What Is The Difference Between Golf Umbrellas And Regular Umbrellas?
If you are a keen golfer and willing to go out in all weathers (or you just like really big umbrellas) then chances are you already own or have used a golf umbrella. Although it is usually thought that the difference between a golf umbrella and a regular umbrella is basically size. there is more to it that just how wide and large they are.
Golf umbrellas are larger than regular umbrellas, with a wider diameter and longer shaft. They are designed to provide more strength, coverage and protection against the elements. Regular umbrellas, on the other hand, are more versatile and can be used in a variety of settings, from city streets to outdoor events.
While they may look similar, there are significant differences between the two that can affect your experience when using them. In this article, we’ will take a closer look at golfing umbrellas and regular umbrellas to help you choose the right one for your needs.
What is a golfing umbrella
A golf umbrella, as opposed to a regular umbrella, is a type of large, durable umbrella designed to provide cover from the rain and protection from the elements for golfers and their equipment while out on the course.
They are typically larger than regular umbrellas, with a diameter of up to 68 inches, though they can range from 60 inches to 68 inches and are made from waterproof and wind-resistant materials to protect against rain and wind.
A golf umbrella is designed, as much as possible, to prevent gusts of wind catching it and potentially causing damage to both the umbrella and anything under it. Some golf umbrellas also feature additional features, such as a double canopy to provide extra coverage, strength, resistance and inversion prevention, and a sturdy shaft and rubber handle to withstand the rigors of the golf course.
You could always consider not heading out if the weather is terrible and grab an office putting set or putting mat instead!
Differences Between Golf Umbrellas and Regular Umbrellas
One of the most notable differences between a golfing umbrella and a regular umbrella is their size but as we mentioned it’s not the only difference, we have them listed in the table below.
While regular umbrellas are often designed to be compact and portable, golf umbrellas are typically much larger, making them ideal for outdoor activities such as golfing.
Table 1: Differences between Golf and Regular Umbrellas.
| Feature | Regular Umbrella | Golf Umbrella |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Smaller, around 36 inches in diameter | Larger, around 60 inches or more in diameter |
| Weight | Lighter and more portable | Heavier and less portable |
| Strength | Less durable and less resistant to wind | More durable and more resistant to wind |
| Canopy shape | Typically round or square | Often square or rectangular |
| Purpose | Used for general, everyday use | Primarily used for golfing, but can also be used for general use |
| Handle | Often made of plastic or wood | Often made of rubber or foam for a more comfortable grip |
| Price | Less expensive | More expensive due to their larger size and more durable materials |
Why Are The Umbrellas Different?
Golf umbrellas are designed to provide as much cover and protection from the sun, wind, and rain as possible while offering more strength than traditional smaller umbrellas. They are typically much larger than regular umbrellas
Size: As mentioned, one of the most noticeable differences between golfing umbrellas and regular umbrellas is their size. This larger size provides more coverage, making them much more suited for outdoor activities like golfing and even fishing but it can also make them less portable.
The Shaft: Golf courses are open to the elements, and winds will be sustained when they do kick up so the shaft of a golf umbrella will be made of a sturdy and lightweight material, like fiberglass or graphite, to ensure that it can withstand the pressure of strong winds without bending or breaking.
Handle: The handle of a golf umbrella is designed for comfort and ease of use, often made of non-slip materials, such as rubber or foam. Regular umbrellas more often have a wooden or plastic handle, which can be less comfortable to hold if you are out for a long time but reduces cost.
Canopy: The canopy of a golf umbrella is made of a durable and waterproof material, like nylon, that can withstand strong winds and heavy rain. ( though not sure who wants to be golfing in those conditions!) They are often double canopied ( see below) to prevent them inverting and allow gusts of wind to pass through the umbrella rather than catch it. In contrast, regular umbrellas often have a canopy made of thinner materials, which are more prone to tearing and leaking.
Other differences: Golf umbrellas are normally more expensive than regular umbrellas, as they use higher-quality materials and are larger size. They are also heavier, less portable, and less suited to everyday around town use.
We also have an article about playing in the rain with tips here on the site linked here and below.
Differences between Single Canopy and Double Canopy Umbrellas.
A single canopy umbrella has a single layer of fabric or material that forms the top of the umbrella. This type of umbrella is lightweight and easier to carry, and it provides pretty good protection from the rain and sun. However, it is not effective at shielding the user from wind and heavy rain and it at risk of turning inside or inverting.
A double canopy umbrella has two layers of material that form the top of the umbrella. The top layer is usually made of a thin, lightweight material, while the bottom layer is made of a heavier, more durable material. The two layers are separated by a small gap, which allows wind to flow through and prevents the umbrella from inverting. The double canopy design provides greater protection from wind and heavy rain, and it is more durable than a single canopy umbrella.
Double canopy umbrellas are often used in windy or stormy conditions, as they are less likely to invert or break. They are also popular among golfers, as they provide greater coverage and protection on the golf course. However, they are typically heavier and more expensive than single canopy umbrellas.
Conclusion
Choosing the right umbrella can make a big difference in your experience and protection from the elements. While golf umbrellas and regular umbrellas share some similarities, there are several key differences that make them more or less suited to different activities and situations. These include size, strength and materials.
Golf umbrellas are ideal for outdoor activities , while regular umbrellas are more suited to everyday use. Both types of umbrellas have their advantages and disadvantages and hopefully we have answered most of your questions. We also have some frequently asked questions below if you need to know more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using a golf umbrella?
Golf umbrellas provide more coverage and protection than regular umbrellas, making them ideal for outdoor activities such as golfing. They are designed to withstand strong winds and heavy rain, and can protect both the golfer and their equipment from the elements.
Can golfing umbrellas be used for everyday use?
Golf umbrellas can be used for everyday use, but they may not be as portable or convenient as regular umbrellas. Golfing umbrellas are typically larger, heavier, and more expensive than regular umbrellas, which may not be ideal for everyday use.
How do I choose the right golfing umbrella?
When choosing a golfing umbrella, consider factors such as size, canopy material, shaft, handle, price, weight, and portability. Take into account your intended use, budget, and personal preferences to determine which type of umbrella is the best fit for you.
What are some popular golfing umbrella brands?
Some popular golfing umbrella brands include Titleist, Callaway, Nike, and TaylorMade, which offer a range of designs, colors, and sizes to suit different preferences and budgets. while it can be important to choose a reputable brand that uses high-quality materials to ensure that your umbrella provides adequate protection and lasts for a long time, plenty can be found with out a brand name that will work for a while.
What is the difference between a fishing umbrella and a golfing umbrella?
Fishing umbrellas and golfing umbrellas share some similarities in terms of their size and design, but there are a few key differences. Fishing umbrellas are typically larger than golfing umbrellas, with a diameter of up to 100 inches, and are designed to provide coverage for multiple people and their equipment.
They also often have flaps or sides to provide more coverage from the wind, whereas golfing umbrellas are more focused on providing coverage from the rain. Additionally, fishing umbrellas are often made with heavy-duty materials that can withstand more wear and tear than golfing umbrellas.
Can you use a fishing umbrella for golf?
While it is possible to use a fishing umbrella to play golf, it is not recommended. Fishing umbrellas are larger and heavier than golfing umbrellas, which can make them less portable and more difficult to maneuver on the golf course.
Additionally, fishing umbrellas may have flaps or sides that can interfere with your swing or obstruct your view of the course. It is best to use a golfing umbrella for golfing and reserve fishing umbrellas for fishing or other outdoor activities.
