Small umbrella
For a modern person, an umbrella is an indispensable accessory, which is primarily used to protect against rain. Now it is difficult even to believe that the first Briton, who decided to go out into the rain with an umbrella over his head, became the object of ridicule of the townspeople.
In the middle of the 18th century, this thing was used exclusively by ladies and only for protection from the sun.
Views
Modern life dictates its own terms. A person is on the move all the time, and he often simply does not have the ability to adapt to the vagaries of the weather, especially in the form of precipitation. He needs to be ready for them. Therefore, small umbrellas are becoming more and more popular, which when folded can fit in a handbag or car glove compartment. The cane umbrella, with all its elegance and reliability, becomes in this case a burdensome thing.
If classic umbrellas have a dome diameter of 96 to 102 cm, then small umbrellas are smaller.
It can be:
- Mini umbrellas with a dome diameter of less than 85 cm;
- Small umbrellas. Diameter 85–95 cm.
The number of additions can be different:
- 2-3 additions (mainly for men);
- 4–5 additions (mostly female, but there are also male ones).
Folding models can be opened and closed in the following way:
- Mechanical;
- Semi-automatic;
- Automatic.
Folded size can be:
- 20-30 cm;
- Less than 20 cm.
Umbrellas are stored:
- In a case or;
- In a case.
The Happy Rain Mybrella umbrella is only 15 and a half centimeters folded. The dome diameter is as much as 95 cm!
The accessory folds mechanically into five folds and is stored in a small neat case less than 17 centimeters long.
How to choose?
When choosing, it is worth considering a number of the following characteristics of this accessory:
- Opening method;
- The number of additions;
- Number of spokes;
- The material from which the individual parts are made (dome and frame - knitting needles, rod);
- The weight;
- Dimensions folded and unfolded.
Mechanical models are considered more durable and reliable than automatic ones, but they may not be very comfortable, as they take longer to open and close. Mechanical versions usually have a larger dome than automatic ones.
The more folds, the more vulnerable spots the accessory has. In matters of reliability, small folding umbrellas will always play the cane model. When buying, it is worth checking how strong the umbrella is at the joints of the rod parts.
To do this, the accessory must be shaken slightly when unfolded to ensure that no parts of the rod are loose.
Materials and construction
It's good if the umbrella has at least eight spokes. Models with more than ten spokes are distinguished by the increased reliability of the dome, but they are also not cheap.
The dome material can also be different:
- Pongee is a very durable fabric that does not absorb moisture. In the composition - cotton.
- Satin is also characterized by high strength and is treated with a special water-repellent impregnation. The use of such fabrics in the manufacture of umbrellas determines the high cost of the finished product.
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The fabric of the dome can be 100% polyester or nylon. Nylon fabric is thinner and softer than polyester fabric and may fade (nylon is UV sensitive).
The frame can be made:
- Of steel;
- Aluminum;
- Plastics.
The steel construction is the most reliable, but such an item weighs much more than with a rod made of aluminum or plastic. Umbrellas with spokes made of aluminum are not designed for use in strong winds, as they can easily break if it blows. But such a thing is very easy.
In windy conditions, umbrellas with fiberglass needles can be used. This is a strong and resilient material, so the spokes will not break, but the canopy can twist.
Mini umbrellas
Mini models usually fold in 5 folds. Thanks to this, they have a short folded length and can easily fit even into a handbag. Some manufacturers allow the use of such umbrellas in light winds, since they provide them with an anti-wind system - they specially strengthen the spokes. However, the breakdown of this accessory in case of strong gusts of wind is still not a warranty case.
A mini umbrella in a case can be a nice gift. This practical thing as a presentation will be an expression of your concern for the person being gifted. Currently, five-fold mini-models are produced not only for women, but also for men, who also appreciated the convenience of storage and compactness of this accessory.
Buyers using the same Mybrella note that, despite its diminutive size, the umbrella is very reliable and more than once helped out in unexpected rain, and even withstood gusts of wind, the spokes remained intact. Mybrella is very light, weighing approximately 170g.
This model also has its drawbacks associated with its compactness. This is not a very comfortable handle. The dome is small, and only one person can hide under it. The mechanical opening method does not allow opening and closing the umbrella with one hand. Mybrella can be lost due to its compact size.
You need to store Mybrella in a case, especially if you constantly carry an umbrella in your bag with other things. Otherwise, the fabric of the dome may become unusable.
How to care?
In order for the accessory to serve you for a long time, you must follow certain rules for using the product.
- It must be opened and closed in accordance with the type of mechanism: when buying, you should consult the seller on how to do this correctly.
- It is important to dry your umbrella properly. Do not cover a wet canopy. First, the umbrella must be opened and placed away from heat sources in order for the glass to water. You need to dry it in a half-closed state (without fastening the strap), it is better to hang it by the handle.When drying in the open form, the fabric of the dome may stretch, which will affect the strength of the frame (it may simply loosen).
- It is not recommended to clean the fabric of the dome with harsh chemicals and liquids. Use ordinary soapy water for this, then rinse this solution from the surface of the dome with warm water.
For protection from the sun, use special umbrellas, the fabric of the dome of which is protected from UV rays.
- The umbrella should be opened regularly, it should not lie too long when folded. Do this about once a month, even if you don't intend to use it for rain protection.
- If possible, do not use the umbrella in strong winds, keep in mind that in this case, the frame may break.