An outdoor umbrella is an excellent addition to your yard — providing shade precisely where and when you need it. Additionally, it can add a pleasing aesthetic.
However, not all outdoor umbrellas are created equal — if you invest in a cheap, poorly built umbrella, you will be disappointed. Use our list of the top 5 outdoor umbrellas to make your purchase easier.
5 of the best outdoor umbrellas for 2020
- Marquee 3m Charcoal Cantilever Umbrella— Best for Sun Protection
- Le Papillon Double-Sided Market— Best for Large Gatherings
- Bistro 7.5-ft Hexagonal Market Umbrella— Best Value for Money
- Savannah Cantilever Umbrella — Most Convenient
- 3M Beige Cantilever— Best for Entertaining
Marquee 3m Charcoal Cantilever Umbrella — Best for Sun Protection
This elegantly designed hanging outdoor umbrella comes with UPF 50 protection, ensuring up to 98% protection from dangerous sun rays. It is the perfect solution for your garden, pool, or any other outdoor space. Its voluminous top provides wide enough shade so your little ones can enjoy playing outside for longer.
Pros
- Its UPF50+ polyester canopy protects you from sunburn.
- Easy to move around and pack away with its collapsible construction.
- Durable polyester canopy.
- The powder-coated frame makes it lightweight.
- A crank handle makes it easy to open and close.
Cons
- It is not waterproof.
- Can’t be used in strong winds.
Le Papillon 15-Foot Double — Best for Large Gatherings
If you’re looking for a large market umbrella suitable for big gatherings or lounging by the poolside, the Le Papillon 15-Foot Outdoor umbrella might be your top choice.
This umbrella looks like two giant round outdoor umbrellas merged into one. The canopy features high-quality polyester, and the roof is solution-dyed to provide fade resistance.
Pros
- Large market umbrella suitable for extended outdoor tables
- Rust-resistant powder-coated aluminum pole
- Collapsible construction for easy transportation
- Heat ventilated peaks for cooling
- Built with hook and loop fastener keeping the umbrella secure when not in use
Cons
- Weighs about 16 kgs and is top-heavy.
- It takes time to unfold the large amount of fabric.
- A bit pricier than other umbrellas on our list.
vidaXL Parason 200x300cm Sand White Rectangular — Best Value for Money
At only $78.84, this elegant and sturdy market umbrella provides value for money. The vidaXL Parasol is very versatile — mount it on your existing stand or in the middle of table holes.
Pros
- An extremely versatile outdoor umbrella to enhance your outdoor space.
- Protects against UV rays and moisture.
- Portable and easy to fold.
- Anti-fade polyester and rust-proof steel will ensure longevity.
- Guaranteed to stay in place with 6 sturdy steel ribs.
Cons
- Some customers have commented that the colour is more yellow than white
Savannah Cantilever Umbrella — Most Convenient
The Savannah Cantilever Umbrella features 360 degrees rotation with an easy to use locking mechanism and a foot pedal that provides the utmost convenience. With its retractable canopy and no central pole, you can maximize your space.
Pros
- Allows on-ground or bolt-down installation
- Built with fade-resistant fabric
- Provides UPF 50+ protection
Cons
- Very expensive
- Not water resistance during a heavy downpour
- Not ideal for use during strong winds
3M Beige Cantilever Garden Umbrella — Best for Entertaining
This large, stylishly designed outdoor umbrella allows you to create the outdoor entertainment area of your dreams. Its sturdy steel frame ensures the umbrella does not collapse while in use, and it can be opened and closed quickly.
Pros
- Easy to fold and takes up less space when stored.
- Features a sturdy steel frame and base ensuring it does not collapse while in use.
- Water-resistant canopy.
- Easy to assemble and move around with its lightweight construction.
- UPF 50+ protection.
Cons
- Not suitable for use during windy days.
Tips to help you choose your perfect patio/backyard umbrella
- Online reviews: Customer reviews provide you with insights into how a product actually performs.
- Look for quality construction: Rust-resistant poles and anti-fading materials will ensure your umbrella will last for at least a few years.
- Portable: Table umbrellas cannot be moved easily. Freestanding outdoor umbrellas provide more flexibility. Make sure to look at the weight of the umbrella if you want to move it around a lot.
- Storage: Outdoor umbrellas that include a cover help save you time unpacking it after the winter months. You might also want to look at how the umbrella disassembles not to take up much storage room.
- Aesthetic: Ask yourself if the design and colour of the umbrella fit your style. It should complement your outdoor space, not be the sole focus.
Conclusion
Take your time when choosing a patio or market umbrella — read customer reviews and consider the most important features you want, for example, UV protection or portability. Shop around, compare prices and see if the store has an acceptable refund policy so that you can test it out first.
Frequently asked questions and answers
Who makes the best outdoor umbrella?
The best outdoor umbrella is dependent on your specific needs — do you want patio shade for afternoon lunches, UV protection so you children can play outside, or a beautiful design to complement your garden? The best umbrella will be the one that fits your purpose and budget.What size of outdoor umbrella is best?
When choosing your outdoor umbrella, size is one of the most important factors. Make sure you purchase one that covers the entire area you want shaded. Ideally, the outdoor umbrella should be larger than the sitting/play area.Which are the best outdoor durable umbrellas to combat wind?
To combat wind, you’ll need an umbrella that has a strong frame to avoid it collapsing. Look for outdoor umbrellas with ventilation at the canopy to ensure the umbrella can handle strong winds.What is the difference between a market and patio umbrella?
A patio umbrella is made for outdoor home leisure, while market umbrellas are traditionally made for a more commercial setting. For example, the Le Papillon Double-Sided Market is an outdoor market umbrella, while HÖGÖN outdoor hanging umbrella is a patio umbrella.What material should an outdoor umbrella be made of?
Standard outdoor umbrellas are made of wood, aluminum, and fiberglass. These materials provide a unique aesthetic while ensuring durability.How do you clean an outdoor umbrella with mildew?
Moisture can cause mildew. Use a soft bristle brush to remove the mold and mildew. When cleaning an outdoor umbrella with mold on it, refer to the manufacturer’s care instruction that’s usually included with your purchase.
I’m looking for a new out umbrella and come across this website while looking for reviews. Your first pick is a concern for me. I bought myself one of those and am now returning it. It is only after purchasing it and using it I realise it is a very poorly constructed item. It fell apart quite quickly.
Whoever reviewed these items obviously did not “review” these items the way consumers deserve. The person should own or borrow or use an item before reviewing it. The person who reviewed this is far from an expert.
This product has a 1 star from a very big retailer.
I just thought I would pass this feedback on. Because people actually rely on your type of articles.
Have a great day.
Hi Judy,
I am sorry to hear about your negative experience with the Marquee Cantilever Umbrella. We adhere to a stringent set of guidelines when choosing products to compare. In this case, we evaluated the best outdoor umbrella brands, compared benefits and features of the top products and examined reviews from leading retailers before selecting our top picks for the best outdoor umbrellas.