When it comes to British weather, specifically the rain, most of us have had the uncomfortable experience of being out and caught in it. There's almost nothing worse than being unprepared and getting soaked as you try to get home or run errands.
Of course, another common issue to occur is that we can find ourselves out in particularly tough or windy weather conditions and that our umbrella simply can't withstand this.
Most umbrellas are made quite cheaply and are quite frail, so at the first sign of windy or difficult weather, they snap.
But, there is a quick way to solve this problem: purchasing a durable and sturdy umbrella. That's why we've rounded up the best umbrellas, whether you're looking for a small or large one, wind-resistant, heavy or light, we have got you covered.
So you can wave goodbye to having to constantly replace your umbrella for a new one and find your ideal plan:
The best umbrellas in the UK:
Just so you know, while we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this page, we never allow this to influence product selections.
Editor's pick
This is an overall excellent product, ideal for tough or windy weather. We love that it's so lightweight and compact, making it super easy to transport around. It's available in seven different colours so you have plenty of options to choose from.
Review: "Very happy with this umbrella! The open-close mechanism works smoothly and is very handy when walking out into the rain and tight spaces. Has saved me from getting partially drenched when opening my umbrella while getting off the train on more than one occasion! It dries off very quickly, with just a couple of quick shakes, and most of the moisture comes off. Gone are the days of wet floors and umbrella puddles :)"
Best for two people
Don't be fooled by the name, this product by ZOMAKE is great for everyone. Due to its double canopy design, the umbrella is much easier to hold in difficult weather conditions than others, it's basically windproof. Again, this product has a wide range of colours and patterns available, so you're not stuck choosing between the usual umbrella colours. It's also incredibly large, so it's ideal for walking along with your partner or friends.
Review: "Amazing umbrella. It's gigantic, keeps me free from rain, and is really a steal for its price. I have used it a couple of times, one of those times the umbrella flew up, but it came down again without a hassle, and nothing appears to be ruined from it. If you need a big umbrella for a windy area, you don't need to be a man to buy this!"
Most lightweight
www.totes.co.uk
Another compact and impeccably sturdy umbrella. It's incredibly easy to transport and carry around, it also boasts a very cute and unique design.
Review: "Beautiful well made umbrella delivered quickly and very well packaged. Thoroughly recommend."
Best for stormy weather
This Fulton Stormshield umbrella is excellent for braving difficult and tough weather conditions. An extra feature is that the shaft is made out of non-conductive fibreglass, so you can rest assured you won't be struck by lightning. It's very well suited for both men and women.
Review: "This is the only umbrella I will ever purchase. It is an exceptional piece of kit. Lightweight, sturdy, VERY strong, classy, easy grip to hold securely, holds up EXCEPTIONALLY in strong wet and windy weather. It was one of the best purchases I have ever made. Don’t hesitate, buy one. I love well-designed, quality, and ergonomic products like this. It’s a rarity these days."
Recommended
If you're going for any windy walks, especially in the countryside, this is the umbrella to bring with you! Due to the dome design and the fact that it's made from fibreglass and PVC, means it's uber wind-resistant and ensures you don't ever get wet. We also love that it comes in several different colours!
Review: "This is a good quality, strong umbrella whose design makes it easy to stay dry on rainy days. Because of its deep dome, it's also better on windy days than its shallower counterparts. It's fun looking out at the rain through the clear polythene and staying dry inside. I couldn't go back to a standard umbrella after this one and thoroughly recommend it to anyone who values good workmanship and functionality!"
Most versatile
Aside from having a really cute design, this umbrella is incredibly versatile. The reversible feature allows you to easily carry it, and it also prevents you from having to trudge around with a rain-soaked umbrella. This is also a great choice for anyone wanting an umbrella for sun protection as it features UV protection.
Review: "So happy with this! After spending money on cheap umbrellas all the time only for them to break in the slightest of winds I decided to spend the extra on this... I love the design and the fact its perfect for hands-free which really helps when pushing a buggy! Doesn't turn inside out in the wind... Really sturdy".
Best for kids
Need an umbrella for your children or grandchildren? This umbrella doesn't just have a fun design, it's also very lightweight and pretty wind resistant. It also comes in four different kid designs so there's plenty to pick from.
Review: "Fab fun umbrella! I was expecting a child's umbrella to be a bit light & flimsy but this is great! Love the dragon wing details & the handle shaped like a knight's sword!! My little boy just wants more rain now..."
FAQs:
What is a reverse umbrella?
A reverse umbrella basically inverts so that you can easily carry it inside out, apart from making it much easier to transport, it also ensures you don't need to trudge around a soaked umbrella that keeps getting your shoes and the rest of your clothes wet.