In addition to reviewing the top umbrellas, OutdoorGearLab has published a new consumer advice article.
PRLog - Jul. 9, 2014 - CHEYENNE, Wyo. -- OutdoorGearLab has wrapped up another world-class gear review, and has published a buying advice guide entitled “How to Choose the Best Umbrella.” Written by Gear Editor, Jared Dean, the article outlines the most important factors to consider before purchasing the product that is right for you. He tested all the items in the review for three months, weathering storms in Upstate New York in both urban and rural environments. The buying advice article begins with Dean explaining the two different classes of umbrellas in the review: compact and non-compact. He explains that compact or travel models are easier to carry and store; they are lighter and have telescoping handles that allow them to compress to a smaller size. However, the spokes on these products also have more moving parts, which leaves them more vulnerable to failure. He found that all the compact models easily flipped inside-out in the wind and most of them did not provide as much rain protection as non-compact products.
By comparison, non-compact pieces like the Editors' Choice winning totes Blue Line are longer and bulkier, but they have larger canopies and do not frequently fail in the wind. The three non-compact product in this review also all earned higher scores in the style metric. Dean continues his discussion by describing the pros and cons associated with choosing an umbrella over a rain jacket, and encourages readers to consider which of these rain protection products would best suit their needs, pointing out that rain jackets can become stuffy in warmer weather and that they do not protect the legs from moisture.
Once consumers have decided on which type of product will be the best for them, they should begin to look at the rain protection that each one offers. The most important measurement is canopy diameter, but canopy depth also plays a role. If the canopy is smaller, the user will have to shorten his or her stride to stay within the coverage area. On the other hand, a larger canopy is harder to navigate through crowded areas. Dean also assessed which products performed the best in the rain and suggests that consumers who live in super windy areas avoid compact models altogether. These products easily flipped inside-out even with just a strong flick of the wrist. He also points that that bubble or birdcage canopies allow users to duck out of way when the wind picks up and the rain starts coming in sideways. Another aspect of weather protection that the article discusses is sun protection. The overhead canopies can be a great source of shade, especially if users are out hiking.
Dean goes on to address ease of transport, aptly pointing out that if users find carrying their umbrella too annoying that it won't do them any good anyway. Non-compact models are ideal for use from the car or home, while compact models that will fit in a purse or backpack work best for users who commute on foot or public transport. The lightest product in the review weighed in at under eight ounces and measured less than eight inches; however, there is a sacrifice in durability for such a lightweight piece of gear.
Although OutdoorGearLab does not always include a durability metric in its reviews, durability was very closely linked to wind resistance. Those products that easily flipped inside-out saw significantly more wear and tear during the three-month review period. The buying advice article addresses how the construction of the stem, spokes, and canopy affects the umbrella's overall life. Finally, Dean closes with a brief discussion of style. Although this metric is not critical for all users, some of the products in the review stood out for their professional or distinct designs. Some models can only in the classic blue and black, while others featured unique canopy shapes, fun patterns, and bright colors. Users who view their rain protection as an accessory to their overall outfit, should certain take notice of the review's style metric.
About OutdoorGearLab:
Headquartered in Cheyenne Wyoming, OutdoorGearLab LLC strives to create world’s best outdoor gear reviews. The company’s website is a free resource for people who participate in activities such as hiking, climbing, backpacking, and camping, or who simply love the outdoors. OutdoorGearLab Gear Editors across the country test outdoor equipment side-by-side and publish the results in comparative reviews. Products receive scores across a range of weighted categories, competitors are ranked, and awards are given to top-performing products. See more at http://www.outdoorgearlab.com/.
Read Full Story - Umbrella Buying Advice from OutdoorGearLab Helps Consumers Choose | More news from this source
Press release distribution by PRLog
Umbrella Buying Advice from OutdoorGearLab Helps Consumers Choose
July 09, 2014 at 12:01 PM EDT
