Last Updated on June 13, 2023
A desert hiking umbrella is a lightweight, compact umbrella designed for use in hot, dry environments. It is typically made of a durable, water-resistant fabric and has a large canopy that provides shade from the sun.
Desert hiking umbrellas often have features that make them ideal for hiking, such as a quick-release button, a wrist strap, and a durable frame.
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What is a hiking umbrella?
A hiking umbrella is a type of umbrella that is designed for use while hiking or backpacking in the desert.
They are typically made of lightweight materials and are designed to be compact and easy to carry. Hiking umbrellas often have features that make them more suitable for use in desert environments, such as sun protection, wind resistance, and water resistance.
The use of hiking umbrellas gained popularity in the 1990s when ultralight backpacking was emerging.
Ray Jardine’s book, “The PCT Hiker’s Handbook“, popularized the use of hiking umbrellas to reflect the sun’s rays in the desert.
The Chrome Dome, produced by GoLite, became a standard hiking umbrella among long-distance hikers. After GoLite’s closure, other ultralight brands filled the gap and continued to innovate hiking umbrella designs.
Benefits of Desert Umbrellas
Desert umbrellas are specially crafted, lightweight, and compact umbrellas designed to withstand the rigors of hot, dry environments. Designed specifically for use in these challenging conditions, desert umbrellas provide much-needed shade and protection from the scorching sun.
Here are some of the benefits of using a desert hiking umbrella:
- Protection from the sun: The large canopy of a desert hiking umbrella provides shade from the sun, which can help to prevent heat stroke and sunburn.
- Wind resistance: Desert hiking umbrellas are typically designed to be wind resistant, which is important in areas with strong winds.
- Lightweight and compact: Desert hiking umbrellas are designed to be lightweight and compact, which makes them easy to carry on long hikes.
- Versatile: Desert hiking umbrellas can be used for both sun protection and rain protection.
If you are planning on hiking in a desert environment, a desert hiking umbrella is a great way to stay cool and protected from the sun.
Best Desert Hiking Umbrellas
 Six Moon Designs Base Silver Shadow Ultralight Umbrella |  GoLite Dome Umbrella |  G4Free 46 Inch Large Hiking Umbrella |
Six Moon Designs Base Silver Shadow Ultralight Umbrella
The Six Moon Designs Base Silver Shadow Ultralight Umbrella is a fantastic choice for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who enjoy hiking and backpacking.
Weighing just 8.9 ounces (252 grams) and featuring a compact design, it effortlessly fits into your backpack without adding unnecessary weight. The umbrella’s fiberglass frame and comfortable EVA foam handle ensure durability and a secure grip.
One of the standout features of this umbrella is its exceptional sun protection. With a UPF 50+ rating, it effectively shields you from harmful UV rays, making it ideal for sunny adventures. The reflective top surface efficiently deflects sunlight, helping to keep you cool during scorching conditions.
Additionally, the black underside of the umbrella absorbs any stray rays, further enhancing its sun-blocking capabilities. The Six Moon Designs Base Silver Shadow Ultralight Umbrella is a reliable and lightweight option for anyone seeking sun protection during their outdoor escapades.
GoLite Dome Umbrella
The GoLite Dome Umbrella is a highly recommended desert hiking umbrella.
It features a durable fiberglass frame and a large canopy that provides ample shade from the sun.
The reflective coating (UBF 50+) effectively blocks harmful rays, keeping you cooler on hot days.
With its lightweight design, weighing only eight ounces, and a generous canopy size, this umbrella is perfect for hiking in the desert.
It offers reliable protection from the sun and is designed to withstand windy conditions.
The GoLite Dome Umbrella the most popular choice among hikers seeking a dependable and versatile desert hiking umbrella.
G4Free 46 Inch Large Hiking Umbrella
The G4Free 46 Inch Large Hiking Umbrella is an excellent companion for desert adventures.
Its ultralight design and UV silver reflective coating make it ideal for protecting yourself from the scorching desert sun.
The silver coating reflects heat, keeping you cool even in high temperatures.
The carbon fiber and fiberglass construction ensure durability, while the 46-inch canopy provides ample shade.
The hands-free straps are particularly useful in the desert, allowing you to stay protected while keeping your hands free.
Overall, the G4Free 46 Inch Large Hiking Umbrella is a reliable and lightweight option for anyone venturing into the desert.
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