticks’.

Windproof Umbrellas (made from fishing waste)

Dri Umbrellas claim to be the most sustainable umbrellas on earth, made from recycled fishing waste, which helps to protect ocean creatures. Unlike recycled plastic clothing (which can leach microplastics back into the ocean), umbrellas (which you don’t wash) are a good option (splashing rain on the canvas, is not likely to release microplastics).

These umbrellas use plastic gathered off the Thailand coast (southeast Asia is where most ocean-bound plastic is), and each umbrella removes 8 plastic bottles from the ocean). The shafts are made from stainless steel, and the handles from bamboo.

Sold with a lifetime guarantee, these umbrellas use a one click-quick-release mechanism, to open with effortless motion.

Senz Windproof Umbrellas

Senz Umbrellas makes both long and folding umbrellas, the asymmetric design offering maximum durability and quality, to prevent flipping in bad weather. The special shape resists turning inside out, and the aerodynamic design makes it lightweight, to give a better view and keep your back dry.

The tips even have Eyesavers for safety, to protect the eyes of you and people surrounding. Made from recycled materials, the fabric also offers 50+ UV protection. There is even a child’s umbrella, in its own little carry bag.

GustBuster offers a small selection of windproof umbrellas, in neutral designs. Sold with a lifetime guarantee, these are wind-tested by the US College of Aeronatics, and include a waterproof sheath that can be used as a back carrier or over the shoulder.

The patented rain-drop shaped wind release vents and wind-pressure release cords, means this umbrella will not flip out of shape. Includes a comfort handle and wrist strap, and automated opening system.

Can’t Afford a £75 Umbrella?

Then look in shops for Duckhead umbrellas. These have wooden handles with a duck-shaped head, made with some recycled materials, and are again designed to last longer than conventional brands. Also in plain colours.

An Automatic Folding Windproof Umbrella

This automatic folding umbrella (around £14) is also windproof, and more affordable. It features a large buckle handle for comfortable grip, and superior wind and water resistance.

The canopy offers ample coverage to keep you dry, and easy one-handed operation for quick opening and closing.

How to Stay Safe in Thunderstorms

You’ve likely read, that you should not use an umbrella during thunderstorms. This is true. This is because you should keep a safe distance from metal objects (including golf clubs, motorbikes, wheelchairs and tent poles) and from trees (the tallest objects locally).

• Head indoors, if you can. Stay away from windows and doors (lighting can travel, and flying debris from strong winds can break windows).
• Avoid using plugged-in computers, TVs, phones or any wired device (charge devices beforehand or use battery power only). Turn off the mains switch, if safe to do so.
• Skip showers, baths and washing dishes (or any running water) until the storm passes.
• Stay inside cars (usually). People in convertibles with fabric tops should find a safe building, as the fabric could catch fire, if struck).
• Concrete walls and floors (like basements) often have metal bars or wires. Sit on a chair, or use a non-metal mat, to avoid direct contact.

If exposed to lighting, squat close to the ground with hands on knees, and tuck your head between them, touching as little of the ground with your body (don’t lie down).  If your hand stands on end, drop to the above position immediately.

Pets are often terrified of thunder, so bring them indoors if you can, and sit with them in a secure quiet room, closing the windows and curtains.

Barn animals (cows, horses, goats, chickens) can also be led sheds or barns, ensure they eat beforehand. Use surge protectors during storms. And it’s best to avoid turning on the lights. Ensure the doors and fences are strong. And leave soft bedding (like straw) on the floor, with plenty of fresh water nearby. 

Alternatives to Using Umbrellas

Check the weather forecast! Many of us are a big scatty, and just go for a walk, without  checking the forecast for rain with the Met Office, to avoid being caught in a downpour.

Go for a walk in the rain! Sometimes getting soaked in the rain is fine, as long you’re in good health. Just dry off when you get home!

Invest in a sustainable rain poncho. This is made from organic cotton with a front pocket, fun print and packed in sustainable packaging. Use with a vegan fabric wax over time, to keep it waterproof. You can also use this to waterproof bags, rucksacks and shoes.

Test on a hidden area before use, and wash soiled areas after treatment with cold water, and hang to dry.

Labo Mono makes sustainable rain jackets, with waterproof hoods, that won’t blow off your head in the wind.

Again, wipe-clean only (or launder in a microfibre filter, due to synthetic materials – in this case recycled plastic).

Made by workers paid a living wage, these are in plain or fun prints, with fully taped seams and pit zips for extra ventilation. The jackets are waterproofs with an eco-alternative to PFC, and pack into their own bags.

Some hoods are designed to fit over bike helmets. Sent in sustainable packaging. Do not tumble dry or iron.

Choose Sustainable Waterproof Footwear

Choose comfy natural rubber wellies. Often one reason for using an umbrella is to keep your feet dry. So invest in a good pair of natural rubber wellies. Dry them stuffed with newspaper, keeping them away from radiators.

8000 Kicks has created the world’s first waterproof hemp sneakers, blending nature, innovation and comfort. From the fields to your feet, these shoes stand out for their care for the planet and everyday life.

8000Kicks uses hemp to make its shoes as tough as they are soft. The waterproof layer keeps your feet dry in puddles and rain, but still lets them breathe. No need to worry about losing comfort while out walking dogs, or heading to work.

As most vegan sneakers are sold online, get feet measured at a shoe shop (or measure your own feet). Order the bigger size (European brands don’t offer half sizes).

Quality Rain Jackets for Dog Walks

Blunt Umbrellas also make dog jackets. Sold in Park Green or Puddle Blue! The feature a fuzzy fleece lining, Velcro adjustable chest straps (around the neck and under the belly) and tip pockets, to store your biodegradable poop bags.

Here are their instructions to find the perfect fit:

• Back Length: Start at the base of the neck (where the collar sits), then measure along the spine to the tail base.
• Neck Circumference: Measure around your dog’s neck, where the collar sits.
• Chest Circumference: Measure around the fullest part of your dog’s ribcage, just behind the front legs.

If your dog falls between sizes, they recommend sizing up, for a bit of wiggle room.

Ruffwear is a quality brand of raincoats, for dogs that will wear them! Made with windproof and waterproof materials, they feature oversized storm collars to fold up for extra weather protection, and the leash portals on the back, means they can be worn with most harnesses.

Featuring leg loops to provide secure fit in windy conditions, the extended vest covers the hips and thighs. The Sun Shower Suit offers full body coverage, with a chest zipper for easy removal. The StormSleeves™ allow for easy movement, without restricting coverage.