Rain umbrellas primarily offer protection against rain, but their ability to block UV rays depends on certain factors. In this blog post, we will explore whether rain umbrellas provide sufficient UV protection and what factors to consider when it comes to blocking harmful UV rays.

Rain umbrellas, by their nature, are designed to shield against raindrops and prevent them from reaching you. However, the level of UV protection they provide can vary based on several factors:

1. Canopy Material: The material used for the umbrella's canopy plays a crucial role in determining its UV protection capabilities. Some materials, such as nylon or polyester with a special coating, can effectively block a significant amount of UV radiation. Look for umbrellas with a high UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating to ensure better UV protection.

2. Canopy Color: The color of the umbrella's canopy can also affect its ability to block UV rays. Darker colors like black or navy blue tend to absorb more UV radiation, providing better protection compared to lighter-colored umbrellas. However, it's important to note that UV protection is not solely dependent on the color, but rather the material and any specialized coatings.

3. Canopy Coverage: The size and coverage of the umbrella's canopy can impact the amount of UV radiation it blocks. A larger canopy that provides more shade will naturally offer better protection against UV rays. Consider umbrellas with a wide span and adequate coverage to maximize the shielding effect.

While rain umbrellas can provide some level of UV protection, it's important to remember that they are primarily designed for rain and not specifically for blocking UV rays. For extended exposure to the sun, it is recommended to use additional forms of sun protection such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and wearing sun-protective clothing.

To summarize, rain umbrellas can offer some degree of UV protection depending on the material, color, and canopy coverage. However, their UV-blocking capabilities may not be as effective as dedicated sun umbrellas or other sun-protective measures. It's important to prioritize sun safety by using sunscreen and other protective measures when spending significant time outdoors in direct sunlight.

View our umbrellas below!

1. Colour Changing, "Happy Days"

A one-of-a-kind umbrella that features a white and black polka dot design that turns into happy faces when it gets wet. 

2. Colour Changing, "Pizza Party"

A one-of-a-kind umbrella that features a white and black triangle design that turns into pizza slices when it gets wet. 

3. Reflective, "Hi-Beams"

This umbrella is equipped with reflective fabric that lights up like a disco ball when hit by light.