What is a golf umbrella? Different Types, sizes, and 10 tips for buying one

Whether you’re just getting into the game or already a seasoned pro, you can count on golf umbrellas to be there when you need them.

A golf umbrella can really be a lifesaver, especially on a rainy day! As the weather begins to turn, it’s essential to keep your clubs, clothing, and equipment safe from unexpected rainfall.

On the other hand, UV-resistant golf umbrellas can come in handy during hot summer times. Because these lightweight umbrellas are perfect for protecting you from the strong sunlight.

This article will cover as much as we can about golf umbrellas. So let’s enjoy reading.

What Is A Golf Umbrella?

Golf umbrellas are larger than regular umbrellas and made exclusively for golfers to protect them from sudden rain or harsh sunlight.

If you play golf, at least on weekends, chances are good that you’ve already experienced it. In fact, according to The National Golf Foundation, golf umbrellas are one of the most common items purchased at golf courses.

Aside from golf, these umbrellas are also used for other outdoor activities such as fishing and bird watching.

Types Of Golf Umbrellas

Golf umbrellas can be classified according to their number of folds, type of structure, specific shape, as well as fabric. Below, we are highlighting each type.

Folds: Golf umbrellas come in three different types based on how many folds they have.

• straight
• two-fold
• and three-fold

Structure: In terms of canopy structure, there are two kinds of umbrellas.

• single canopy
• double canopy

Shape: Various golf umbrellas are available in two common shapes.

• round-shaped
• square-shaped

Fabric: While choosing an umbrella, the fabric is another important factor to consider.

• nylon umbrella
• pongee umbrella
• polyester umbrella
• PVC transparent umbrella

Golf Umbrella Size

Golf umbrellas come in a variety of sizes and from many different manufacturers.

Usually, the canopies of golf umbrellas are 62″ in size. However, you can find any size of your choice between 46″ and 68″.

Make sure you pick the right size for you.

Golf Umbrella Size Chart

We have listed information about 3 popular sizes of golf umbrellas below. However, the size and weight vary by brand.

Rib Length Of A Golf Umbrella: The ribs of an umbrella provide a specific structure and shape to its canopy. In general, golf umbrellas have ribs that are 26″ to 34″ in length.

Diameter Of A Golf Umbrella: We measure the diameter from one end of the canopy to the other. For example, a golf umbrella typically has an extra-large diameter ranging from 54″ to 62″.

Length Of A Golf Umbrella: Depending upon the type of golf umbrella you purchase, the length will vary dramatically. For instance, a stick golf umbrella is typically 37″ to 45″ long, whereas a folding umbrella is usually 20″ to 25″.

How To Choose The Perfect Golf Umbrella Size For You?

Since golf umbrellas come in a wide array of sizes, you can easily find the umbrella that meets your needs. But before deciding the size of the umbrella, be sure about your requirements on the golf course.

If you plan to buy an umbrella for your caddy, choose the largest size available. That way, it will cover you both. Even a large golf umbrella can provide shelter to up to three people.

Alternatively, if you want one for your golf push cart, you will have to choose according to how big it is. In this case, any medium-sized golf umbrella will be sufficient for your cart, bags, or other equipment.

Golf Umbrella Vs Regular Umbrella

A golf umbrella differs from a regular umbrella mainly by its size. In general, golf umbrellas are 15-30 percent larger than standard umbrellas and up to 50 percent bigger than compact umbrellas.

Usually, golf umbrellas have a rib length of 26 inches to 34 inches, which is large enough to cover golfers and their bags. For regular umbrellas, though, the ribs are only 21 inches to 25 inches long.

In addition, most golf umbrellas come with straight handles so that they are easy to carry in sports or golf bags. By contrast, traditional umbrellas usually have hooked handles. As an added bonus, these umbrellas are generally lightning resistant compared to regular umbrellas.

In a nutshell, a quality golf umbrella has more premium features than a regular umbrella.

Reasons To Buy A Golf Umbrella

If you’re a golfer or plan to be, you’ve probably already heard about the great value and convenience that golf umbrellas offer. Truly, it is one of the most common golf accessories these days.  

Oftentimes when it rains, we find ourselves standing on the golf course and wondering whether we need to leave. However, you don’t have to stop the game with an umbrella, even when it’s raining.

Honestly, the term golf umbrella is much more than just an accessory. Here are five reasons why you should pick up a golf umbrella today:

1. Lightening is seldom a concern with golf umbrellas, as most of them are lightning-resistant.
2. These umbrellas are made from fiberglass drums, which help minimize their weight.
3. To withstand heavy winds, their handles are designed ergonomically. Thus, the wind cannot turn the canopy.
4. The canopy of a golf umbrella is made from water-resistant fabric such as 190T Pongee or 210T Pongee.
5. Shortly, the durability of golf umbrellas makes them superior to standard umbrellas.

Because of these reasons, the golf umbrella has been proven to be a vital accessory for many golfers who enjoy playing outdoors.

Furthermore, since these large umbrellas provide broad coverage, they’re also popular among non-golfers seeking protection from the sun and rain.

How Much Does a Golf Umbrella Cost?

Golf umbrellas are actually quite affordable compared to most golfing equipment. You can buy a decent umbrella for between $20 and $35.

However, some models may be priced up to $60, and a few may be as high as $100. Ultimately, the price will depend on the product’s size, quality, and functionality.

How To Select The Best Golf Umbrella?

You have probably heard that you should carry an umbrella when playing golf. But how can you be sure that you’re buying the best golf umbrella for the right price?

The answer to this question is not as straightforward as one may think. While the shape and size of different umbrellas are similar, the materials and construction process are quite different. This makes it hard to decide which one to buy.

Nevertheless, let’s find out what we can learn from the golf umbrellas to make an informed decision.

10 things to remember before buying a golf umbrella

We’re often asked what makes a good golf umbrella and what features to look for when buying one. So, we’re trying to help you find the best umbrella to suit your needs. Here is the answer.

When it comes to golf umbrellas, it is a good idea to get one that will protect you from all kinds of weather. Listed below are some of the obvious characteristics that make an affordable golf umbrella worth the money.

1. Portability

No one would want to carry a separate bag for a golf umbrella. That’s why you should choose an umbrella that can easily fit inside your golf bag.

There are various types of golf bags, so when buying an umbrella, make sure to check that it fits comfortably into the main pocket or one of the side pockets. After all, portability is crucial.

2. Durability

Because of their high-quality frame construction, golf umbrellas remain in good condition for a longer period of time. The frame is made up of three parts. These are the handle, shaft, and undercarriage (ribs and joints). So, consider the strength of the frame and the durability of the umbrella before spending your money.

3. Size

Buying a golf umbrella that is the right size for you depends entirely on your needs. However, as a general rule of thumb, the larger the better. Unless you’re strapped for cash and do not have enough room in a bag to fit a large umbrella.

4. Weight

If you want to avoid heavy umbrellas, choose one with a fiberglass frame. Because a fiberglass umbrella weighs less than an umbrella with a metal structure. 

These days, most brands make umbrellas from lightweight materials. Golf umbrellas, in general, weigh less than 1.8 pounds.

5. Fabric

Currently, Pongee fabric is the most popular material for golf umbrellas. Though you can find other choices like nylon and plastic-based fabrics, those are not recommended. Because they degrade when exposed to sunlight or when wet.

210T pongee fabric, for example, is sunproof and waterproof. In addition, these silk-derived materials are highly water-resistant and offer UPF 50+ protection (which can block 99.5% of UV rays).

6. Color

Golf umbrellas are an essential item for every golfer, even those who are casual. With such a wide variety of colors available, you can find the umbrella that fits your style and is most comfortable for you. 

7. Handle Type

While it is essential to pay attention to the type of handle when buying a golf umbrella, we often overlook it. We suggest you choose one with a straight handle, otherwise you may have difficulty fitting it into your golf bag. Also, make sure that the grip feels comfortable to you.

8. Opening type

Both manual-open and auto-open golf umbrellas are available on the market. However, we recommend buying one with an automatic opening system. So that when it starts raining suddenly, you can quickly pop out your umbrella.

8. Wind Resistance

Ensure your golf umbrella is well constructed so that it can withstand strong winds. We recommend buying a double canopy umbrella to be on the safe side. Because this design allows wind to pass through a vent, making it easier to handle in windy conditions.

10. Overall Quality

Now that you know all the characteristics of a perfect golf umbrella, the last aspect is the overall quality. If everything is satisfactory, don’t waste your time and buy the one with the color you prefer.

What Is A Custom Golf Umbrella?

Golf umbrellas can be customized with your company’s logo or message. In general, these umbrellas are called custom golf umbrellas. 

Nowadays, many companies use it as a corporate gift at golf tournaments. Because personalized golf umbrellas are an excellent way to market your business. In addition, it is possibly the most economical promotional item seen at a golf course.

Tips for buying custom golf umbrellas

Several factors need to be considered before purchasing a custom golf umbrella. After all, it directly reflects the image of your band. But, no worries, we’ve listed our three steps below.

Make a checklist

Before anything else, it is always better to identify what features you wish to have. All are incredibly important, from fabric material to size, weight, and design. So make your checklist at the beginning.

Select a manufacturer

Look for a reputable brand that has been in business for a long time. Online searches have made it easy to discover different manufacturers. So, you can visit their online store to learn more about their products. Also, check customer reviews and ratings before you contact them.

Try a sample

Request a sample first if you plan to order a large number of umbrellas. Then, you can either share your idea to make a unique design or choose from the predesigned models and modify them to your needs. Regardless of what you choose, you should see a ready product before confirming your order.

Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Umbrellas

We’ve collected a few questions people ask about golf umbrellas online. We hope you’ll find the answers helpful.

Are golf umbrellas bigger?

Yes, golf umbrellas are usually 15-30 percent bigger than standard umbrellas. Because, unlike regular ones, golf umbrellas are designed to shield both golfers and their equipment from the rain. For this reason, they tend to be larger in size.

Why is a golf umbrella so big?

A golf umbrella is big because it can protect up to three people from unexpected rainfall or intense sunlight, depending on the size. In fact, caddies and golfers often share the same umbrellas on golf courses. Therefore, golf umbrellas have always been large.

Are Golf Umbrellas Good?

Yes, a golf umbrella is good enough to protect you from the rain or the sun. Thanks to their ergonomic design, golf umbrellas can withstand strong winds without bending or blowing over. They are also portable and durable. So, if you don’t have a golf umbrella, buy one without thinking twice.

Do You Need A Golf Umbrella?

Yes, you need a golf umbrella if you want to play golf in any kind of weather. In fact, these umbrellas are among the most common accessories on a golf course. Besides, modern golf umbrellas are lightweight and easy to carry, so you can store them in your bag without adding a lot of weight.

What is special about a golf umbrella?

Golf umbrellas are uniquely designed to be durable, lightweight, waterproof, and wind-resistant. Almost all of these umbrellas are made with good quality materials such as fiberglass frames and Pongee fabrics. So in any weather, golf umbrellas can protect golfers as well as their equipment.

Are golf umbrellas waterproof?

Yes, golf umbrellas are waterproof because they are made with water-resistant fabrics. Moreover, most umbrella manufacturers nowadays use Pongee fabric in their canopy, which is both waterproof and sunproof. So whether it’s a single canopy or a double canopy, a good golf umbrella will always protect you when it rains.

Are golf umbrellas windproof?

Yes, golf umbrellas with a double canopy are windproof and can withstand strong winds. As air can pass through a vented double canopy, it won’t flip over and break in windy conditions. So, even if the wind blows heavily, your golf umbrella is nothing to worry about.

What’s the difference between a golf umbrella and a normal umbrella?

There is a considerable difference between a golf umbrella and a normal umbrella. Generally, golf umbrellas are much larger and can be up to 30% bigger than normal umbrellas. And, if we compare it to a compact umbrella, then a golf umbrella can be up to 50% larger.

Final Thought On Golf Umbrella

Golf umbrellas come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and types, although there’s a good reason for that. When it comes to safeguarding yourself in all seasons, you can’t go wrong with a golf umbrella.

If you don’t own a golf umbrella yet, then you can simply follow our tips on choosing the best golf umbrella, and pick the one that’s right for you. No matter what the weather, keep your game covered with an umbrella in your bag.