Umbrellas to Get You Through the Rain
The country has been besotted with rain for weeks. And since April showers bring May flowers, everyone's most vital accessory this month is an umbrella. But there are thousands on the market. Which is the best in the wind? Which is the lightest and which is the best bargain?
Sarah Humphreys, executive editor of Real Simple magazine, shared some great recommendations for any rainy conditions that come your way.
1. Lightest: Samsonite Ultra Mini - Tiny and practically weightless, this umbrella can live full-time in your purse. It has a zippered pouch that makes it easy to stash even when wet. Collapsible and better for drizzles rather than downpours. You will love how light and easy to carry this umbrella is at 4.9 ounces and a total 1 and 1/4", the smallest in the world.
Cost: $17; Amazon.com.
2. Best in the Wind: GustBuster - This umbrella has wind-release vents so even gusts of 55 miles an hour can't turn it inside out. The classic hardwood handle makes it guy-friendly. It's made out of 190 thread count nylon canopy - water, bleed and fade proof. It is perfect for city dwellers -- an umbrella that keeps it's form out while you battle the heavy winds.
Cost: $35; Amazon.com.
3. Best for Righting Itself When Turned Inside Out: Davek Traveler - No more fumbling to restore a flipped umbrella. Just press the button and the ribs of the umbrella snap back into position. Comes with a luxe leather strap and is collapsible. The Davek Traveler's Frame is reinforced with fiberglass ligaments and has a solid steel shaft to prevent breakage or rib distortion in strong winds.
Cost: $79; Davekny.com.
4. Best Bargain: Muji Markable - Strong and dependable, this basic stick model manages to feel expensive and study while being lightweight. It's also cheap enough to let the kids use and lose.
Cost: $14;
5. Best Visibility: In the city, it can be a real pain to walk the sidewalks getting hit with umbrellas. So many umbrella models make it difficult to see where you are going. Not so with this model, you will be able to see and be aware of your surroundings. This 70's bubble style update-with its patterned -- but still see-through -- top and clear acrylic handle ensures the fullest possible hair protection.
Cost: $38, Echodesign.com
6. Smoothest Opener: Shanghai Tang Printed - This model springs to life with magic fluidity. Made of two layers of nylon for exceptional heft, it is minimalist on the outside with a cheery interior to put you in a happy mood.
Cost: $65; 212.888.0111 for stores.