Hiking is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors and get fresh air while taking in some spectacular sights. However, not every hiking trip is going to be all rainbows and butterflies in terms of weather.
One of the most significant downsides to hiking outdoors can be the weather — it can get too hot, too cold, or may even start to rain! One way to enjoy the outdoors while getting some protection from inclement weather is to carry a hiking umbrella with you.
Hiking umbrellas are great options for avid hikers who spend a lot of time hiking under the blazing sun. They can protect you from rainy weather without causing you to experience sauna-like conditions (like you would inside of a rain jacket or poncho).
They’re so multifunctional, which is why I always keep one in the trunk of my car whenever I go on outdoor adventures! Some of the more compact ones are great for travel, too!
Among the smaller handful of hiking umbrella options, a select few stand out. We’ll dive into the bunch in more detail below.
Before selecting a hiking umbrella from this list, you’ll want to consider a few things! For each item, you should take into consideration design features such as weight, size, canopy material, size, handle, and durability. This type of information will ultimately help you pick the best hiking umbrella for you.
Keep reading to discover the best hiking umbrella for your needs!
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Table of Contents
The Many Benefits Of A Hiking Umbrella
An umbrella can be essential for hiking, particularly during inclement weather conditions. It can protect you from rain, snow, hail, or even intense sunlight while allowing you to stay warm without overheating.
In many instances, if you’re hiking in tropical weather (meaning it’s raining but the weather is still warm outside), wearing a rain jacket in the event of a downpour can cause discomfort as temperatures can rise inside the jacket.
Umbrellas are perfect for these situations as they allow for undisrupted airflow, keeping you cool and enabling you to enjoy your hike without becoming a sweaty mess. Additionally, a hiking umbrella can help prevent your backpack or other belongings from getting soaked, which would only increase the overall weight of your backpack.
They’re game-changers if you plan on hiking or backpacking in areas where monsoons and hurricane weather are prevalent.
You can also use an umbrella to provide shade during sunny hikes, which can help prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion. In my opinion, this is one of the most underrated uses of umbrellas!
Other added benefits of using an umbrella while hiking or backpacking include:
- using it as a walking stick
- as a way to defend yourself against wild animals such as snakes
- as a privacy screen
- as an anchor point for a shelter or tarp
As you can see, there are so many good reasons to carry one with you on your next hike! Overall, having an umbrella when hiking is a wise investment to enhance your safety and comfort during the journey!
What Are The Different Types Of Hiking Umbrellas?
Hiking umbrellas are specially designed for outdoor enthusiasts and come in various types and styles to meet different needs. Here are the main types of hiking umbrellas:
Compact Umbrella
Small and lightweight, designed for short hikes and light rain. It usually has a small canopy and a lightweight frame, as well as a telescopic handle to shrink its length, making it easy to pack and carry.
Lightweight Umbrella
Slightly larger than a compact umbrella and typically made from lightweight materials like carbon fiber or aluminum. It is designed for longer hikes and more extreme weather conditions and can handle moderate winds and rain.
Trekking Umbrella
Often larger and more durable than lightweight umbrellas. It usually has features like reinforced ribs and a larger canopy to provide maximum protection. It is made from heavy-duty materials like fiberglass and can withstand strong winds and heavy rain.
Regular Umbrella
While not specifically designed for hiking, you can still use an ordinary umbrella on hiking trips if you’re in a pinch. They are often larger and heavier than other hiking umbrellas but can provide more coverage and protection from the elements.
Despite that, they might not be as durable as trekking umbrellas and may not hold up well in harsh outdoor conditions.
Features To Consider When Choosing A Hiking Umbrella
When choosing a hiking umbrella, there are several essential features you should consider — depending on what your priorities are.
Weight
The weight of your chosen hiking umbrella holds significant importance, particularly when venturing on longer hikes where each ounce carried can impact your overall comfort and endurance!
Opting for a lightweight umbrella can be a game-changer, as materials like carbon fiber or aluminum are purposefully designed to minimize weight without compromising durability. By reducing the load you carry, you’ll enjoy a more enjoyable and energy-efficient hiking experience, allowing you to explore the trails with greater ease.
Size
The ease of carrying your hiking umbrella is crucial, especially when navigating diverse terrains. If you’re the type of person who likes to toss your umbrella INSIDE of your pack, look for umbrellas that are designed with portability in mind, featuring telescopic handles and folding mechanisms that allow it fit comfortably into your backpack.
Some models are just one length no matter if they’re open or closed, which will require you to strap it to the outside of your pack, like trekking poles are strapped.
Canopy material
The canopy should be durable and water-resistant to provide maximum protection from the elements.
Look for umbrellas constructed from high-quality materials that can endure the challenges of the trail. Materials like nylon or polyester are common choices.
You should opt for options that are not only resilient but also provide adequate protection against UV rays and potential rain showers.
Canopy size
The size of the umbrella’s canopy plays a vital role in its effectiveness. A larger canopy provides more coverage, offering protection from both rain and sun. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between canopy size and portability.
A canopy that’s too large might become cumbersome on the trail, while one that’s too small may not offer sufficient coverage. Evaluate your personal needs and hiking conditions to determine the ideal canopy size that ensures maximum comfort and protection.
Handle
A comfortable and ergonomic grip is essential for extended use during hikes.
The umbrella handle should be comfortable to hold, especially if you’ll be using it for extended periods. Rubber or foam handles can provide a comfortable grip.
Some models even feature non-slip materials or contouring for enhanced handling, ensuring that you can confidently hold the umbrella in various weather conditions without fatigue.
Durability
A durable umbrella is essential for hiking trips, as you often get exposed to harsh weather conditions while out. Look for umbrellas made from durable materials like fiberglass and reinforced ribs to help ensure they can withstand strong winds and heavy rain.
Versatility
Consider the umbrella’s versatility and adaptability to different outdoor scenarios. Some hiking umbrellas come with adjustable angles or tilting mechanisms, allowing you to effectively shield yourself from rain, wind, or sun at various angles.
This adaptability ensures that your hiking umbrella remains a valuable asset, providing protection across changing weather conditions and elevations.
7 Best Hiking Umbrellas For Your Next Adventure
There is a range of umbrellas specially designed for hiking, but as with everything, some are better than others. The following describes a handful of the best umbrellas for hiking, including some pros and cons of each brand.
1. Six Moon Designs Silver Shadow Carbon
Six Moon Designs Silver Shadow Carbon is an excellent hiking umbrella that has a carbon fiber shaft, ribs, and spreader, ensuring it’s lightweight enough for you to hit the trails.
Weighing in at a mere 8.9 oz, the Silver Shadow Carbon is engineered to be impressively lightweight, ensuring it won’t add unnecessary bulk to your gear. It is a full-sized umbrella measuring 37 inches when open and only 25 inches when packed.
Let’s touch on rain protection first. The Silver Shadow Carbon boasts exceptional waterproof capabilities, keeping you dry and comfortable when unexpected rain showers roll in. Additionally, its sturdy construction and advanced design ensure optimal performance against moderate wind conditions, making it a versatile choice for various hiking environments.
Crafted with high-quality UV-resistant materials, this umbrella also offers exceptional sun protection, helping you stay cool and safe during your hike, even in scorching conditions.
Its large silver reflective outer surface protects you from blazing sunlight, while the black underside absorbs wandering rays, allowing you to walk cooler and better protected. Try it for yourself in sunlight — you can definitely feel the difference when using it to keep cool in hot conditions!
Ultimately, the size, weight, and adaptability of the umbrella make it great not just for hiking conditions, but for all kinds of umbrella needs.
Product Specs:
- Fiberglass Frame With EVA Foam Handle
- Weight: 8.9 oz (252 g)
- Closed Length: 25″ (63.5 cm)
- Open Width: 37″ (94 cm)
- UPF Rating: 50+
Pros:
- Small enough to strap to a pack strap
- The material stands up to mild abrasion from branches and twigs
- Silver material and black underside provides great protection from the sun
- The foam grip provides good comfort
Cons:
- Does not withstand heavy gusts of wind very well
- Fixed shaft length makes it a bit longer (you may need to hang it outside your backpack like trekking poles)
2. EuroSchirm Swing Liteflex Umbrella
Elevate your hiking game with the EuroSchirm Swing Liteflex Umbrella, an innovative and lightweight outdoor accessory designed to transform your outdoor adventures. Crafted with precision and using advanced materials, this umbrella is your go-to solution for versatile protection against the elements.
Shield yourself from intense UV rays and sudden rain showers with the Swing Liteflex Umbrella’s expansive canopy. Crafted with UV-resistant materials, it provides reliable sun protection while also offering a waterproof shield against unexpected downpours.
This fantastic trekking umbrella weighs only 8.64 ounces (0.55 pounds), with a fiberglass frame, EVA handle, and polyester material. It is a highly flexible, strong, and almost unbreakable umbrella perfect for the outdoors!
As a bonus, this umbrella features a Teflon coating, which is excellent at repelling water and soil resistance. Do note that has a fixed-length shaft which inevitably makes it larger. Having said that, you could easily strap it to the outside of your pack, like you do with trekking poles.
- Fiberglass Frame With EVA Foam Handle
- Weight: 8.64 oz (0.55 pounds)
- Closed Length: 25″ (63.5 cm)
- Open Width:37.5″ (95.3 cm)
- Canopy:45″ (114.3 cm)
Pros:
- The lightweight polyester canopy makes it easy to carry
- Teflon coating is excellent at repelling water and soil resistance
- 2-year warranty against manufacture defects
- It comes with a lightweight sleeve case that features a carrying strap
Cons:
- It doesn’t handle well in strong winds
- Fixed shaft length makes it a bit longer (you may need to hang it outside your backpack like trekking poles)
3. EuroSCHIRM Swing Trek Umbrella
Crafted with durability and functionality in mind, the EuroSCHIRM Swing Trek Umbrella is designed to enhance your hiking experience in various conditions. From sun-soaked trails to sudden rain showers, the Swing Trek Umbrella has you covered every step of the way.
The Swing Trek Umbrella’s canopy offers good coverage, shielding you from the sun’s harmful rays and keeping you dry during unexpected rain showers.
Built to withstand the outdoor elements, the Swing Trek Umbrella features a robust frame and durable materials. Its reinforced design ensures optimal performance against gusts of wind and other challenging conditions, making it a reliable companion on the trail.
This sturdy umbrella features a stainless steel frame, an ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) handle, and polyester material. The umbrella is 25.2” in height and 39.4” in width when open; therefore, it offers the perfect sized coverage while moving!
Product Specs:
- Stainless Steel Frame With EVA Foam Handle
- Weight: 11.2 oz (0.7 pounds)
- Closed Length: 25.2″ (64 cm)
- Open Width: 39.4″ (100 cm)
Pros:
- Quick-release mechanisms and ergonomic handles
- It keeps you dry during rainfall as long as the rain doesn’t come in sideways
- Easy to open and close
- The silver coating on the outside can double as a light reflector for photography
Cons:
- It doesn’t handle too well in strong winds
- Slightly higher weight compared to more minimalist hiking umbrellas
- Due to its larger dimensions, the Swing Trek Umbrella might require additional space in your backpack (or hang it outside like trekking poles)
4. Gossamer Gear Umbrella
The world’s lightest full-size trekking umbrella is now even lighter! Coming in at just 6.3 ounces, this trusty sidekick will keep you out of the rain or the sun without weighing you down whatsoever.
The Gossamer Gear Lightrek Umbrella is the perfect option for hikers looking for an extremely lightweight alternative to having to wear sweaty rain gear while hiking!
The umbrella’s frame, crafted from lightweight aluminum, is strategically designed to provide reliable support while remaining impressively lightweight. This makes it an excellent choice for long hikes, outdoor adventures, and travel, as its featherweight design won’t weigh you down during extended use.
The Gossamer Gear Umbrella’s canopy is crafted from advanced materials that enhance its weather-resistant properties. The specialized fabric repels rainwater effectively, preventing it from seeping through and keeping you comfortably dry even during heavy downpours.
It’s also great for blocking sunlight! Previous customers praise this umbrella for being able to lower the feel of the sun up to 15 degrees.
It is only 25” long and 1.7” wide when packed, and the dome becomes 37.5” wide when opened. All in all, it’s a great option if lightweight or ultralight is what you prioritize in your gear!
Product Specs:
- Aluminum frame with high-density foam handle
- Canopy: 100% polyester with coating for high water and dirt repellence | UPF 50+rating
- Weight: 6.3 oz (0.4 pounds)
- Open and Closed Length: 25″ (63.5 cm)
- Open Width: 37.5″ (95.3 cm)
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Pairs effortlessly well with their Handsfree Umbrella Clamp
- Keeps you really cool while hiking in hot temperatures
Cons:
- Not a conducive option for windy conditions
- The short shaft (25 inches) limits the distance between yourself and the umbrella
5. Zpacks Ultralight Hiking Umbrella
The Zpacks Ultralight Hiking Umbrella is the ultimate solution to taking cover from scorching sun and relentless downpours during your outdoor escapades. First off, its construction has resulted in one of the world’s lightest backpacking umbrellas, tipping the scales at a mere 6.8 ounces.
The umbrella features a polyester fabric treated with Teflon water-repellent treatment, ensuring that raindrops bead off the surface effortlessly. Crafted with a silver exterior, the Zpacks Ultralight Hiking Umbrella takes sun protection to the next level too. Its innovative design effectively reflects sunlight away, keeping you cool and shielded from the harshest rays. It also boasts a UPF40 rating, safeguarding your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays!
Designed with your comfort in mind, the umbrella features a foam grip handle that offers a comfortable and secure hold. The adjustable wrist strap adds convenience, allowing you to keep the umbrella within easy reach without straining your hand.
And as a testament to its quality and durability, the umbrella is backed by a two-year limited warranty against defects in materials or workmanship. This assurance underscores the brand’s commitment to producing gear that is built to withstand the challenges of outdoor adventures!
Don’t have a backpack that has built-in clips? You can grab theirUmbrella Holsterfor hands-free use.
Product Specs:
- High-density fiberglass with foam grip handle and adjustable wrist strap.
- Canopy: polyester fabric with Teflon water-repellent treatment, silver on the outside to block the sun. UPF40.
- Weight: 6.8 ounces (0.43 pounds)
- Open and Closed Length: 25″ (63.5 cm)
- Open Diameter: 38″ (96.5 cm)
Pros:
- It can handle even the heaviest downpours
- The canopy has a rating of UPF 40
- The silver on the outside keeps you cool on hot days
- Comes with 2-year limited warranty
Cons:
- May struggle in high winds
6. Sea To Summit Ultra-Sil Trekking Umbrella
Another superb trekking umbrella is the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Umbrella. This umbrella stands as a remarkable example of compact size combined with exceptional functionality, making it a must-have for adventurers seeking ultimate packability without compromising on performance.
Crafted from waterproof and tear-resistant 30D siliconized CORDURA nylon, this umbrella is your steadfast shield against raindrops and harsh UV rays. With a UPF rating of 50+, it ensures that you’re shielded from harmful sun exposure, keeping you comfortable and safeguarded in various weather conditions.
At the heart of this umbrella’s appeal is its remarkable compact size and lightweight construction. Engineered to be your portable shelter, it collapses down to a mere 9.5 inches, making it incredibly easy to carry and store in your backpack or travel gear.
Despite its compact size, the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Trekking Umbrella doesn’t skimp on performance. The umbrella’s frame is fortified with solid brass rivets, ensuring exceptional strength and durability that remain despite constant usage.
For added convenience and organization, the umbrella comes complete with an Ultra-Sil storage sleeve. But most importantly, reflecting the brand’s dedication to excellence, the umbrella is backed by a lifetime guarantee against defects in materials or workmanship.
Product Specs:
- Aircraft-grade aluminum shaft with a rubberized handle.
- Canopy: tear-resistant 30D siliconized Cordura nylon | UPF 50+
- Weight: 8.5 ounces (0.53 pounds)
- Open Length: 23″ (58.4 cm)
- Closed Length: 9.5″ (24 cm)
- Open Diameter: 38″ (96.5 cm)
Pros:
- It is super compact (packs up to less than 10 inches when closed), making it easy to pack
- It opens and closes easily
- Travel friendly
- Comes with lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Not great for windy conditions
7. Montbell Trekking Umbrella
The Montbell Trekking Umbrella is lightweight and compact. It has a shorter rib length to make it lighter and more compact, perfect for the avid hiker who needs to be able to pack things up neatly. This fantastic umbrella features high-quality materials, including a flexible aluminum frame and a durable polyester canopy.
The Montbell Trekking Umbrella boasts an impressive combination of technical specifications that set it apart. With a featherlight weight of just 5.3 ounces, it won’t burden your pack weight. Its 38.6-inch canopy provides decent coverage, too. This umbrella’s water-repellent coating and wind resistance ensure reliable performance in varying conditions, making it an essential hiking accessory.
Product Specs:
- Weight 5.3 oz (150 g)
- Material Canopy: 20-denier polyester ripstop (water-repellent finish)
- Iron and aluminum shaft
- Closed Length: 9.8 in (25 cm)
- Open Width: 38.6 in (98cm)
- Extended shaft length: 20.9 in (53cm)
Pros:
- It is easy to carry in a backpack or a pocket
- Its flexible frames make it resistant to gusts of wind
- Its canopy has a waterproof coating treatment to prevent raindrops from seeping through
- The handle features an ergonomic design, making it comfortable to hold
Cons:
- Not as durable as some of the other heavier options
- Not an excellent choice for thunderstorms or heavier rainfall
How To Attach An Umbrella To Your Backpack
How To Attach An Umbrella To Your Backpack (Closed)
Attaching a hiking umbrella to the outside of your backpack when it’s closed can be a convenient way to carry it while you’re on the move. I like strapping my umbrella to the outside of my pack so that I can have access to it at any moment’s notice — without having to take off my backpack and dig for it.
Follow these steps to attach your closed umbrella to your backpack:
- Choose a Loop or Strap: Locate a loop or strap on your backpack where you can attach the umbrella. This could be a dedicated umbrella holder, a compression strap, or a gear loop. You can even use the same loops that you’d place your trekking poles in.
- Secure the Umbrella: Hold the umbrella vertically with the handle pointing downward. Insert the handle through the loops or straps on your backpack.
- Check how stable it is: Give the umbrella a gentle tug to make sure it’s securely attached to the backpack. Make sure that the umbrella won’t easily slip out while you’re walking.
- Adjustment: If your umbrella has a telescopic shaft, you can adjust the length to make sure it’s not sticking out too much or obstructing your movement.
How To Attach An Umbrella To Your Backpack When In Use
Attaching an open umbrella to your backpack in the rain can help keep you and your backpack dry while you’re on the go. This hands-free way of using an umbrella is a game-changer!
Follow these steps to attach your open umbrella to your backpack during rainy conditions:
- Open the Umbrella: Open the umbrella fully, making sure the canopy is spread out and secure.
- Secure the Umbrella: Hold the opened umbrella against the back of your backpack. Make sure the handle is pointing downward.
- Strap or Loop: If your backpack has a designated clip, insert the shaft of the umbrella through it to secure it. Then, stick the handle of the umbrella through a compression strap, bungee strap, or any available attachment points.
- Stabilize: Adjust the position of the umbrella so that it’s securely attached and won’t easily shift or sway while you’re walking.
- Check for Coverage: Ensure that the open umbrella adequately covers both you and your backpack. Adjust the angle of the umbrella if necessary to maximize coverage.
- Stay Aware: While walking, be mindful of the extended umbrella to avoid bumping into obstacles or other people.
This neat little gadget is the same clip that you would use for a hydration bladder. Your backpack may already come with this clip, but if it doesn’t you can buy the little attachment on Amazon.
A few of the hiking umbrellas we mentioned above also sell hands-free bungee cords and clips too (like the Zpacks Umbrella Holster).
I hope you were able to find the perfect hiking umbrella for your future trips and adventures!
Looking for more travel gear help? You may also like:
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My Top 15 Hiking and Camping Essentials (With Product Recommendations!)
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40 Travel Essentials for Hot Weather and Tropical Climates
