The weather in Hong Kong can be unpredictable. The sun could be shining in the morning and a grey sky appears in the afternoon and rain starts to pour. Does it make sense to have an umbrella in your bag when you go out? Well, apart from keeping the rain off, an umbrella also provides protection against fierce sunlight. So, pay attention to the quality of your umbrella, its UV protection ability and its weight. If you’re looking for a durable and practical umbrella to carry with you during the rainy season then this shopping guide is for you!

1. UV coverage

Many people want to maintain a fair skin tone, so sun protection is a priority. If you are afraid of getting a tan from direct sunlight, apply sunscreen or use a UV umbrella to protect yourself. But remember, it is impossible to achieve 100% sun protection, so don't blindly believe everything the ads tell you. Although an umbrella made from light coloured materials is effective against the sun, one made from dark or black coloured materials is less likely to reflect light from the ground and in fact offers more protection.

2. Material

The design of umbrellas has become increasingly diverse in recent years and the fabrics and materials used on umbrellas have also changed. Some umbrellas are made of linen and lace to meet market demand, but these materials are less effective in blocking light and are less durable, so their lifespans are relatively short. If you want to resist UV light, choose an umbrella with a more durable material such as polyester to provide the proper amount of shade.

3. Convenience

Always carry an umbrella in summer just in case of sudden downpours. If your bag is heavy, choose an umbrella that is compact and light. Some have an auto-open/close function, making them convenient for city dwellers. Now you can open and close your umbrella even if your hands are full!

4. Sturdiness

As mentioned earlier, a lightweight umbrella can reduce the weight of your bag, but does a lightweight frame mean that it is less sturdy and would tear in a typhoon? No! In recent years, many umbrellas have switched to using highly flexible materials such as carbon and carbon steel for the frame and ribs. Aluminum is also combined with carbon fiber to create lightweight and durable umbrellas that are not only slimmer than traditional ones, but also stronger.

5. Aesthetics

In recent years, different brands have been actively collaborating with each other to launch cross-over products. Raingear is no exception, with familiar cartoons and anime characters on umbrellas, making this type of product popular with adults and children alike. Imagine having your favorite cartoon or anime character with you when out on a dark and rainy day! A sweet little blessing!

Like many people, you may have a similar question like this one. "There are so many different kinds of umbrellas, which one should I buy?” We have prepared some of the most common situations in daily life to help you choose the right one.

Scenario 1: Afternoon thunderstorms

It's hot and humid in Hong Kong during the summer with fierce sunshine in the morning and torrential rain in the afternoon, making it difficult to decide whether to bring an umbrella. Weighing in at just 72g, the AMVEL Pentagon 72 is a compact and lightweight umbrella that is easy to carry around in your bag every day. The black lining of the umbrella fabric blocks UV rays and makes sure you won't get drenched should it start to pour!

Scenario 2: Sun protection and whitening

As the maximum temperature in Hong Kong is rising every year, UV rays have become more intense. In addition to physical and chemical protection such as umbrellas; jackets and sunscreen are essential. A dark sunscreen material inside an umbrella can help to achieve the best results. The Unnurella Water Repellent Umbrella offers 99% UV protection which is just what you need for everyday use!

Scenario 3: Giant umbrella for the rainy season

Expect heavy rains during the wet season with rain falling five or six days a week and even a typhoon or two! This is the time to choose a large, sturdy umbrella. An AMVEL VERYKAL Large automatic folding umbrella is what you need! It’s a lightweight, but strong carbon fibre umbrella with a large and sturdy surface. No fear of it being damaged by the wind! It also opens to 107x62 cm to give you complete protection on typhoon days!