BaliosTravel Folding Umbrella with Real Wood Handle Auto Open Close Vented Windproof Canopy - Designed in UK

So when it comes to umbrellas, I always thought you had to make a choice: either a big golf umbrella for quality (but a lack of portability, plus it's expensive), or a smaller one for an on-the-go lifestyle (cheap, and cheaply made). So color me pleasantly shocked with this umbrella from Balios.For starters, when I opened the box, I was happy to see that it was a decent weight... you could tell it had a bit of a rugged feel that made me feel this thing, before trying, "felt" well-made. Then I saw the handle. Yes, the style is nice (though style doesn't really make me purchase an umbrella, per se), but the ergonomic grip was fabulous. My hand felt like it belonged there, and that it would be easier to hold should conditions be more blustery than an average rain shower.The first time I pushed the button, it opened effortlessly, and I was really surprised to see a vented canopy, like you'd see in much bigger (and much more expensive) umbrellas. I haven't seen too many like that in this size, and I have to say it was really impressive.But the real clincher for me happened this past Saturday. Sadly, we've had a TON of rain in the area where I live this year, with flooding at near-historic levels. It seems like every other day we're getting rain, and not just the wetness, but lots of wind, as well. We had a ridiculous soaker the other night, with a good 15-20 MPH wind. I don't care how well this thing feels like it's built... it's not going to stand up to the weather.Or so I thought. This umbrella not only kept the top third of my body dry (not a whole lot you can do with blowing rain), but it held its shape and didn't fly up like many I saw that evening. I was absolutely shocked.And it fits two people surprisingly well, though adding a third means that one of you is getting at least half-soaked.I seriously cannot recommend this umbrella enough, and I will absolutely be buying a few more to keep in our cars, as well as by the front door. It really is remarkable.

This is a fantastic product that has my 100% approval!We’ve had a good bit of rain lately in the Williamsburg, VA area and I have been able to put some miles (or raindrops) on this product over the past few days. I work at a Public-Ivy College, and I’ve always struggled to find an umbrella that is structurally sound, stylish, and a reasonable price. The Balios Prestige Travel Umbrella is exactly what I needed! Here’s a more thorough breakdown:Packaging: I was very impressed that the umbrella came with its own “zip-up” case. This will ensure that the umbrella is safe and secure. In addition to this, the case has a hanger loop so it’s super convenient for coat hangers and fits like a glove.Structure: The structural integrity of the umbrella is probably my favorite aspect of it. The “open and close” button work great and smoothly transition. With its packaging (when not in use) and strong structure, I am confident that this umbrella will last for years to come. Heavy rain and wind were not a factor for this umbrella.Style: I absolutely love the wood handle! It brings an eloquence to the umbrella and gives it a more professional feel. It follows its description in being an “Iconic British Design”. The cursive writing in the wood with the brand name was the perfect touch.I definitely recommend this product!

I've used this umbrella for just over a month, and I couldn't be happier with it. This is one of the best umbrellas I've purchased! Not only does it look great with the wooden handle, but the automatic open/close feature also works really well. The vented canopy is great for windy conditions, and my canopy has never flipped.The canopy size is perfect for me. Large enough even to share with another person in light rain.For those who commented that it's difficult to put the umbrella back into its storage sleeve...I'm not sure what you're doing wrong, but I'm able to put mine back in the sleeve with ease.The wooden grip is surprisingly comfortable! I have slightly larger hands, and the handle still fits my grip really well. That said, the only (minor) downside about this model is that it does not have a strap on the umbrella. Although the umbrella handles higher winds nicely, I still felt as though the umbrella could fly out of my grip if a strong gust hit it. I can't take off stars for that because I knew the umbrella didn't have an attached strap when I purchased it. For those who think this is a dealbreaker, check out the other Balios models with strap.