sungrubbies Premium UV Travel Umbrella Compact Windproof Waterproof Umbrella for Walking 9-Rib Fiberglass Frame Heavy Duty Design Auto

I bought this umbrella and a golf-sized uv blocker for comparison. This one is my favorite. It's a nifty size for one or two. I used it at a windy midday baseball game to fend off the desert sun as we sat on fully exposed bleachers. After an hour, we were totally sunburn-free (but thirsty from the heat and bored by the game). It really did keep us cooler and the windflap thing on top let it blow out and then pop back in place when the wind bluffed up. Having just lost a lesser umbrella to a windgust, I was really happy to see this one sturdily withstand. It's lightweight and easy to hold up, snaps back down easily and is made with quality materials. Apart from the UV blocking and wind resistance, I think my favorite part of this umbrella is how well made it is. Definitely recommend. Read more

I always have trouble being out in the sun, because I overheat quickly. Last summer I gained 10 ish pounds from lack of exercise. Even my doctor commented on my weight-gain. I was determined not to let that happen this summer. I've tried different umbrellas, and this is the best one I've had for sun. I love the material, and it's very effective against heat and sun in my face. I have been using it off and on since I got it. At first the breeze worried me when it pushed my umbrella sides in-side out. I was sure it was going to break, but it hasn't. It seems just flexible enough to withstand a small breeze. I've learned to turn the umbrella so that the breeze helps put it back how it goes. I wouldn't think that it would hold up in big winds, but that's understandable. I was able to watch the 4th of July parade today without overheating, which is amazing! Anytime I'm out in the heat for even a small amount of time, I get weak and need to rest in a cool place. I'd say I'm completely satisfied with this umbrella so far! I saw on another review where it was hard to put back into the bag. The first time I tried, it was hard, but I found if I slow down and make sure I fold it in decently and wrap it with the velcro strap, I'm able to get it into the bag without too much trouble. Its a snug fit, but that's to be expected.. If you're looking for a good sun umbrella, try this one! Read more

I have only used this umbrella 10–20 times thus far, mostly for sun protection, but it seems well-made and works well for both sun and rain. In fact, I've stopped wearing a sun hat, and just take this umbrella instead, which consistently puts my entire head in shadow (unlike a sun hat), and can be converted to a "rain" umbrella for those days when both sun and rain are possible. An ideal walking companion! Edited review: After 15 months, the umbrella is still holding up fairly well — after being subject to strong winds, rain, and sun. There is some slight distortion to the overall form, but no apparent breakage. Everything still works. Read more

1 Star. (SEE UPDATE BELOW and excuse long review but needed). At first, umbrella seemed to be just right and worked fine. About a week ago, it wouldn't close. It seems to be jammed in a stuck open position no and no matter how hard I try (short of breaking it), it will not close. Three weeks and it no longer works? What the heck! It is now useless because how do you go around town trying to enter/exit car or stores with a umbrella that will not close. Today, I have contacted seller through Amazon, explained the situation, and asked for a replacement or refund. Although with a replacement, I run the risk of ending up with the same issue. We'll see. I will update this post as to whether or not seller resolves this problem fairly. If they do not, I will highly recommend against buying this item and describe in more detail its apparent poor/cheap design. Yes, it is "only" a $20 umbrella but who would expect it to only work for 3 weeks before going bad. If not for this issue, I would have given this product at least 4 stars because it's a great sun protection device and a perfect size. For now though, I just gave away $25 bucks for nothing (yet). UPDATE: 4 stars. Great customer service! Just two days afters my initial complaint submittal a new, replacement umbrella has arrive at my doorstep. Sun Grubbies customer service contacted me one day after my complaint, apologized, and said a replacement would be out asap. So to their credit, they backed up their merchandise and proved to be a reliable, trustworthy company. I would surely do business with them again. Regarding the umbrella. The replacement seems to work just fine and I will, to be on the safe side, open and close it extra gently in hopes that I don't encounter the same problem as before (not that I caused it). I will give benefit of the doubt that the first umbrella going bad on me was a fluke. Where as my initial rating was 1 star (see above), my new rating (which includes great customer service)is now a legit 4 stars. Umbrella open/closes fine, provides great sun protection, it's not too heavy, it looks like a sun umbrella, and it appears decently built - time will tell. No problem recommending a "buy" for this item. UPDATE #2 (9-24-12): Still 4 stars! Have had this umbrella for over a year not and it still works great. I do though open and close it with attention to how I'm doing it to be sure I don't inadvertently jam it or force it. I always use the attached strap to secure it close and then toss it in the back seat of my car to be prepared for the next sun scorching day. I still recommend this item and would buy it again should the need arise. Read more

We've only had these a week but my sister and I take them on daily walks. We both avoid the sun but find hats quite hot and not quite adequate for full face and neck coverage. These umbrellas have what appears to be a very sturdy mechanism for opening and closing and definitely not only keep you from sunburn but also make a mini cool climate. I use a larger version for days when I'm alone walking gardens or touring but this smaller size is perfect for travel and for walking with someone who has their own umbrella. It's also handy when the park where we go had the sprinklers running. So far so good. I will say that they are a little heavier than many travel sized umbrellas but I hope that speaks to the metal being sturdy. The last version I had was much lighter broke after very few times being used. Read more

Provides great sun protection. Read more

First one lasted me 3 years, on my second one. Super sturdy, keeps you cool in the sun and strong enough for rain. Absolutely love. Read more