Ever sputtered expletives at an inside-out umbrella? Cursed its crappiness as it lay torn asunder, metal spines poking out like a dislocated elbow, after what was little more a light breeze? Sure you have, we’ve all been there.

The reason you were led to ask an inanimate object, in your temporarily psychologically unsound state, why it can’t seem to get its shit together is simple: that umbrella cost the same as your lunch, and we hate to break it to you, son, but you get what you pay for.

While it might not sound like the sexiest of topics, unless you want to spend half the year trudging through sheets of rain, new shoes ruined forever and dignity drowning in a puddle of self-pity (you get the idea), read on for a complete guide to finding the best umbrella for staying dry and stylish.

Brooks Brothers

Buying An Umbrella: What To Look For

When shopping for a defence against the elements, first consider what type of umbrella you’re in the market for. “The main purchasing decisions are whether you want a walking length or folding umbrella, an automatic or manual opening mechanism, and the size of the open canopy,” says Nigel Fulton, chief executive of Royal Warrant-holding umbrella firm Fulton. “The rest then comes down to personal preferences such as fabric, handle shape, material and finishes.”

Whatever you do, steer clear of the kind of paper-thin protectors sold outside tourist attractions. “They tend to be made with a lower quality frame and fabric materials, and have very little wind-resistance and durability,” adds Fulton.

The fix for making sure you don’t get lumped with a crappy canopy? A five-part buying checklist.

The Frame

If you’re after an umbrella that won’t implode within 10 seconds of exposure to the outside, there are a few things to bear in mind – including, according to Fulton, the number of ‘sections’ in the umbrella’s frame.