Wonder if you could use an umbrella to signal for help if you needed too. That silver dome pretty viewable from far away so could help planes and helicopters see you.
There's a key feature missing from this hiking umbrella that would make it even BETTER! I'd like to see the pointy tip transform into a flexible/collapsible hook💡 Imagine this situation: You're hiking a wooded trail during a light rain when the weather worsens unexpectedly😬 You find yourself suddenly scrambling to take your pack off and pull out your rain coat or poncho (my personal favourite heavy rain item when hiking), and quickly setup camp to wait out the storm. How convenient would it be to simply hang your umbrella from a branch and use it like a makeshift awning while you search for, pull out, and put on your gear? A simple twisty knob at the handle could allow you to extrude a spring-like hook, or a low-tech version could be made where you simply have a rubberized wire coiled around the tip. Hopefully this helps someone improve hiking umbrellas for us all to enjoy the outdoors - no matter the weather?
i have hiked with an umbrella for the past 21 years. when i first did it people (other hikers) thought i was weird/stupid looking. but i knew then it helped keep the sun/rain off. just tilt the brim down a little and it keeps the rain off the front of your face. will never give up the umbrella. keep at it Miranda. yes you can not hold an umbrella and a hikeing stick at the same time. but if it rains one stick is okay to me.(i've stuck the umbrella down the strap to the side you get use to it and then can use 2 hike sticks.
Got glasses at the age of 24, and that immediately annoyed me. So since then i am wearing caps whenever it rains, and while hiking i wear a hat anyways. (Because i hate putting sunscreen on my ears and face, and the brim helps a lot.)
We just spent a week in Moab with a couple of those six moon umbrellas. Made the hiking way more enjoyable in the 100+ temps and we were the envy of everyone one we passed.
I hike in Florida and the sun protection aspect is clutch, you just can't be out for hours and hours with no real tree cover and not get burned to a crisp, so the umbrella helps massively. Another handy use is that when you are at camp, if you get some drizzle you can pop it open and set it over your pack or a chair or anything else you want to keep dry, particularly nice when setting up camp and your shelter is not in place yet.
That's the same model I have. I won't go out hiking without it. Total gamechanger. I originally got it for sun protection when going out on the Colorado Trail. I tuck the handle under my sternum strap and pull the umbrella down snug against the top of my pack, angled back a bit so I can see. This makes it so I don't have to hold it up, but I still hang on to the handle to keep it from flopping over to the side. I can go hands free for a moment whenever I need to use both hands for something, like opening a snack. I carry a Frog Toggs jacket for the sideways rain or when I'm putting up my tent, etc. But most of the time, the umbrella is all I need.
Hey there. I have that same umbrella and love it. Another use for it is for when you need to pee and there are no bushes. Bring out the brolly (I’m english) to hold in front of me for privacy 😆🤘🏻. Happy trails.😂🥾⛰️
I love that you are talking about the alternative to rain jackets for hiking. This piece of kit is defiantly on my list to try next, due to the way it can work for rain and sun. Another piece of rain gear that doesn't gets a lot of attention is the poncho. They range in weight about the same as the jackets, but can be lighter. A couple of benefits that are similar to the umbrella is the increased air flow. You don't cooking and marinate in your own sweat. Additionally, if you do get wet, it offers rain protection while giving you the opportunity to dry off. If you get wet under your rain jacket you just stay wet. I can also go over the top of your pack instead of a pack cover. I have hike for decades in the Pacific North West, and am accustom to hiking and camping in the rain and the poncho is my go to. Hiking and camping in the rain can be quite enjoyable with the right gear. I also carry around emergency ponchos (space blanket style) in my back pack, and over the years, have handed out nearly a dozen of them to ill prepared. The emergency poncho is also great for weekend you are fairly sure you will have good weather, so don't bring all the rain gear, but don't want to be irresponsible.
In general I agree with the poncho over the raincoat, with a caveat. Most ponchos are pretty fragile, especially if it's relatively light weight. Snag a branch and that's all she wrote for many ponchos.
I'm with you on Team Poncho, though it took a while to get there. Carried an umbrella on a thru-hike of the BMT and liked it okay but the poncho does a better job, protects my pack as well and is hands free. I made my own using silpoly from Ripstop by the Roll and ended up with a custom poncho that's sized for me and my pack and weighs half an ounce LESS than the Frog Toggs rain poncho. Who cares that it looks goofy? It works.
Super great piece of gear. I would be dead if it’s weren’t for my UV umbrella. Works great for rain, snow, sleet, and it makes SHADE where there is none.🌧️❄️☀️
Thanks for this! Was hiking near my house a couple weeks ago and got heat stroke. (0 stars. Do not recommend) You sold me on the hiking/backpacking umbrella. It’s made a noticeable difference. Cheers!
A versatile multitasker: Great for protecting your foot box from condensation in your tent (tall hiker hack) If tarping it makes an easy way to “cap” one end from wind/rain Eases the transition from poncho to tarp when sporting the poncho tarp for dual duty No trees or bushes but gotta make a cat hole? Privacy screen. Passersby know what you’re doing but are spared the details! Great for any outdoor event even when not hiking and allowed into most venues Best way to show you’re the coolest cat around, without a sign that spells it out
Also - and this is big in the Southwest, but really anywhere - an umbrella is portable shade. That's HUGE in the desert. However, it's one failing against rainjackets is wind. You'll still want to have that rainjacket along for the windy rain, but ever since I first took an umbrella with me, I've never packed without one.
I love mine. Got it when it first came out ,people hated on it until the last year or so. Crazy how things take a minute to really get going in the community sometimes.
.... "What ? I didn't hit anybody ..... yet" .. I think umbrella's are a good piece of gear for the trail ,, rain or shine ,, but still need a rain jacket , sideways wind driven rain still gets you soaked and an outer hard layer for wind and cold ... .. A great sun protector ,, cools body many degrees from direct sun .... A useful curtain for open trails potty break with no cover ..... ... Wow !! ... You covered it all ..... I commented before watching the video ... lol .. .. beside bungies ,, there are a few companies that make ' clips' that stay fixed to your shoulder strap .. and keep it in place..
I have used that umbrella for 1200 miles of hiking on three Caminos and the PCT, including very intense desert winds. It's always been solid. The key is to keep it parallel to the ground, which the hands free attachment kit already does for you.
I have the gossamer gear umbrella and their hands free conversion kit.I usually just wear a wind jacket with it instead of a full rain jacket and I save 4 oz.
Dude, yes! I wore my Patagonia Houdini with this on the last rainy trip, and it was perfect. Way lighter, way more versatile, and way more comfortable.
That's the same umbrella I got a few weeks ago just to save me from the sun beating down on me....Texas is burnin' up, right now! Haven't been able to test it in the rain, yet. I did get the backpack attachment straps--also, haven't had a chance to test those, yet, either. But, man! It does a great job of blocking sun/heat.
For casual green tunnel, sun-exposed and light rain situations, sure, I can see it, but ANY other situation you'd need a jacket anyway. I don't buy the conversion kits help (they hold it in one, probably not optimal, direction) so you'd still need to hold it which precludes poles or those who like their hands free, and any kind of wind either prevents the use of an umbrella or makes rain sideways enough to make it ineffective. Also, is the umbrella really UL? I have to imagine a Zpacks rain jacket is lighter AND less space/volume no?
@@swqueep If you have not tried it, you just don't understand. I use it all over the place, and I'm in Oklahoma...you know where the winds come sweeping down the plains?
Anyone else get anxiety when she opened it inside 😂 immediately childhood me is like “noooo she will have 7 years of bad luck!” Thanks for a great video!
I lagit pack a beat up frog togg and an umbrella for that sidways rain and emergency layer. Forest gump..... so much knowledge packed into 1 film. You are cool btw :) you guys make cool 😎 vids
I love an umbrella, but it won’t always replace a rain jacket. Here in the midwest, we get STORMS. A few weeks ago, I went out with an umbrella but not a rain jacket. A quick storm blew up. I was on open prairie with 40+mph winds in addition to buckets of rain. I was running through the ankle-deep puddles toward a shelter nearly a mile away, hoping there wouldn’t be hail or (worse) a rain-wrapped tornado. That said, I’ll always carry an umbrella! Sun protection is awesome.
I've been carrying a little mini umbrella in my backpacking gear for years and people used to give me so much crap but you have mobile shade with you for one you don't have to be sweating on some of them spring days when it starts raining but it's 60 plus outside and you're sweating in a rain jacket and umbrella is really really nice to have and they don't weigh enough to make a difference. Plus if you build your own shelter you can pop that up through the center of the shelter and hang your lamp off of the bottom of the post and it will shed most the rain away from the center of the shelter you built. If you don't have a tarp system.
I think the two main disadvantages to me are that you need to hold an umbrella (fixating it with some sort of cordage still means it will often not have the correct angle it needs depending on the movement and wind changes). And the second one, i like to hike on paths through tree covered areas, and an umbrella catches more easily and can obstruct vision. (Missing branches at the height of your head.) Apart from that, you would have convinced me.
My rain jacket (actually have the same as you) is essential gear for me, protecting from extreme windchill - and when no wind, mosquitoes. I do exclusively hike above treeline though (arctic tundra), so I am not the average hiker. If I were to go green tunnel hiking, I'd switch to an umbrella in a heartbeat.
Umbrellas are most useful above tree line where there is the most exposure. They're actually not great in green tunnels because they can catch on branches easily.
👍👍👍 Depending on the weather, I often have both Umbrella and Rain Jacket with me. A little telescoping brolly is a given in my day / outdoor packs. The weight and space it takes is negligible. Here in Switzerland, 'everybody' uses umbrellas so they don't attract attention.
Kind of what I get here, you "need" both really for extended trips, that is, being prepared for varying weather. i guess what we're learning here is there are super light weight umbrellas that don't hurt (too much) the weight budget.
cool video. On the subject of ultralight, what if you did an an "ultra-maximalist" backpacker video, where you squeezed as many creature comforts, necessary things as you could carry, but things that have the potential to make it an extra comfy trip once at camp? Maybe that's silly, but I think it would be fun in a most ridiculous of ways.
This is literally the topic of tomorrow's video! I did a maximalist mostly luxury items backpacking adventure with the goal of setting up a super fun and cozy campsite in the backcountry. It was indeed fun in ridiculous ways, and in other ways did not at all go according to plan. Can't wait to share!
I think I made it through all the comments, and I saw no mention of umbrellas and if made of metal they can make a nice lightning rod too. Other than that, I like the idea of keeping the sun off me while hiking.
Ultralighters replace a tent and/ or bivy with the umbrella. Put a light ground cloth ( like a cheap plastic shower curtain from the dollar store, cut in half lengthwise) on the ground. Open umbrella and lay it on it's side at the head. Attach a longer piece of Tyvek or such to the umbrella and stake down the foot end. Light weight and does the job. Personally I like an ultralight backpacking tent ( sometimes the extra weight is worth it) And yes. It is very bad luck to open an umbrella indoors.😯 🤣
Having an umbrella on hot days/hikes is essential for me. It really has saved me from over heating when on a hike with little tree shade coverage. I usually bring a small one for when I take breaks or eat lunch
It's so funny hearing Rainer laugh in the background, 3:57 took me out LOL. It's like in sitcoms when you hear laughs in the background but instead it's just him
I have used it for several years now. I find it invaluable for hot Florida summers!! However, it flipped during a wind burst and now has a hole and a broken spoke. Still great for the sun, but not for rain. I replaced it with the collapsible model. The shorter version falls within airline requirements too.
I thought this was a crazy idea, then remembered that I have a collapsible umbrella I keep in the glove box of my car, and hardly ever use (I'm in Arizona). I went to my car to get it. It weighs 6.25 oz (super lightweight). I can attach it to my pack strap with gear loops that are already there, and use my hand to hold it up or tilt as necessary for sun or wind. I'll leave it attached to my pack and try it next time I go hiking. 😊
I took the pros and the cons and for me I'd rather not have an umbrella but I can see the benefits for others! Love the endless possibilities with backpacking and how unique each person and their hike is! It's fun to all learn new ideas from each other👍❤️
I love hiking in the rain and I find that an umbrella really allows me to enjoy it. Now that I am in Utah and I get blistering sun instead of rain, I am really needing a sun umbrella.
I've got one of the old school GoLIte ones from when they were a thing back in the day. Good to see someone still makes something like it just in case something happens to mine.
Also, a bit surprised I didn't see anyone else mention this (has there really been that long of a gap since GoLite faded away and someone else picked up the backpacking umbrella?!?) you put the the shaft of the umbrella between you and your pack for hands free. No kit needed.
Was hiking in Shenandoah national park a couple weeks ago and hiked 9 miles in the rain. Had my zpacks rain jacket and umbrella. Used the umbrella and not the jacket. Worked great. Also does a goos job keeping rain off glasses.
I love my SMD umbrella! And I recently got the hands free bungees, so I no longer have to wedge it over the top of my pack and worry about it blowing away 😁
Realized this too recently, it's also great as a replacement for sunscreen (Edit: Oh, you talk about that in the video). A perfect addition to this would be a rain kilt to also better protect your legs in a pinch if your pants aren't already waterproof anyway.
I use rain chaps that I got out of a hiker box, works surprisingly well because it keeps your crotch open where most of your heat is generated. I find rain pants often tear in the crotch and kilts aren't as flexible.
One of the downsides to an umbrella that another youtuber, MyLifeOutdoors, made was that when you're at camp, the umbrella isn't the best when it comes to rain. He, and myself, by extension prefer the coverage a rain jacket would provide. My solution was a cheap emergency poncho when setting up camp and using the umbrella and the clip as an extension from my tent to quickly cook what I needed (I have a fear of cooking inside the tent). He also tried a rain kilt which admittedly I kind of want to try, but dry feet are more of a concern for me so I just put on some gaiters.
I have the ULA rain kilt and it’s great as a backup for keeping my legs mostly dry though they really aren’t long enough to keep lower shins and ankles dry. They do work nicely with gaiters. Walking with wide strides causes them to open up. But they are extremely light, and I could see pairing them with the umbrella.
I was recently cycling the Portuguese Camino and saw many of the walkers with umbrellas. It had never seen that but now think it would be a great addition.
I am considering bringing an umbrella for the sun protection... Last summer I was SO HOT going through open landscapes in high temperatures and full force summer sun... Something to seriously think about. Would need a kit to strap it to my pack though, imagine the strain to your arms carrying an umbrella all day 😅
The pack straps work wonders!! Well, I imagine they do - I made my own from some shock cord and toggles 😁 After walking around Moab, UT in 100F+ heat, I can confirm this umbrella is great for shade!
My solution to that....I don't hike in the summer. Nothing is more miserable than trying to sleep in oppressive heat and humidity. Or in general, sweating without earning it LOL. And I'm a Florida native, so I just avoid the lengthy outdoors activities past 10-11am in June-Aug/Sept unless I'm in the water.
@@Swearengen1980 I get that! I live somewhere where the summers are usually mild and good for hiking, but then suddenly there's a heatwave on... Unfortunately (and fortunately) I have a job where I have long summer holidays and not that much opportunity to take time off the rest of the year, so the summer is where it's at 🙃 (apart from some weekend trips)
I just hiked tropical Arkansas (98 degrees, 78 dew point) and carried my umbrella all day. It's only 8 ounces--no problem. I was the only hiker out there because I was in shade all day and could take it.
A rain jacket is only good if you're standing still. I started using the umbrella 20yrs ago. If I have to do any heavy hiking in the rain, I'd rather just get wet rather than exercising in a rain jacket sauna, and you keep cool. Drape the jacket over the pack to keep the pack dry and use the rain for a combination shower/clothes washer.
I ride mountain bikes (which is sort of like hiking) and spend a lot of time in the desert. I've carried an umbrella for many years because it provides instant shade. And, if the wind is behind me, I get another speed without any additional effort.
I wear a wide-brimmed hat for both sun and keeping rain off my specs. I use an umbrella in town but I can't imagine many days when it would work on trail. If it rains it usually blows a gale too. The average angle of rain around here is about 45 degrees and a brolly ain't going to keep more than my head dry. But if you get a lot of vertical rain then I guess it could work.
I haven’t used mine yet, but the benefits convinced me a few months ago. Plus, I live in the southeast US or sun protection is a priority. Small footnote: direct sun is not the only sun that can burn you. Sun is still sun, even if it is indirect. It’s especially potent when reflected off a water source. Since I am now at the age where the dermatologist periodically whittles another piece off my face, I would still use sunscreen, even with the umbrella.
Yeah, I have to remind my daughter this constantly. Just because it's cloudy doesn't mean you won't get burned. I've gotten toasted on a windy overcast day when it was 50 degrees outside because: Florida.
Hummingbird hammocks has an amazingly light hammock and tree straps I would like your honest opinion on. I really want to try hammock camping but the big hammock and regular tree straps weigh so much! I am disabled with a connective tissue disorder so have been lightening my load so to speak.
I was surprised that you didn't mention that it may snag on branches. That's the main reason I've never tried it. Is that not a thing? If it's not, I might give it a go.
If you're hiking on really overgrown trails, that might be a problem! But in that situation I'll just close the umbrella for a second, or tip it to the side. It's no more cumbersome than the general "wide load" of hiking with a pack.
I recently bought the cheapest travel sun umbrella and it has really helped me. I have sensitivities to sunscreens due to Autism (the feel makes me want to puke), so using a sun umbrella is great for me.
I like using my umbrella and rain kilt 90% of the time but for windy harsh conditions I still carry my Patagonia m10. I find stowing one trekking pole and holding the umbrella to be the best method because of overhang branches and close to trail trees. Extremely annoying encountering blowdowns and such if the umbrella is attached to your harness. Also visibility is problematic. That being said it's my goto for rain protection. It will also serve in everyday life when not on trail.
What about a poncho? Keeps the pack dry, legs dry, light weight, doesn't feel as hot a rain coat, hands free. I've used mine a ton in Switzerland and northern Italy. They are super cheap also. Only down side is it's hard to see your feet, so for going down a really steep rocky trail it's a bit tricky.
I just use a head umbrella. I have two sizes. Looks funny but it’s the ultimate move. Big one for covering entire body and small for just face and shoulders. The rain 🤔 I don’t have an umbrella for the rain but I might look into one.
Looks like you got a Melly! I live a few hours from Leadville. (But don’t tell, I might like my Farpointe more, maybe. 🤫) I also really like my Appalachian Gear Company alpaca hoodie.
Umbrella is great to protect from sun, from rainfall when no wind, from leeches falling from trees during spring trek in Nepal (not experienced that one). But it becomes useless when wind picks up, when there is only a narrow path between trees or rocks, when path is tricky and needs use of hands (having an ombrella fixed to your backpack is not very practical when you have to climb up a ladder, or make easy rock climbing). So I don't think that an umbrella can replace any rain jacket, but it may be worth carrying one in addition to such a jacket.
If she can find a copy of walk across america II she'll see a picture of peter and Barbara crossing texas during the summer with umbrellas. Umbrellas are great for sun or rain. I wear the raincoat and use the umbrella, the raincoat works as a windbreaker. I carry a giant umbrella too.
As a native pacific Northwest person, I am vehemently opposed to umbrellas just because when we get sideways rain you're going to get wet if you don't have a raincoat on and I don't want to have to worry about poking somebody's eye out, but if it helps you with Sun, go for it
I have a similar one and jsut call it my sunbrella... for she extends the time I can happily walk in hot desert home. My wife gives me a wide distance because I flail widely around for all bird spotting.
EuroSCHIRM has some that have an extended bit back to cover your pack better. And also fastening systems for handsfree use. No idea if they are any good but been on my list to try out.
Okay, but Miranda you know we don't allow umbrella's in Seattle 🤪 Kidding. I saw someone in my neighborhood using a similar (silver) umbrella on a hot day and i thought maybe it provided some cooling benefits on top of sun protection? That might be enough to turn me into an umbrella user.
It’s from a tiny brand called Melanzana that’s based in Leadville, CO! They only sell direct to consumer in their stores, but there are lots of great microgrid fleeces out there! Check out Sambob, SkyGOAT, and Farpointe!
If you compare it to a poncho then the umbrella falls short. Poncho is lighter can be stored on an outside pocket. Will cover your pack and can be used as an emergency shelter.
Any additional uses for a backpacking umbrella that I missed?? I'd love to hear them below!
A trip to the moon Alice? Wouldve been funnier in your video.
Well Canadian Stealth Camper Steve Wallis used an umbrella as a shelter.😂
th-cam.com/video/-a5aLRH7TqI/w-d-xo.html
an umbrella is useful for an impromptu song & dance routine .. Gene Kelly singing in the rain or Rihanna Umbrella .. your choice
Wonder if you could use an umbrella to signal for help if you needed too. That silver dome pretty viewable from far away so could help planes and helicopters see you.
@@888johnmac 100% yes. The sheer number of vaudeville-worthy routines we cut from this video is alarming.
There's a key feature missing from this hiking umbrella that would make it even BETTER! I'd like to see the pointy tip transform into a flexible/collapsible hook💡
Imagine this situation: You're hiking a wooded trail during a light rain when the weather worsens unexpectedly😬 You find yourself suddenly scrambling to take your pack off and pull out your rain coat or poncho (my personal favourite heavy rain item when hiking), and quickly setup camp to wait out the storm. How convenient would it be to simply hang your umbrella from a branch and use it like a makeshift awning while you search for, pull out, and put on your gear? A simple twisty knob at the handle could allow you to extrude a spring-like hook, or a low-tech version could be made where you simply have a rubberized wire coiled around the tip.
Hopefully this helps someone improve hiking umbrellas for us all to enjoy the outdoors - no matter the weather?
i have hiked with an umbrella for the past 21 years. when i first did it people (other hikers) thought i was weird/stupid looking. but i knew then it helped keep the sun/rain off. just tilt the brim down a little and it keeps the rain off the front of your face. will never give up the umbrella. keep at it Miranda. yes you can not hold an umbrella and a hikeing stick at the same time. but if it rains one stick is okay to me.(i've stuck the umbrella down the strap to the side you get use to it and then can use 2 hike sticks.
Also great for hikers who wear glasses! I hate when I get rain drops on my spectacles and while hiking it's impossible to keep wiping them.
YES! This is such a great use.
A hat.
@@JamesHaitch right. The hood on some raincoats is even impossible to wear without a cap.
Got glasses at the age of 24, and that immediately annoyed me. So since then i am wearing caps whenever it rains, and while hiking i wear a hat anyways. (Because i hate putting sunscreen on my ears and face, and the brim helps a lot.)
Yaaaassss! I didn't even realize that's why i have it.
We just spent a week in Moab with a couple of those six moon umbrellas. Made the hiking way more enjoyable in the 100+ temps and we were the envy of everyone one we passed.
I hike in Florida and the sun protection aspect is clutch, you just can't be out for hours and hours with no real tree cover and not get burned to a crisp, so the umbrella helps massively. Another handy use is that when you are at camp, if you get some drizzle you can pop it open and set it over your pack or a chair or anything else you want to keep dry, particularly nice when setting up camp and your shelter is not in place yet.
That's the same model I have. I won't go out hiking without it. Total gamechanger. I originally got it for sun protection when going out on the Colorado Trail.
I tuck the handle under my sternum strap and pull the umbrella down snug against the top of my pack, angled back a bit so I can see. This makes it so I don't have to hold it up, but I still hang on to the handle to keep it from flopping over to the side. I can go hands free for a moment whenever I need to use both hands for something, like opening a snack. I carry a Frog Toggs jacket for the sideways rain or when I'm putting up my tent, etc. But most of the time, the umbrella is all I need.
Hot tip: I’ve tried a few umbrella attachment systems and the Gossamer Gear kit with a plastic clip was hands down the best for me.
Not gonna lie, Miranda Poppins has a ring to it. “It’s my umbrella, gosh darn it“
Also. Umbrella fabric doesn't have to be breathable and made from petrochemicals or forever chemicals. That's a huge bonus right there.
Hey there. I have that same umbrella and love it. Another use for it is for when you need to pee and there are no bushes. Bring out the brolly (I’m english) to hold in front of me for privacy 😆🤘🏻. Happy trails.😂🥾⛰️
I just got back from a super hot backpacking trip and the entire time I kept thinking I need an umbrella.
This confirms my thoughts.
I love that you are talking about the alternative to rain jackets for hiking. This piece of kit is defiantly on my list to try next, due to the way it can work for rain and sun.
Another piece of rain gear that doesn't gets a lot of attention is the poncho. They range in weight about the same as the jackets, but can be lighter. A couple of benefits that are similar to the umbrella is the increased air flow. You don't cooking and marinate in your own sweat. Additionally, if you do get wet, it offers rain protection while giving you the opportunity to dry off. If you get wet under your rain jacket you just stay wet. I can also go over the top of your pack instead of a pack cover. I have hike for decades in the Pacific North West, and am accustom to hiking and camping in the rain and the poncho is my go to. Hiking and camping in the rain can be quite enjoyable with the right gear.
I also carry around emergency ponchos (space blanket style) in my back pack, and over the years, have handed out nearly a dozen of them to ill prepared. The emergency poncho is also great for weekend you are fairly sure you will have good weather, so don't bring all the rain gear, but don't want to be irresponsible.
In general I agree with the poncho over the raincoat, with a caveat. Most ponchos are pretty fragile, especially if it's relatively light weight. Snag a branch and that's all she wrote for many ponchos.
I'm with you on Team Poncho, though it took a while to get there. Carried an umbrella on a thru-hike of the BMT and liked it okay but the poncho does a better job, protects my pack as well and is hands free. I made my own using silpoly from Ripstop by the Roll and ended up with a custom poncho that's sized for me and my pack and weighs half an ounce LESS than the Frog Toggs rain poncho. Who cares that it looks goofy? It works.
Super great piece of gear. I would be dead if it’s weren’t for my UV umbrella. Works great for rain, snow, sleet, and it makes SHADE where there is none.🌧️❄️☀️
She's wearing a Mellie!!! Best fleece layer on earth! ❤
I love it so much!!!
Thanks for this!
Was hiking near my house a couple weeks ago and got heat stroke. (0 stars. Do not recommend)
You sold me on the hiking/backpacking umbrella.
It’s made a noticeable difference.
Cheers!
A versatile multitasker:
Great for protecting your foot box from condensation in your tent (tall hiker hack)
If tarping it makes an easy way to “cap” one end from wind/rain
Eases the transition from poncho to tarp when sporting the poncho tarp for dual duty
No trees or bushes but gotta make a cat hole? Privacy screen. Passersby know what you’re doing but are spared the details!
Great for any outdoor event even when not hiking and allowed into most venues
Best way to show you’re the coolest cat around, without a sign that spells it out
Also - and this is big in the Southwest, but really anywhere - an umbrella is portable shade. That's HUGE in the desert.
However, it's one failing against rainjackets is wind. You'll still want to have that rainjacket along for the windy rain, but ever since I first took an umbrella with me, I've never packed without one.
I love mine. Got it when it first came out ,people hated on it until the last year or so. Crazy how things take a minute to really get going in the community sometimes.
.... "What ? I didn't hit anybody ..... yet" .. I think umbrella's are a good piece of gear for the trail ,, rain or shine ,, but still need a rain jacket , sideways wind driven rain still gets you soaked and an outer hard layer for wind and cold ... .. A great sun protector ,, cools body many degrees from direct sun .... A useful curtain for open trails potty break with no cover .....
... Wow !! ... You covered it all ..... I commented before watching the video ... lol .. .. beside bungies ,, there are a few companies that make ' clips' that stay fixed to your shoulder strap .. and keep it in place..
It's all fun and games until I take an eye out with my fancy umbrella
I have used that umbrella for 1200 miles of hiking on three Caminos and the PCT, including very intense desert winds. It's always been solid. The key is to keep it parallel to the ground, which the hands free attachment kit already does for you.
I have the gossamer gear umbrella and their hands free conversion kit.I usually just wear a wind jacket with it instead of a full rain jacket and I save 4 oz.
Dude, yes! I wore my Patagonia Houdini with this on the last rainy trip, and it was perfect. Way lighter, way more versatile, and way more comfortable.
That's the same umbrella I got a few weeks ago just to save me from the sun beating down on me....Texas is burnin' up, right now! Haven't been able to test it in the rain, yet. I did get the backpack attachment straps--also, haven't had a chance to test those, yet, either. But, man! It does a great job of blocking sun/heat.
❤Love that she literally covers everything in backpacking!!!
For casual green tunnel, sun-exposed and light rain situations, sure, I can see it, but ANY other situation you'd need a jacket anyway. I don't buy the conversion kits help (they hold it in one, probably not optimal, direction) so you'd still need to hold it which precludes poles or those who like their hands free, and any kind of wind either prevents the use of an umbrella or makes rain sideways enough to make it ineffective.
Also, is the umbrella really UL? I have to imagine a Zpacks rain jacket is lighter AND less space/volume no?
@@swqueep If you have not tried it, you just don't understand. I use it all over the place, and I'm in Oklahoma...you know where the winds come sweeping down the plains?
Anyone else get anxiety when she opened it inside 😂 immediately childhood me is like “noooo she will have 7 years of bad luck!” Thanks for a great video!
😳 hang on I didn't know it's bad luck to open an umbrella inside!! *panic*
Its a known thing in the Netherlands to never do that but we only get 3 years
@@akkelijke 7 in uk
@@MirandaGoesOutside you're doomed! Oh no!
OMG that was my immediate thought!😮😮😮😮😮😮😮
I love an umbrella for sun cover!
I lagit pack a beat up frog togg and an umbrella for that sidways rain and emergency layer. Forest gump..... so much knowledge packed into 1 film. You are cool btw :) you guys make cool 😎 vids
I love an umbrella, but it won’t always replace a rain jacket. Here in the midwest, we get STORMS. A few weeks ago, I went out with an umbrella but not a rain jacket. A quick storm blew up. I was on open prairie with 40+mph winds in addition to buckets of rain. I was running through the ankle-deep puddles toward a shelter nearly a mile away, hoping there wouldn’t be hail or (worse) a rain-wrapped tornado. That said, I’ll always carry an umbrella! Sun protection is awesome.
I love that the end card looks like Miranda has a mini me
just got my own umbrella! Feelijg it will help me a lot during the summer.
I've been carrying a little mini umbrella in my backpacking gear for years and people used to give me so much crap but you have mobile shade with you for one you don't have to be sweating on some of them spring days when it starts raining but it's 60 plus outside and you're sweating in a rain jacket and umbrella is really really nice to have and they don't weigh enough to make a difference. Plus if you build your own shelter you can pop that up through the center of the shelter and hang your lamp off of the bottom of the post and it will shed most the rain away from the center of the shelter you built. If you don't have a tarp system.
I think the two main disadvantages to me are that you need to hold an umbrella (fixating it with some sort of cordage still means it will often not have the correct angle it needs depending on the movement and wind changes).
And the second one, i like to hike on paths through tree covered areas, and an umbrella catches more easily and can obstruct vision. (Missing branches at the height of your head.)
Apart from that, you would have convinced me.
My rain jacket (actually have the same as you) is essential gear for me, protecting from extreme windchill - and when no wind, mosquitoes. I do exclusively hike above treeline though (arctic tundra), so I am not the average hiker. If I were to go green tunnel hiking, I'd switch to an umbrella in a heartbeat.
Oh heck yes - that makes sense! An umbrella in the arctic tundra sounds... useless 😅
Umbrellas are most useful above tree line where there is the most exposure. They're actually not great in green tunnels because they can catch on branches easily.
👍👍👍
Depending on the weather, I often have both Umbrella and Rain Jacket with me. A little telescoping brolly is a given in my day / outdoor packs. The weight and space it takes is negligible.
Here in Switzerland, 'everybody' uses umbrellas so they don't attract attention.
Kind of what I get here, you "need" both really for extended trips, that is, being prepared for varying weather. i guess what we're learning here is there are super light weight umbrellas that don't hurt (too much) the weight budget.
I'd just love to express my true appreciation for your consistent outgassing on almost all your videos. Makes my day! 🤣❤️
I used mine mostly when it's really hot. I'll prop it up during breaks or at camp while cooking to stay out of the sun too.
cool video. On the subject of ultralight, what if you did an an "ultra-maximalist" backpacker video, where you squeezed as many creature comforts, necessary things as you could carry, but things that have the potential to make it an extra comfy trip once at camp? Maybe that's silly, but I think it would be fun in a most ridiculous of ways.
This is literally the topic of tomorrow's video! I did a maximalist mostly luxury items backpacking adventure with the goal of setting up a super fun and cozy campsite in the backcountry. It was indeed fun in ridiculous ways, and in other ways did not at all go according to plan. Can't wait to share!
I think I made it through all the comments, and I saw no mention of umbrellas and if made of metal they can make a nice lightning rod too. Other than that, I like the idea of keeping the sun off me while hiking.
A Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs clip in this vid would have been fun - picture Miranda drinking oj from an umbrella!
You really make a good case for hiking with an umbrella.
I’ll probably get one now.
There is the geek factor, though.
Ultralighters replace a tent and/ or bivy with the umbrella. Put a light ground cloth ( like a cheap plastic shower curtain from the dollar store, cut in half lengthwise) on the ground. Open umbrella and lay it on it's side at the head. Attach a longer piece of Tyvek or such to the umbrella and stake down the foot end. Light weight and does the job. Personally I like an ultralight backpacking tent ( sometimes the extra weight is worth it)
And yes. It is very bad luck to open an umbrella indoors.😯 🤣
Having an umbrella on hot days/hikes is essential for me. It really has saved me from over heating when on a hike with little tree shade coverage. I usually bring a small one for when I take breaks or eat lunch
It's so funny hearing Rainer laugh in the background, 3:57 took me out LOL. It's like in sitcoms when you hear laughs in the background but instead it's just him
I look forward to your videos sooooo much. Lmao! Thank you! I have the same umbrella!
I have used it for several years now. I find it invaluable for hot Florida summers!! However, it flipped during a wind burst and now has a hole and a broken spoke. Still great for the sun, but not for rain. I replaced it with the collapsible model. The shorter version falls within airline requirements too.
I thought this was a crazy idea, then remembered that I have a collapsible umbrella I keep in the glove box of my car, and hardly ever use (I'm in Arizona). I went to my car to get it. It weighs 6.25 oz (super lightweight). I can attach it to my pack strap with gear loops that are already there, and use my hand to hold it up or tilt as necessary for sun or wind. I'll leave it attached to my pack and try it next time I go hiking. 😊
I took the pros and the cons and for me I'd rather not have an umbrella but I can see the benefits for others! Love the endless possibilities with backpacking and how unique each person and their hike is! It's fun to all learn new ideas from each other👍❤️
I love hiking in the rain and I find that an umbrella really allows me to enjoy it. Now that I am in Utah and I get blistering sun instead of rain, I am really needing a sun umbrella.
I've got one of the old school GoLIte ones from when they were a thing back in the day. Good to see someone still makes something like it just in case something happens to mine.
Also, a bit surprised I didn't see anyone else mention this (has there really been that long of a gap since GoLite faded away and someone else picked up the backpacking umbrella?!?) you put the the shaft of the umbrella between you and your pack for hands free. No kit needed.
I love my ZPacks umbrella. It has proved to be so useful, especially with the heat we have had.
And if you have it behind you at a campfire, it is like a little heat dome.
Hyper lite mountain gear has an awesome ultralight umbrella!!!
Was hiking in Shenandoah national park a couple weeks ago and hiked 9 miles in the rain. Had my zpacks rain jacket and umbrella. Used the umbrella and not the jacket. Worked great. Also does a goos job keeping rain off glasses.
I love my bumbershoot! 😁 (And, you'z guys)!
As someone who lives in a country where the summers are over 40°C, sun umbrellas are just a no brainer. It feels a good 10° cooler under the shade.
I love my SMD umbrella! And I recently got the hands free bungees, so I no longer have to wedge it over the top of my pack and worry about it blowing away 😁
Oh my gosh YES. or do the chin hold while trying to get something from a hipbelt pocket.
@MirandaGoesOutside LOL! I was just doing the chin hold this morning while walking the dog in the rain and had to scoop the 💩 Soooo difficult! 🤣
Realized this too recently, it's also great as a replacement for sunscreen (Edit: Oh, you talk about that in the video). A perfect addition to this would be a rain kilt to also better protect your legs in a pinch if your pants aren't already waterproof anyway.
A rain kilt?! I have to check that out!!
I use rain chaps that I got out of a hiker box, works surprisingly well because it keeps your crotch open where most of your heat is generated. I find rain pants often tear in the crotch and kilts aren't as flexible.
@@MirandaGoesOutside Rain kilt or umbrella could be used for peeing/pooping in the woods! Provide cover for thy backside by blocking a viewpoint.
One of the downsides to an umbrella that another youtuber, MyLifeOutdoors, made was that when you're at camp, the umbrella isn't the best when it comes to rain. He, and myself, by extension prefer the coverage a rain jacket would provide. My solution was a cheap emergency poncho when setting up camp and using the umbrella and the clip as an extension from my tent to quickly cook what I needed (I have a fear of cooking inside the tent). He also tried a rain kilt which admittedly I kind of want to try, but dry feet are more of a concern for me so I just put on some gaiters.
I have the ULA rain kilt and it’s great as a backup for keeping my legs mostly dry though they really aren’t long enough to keep lower shins and ankles dry. They do work nicely with gaiters. Walking with wide strides causes them to open up. But they are extremely light, and I could see pairing them with the umbrella.
Miranda, you always look cool when you’re hiking.
I was recently cycling the Portuguese Camino and saw many of the walkers with umbrellas. It had never seen that but now think it would be a great addition.
I'm packing a bag for Mt Rainier right now and will take this as an omen 😂 looking forward to catching the rest of the video later tonight!
😅 hopefully you have nothing but beautiful sunshine!!
I am considering bringing an umbrella for the sun protection... Last summer I was SO HOT going through open landscapes in high temperatures and full force summer sun... Something to seriously think about. Would need a kit to strap it to my pack though, imagine the strain to your arms carrying an umbrella all day 😅
The pack straps work wonders!! Well, I imagine they do - I made my own from some shock cord and toggles 😁 After walking around Moab, UT in 100F+ heat, I can confirm this umbrella is great for shade!
My solution to that....I don't hike in the summer. Nothing is more miserable than trying to sleep in oppressive heat and humidity. Or in general, sweating without earning it LOL. And I'm a Florida native, so I just avoid the lengthy outdoors activities past 10-11am in June-Aug/Sept unless I'm in the water.
@@Swearengen1980 I get that! I live somewhere where the summers are usually mild and good for hiking, but then suddenly there's a heatwave on... Unfortunately (and fortunately) I have a job where I have long summer holidays and not that much opportunity to take time off the rest of the year, so the summer is where it's at 🙃 (apart from some weekend trips)
I just hiked tropical Arkansas (98 degrees, 78 dew point) and carried my umbrella all day. It's only 8 ounces--no problem. I was the only hiker out there because I was in shade all day and could take it.
A rain jacket is only good if you're standing still. I started using the umbrella 20yrs ago. If I have to do any heavy hiking in the rain, I'd rather just get wet rather than exercising in a rain jacket sauna, and you keep cool. Drape the jacket over the pack to keep the pack dry and use the rain for a combination shower/clothes washer.
I ride mountain bikes (which is sort of like hiking) and spend a lot of time in the desert. I've carried an umbrella for many years because it provides instant shade. And, if the wind is behind me, I get another speed without any additional effort.
I wear a wide-brimmed hat for both sun and keeping rain off my specs. I use an umbrella in town but I can't imagine many days when it would work on trail. If it rains it usually blows a gale too. The average angle of rain around here is about 45 degrees and a brolly ain't going to keep more than my head dry. But if you get a lot of vertical rain then I guess it could work.
I haven’t used mine yet, but the benefits convinced me a few months ago. Plus, I live in the southeast US or sun protection is a priority.
Small footnote: direct sun is not the only sun that can burn you. Sun is still sun, even if it is indirect. It’s especially potent when reflected off a water source. Since I am now at the age where the dermatologist periodically whittles another piece off my face, I would still use sunscreen, even with the umbrella.
Yeah, I have to remind my daughter this constantly. Just because it's cloudy doesn't mean you won't get burned. I've gotten toasted on a windy overcast day when it was 50 degrees outside because: Florida.
water is 4% and grass 2% uv reflected, concrete and sand is about 12% and snow is 94%
Girl! I just bought that Patagonia rain jacket because of you! 🤣
You're still going to need it!! That jacket is clutch for cold weather, heavy rains, and just general happiness hiking in inclement weather :D
Hummingbird hammocks has an amazingly light hammock and tree straps I would like your honest opinion on. I really want to try hammock camping but the big hammock and regular tree straps weigh so much! I am disabled with a connective tissue disorder so have been lightening my load so to speak.
You've convinced me to try one out!
I hope you love it!!
I was surprised that you didn't mention that it may snag on branches. That's the main reason I've never tried it. Is that not a thing? If it's not, I might give it a go.
If you're hiking on really overgrown trails, that might be a problem! But in that situation I'll just close the umbrella for a second, or tip it to the side. It's no more cumbersome than the general "wide load" of hiking with a pack.
I recently bought the cheapest travel sun umbrella and it has really helped me. I have sensitivities to sunscreens due to Autism (the feel makes me want to puke), so using a sun umbrella is great for me.
P.S. Have you considered being on the Neurodivergent spectrum?🥰🌈
Consecutive Miranda Goes Outside!! videos without a burp: 0
6:19 lol
I like using my umbrella and rain kilt 90% of the time but for windy harsh conditions I still carry my Patagonia m10. I find stowing one trekking pole and holding the umbrella to be the best method because of overhang branches and close to trail trees. Extremely annoying encountering blowdowns and such if the umbrella is attached to your harness. Also visibility is problematic. That being said it's my goto for rain protection. It will also serve in everyday life when not on trail.
What about a poncho? Keeps the pack dry, legs dry, light weight, doesn't feel as hot a rain coat, hands free. I've used mine a ton in Switzerland and northern Italy. They are super cheap also. Only down side is it's hard to see your feet, so for going down a really steep rocky trail it's a bit tricky.
I just use a head umbrella. I have two sizes. Looks funny but it’s the ultimate move. Big one for covering entire body and small for just face and shoulders. The rain 🤔 I don’t have an umbrella for the rain but I might look into one.
@mirandagoesoutside
Which brand is the top you're wearing? It looks cozy, and I would love to get one for myself!
Looks like you got a Melly! I live a few hours from Leadville. (But don’t tell, I might like my Farpointe more, maybe. 🤫) I also really like my Appalachian Gear Company alpaca hoodie.
I did!! I've been meaning to try the AGC hoodie if I can! I still love my SkyGOAT - and I'm coveting a Sambob 👀 I'm a little bit fleece-crazed
@@MirandaGoesOutside the struggle is real! I like Skygoat also.
Umbrella is great to protect from sun, from rainfall when no wind, from leeches falling from trees during spring trek in Nepal (not experienced that one). But it becomes useless when wind picks up, when there is only a narrow path between trees or rocks, when path is tricky and needs use of hands (having an ombrella fixed to your backpack is not very practical when you have to climb up a ladder, or make easy rock climbing). So I don't think that an umbrella can replace any rain jacket, but it may be worth carrying one in addition to such a jacket.
miranda, please make another trip journey. I love so much Watching your backpacking Video
If she can find a copy of walk across america II she'll see a picture of peter and Barbara crossing texas during the summer with umbrellas. Umbrellas are great for sun or rain. I wear the raincoat and use the umbrella, the raincoat works as a windbreaker. I carry a giant umbrella too.
wow first here gosh darn 😂
so happy to have you ❤️
Hello! What brand of sweater are you wearing?
As a native pacific Northwest person, I am vehemently opposed to umbrellas just because when we get sideways rain you're going to get wet if you don't have a raincoat on and I don't want to have to worry about poking somebody's eye out, but if it helps you with Sun, go for it
Team umbrella all the way. I take one on every outdoor adventure.
I have a similar one and jsut call it my sunbrella... for she extends the time I can happily walk in hot desert home. My wife gives me a wide distance because I flail widely around for all bird spotting.
Why not one of those small compact mini umbrellas?
EuroSCHIRM has some that have an extended bit back to cover your pack better. And also fastening systems for handsfree use. No idea if they are any good but been on my list to try out.
I use a US Poncho as a rain jacket/poncho/emergency tarp shelter.
It is so cool!!
Nice Melly
Hi Miranda!! Please where is your jumper from? It’s super duper cute
Hey!! It’s from a brand called Melanzana based in Leadville, CO!
Next video:
"Why I went back to my rain jacket!"
😂
Love the idea of the umbrella, but hard to use with trekking poles….
Okay, but Miranda you know we don't allow umbrella's in Seattle
🤪 Kidding. I saw someone in my neighborhood using a similar (silver) umbrella on a hot day and i thought maybe it provided some cooling benefits on top of sun protection? That might be enough to turn me into an umbrella user.
Has anyone tried making a combination trekking/tent pole and umbrella?
Praying for you since you opened an umbrella indoors 😀
Will you please post a link to where you found that cool sweater/cowl neck top? I love it! Thank you!
It’s from a tiny brand called Melanzana that’s based in Leadville, CO! They only sell direct to consumer in their stores, but there are lots of great microgrid fleeces out there! Check out Sambob, SkyGOAT, and Farpointe!
@@MirandaGoesOutside Thank you, Miranda! I definitely will. 😃 Maybe someday you could do a review of your favorite fleece tops? ❤️
If you compare it to a poncho then the umbrella falls short. Poncho is lighter can be stored on an outside pocket. Will cover your pack and can be used as an emergency shelter.
I am not sold on the umbrella but it was a fun video nonetheless!
Here in the SE many trails are barely deer trails. Wet folage soaks you as much as the rain.