Golf umbrellas are something every golfer should carry, but few actually do. There are things that make a golf umbrella different than other umbrellas, and there are things that you should look for when purchasing a golf umbrella.
In general, golf umbrellas have a larger canopy and are sturdier than the average umbrella. When selecting your golf umbrella, find one with a 60 inch diameter canopy. This will be large enough to keep both you and your clubs out of the rain. A side benefit to the larger canopy is if you are out golfing you will have a large enough canopy on your umbrella to cover you and your mate.
Check to see if the golf umbrella you are looking at has been wind tested. Look for it to be wind proof in up to 55 MPH winds. The golf umbrellas offering the most wind protection will have double layer canopies. The double layer golf umbrella is designed so the wind goes through the first layer, then escapes rather than inverting your canopy or trying to lift you off the ground.
Your golf umbrella should have a fiberglass shaft. These shafts are lighter that metal and are a bit safer if there is lightening in the area. The umbrella should also have a plastic stake in the top, so you can stick it in the ground when making a shot. Without this, your golf umbrella may be blown away on a windy day.
There are a lot of different handle types on golf umbrellas. Check out several to see what is comfortable to you. It should be both comfortable and easy to hold because you will likely be holding it in uncomfortable conditions. Golf umbrellas have straight handles, not the hook handles you see on a lot of other types of umbrellas.
Remember that a quality golf umbrella will last a long time, so pick a good one and you will be set for years. A quality umbrella will also hold up in harsh weather conditions, while a cheaper one may invert and end up in the trash can the first time out.
If you can find a comfortable gold umbrella that has an automatic opener, you should strongly consider buying it. When you are out on the golf course and get caught in the rain, you want to get yourself and your golf bag covered quickly so having a push button type umbrella will help you keep your gear dry. This will keep your score down and isn’t that what it is really all about?