Trekking Umbrella Guide

Trekking Umbrella Guide

Why use a Trekking Umbrella?

Hiking umbrellas may seem like an odd product at first glance but their low weight and multiple uses is garnering them a cult following among ultralighters in the US and Europe. Pros of an umbrella include:

  • More breathable than any raincoat (a lifesaver in hot and humid conditions) and providing better rain protection in up to moderate winds than lightweight rain shells
  • Lighter than the combined weight of any raincoat and rain pants on the market
  • Portable shelter from the blistering sun, reducing your sunscreen use and lowering the perceived temperature by up to 8°C
  • Extra shelter when tarp camping in inclement conditions
  • A place to cook out of the rain without the stress of cooking in a tent vestibule

When not to use an umbrella:

  • In an area where heavy rain and wind commonly occur together (Southwest Tasmania, Fiordland) traditional rain gear is a better idea.

Trekking Umbrella Comparison

Brand

Gossamer Gear

Six Moon Designs

Six Moon Designs

Six Moon Designs

Six Moon Designs

Sea to Summit

Sea to Summit

Model

Lightrek Hiking Umbrella

Silver Shadow Umbrella

Silver Shadow Carbon Umbrella

Silver Shadow Mini Umbrella

Rain Walker SUL

Ultra-Sil Trekking Umbrella

Mini Pocket Umbrella

Description

Sun and rain protection for UL hiking in warm climates

Well priced yet lightweight sun and rain protection for hiking in warm climates

Sun and rain protection for UL hiking in warm climates

Compact and light sun and rain protection for mild weather hiking and travel

The lightest waterproof umbrella around for UL hiking. Not SPF rated

Lightweight and sturdy protection with a small packed size for hiking and travel in wet weather

Rain protection with a tiny packed size perfect for travel and everyday use. Not intended for hiking

Weight

187g

252g

193g

193g

156g

240g

150g

Size (open)

95.25cm x 63.5cm

94cm x 63.5cm

94cm x 63.5cm

96.5cm x 52cm

63.5cm x 94cm

96.5cm x  58cm

83cm x 50cm

Packed length

63.5cm

63.5cm

63.5cm

25.4cm

63.5cm 

24.1cm

16cm

Waterproofness

Highly water repellent

Waterproof

Waterproof

Waterproof

Waterproof

Waterproof

Waterproof

SPF

50+

50+

50+

50+

Unknown

Unknown

Unknown

Cost

$89.95

$69.95

$99.00

$79.00

$119.95

$74.99

$39.99