It’s happened to all of us at one time or another: You’re scurrying during a rainstorm and a gust of wind flips your cheap umbrella.
Such is the destiny of a disposable umbrella, destined to break after a few uses. Can higher-end umbrellas perform better? Yes. Many of the higher-end umbrellas have a combination of steel and fiberglass to give them strength and flexibility in windy conditions, along with other specialized properties.
The Davek Traveler
On the high end of the high-end spectrum are Davek umbrellas. I tested both the Mini and the Traveler. The most immediately noticeable difference is the material, a water-repellent 190-thread-count microfiber fabric. I managed to flip the outer edge of part of the umbrella, and the ribs flipped right back. Both easily fit in a purse. Between the two umbrellas, it’s worth it to upgrade to the Traveler to have the extra coverage. Traveler $89, Mini, $49 at davekny.com
Gustbuster The Metro
Gustbuster calls itself the “unflippable” umbrella, saying the umbrella is wind-tested by Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology to 55 mph. I was not able to flip it, even as I tried to catch gusts of wind. Several factors contribute to that stability, including the double-canopy design. The automatic-open version of The Metro is 16 inches long, so too big to fit in a purse but a good size for a commuter bag. The longer length gives it a longer diameter, 43 inches, which kept me and my bag dry in the rain. $32.95 at amazon.com
Kikkerland Umbrella Samurai
This tall umbrella — at 39.15 inches long — is designed to look like a samurai sword. Umbrella Samurai, with a 41-inch diameter, provided ample coverage from rain. I managed to force it to flip by holding the umbrella’s inside toward the wind, but it flipped right back. Automatic open, manual close. Comes with a carrying case so you can strap it on your back, just like a samurai would. $35 at kikkerland.com
London Fog Mini Umbrella
A lightweight, compact umbrella at 10 inches in length, it offers plenty of coverage in the rain. The automatic close shook most of the water droplets off the umbrella, a nice touch. The umbrella was hard to flip in gusty conditions, although when one of the outer ribs flipped up, it snapped back into place. I tested three Mini Umbrellas: One quickly broke, but the others held up. $25 at londonfog.com