ShareThisBy ANNA WALLNER and
Thursday, November 09, 2006
We hate to say it but it's that time of year again _ time to pull out and put up the old umbrella! If yours is a little leaky, leaving you less than dry, it may be time to invest in a new one. We braved the elements _ a rain machine and a wind tunnel, plus we live in the oh-so-soggy Pacific Northwest _ to put various types of umbrellas to the test. Here's what we found:
_ A Teflon coated nylon fabric is the most waterproof umbrella material.
_ Treated cotton may look nice but it can actually retain water and become quite heavy. Plus, it takes longer to dry. We say leave it in the umbrella stand.
_ Plastic canopies will keep you dry but are more commonly found in children's umbrellas.
_ If you are looking for a light umbrella to stash in your bag, look for an aluminum or fiberglass frame.
_ Stick umbrellas are inherently stronger than folding umbrellas.
_ When shopping, check the tips of the umbrella. Look for machine tips. These tips can be pulled on and off the ribs. They last longer than those that are sewn directly onto the ribs.
_ Look for ribs that are coated as this will help protect against rust.
_ Automatic openings are a bonus when you want to get under cover quickly. (And who doesn't!) But they do add to the cost and the weight of the umbrella.
_ Plastic handles are more likely to crack than wood or rubber handles.
_ In windy locations, look for a two-ply umbrella. Part of this type of umbrella is mesh, so the wind can pass through, without turning your umbrella inside out.
