Coolibar UPF 50+ 42 Inch Sodalis Travel Umbrella - Sun Protective

I love this umbrella. This is the second one Ive purchased. I still use the first one I purchased about 12 years ago, but it is silver and is starting to look a little tired . When I saw this umbrella in blue, I thought it was so pretty that I decided to treat myself to a new one. As a resident in San Diego, we have many sunny days, and the UV rating gets higher all the time. As a fair skinned person, I take UV protection very seriously. Ive tried UV rated clothing, but always felt so uncomfortable due to the type of material used to create the UV protection. They claim to be wicking but that doesnt reduce the warmth I feel. The same goes for wearing a hat. Its just too uncomfortable since all my heat escapes through my head, not to mention how it flattens my hair. Using this umbrella makes the heat and sun very bearable as I walk to the gym or run errands each day, and I can wear sleeveless tank tops without concern for the sun. Of course, Ive been doing this for years so Im used to the odd looks I get sometimes, but most people say, what a great idea. I noticed that some reviews complain about the weight of the umbrella since it is considered a travel umbrella. This weight is caused by the thickness of the spines, which is what makes it such a quality umbrella. But holding it in position has never felt uncomfortable to me at all. This sturdiness is really helpful on windy days. On very windy days I have had it turn inside out, but I just turned the umbrella to face the opposite direction and it reverted back to its original shape. I have since learned how to hold the umbrella so that the dome faces the wind, and it wont turn inside out. However, this happens only on extremely windy days. As far as comfort goes, I once went to a store opening event and upon arrival saw the the line to get in was long and shade was limited; most people were standing in the sun. I did not have my UV umbrella with me, so I grabbed the small black rain umbrella I keep in the car. As I stood in line, I felt the heat despite of the shade that the umbrella provided. It was stifling! That is the problem with regular umbrellas since they dont reflect the sun so you get heated while using them. The Coolibar umbrella stays cool underneath and is very comfortable. I think the $49 price of Coolibars umbrella is reasonable for the quality. I paid the same price 12 years ago, and in the case of umbrellas, you definitely get what you pay for. I highly recommend this umbrella for anyone who is concerned about UV rays and being comfortable in the sun.

This is a great umbrella for sun protection. It does a good job of keeping you cool. However, I wanted a light umbrella and the weight in the description is inaccurate so its a bit heavy to carry on my morning walk in addition to a water bottle. On my kitchen scale the weight reads 1 lb 8 oz.

I live in Texas and use this umbrella every single day. It really keeps the sun off and provides shade while talking my daily walk. I walk about two miles every day and just had too much sun on my head and face. This is instant shade. I love it.

Good sun protection. It does feel a little flimsy compared to the other top brand, but its not for busting the wind; its for protection against sun damage. The other brand doesnt consistently produce the 43 umbrella, and that one is only available through one vendor; so this meets that gap. I bought two and use one everyday.

Amazing quality umbrella, however not as Travel friendly as I’d hoped for. ESPECIALLY if you have limited space. It’s also VERY bulky & Heavy. Originally got this item to carry in my side bag when out and about, sad to say this will not be happening. I will only be using it for actual bad weather.. but still great quality!

Smaller than what I thought. Feels light weight at flimsy but works amazingly well at keeping the heat off of you.

Kept me cool in the Ca sunshine!

I received this umbrella in April but delayed writing a review until Ive actually used it. Its been really hot lately but its cool under this umbrella unlike the ones without UPF. Unfortunately 2 ribs have broken off & poked a hole in the material. I contacted Coolibar & they will send me a replacement. Its on back order until 8/15/13 but Ill wait - its worth waiting for.

I love this umbrella. Works great in the rain and creates shade when Im at outdoor events. Im the kind of person who gets unfortunately burned despite a hat and sunblock so this is a must for me while living in sunny southern CA. Others have mentioned concerns about the weight and sturdiness of this umbrella. For me, this lives in my purse and only comes out during periods where Ill be in the sun for extended periods or when it rains. In the 2 months Ive had it it has stood up well so far, though Ive probably only used it on 10 occasions.

Heavy but very effective. Standing in line or walking in the hot sun. A lifesaver for me.