Montbell umbrella

[CraigVIC]

Is anyone using one of these and could comment on the mechanism? I'm intending it for my daughter (nearly 12) and while there'll always be an adult around I'd rather look at another brand if it's too delicate and finicky for her to do herself.

[Lamont]

Is this the one where the canopy folds in on itself?
That is the spars fold in half and need to ne unfolded with each use?

[CraigVIC]

That's the one. I read a few reviews and every one mentioned it so I'm guessing it's a bit of a learning exercise to use it.

[Lamont]

I had one. Have you bought it yet? Read your post again, seems not. Broke mine, granted it was the Ultralight version, mainly thru' my own fault I think. They gave me a credit for the broken one.
For a nipper Craig I'd go this one. https://korjo.com/product/umbrella-windproof/
I have one and bought one for both my adult kids 2 years ago still firing, much cheaper (hunt around), same length, bit chunkier (but you could easily make a tighter fitting sack) but pretty robust or what it is.

[CraigVIC]

No, if I don't get any positive feedback I think I'll get the six moons mini. Got 2 weeks up my sleeve but have to get through the post. The size of the Montbell is enticing but there's no point making a rod for my back.

[Lamont]

Changed my previous post after you replied sorry, I added a bit and am a slowwww typer

[CraigVIC]

Thanks Lamont, I'll check it out.

[Zapruda]

I have one. Used it a few times now. I really like it. It seems sturdy enough for an umbrella that weighs 100g. No issues so far with the secondary fold

[Neo]

Out of range for proper internetting.. to view the links.
I'm happy with the smaller Helinox umbrella.
Postage should be within a week.

[CraigVIC]

Thanks zapruda, I think I'll move on to something else. I don't want to be trying to teach her to look after her stuff and then give her gear that makes it hard to do so.

The Helinox models both have fixed shafts, do you find the length a hassle neo?

[Neo]

Hi Craig
The longer one might not fit inside some backpacks, check the dimensions. It of course gives better coverage.
With the short one I have no worries, usually have it on the outside of the pack with a carabiner through it's hand strap incase it were to work itself loose. It does fit a bit better, sticks out less.

Umbrellas are nice until it gets windy, then rainwear is better.

[CraigVIC]

Umbrellas are nice until it gets windy, then rainwear is better.

I've had good experiences using an umbrella with her and I'm reluctant to get her a proper jacket and go through all the on-selling and re-buying as she grows but I can see the limits too. There never seems to be a perfect solution for wet weather.