Umbrellas

When choosing the size and shape of an umbrella, you need to consider the area you want to shade, and the purpose of the area. For example, for a dining table or small seating area, a smaller umbrella of 2.3-3m in diameter could suffice. For larger areas, umbrellas 3.3m and up, or rectangular shapes may be better. The umbrella should extend far enough to comfortably cover the area, with some overhang, to provide maximum shade coverage. The shapes of umbrellas include round, square, rectangular, octagonal and hexagonal. Consider that a square or rectangular umbrella may be a better fit for an angular space, where as round, hexagonal, or octagonal umbrellas are better for more open and free-form spaces. The shape should align with the shape of the area it is covering.

Solution-dyed fabric refers to a fabric where the color is added to the fiber before it's spun into yarn, rather than being dyed after the fabric has been woven. This process ensures that the color penetrates the entire fiber, making the fabric highly resistant to fading and discoloration from prolonged sun exposure and washing. Solution-dyed fabrics are an important consideration when choosing an outdoor umbrella because colorfastness and durability are very important, as they are exposed to the elements and can be expected to last a long time.

Wind resistance varies significantly among different umbrella models and brands. Factors that contribute to a higher wind resistance include the design of the frame - with thicker, sturdier aluminum or stainless steel components - as well as a robust central pole. Cantilever umbrellas have a higher tendency to topple in the wind, as all of the weight is on one side, and they must have additional features such as strong base plates, weighted bases, or wind stabilizers to withstand strong winds. Many manufacturers also provide wind ratings, typically measured in kilometers per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (mph), that specify the amount of wind an umbrella can withstand. The shape of an umbrella also contributes to how well it will perform in the wind - for example a square umbrella is typically more stable than a large round one. A wind rating between 30-60 kph is common, but many umbrellas have higher wind ratings than that.

Key adjustable features to look for include: tilting mechanisms, allowing the canopy to be angled to block low-lying sun; 360-degree rotation, enabling the umbrella to track the sun's movement throughout the day; and variable height settings to accommodate different settings. Cantilever umbrellas tend to be the most flexible and adaptable to sun positions, but also the most expensive. Check if the umbrella has a crank lift system or a foot pedal for easier operation. "Infinite" tilt mechanisms allow you to stop at any position in a tilt, as opposed to pre-set positions.