What Makes a Good Beach Umbrella?
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The checklist for your perfect beach day might include a comfy beach chair, your favorite pair of sunglasses, and a cold drink – all enjoyed under the cool shade of a beach umbrella.
However, not all beach umbrellas are created equal. You might like fancy patterns or fun designs, but every beachgoer should think about an umbrella that offers more than just looks.
A good beach umbrella should be large enough for you and your party, protect against the sun, and remain sturdy in windy conditions.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current beach umbrella or purchase one for the first time, dive in for our take on what makes a good beach umbrella.
What Are the Different Umbrella Types?
Most beach umbrellas can be grouped into one of these three categories: UV-blocker, commercial grade, and clamp-on.
- Offer UV protection against the sun
- Come in a variety of styles and colors
- Price can range: $30+
Commercial Grade Beach Umbrellas
- Heavy-duty umbrellas made to stand the test of time
- Built with weather-resistant materials such as fiberglass and canvas
- Price tags can be higher: $100+
- Smaller option for single-person use
- Portable, easy to carry and set up
- Best for short-term use in mild weather conditions
- Inexpensive: $20+
Select the Right Umbrella Size
Scan the beach and you’ll see all kinds of beachgoers – people on their own, couples, families with kids, and large friend groups.
The right beach umbrella size for you will depend on how many people you are usually at the beach with.
Small – about 4 feet
- If you’re planning to take solo trips to the beach, this is a good size that will provide you with the shade you need. Clamp-on beach umbrellas tend to be about four feet in diameter and provide shade for one person. The Sport-Brella Versa-Brella is our favorite clamp-on umbrella.
Standard – 6 to 7 feet
- You will find most beach umbrellas are six to seven feet in diameter. These can accommodate between two to four people – perfect for a small family or a few friends.
Oversized – 9+ feet
- Heading to the beach with a crowd? Consider getting an oversized beach umbrella that is nine or more feet in diameter. These are better choices for large families and friend groups and can provide shade for up to eight people.
Does Your Umbrella Protect Against the Sun?
Arguably the most important feature in a beach umbrella is its ability to protect against the sun.
We’re not just talking about the amount of shade it provides. Before buying a beach umbrella, always double check the amount of UV protection it offers. A good beach umbrella should have a UPF rating of 50+.
After all, if you’re going to spend a long day at the beach, you want to be sure you’ll be protected against the sun. The combination of sunscreen and a UPF protected beach umbrella is the best protection you can have. You’ll all be grateful for it!
Your Umbrella Fabric Choice Will Matter
Beach umbrellas are made of different fabrics – each offering their own benefits. Take a look at the common fabrics and their features listed below.
Canvas
- Durable, weather-resistant, and waterproof
- Thick fabric made to last a long time
Polyester/Nylon
- Lightweight, mold-resistant, easy to clean
- Offers natural sun protection up to UPF 30
Comes in bright colors and patterns (you won’t have a hard time spotting a vibrant umbrella like the Blissun 7.2′ Portable umbrella on the beach)
Cotton
- Durable, natural heat repellent, wind-resistant
- Does not offer natural sun protection, but UV-treatments and coatings are added to fix that
Be Mindful of the Umbrella’s Construction
You want to spend a relaxing day at the beach, one that doesn’t include fiddling with the beach umbrella all day to keep it in place (or worse – chasing after it on a windy day).
It’s important to choose a beach umbrella that’s easy to put up and will remain sturdy throughout the day. This will depend on the construction of the umbrella, so pay attention to the following parts when selecting your umbrella.
Umbrella pole
The umbrella pole can be made of different materials such as PVC, aluminum, wood, or steel. A good beach umbrella will include a pole that is height adjustable and also features a foldable or detachable pole. This will make it easy to take apart and pack up. We all love portability when it comes to the beach.
Frame
The frame is on the underside of the umbrella fabric and usually consists of spokes that are made from aluminum, wood, or fiberglass. Of these materials, fiberglass is the ideal choice since it is flexible and the most wind-resistant. Offering both steel hardware and a fiberglass frame, the Dig-git Beach Umbrella won’t give in to strong winds.These are the qualities you’re looking for in a good beach umbrella.
Anchor
The anchor is found at the bottom of the umbrella pole. The anchor helps bury the umbrella deep into the ground and keep it in place. A good beach umbrella should come with an anchor for stability. But you always have the option to purchase an anchor separately to add to your favorite beach umbrella should it not already have one.
Our Favorite Beach Umbrellas
We hope this guide helped you in determining what makes a good beach umbrella. It all comes down to size, sun protection, and stability. Soon you’ll be on your way to kicking off your flip flops, leaning back in a comfy beach chair, and enjoying the views of the beach from the shaded oasis of your perfect beach umbrella.
We tested and reviewed the most popular beach umbrellas based on the above criteria and here are a few we loved:
Best All Round: BEACHBUB All-In-One
Portable and Tall: AMMSUN 7′ Heavy Duty Beach Umbrella
Crossover Canopy Tent: Sport-Brella Super-Brella
Most Advanced: Sunphio Portable
Check out our full list of the Best Beach Umbrellas for even more great picks!
Frequently asked questions
Most patio umbrellas are not designed to be used at the beach. A patio umbrella’s pole and construction is thinner and less durable than that of a beach umbrella’s. However, there are a few beach umbrellas that are versatile and can serve as patio umbrellas if desired. An example of one is the Blissun 7.2′ Portable Beach Umbrella, which can be assembled in sand, dirt, or in a patio table.
The best way to add stability to your beach umbrella is to use a sand anchor. If the beach umbrella doesn’t come with one, it’s worth purchasing separately. Of course, you can also opt to buy a beach umbrella that specifically promises extra stability, such as the BEACHBUB All-In-One beach umbrella which has one of the best anchor systems available.
Always look for a beach umbrella that offers UPF protection for your best chance against the sun’s harmful UV rays. Most beach umbrellas have some UPF protection, but we recommend looking for models that offer UPF 50+, such as the Shibumi Shade.
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