Comparison Blunt XS Metro vs Blunt XL

The folding features and dimensions of the umbrella primarily depend on the type.

— Cane. The classic variety of umbrellas, historically the first to appear. Its main distinguishing feature can be called an awkward central rod, which usually has a rather large length; due to its size, many umbrellas of this type can also be used as an additional support when folded (hence the name). In addition to the possibility of additional use (which, however, requires caution, because not all canes are strong enough), cane umbrellas have other advantages over folding ones. So, they are stronger and more reliable, and the dome shape provides better moisture repellency and reduces the drying time of the fabric. The main disadvantage of such models can be called large dimensions when folded — the umbrella will not even fit in every suitcase, not to mention smaller bags. Therefore, this type is more of an "urban" than a "road" option.

— Foldable. Such umbrellas can have different designs, but all of them are distinguished by a folding central stem with several telescopic sections (see below). The main advantage of this type over canes is obvious: folding models are much more compact and easier to transport, and some of them are “packed” so tightly that they can even fit in a small handbag. On the other hand, the design of such products is more complicated, which...increases the price and reduces reliability; in addition, they are more likely to absorb moisture (if the material of the dome allows it, see below) and dry longer.

The procedure for unfolding and folding the umbrella depends primarily on the type of mechanism.

— Mechanical. The simplest option, which involves unfolding and folding solely due to the efforts of the user himself — in other words, you will have to manually move the slider along the central rod every time. Such a scheme of operation is not as convenient as automated options, however, it provides simplicity and reliability of the design, and it is cheaper.

— Semi -automatic. The name of this option is due to the fact that only one of the two actions is automated in it — disclosure; you have to fold the umbrella manually. Usually, to open, it is enough to press a button — and a special spring will bring the product into working position. Such umbrellas are easier and more convenient to use than mechanical ones — in particular, they open somewhat faster, which is especially important when exposed to heavy rain; at the same time, they are cheaper and more reliable than full automatic machines (although they still lose to them in terms of convenience).

— Automatic. In such models, both basic actions are automated: at the touch of a button, both the unfolding and folding of the umbrella occur. However it is worth noting that folding is most often not fully automated — usually the frame is only folded, and the telescopic rod has to be “squeeze...d” manually. However, this is the most user-friendly option, requiring the least amount of effort from the user. The downside of such a mechanism is its complexity, high cost, and less reliability than others.

The diameter of the umbrella dome when unfolded. The larger the diameter of the dome, the more reliably it will protect you from rain and the easier it will be to place one more person under the umbrella. On the other hand, a wide umbrella can be uncomfortable in tight spaces — for example, in the flow of pedestrians on a busy street — and when folded it will take up more space. Therefore, it does not always make sense to choose the largest of the available options.

The minimum diameter for an "adult" umbrella (see "Destination") is considered to be about 80 cm. Most models are in the range of 90 – 110 cm — this provides a good degree of protection with ease of movement. And in the largest modern products, the diameter of the dome can reach 150 cm.

The length of the umbrella when folded. For the decomposed one, this parameter is not specified, because is not critical, but when transporting a closed umbrella, it is the length that is the most important dimension.

The length of cane umbrellas (see "Type") is, by definition, the same when open or closed; most often it is 60 – 90% of the dome diameter (see above). But folding models of the same diameter can vary markedly in length, and here the choice depends on the situation: on the one hand, more compact umbrellas are more convenient to carry, on the other hand, they are less reliable and more complex in design, and also cost more.

Total weight of the umbrella.

All other things being equal, lighter umbrellas are more convenient to carry (both in the open and closed positions). On the other hand, such products are less reliable and/or more expensive than relatively heavy models of similar design and size. We also note that in some cases, significant weight can be an advantage. For example, in a strong wind, a massive umbrella does not “tear from your hands” as much, and when released, it does not fly as far as a lighter one.