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 |