Hello everyone! Maru here, in charge of this blog post.

The season when UV rays become a concern is here again.

Are your UV protection measures perfect?

 

This time, we're talking about an essential item for the coming season: the "parasol."

I'll explain the important points you need to know when choosing a parasol.

I hope I can help you find your favorite parasol that makes you say, "This is it!"

 

And finally, I'll secretly tell you what kind of parasol I chose after much deliberation!

Please read to the end!

Do You Really Need a Parasol? 

 Do you think, "I'm fine because I wear sunscreen!"?

Sometimes daily sunscreen isn't enough to block all UV rays, and

we often forget about UV protection for our hair, right?

One of the reliable roles of a parasol is to cover those little gaps.

 

But you know,

what I think is most amazing about parasols is,

theiroverwhelming coolness!

 

 Japanese summers are really harsh, so I wish everyone, regardless of gender, would use one!

It's like your own little shade.

 

This summer, please make a parasol your must-have item!

What's the difference between light-blocking rate and UV cut rate?

 Light-blocking rate refers to how much visible light it blocks.

The higher the light-blocking rate, the less light passes through!

 

On the other hand, UV cut rate is the percentage of ultraviolet rays that cause sunburn that it blocks.

 

 While UV rays are not directly related to heat, light gradually makes you feel hot.

 

 Generally, parasols with a high light-blocking rate also have a high UV cut rate, so in addition to UV protection, it's recommended to choose one with a high light-blocking rate for coolness.

 

By the way, the light-blocking rate written on parasols often follows the standards set by the NIF (Nippon Interior Fabric Association), which are also used for curtains.

What color parasol is best: white or black?

 The visual impression changes, and each color has slight advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the color is also important.

 

 

 

Recently, there are also parasols with different color schemes for the inside and outside.

The recommended choice is a two-tone color that leverages the benefits of both:

a bright color on the outside to reflect light and provide heat-blocking, and a dark color like black on the inside to prevent glare.

 

What size is best? 

Parasols are often more compact than rain umbrellas, but

recently, slightly larger sizes have become available, making them easier for men to use.

 

If you want to thoroughly protect your entire body from UV rays and heat, choosing a larger size might give you peace of mind.

However, keep in mind that larger sizes can be a bit cumbersome to carry.

 

If you're unsure about the size of a parasol, it's easy to compare it to the rain umbrella you usually use!

By the way, the rib length of a typical vinyl umbrella is about 60cm, and a large one is about 70cm. (The rib is the bone that extends from the top of the umbrella to the edge of the fabric.)

Folding or long umbrella?

Compact folding umbrellas that can always be kept in your bag.

Long umbrellas that open and close smoothly and are often larger.

 

If you use it frequently,

a durable long umbrella that blocks a wide range of sunlight is reliable.

 

 On the other hand,

for those who "only want to use it when needed"

and "want to keep their belongings as compact as possible!",

a portable folding umbrella is still convenient.

Other Features

・All-weather umbrellas that can be used regardless of the weather

・Automatic opening and closing function, common in folding umbrellas

・Lightweight type for easy carrying

・Wind-resistant function for peace of mind on windy days

・and many other parasols with various functions.

 

 From my experience,

the automatic opening and closing feature on folding umbrellas is truly convenient,

but it tends to make the umbrella larger and heavier when folded, reducing its portability, so that's something to keep in mind.

My Chosen Parasol

 

Specs that were the criteria for selection

・Grade 1 light-blocking

・White/light color on the outside, black/dark color on the inside

・Plain and simple design

・Long umbrella

・Rib length 60cm

・Reliable brand/manufacturer

 

And

here's the one I actually chose!

Reasons I Chose This

 When I started looking for a parasol, I realized again that there are so many different ways of displaying information in stores and online.

Among them, a clear standard isやっぱり

"Grade 1 light-blocking" (light-blocking rate of 99.99% or more).

This gives a strong sense of security that it will block a significant amount of light.

 

 For long umbrella or folding, considering daily use during strong UV periods, I prioritized comfort when holding it, so I chose a long umbrella.

 Regarding color, size, and design,

・Not cramped even when used with children

・Looks natural even when held by Dad

I chose a simple design with a rib length of 60cm, which is a bit large for a parasol.

 

Then, when I actually picked up and opened several at the store,

even with similar light-blocking rate displays, some still let the light from the store lighting show through...

 

Ultimately, "a reliable manufacturer"

I realized this was the key to not making a mistake, and it became my deciding factor.

 

 

How was it?

I hope it was helpful for your parasol selection.

Everyone, please find the perfect parasol that suits your lifestyle and priorities!

Also check out! Introducing perfect items for summer UV and dryness protection

 

If you protect yourself from UV rays externally with a parasol, don't forget to protect your skin barrier in the bath.

CHANT's whole-body shampoo bar was developed by a mom with atopic skin,

with a mild pH and 100% plant-derived skincare formula.

 

It moisturizes the skin just by washing and is gentle enough for delicate areas.

It protects everyone's skin from summer dryness and friction damage.