Hiking umbrellas for sun protection

[Donna Sch]

I'm doing the VDLP in June/July and I read somewhere around these forums that the umbrella helped to drop the temperature by several degrees for that person. Given I have to expect anything from 28-40C, that makes an umbrella sound like a very good idea. Lower temps make for less water use and if you do need to pee where there are no trees you have a potential shield.

So can anyone recommend a good lightweight light coloured trekking umbrella that I can pick up here in Australia, online or even in Seville?
Solid shaft vs folding?

http://francistapon.com/Travels/Advice/10-Reasons-to-Go-Hiking-and-Backpacking-with-an-Umbrella

 

[Jan_89]

Hello Donna!

I walked in summer last year and I think umbrella is useless weight. If you start to walk in the morning and finish your stage until about 2pm, you'll be fine..

 

[Donna Sch]

It's the 30+ km stages in southern Spain I am worried about - no shade, no water supplies on route and no towns inbetween. I'm going to assume a slow 4 km/hr allowing for breaks. And potentially an all day hike no matter what time you start. Ourense can get disgustingly hot but there are more towns to stop at.
I'm ambivalent about hats too. I have a large head - at least a 61 cm size plus there is The Hair which has a life of its own and tends to trap moisture.

 

[cher99840]

It's the 30+ km stages in southern Spain I am worried about - no shade, no water supplies on route and no towns inbetween. I'm going to assume a slow 4 km/hr allowing for breaks. And potentially an all day hike no matter what time you start. Ourense can get disgustingly hot but there are more towns to stop at.
I'm ambivalent about hats too. I have a large head - at least a 61 cm size plus there is The Hair which has a life of its own and tends to trap moisture.

Donna, some people swear by them and if you type "umbrella" in the search box you will find some info. I even saw some links to brands but I think you would be better served to do the search yourself as copying and pasting links is not a skill in which I excell.

 

[grayland]

Donna
I walked from Sevillia in August with full sun every day and temperatures in the 50's (115 f to 135f)for two weeks. Leaving early only helped until the sun came out and immediately became relentless. By 9am the heat was full on.

An umbrella really helped. I finally gave up finding a lightweight perfect one and just took as lightweight telescoping one as I could find
In hindsight, the larger the canopy..the better.
A big golf umbrella would be ideal....if not for size and weight.
It is still hot under it...but not the searing rays of the sun.

Rain is a different story for the umbrella, as I have found. Often, wind comes with the rain which makes the umbrella more of a problem than a help.

Let us know if you locate a really good choice of a trekking umbrella

 

[Icacos]

Happy Easter everyone.

This is where I bought my trekking umbrella. http://www.theumbrellashop.com/#main. I specified to them that I wanted one with UV protection. I think it saved my life in mid-April 2013 heading into Santo Domingo when for a short while it was so unseasonably hot. I bought a folding one - the down side is that it is quite heavy, 1 lb. I think, but not sure. I used it before I started using my trekking poles full time; the weather after that was such that I didn't need it for shade - rain yes, but not shade. If I were walking during the summer months, and using my poles, I would have to rig up some method of attaching it to my pack so my hands would be free to hold my poles.

There are several web sites for the Umbrella Shop in Vancouver so you may check others too. The folks there are very helpful so you may be able to get more information from them. Buen Camino.

 

[Phillypilgrim]

Hi Donna. This past September I walked the Camino de Madrid. The first five days it was 96 degrees F, and unbearable for me. I did finally buy a cheap umbrella in a "china shop" and it saved me. It made a huge difference.

 

[Sheesh]

The hands-free Euroschirm umbrella might be an option for consideration. The silver metallic coating option offers a 50+ UV protection factor. http://www.euroschirm.com/schirm/Sw...i?session=QTvdXe4DGBy9V&sprache_land=englisch

 

[Bajaracer]

You could always get the umbrella hat.....
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006GK724/?tag=casaivar02-20

 

[Sheesh]

Just found this page where the hiker devises and makes a rigging for her sun-blocking umbrella. http://ramblinghemlock.blogspot.ca/2014/03/umbrella-rigging.html

 

[Kiwi-d]

Like you, I have hair with a mind of its own, and loathe hats as I get hotter wearing them than I do without. The umbrella I took was just a very light one I bought in a chemist, and though it promised UV protection, it wasn't expensive. I used it both on sunny days and days of torrential rain and found it a godsend. I did get called Mary Poppins though.

 

[kaylfrazer]

I walked from Le Puy in June/July , up to 37 degrees and used a small light folding umbrella that I bought from a tramping shop in NZ.. sorry can't remember the the brand but it made a big difference for me. When I started my walk the weather was cool and I was using my hiking poles but as it heated up later, I abandoned one of them and used my umbrella instead.. for me this was the only downside.. that I couldn't use both my umbrella and 2 poles and had no hands left for my camera. I had had plans to tie my umbrella to my pack but it was really too small for this as I had to keep moving it to point towards the sun. I am not sure that the additional size needed to do this would have been worth it as I soon got used to carrying it. I did get funny looks and comments from the French though!

 

[pilgrim b]

Like you, I have hair with a mind of its own, and loathe hats as I get hotter wearing them than I do without. The umbrella I took was just a very light one I bought in a chemist, and though it promised UV protection, it wasn't expensive. I used it both on sunny days and days of torrential rain and found it a godsend. I did get called Mary Poppins though.

Well Mary, you should be very grateful your hair has a mind of it's own! My mind has very little hair of its own, so I do appreciate something to cover my head from the sun I tried an Arab cotton scarf and got called someone else! So I too now have a very light cheap umbrella.

 

[grayland]

The hands-free Euroschirm umbrella might be an option for consideration. The silver metallic coating option offers a 50+ UV protection factor. http://www.euroschirm.com/schirm/Sw...i?session=QTvdXe4DGBy9V&sprache_land=englisch

Really interesting. I have emailed and asked about weight

 

[annakappa]

I definitely swear by using an umbrella. Under a strong sun, where there's no shade, the difference is like day and night. Even more so if you are going to walk the VDLP.

 

[Donna Sch]

I definitely swear by using an umbrella. Under a strong sun, where there's no shade, the difference is like day and night. Even more so if you are going to walk the VDLP.

Thanks everyone. I've just ordered the EuroSchirm Light Trek Automatic Umbrella Silver, the one without the LED light. It weighs 295g and opens up to 98 cm across. At least with it being an umbrella I will get a lot of use out of it during our Wet Season which is just as well as it is completely overpriced here in Australia!

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Really interesting. I have emailed and asked about weight

If you look at the little vignettes it tells you 13 ounces.

I've been studying the umbrella issue for a few weeks now because as I wear glasses rain really is a pain on the Camino. Some companies market a "trekking umbrella" and I wondered how they differ from regular ones. I have seen the one made by Sea to Summit and do not see the difference, other than in the price.

On my first Camino I brought one of those that are just the canopy, no handle, and that you were on your head. Not hip, but convinient on that day out of SJPP in the rain. This year I will bring one again. The bit that goes around the head was not comfortable, so I will bring a bandana of some sort to protect my forehead. 113 grams!

 

[grayland]

If you look at the little vignettes it tells you 13 ounces.

I've been studying the umbrella issue for a few weeks now because as I wear glasses rain really is a pain on the Camino. Some companies market a "trekking umbrella" and I wondered how they differ from regular ones. I have seen the one made by Sea to Summit and do not see the difference, other than in the price.

On my first Camino I brought one of those that are just the canopy, no handle, and that you were on your head. Not hip, but convinient on that day out of SJPP in the rain. This year I will bring one again. The bit that goes around the head was not comfortable, so I will bring a bandana of some sort to protect my forehead. 113 grams!

Thanks for finding the weight...I could not see it.

Now for the important part....we need pictures of the umbrella on your head!

 

[Kanga]

We are umbrella converts. Could not find a means of attaching it to the shoulder straps without it wobbling around. Eventually found a You Tube video showing how to thread the shaft through the "handle" on the top of the pack, which sits behind one's head, then to the front over one shoulder and pull down and tie the elastic on the bottom of the handle through the pack waistband. It works.

 

[domigee]

Thanks everyone. I've just ordered the EuroSchirm Light Trek Automatic Umbrella Silver, the one without the LED light. It weighs 295g and opens up to 98 cm across. At least with it being an umbrella I will get a lot of use out of it during our Wet Season which is just as well as it is completely overpriced here in Australia!

I really like that umbrella!! Thinking it could replace the poncho, too, which weighs approx. the same.....
Doing the VDlP same time as you Donna.

Hmmm, just noticed the price

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Thanks for finding the weight...I could not see it.

Now for the important part....we need pictures of the umbrella on your head!

Not a problem - I have looked at the Schwim site so much that I knew the weight information was there ;0) As for the photo with the handsfree umbrela, I have one, taken by the hospitalero in SJPP who thought it was the funnies thing ever and wanted me to send it to him, but I think I will keep it for myself ;0)

 

[pablo.m]

would never dream of walking without one
rain hail or shine
its a friend to lean on, a tent pole, a dog keep-away-er-er, a wind break for protecting the flame on the billy
join the enlightened ones & embrace the way of the brolly

 

[Donna Sch]

I really like that umbrella!! Thinking it could replace the poncho, too, which weighs approx. the same.....
Doing the VDlP same time as you Donna.

Hmmm, just noticed the price

The price is hideous. But we get a LOT of rain here.
I was one cent short of free shipping too.
So I will also be the owner of one Kleancanteen cap as it saved me another $21. Shipping that if the thing fits in a post bag should be under $10.

Nice to see that there is at least one other person to potentially bump into along the way. One of our local camping store guys caught me browsing amonst the socks and said I was the third person from Darwin in two days who was planning to do a Camino. The other two are doing the French Route.

 

[grayland]

Donna,
We will be looking forward to a review after you receive it..with pictures if possible.

 

[grayland]

An added idea...
I have an Osprey Exos backpack...current redesigned model. It has an elastic pocket on each strap that is meant for things like glasses, phone, etc. I have used them for both.
I was looking at it with an umbrella hook up in mind and found that the bottom of my telescoping umbrella easily fits in it snugly. A simple tie or Velcro on the strap above it for the shaft holds it in place very well....at least at home and not walking.
I am a bit surprised that such a simple fix could be found to go hands free with my umbrella...at least at home and not walking.

Anyone else with an Osprey pack of any model with these strap pockets? On the upper middle of the straps...not hip belt.

 

[Walking by faith]

I've seen many local people walking with umbrellas on Camino Frances, but have never seen anyone from outside Spain using it. Still, the locals know the best probably . As for me, I love waling sticks too much, so wouldn't sacrifice one hand for an umbrella. You will see, maybe you donate it after first two days. You can get an umbrella on a way anytime as well.

 

[domigee]

I have the Osprey exos , Grayland, but not the latest model... Only one strap pocket. Will experiment

I did, in the garden. T'is a bit wobbly but great idea, thanks.

 

[domigee]

As for me, I love waling sticks too much, so wouldn't sacrifice one hand for an umbrella. You will see, maybe you donate it after first two days. .

Hi, Walking by faith. Love my sticks too , which is why we're thinking 'hand free' umbrellas. There must be a way
If all else fails and I end up buying that super duper one Donna's getting, no way can I donate it, it's the price of a small car

 

[Icacos]

Thanks, @grayland, I just checked my Osprey Exos with my umbrella, and those straps will work. But, my goodness, if I add an umbrella, combined with walking poles, to my current Camino regalia, it will just reinforce my son's opinion of me. He has already told me that I look like a Swiss Army knife.

 

[pablo.m]

osprey bag, poncho, umbrella, walking stick - just sayin!
who says guys are no good at multi-tasking?

 

[haikutaxi]

Thanks everyone. I've just ordered the EuroSchirm Light Trek Automatic Umbrella Silver, the one without the LED light. It weighs 295g and opens up to 98 cm across. At least with it being an umbrella I will get a lot of use out of it during our Wet Season which is just as well as it is completely overpriced here in Australia!

We bought these too, but not silver and not automatic. They are compact, very well constructed, good in rain and wind in addition to offering sun protection. They are a bit pricy but well worth it. It rains a lot in Galicia!

 

[s. brown]

I'm doing the VDLP in June/July and I read somewhere around these forums that the umbrella helped to drop the temperature by several degrees for that person. Given I have to expect anything from 28-40C, that makes an umbrella sound like a very good idea. Lower temps make for less water use and if you do need to pee where there are no trees you have a potential shield.

So can anyone recommend a good lightweight light coloured trekking umbrella that I can pick up here in Australia, online or even in Seville?
Solid shaft vs folding?

http://francistapon.com/Travels/Advice/10-Reasons-to-Go-Hiking-and-Backpacking-with-an-Umbrella

In the great blog, "A Good Walk Unspoiled" by "John and Robin," about their walk from Le Puy to Santiago, John writes of how they have become converts from heavy, hot rain gear to umbrellas. They used the trekking umbrella from Golite. In my research I have discovered that Golite went bankrupt, but one hiker said to check out the eruoSchrim Swing Lite Flex Trekking Umbrella as an alternative. It is believed to be modeled after the Golite umbrella. The Golite got great reviews (I believe the cost was around $25,) and euroSchrim gets very good reviews. On Amazon it costs around $40.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

In the great blog, "A Good Walk Unspoiled" by "John and Robin," about their walk from Le Puy to Santiago, John writes of how they have become converts from heavy, hot rain gear to umbrellas. They used the trekking umbrella from Golite. In my research I have discovered that Golite went bankrupt, but one hiker said to check out the eruoSchrim Swing Lite Flex Trekking Umbrella as an alternative. It is believed to be modeled after the Golite umbrella. The Golite got great reviews (I believe the cost was around $25,) and euroSchrim gets very good reviews. On Amazon it costs around $40.

Euroschim was the manufacturer of Golite.

 

[Jamilla's mum]

From the first link, above ( http://francistapon.com/Travels/Advice/10-Reasons-to-Go-Hiking-and-Backpacking-with-an-Umbrella ): umbrella as ...

A privacy screen: As thru-hiker Christine Haffner said, "One of the biggest reasons why I was sold on the umbrella: it offers a place to pee behind. This is most beneficial for women, but also for men. Especially in really crowded areas where you cannot find a place to pee, you just find a tree to block one side of you, and the umbrella to block the other side. There is really no other piece of backpacking gear that will provide this for you. SOLD!"

If I hadn't already decided to take one, having been converted to umbrella-as-sunshade in southern India some years back, that use alone would persuade me.
And there's more... Though I don't think it would replace rain gear as the wind can sometimes blow rain right into you ...
But I'm thinking a non-folding one of the right length would make an ideal dog/cattle warding-off stick; maybe even a walking pole?

 

[Donna Sch]

If I hadn't already decided to take one, having been converted to umbrella-as-sunshade in southern India some years back, that use alone would persuade me.
And there's more... Though I don't think it would replace rain gear as the wind can sometimes blow rain right into you ...
But I'm thinking a non-folding one of the right length would make an ideal dog/cattle warding-off stick; maybe even a walking pole?

Or to at least confuse wannabe robbers on the Guillena stage.
Not long to go for you Jamill's Mum! When do you start?

 

[Jamilla's mum]

Alas, Donna - it's off for this year. My handyman's wife has been very ill and he hasn't been able to leave her to finish Jamilla.
Should have been leaving tomorrow, but I'm stuck here for another year, as my calendar is planned out for this year and I can't afford two months away except at this time.

Still, my original plan was to arrive in Santiago for my 70th; I just got impatient after visiting Sevilla and Triana a couple of years ago.
The camino is so much more than just a walk, isn't it?

 

[grayland]

An added idea...
I have an Osprey Exos backpack...current redesigned model. It has an elastic pocket on each strap that is meant for things like glasses, phone, etc. I have used them for both.
I was looking at it with an umbrella hook up in mind and found that the bottom of my telescoping umbrella easily fits in it snugly. A simple tie or Velcro on the strap above it for the shaft holds it in place very well....at least at home and not walking.
I am a bit surprised that such a simple fix could be found to go hands free with my umbrella...at least at home and not walking.

Anyone else with an Osprey pack of any model with these strap pockets? On the upper middle of the straps...not hip belt.

UPDATE:
Bummer.....It doesn't work....
The "pockets are high on the pack straps when loaded and worn. That puts the area above the pockets over the curve of the shoulder with no place to attach a stabilizer strap. Bummer...

 

[Icacos]

UPDATE:
Bummer.....It doesn't work....
The "pockets are high on the pack straps when loaded and worn. That puts the area above the pockets over the curve of the shoulder with no place to attach a stabilizer strap. Bummer...

Yes, @grayland, the built-in 'pocket' is too high up the pack strap. But if you slip the umbrella pole through the elasticized straps and fashion a 'pocket' of some sort lower down the pack strap - which I'm sure can be done - I'm fairly confident it will work. .......... I'm not prepared to give up on my Osprey Exos just yet.

 

[ricitosdeplata]

Sheesh and others, thanks for the ideas for hands free umbrella. I am definitely bringing an umbrella. I'm checking it in along with my poles and carrying on my osprey 38 ( I think this is the size). Will buy one in Seville if it gets lost on the flight. I purchased a euroscherm silver dome and considered buying one of the same brand mini umbrellas to be able to put in my backpack. Photos online made me reconsider since the shaft length may make it easier to rig hands free.
I have been able to tolerate hikes in 40 C but always with cooling off sessions under a tree. Looks like parts of vdlp don't have any trees (or pitstops) so for the heat and the privacy I made my decision.
I am bringing a small packable lightweight waterproof/windproof jacket but principally to use over layering of clothes when it gets cold. Am considering converting my Goodwill rain pants to a rain skirt to wear over my hiking skirts.

 

[domigee]

How about this? I haven't tried it, I don't have the rope or toggles

http://packandpaddle.blogspot.co.uk/2009/03/how-to-attach-umbrella-to-your-pack.html

 

[ricitosdeplata]

Thank you Domigee. Your link looks like an idea I could use.

 

[grayland]

Yes, @grayland, the built-in 'pocket' is too high up the pack strap. But if you slip the umbrella pole through the elasticized straps and fashion a 'pocket' of some sort lower down the pack strap - which I'm sure can be done - I'm fairly confident it will work. .......... I'm not prepared to give up on my Osprey Exos just yet.

Be sure to post pictures if you make it work.

 

[Piccata]

Just another possible work around. For pilgrims, the umbrella would go under the backpack, obvs!

 

[domigee]

This is what I looked like last year.... just imagine.. With an umbrella as well
Shudder...

 

[Icacos]

This is what I looked like last year.... just imagine.. With an umbrella as well
Shudder...

Sorry, @domigee, but I think I can run you some close competition, if not have you beat. This is what I looked like in 2013. Now you see why my son told me I looked like a Swiss Army knife. Imagine adding an umbrella to that!!
[Must stress though that the staff and gloves are not mine; they belong to the photographer.
And please note that I am standing next to blue jeans, the reason for the photograph!]

 

[domigee]

 

[Kialoa3]

The umbrella (Golite) is now a must for me, but I also carry a very light weight rain jacket and pants from Montbell (Versalite). My justification was that the jacket would also serve as a layering piece with merino under it (perfect for the Aubrac in late April/early May) and the pants served as an additional layer over my hiking pants in cold windy conditions or alone in normal wet weather. The pants also wash off easily and dry quickly. In warm, wet conditions it would be the rain pants, a t shirt and the umbrella. I also rigged an s hook on my shoulder harness so I could slip one pole under the harness and hook the wrist strap to it. This worked fine enabling me to hold the umbrella and use one pole when needed. Some people might think the rain pants would be stifling in warm weather, but I had no problems in temperatures in the mid 80's. I personally don't hike in shorts (thorns, nettles, ticks) so the rain pants were a good option and did double duty in cold weather. My pack weight leaving Le Puy in late April was about 13.8 pounds including food and water, also including the rain suit plus the umbrella. No problem. Short answer give an umbrella a try.

 

[ricitosdeplata]

Just another possible work around. For pilgrims, the umbrella would go under the backpack, obvs.View attachment 17649

Ouch!!

 

[Kiwi-d]

After three days of nonstop torrential rain, I was totally in love with my rain pants. If I could, I would have married them! My Gortex jacket, not quite so much, but with a lightweight, fold up umbrella, it was okay. I won't change anything for the next Camino.

 

[Donna Sch]

Sorry, @domigee, but I think I can run you some close competition, if not have you beat. This is what I looked like in 2013. Now you see why my son told me I looked like a Swiss Army knife. Imagine adding an umbrella to that!!
View attachment 17658 [Must stress though that the staff and gloves are not mine; they belong to the photographer.
And please note that I am standing next to blue jeans, the reason for the photograph!]

If you really want to look like a Swiss Army knife I suggest using an Aarn backpack. They have front boobs. Which look really ridiculous but are so incredibly functional. The back looks pretty empty here because it is - I was just going for a walk and wanted to see how it sat - but it got filled up after a trip to the hardware store...
And there are a ton of extra clips and loops so I don't even think I will have to do anything special once the umbrella arrives.
And I can recommend the Montane lightweight merino mix shirt I'm wearing. It is amazingly stink free at the end of the day.

 

[Donna Sch]

https://vdlp2015.wordpress.com/2015/04/17/hiking-umbrella-the-euroschirm-light-trek-automatic/
The umbrella arrived yesterday (taking 10 days!). I need to test it out this weekend but so far, so good. And it fits on my everyday backpack I take to work and clips on so I'll always have an umbrella if needed now

 

[Anemone del Camino]

https://vdlp2015.wordpress.com/2015/04/17/hiking-umbrella-the-euroschirm-light-trek-automatic/
The umbrella arrived yesterday (taking 10 days!). I need to test it out this weekend but so far, so good. And it fits on my everyday backpack I take to work and clips on so I'll always have an umbrella if needed now

Donna, I have been considering an umbrella for this year's Camino. What is so different about this umbrella other than the reflective silver color? Anything in particular that makes it attach better than a regular umbrella? Looking forward to your feedback!

 

[Icacos]

https://vdlp2015.wordpress.com/2015/04/17/hiking-umbrella-the-euroschirm-light-trek-automatic/
The umbrella arrived yesterday (taking 10 days!). I need to test it out this weekend but so far, so good. And it fits on my everyday backpack I take to work and clips on so I'll always have an umbrella if needed now

Yes, this looks like a great trekking umbrella. Although the fabric looks the same, your umbrella weighs less and folds up shorter than does mine. Good, hefty price too! I'm sure you will be delighted with it.

 

[Kanga]

I got paid for a small job last week and on the strength of my fabulous riches (! not) just ordered the Euroschirm too. Great customer service. We are eating porridge from now until we leave.

 

[Donna Sch]

https://vdlp2015.wordpress.com/2015/04/19/first-camino-length-training-walk-22-62-km/ Tested the umbrella out today with a 20+ km walk. It makes a hell of a difference. It has 30-34 degrees all day with middling humidity (the Dry is starting to arrive). A hat would not have worked. Stopped a lot of sunburn given I was wearing a short sleeved T-shirt. I'm a convert.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

https://vdlp2015.wordpress.com/2015/04/19/first-camino-length-training-walk-22-62-km/ Tested the umbrella out today with a 20+ km walk. It makes a hell of a difference. It has 30-34 degrees all day with middling humidity (the Dry is starting to arrive). A hat would not have worked. Stopped a lot of sunburn given I was wearing a short sleeved T-shirt. I'm a convert.

Talk about a walk on a hot day. Glad the umbrella helped. But do you think this model, with its heafty price tag, did something a regular umbrella would not have done?

 

[Kanga]

Mine has a long telescopic handle, so I can fix it to my backpack and have free hands for my sticks.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Mine has a long telescopic handle, so I can fix it to my backpack and have free hands for my sticks.

Which model did you get Kanga? I'm assuming it's the small with telescopic handle called Light Trek (Total height is 61cm?).

 

[domigee]

Hi Donna and Kanga,
Confused (it doesn't take much )
So neither of you bought the 'hands free' umbrella then?

 

[Donna Sch]

Talk about a walk on a hot day. Glad the umbrella helped. But do you think this model, with its heafty price tag, did something a regular umbrella would not have done?

Probably not. But it is incredibly well made. And at soccer I saw other umbrellas blow inside out and this one had hardly a rustle in that respect. And it is hard to find a silver coloured reflective one. Personally I think that does make a difference.

 

[Icacos]

Probably not. But it is incredibly well made. And at soccer I saw other umbrellas blow inside out and this one had hardly a rustle in that respect. And it is hard to hard to find a silver coloured reflective one. Personally I think that does make a difference.

I don't claim to be an expert here but, from my experience with my trekking umbrella, the heavy, silver fabric prevents the heat from the sun from getting through - an ordinary umbrella might shade one somewhat from the sun's direct rays, but not from its heat. I experienced this first hand walking into Santo Domingo de Calzada on an unseasonably hot day in mid-April when I was running short of water, wilting and fading fast in the heat. I dug out my umbrella and immediately felt relief - not only was there a noticeable drop in the temperature, but I could actually feel a cooling breeze which had hitherto been unnoticed. I must admit, if someone had related a story such as this to me before this happened, I probably would not have believed it - sceptic that I am - but I experienced this myself ....... with my silver, UV protection umbrella.

 

[Kanga]

Yes, I bought the "hands free" model. It hasn't arrived yet - I had to order it as no-one stocks it in Australia.

But for those of you who don't have a "hands free" model, you can attach an umbrella as I described earlier in this thread. I open the umbrella and thread the shaft down through the "handle" on the top of my backback, directly behind my head, then over one shoulder and tie the end of the shaft to my waistband. . I could not find a way of fixing it without having usinthe canopy behind my head - it was too wobbly when only fixed to shoulder straps and waist. For a standard umbrella the shaft length means the canopy presses against the top of my head, which is a bit uncomfortable.

Here (I hope) is a YouTube video to show how it works

 

[domigee]

Thanks Kanga. I'm still debating : poncho OR umbrella as I don't want to carry both...
Since I'm doing the VdlP in June/July... shade should be the most important. That's it, I've just answered my own question

 

[Hikoi]

Hi Everybody - I'm planning on walking the VdlP next April/May and am interested in a trekking umbrella. Does anyone know about/have one of these? http://www.helinox.com.au/trekking-umbrellas.php I'm sold on the idea of them - although I may take a poncho too...

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Hi Everybody - I'm planning on walking the VdlP next April/May and am interested in a trekking umbrella. Does anyone know about/have one of these? http://www.helinox.com.au/trekking-umbrellas.php I'm sold on the idea of them - although I may take a poncho too...

Santa is bringing me the silver telescope Euroschrim. Collapsable, light, hands free and repels heat due to its silver covering. Yes, I will walk again, and again, and....

 

[domigee]

Hi Everybody - I'm planning on walking the VdlP next April/May and am interested in a trekking umbrella. Does anyone know about/have one of these? http://www.helinox.com.au/trekking-umbrellas.php I'm sold on the idea of them - although I may take a poncho too...

Looks like a good one, Hikoi and very light. Mine is the Euroshirm. I swear by trekking umbrellas now

 

[Anemone del Camino]

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Looks like a good one, Hikoi and very light. Mine is the Euroshirm. I swear by trekking umbrellas now

Very light maybe, but comes in red or black, so good in the rain, not as good as the Euroschrim silver in the heat. And mine is the telescope, not no need to hold it by hand.

 

[SYates]

One thing to remember about umbrellas, there are pretty useless in strong winds, which you can have a lot on the Camino, especially on the Meseta. Buen Camino, SY

 

[Hikoi]

Very light maybe, but comes in red or black, so good in the rain, not as good as the Euroschrim silver in the heat. And mine is the telescope, not no need to hold it by hand.

Yes, that is a concern I have - I´d like to be able to make it handsfree... I`ll look into the Euroschrim telescope. What´s the weight like?

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Yes, that is a concern I have - I´d like to be able to make it handsfree... I`ll look into the Euroschrim telescope. What´s the weight like?

389 grams.

 

[Kiwi-d]

I found the umbrella I took on the Camino at my local chemist. It cost $15, weighs 154 grams and had a good UV rating, so is excellent in both sun and rain. My point being, it's not necessary to go for 'top of the range, branded', unless, of course, that is your preference. I'm still using the same umbrella over a year later, so I've had my money's worth.

 

[Hikoi]

I found the umbrella I took on the Camino at my local chemist. It cost $15, weighs 154 grams and had a good UV rating, so is excellent in both sun and rain. My point being, it's not necessary to go for 'top of the range, branded', unless, of course, that is your preference. I'm still using the same umbrella over a year later, so I've had my money's worth.

Kia Ora Kiwi-d - do you remember/have available the brand? Or what chemist you bought it from? I imagine you wouldn't be able to attach it to your pack?

 

[Kiwi-d]

Kia Ora Hikoi. Sorry, I don't remember the brand, but I bought it from Simply Pharmacy on Level 1 at the Westfield Mall in Albany.

 

[Kiwi-d]

Kia Ora Kiwi-d - do you remember/have available the brand? Or what chemist you bought it from? I imagine you wouldn't be able to attach it to your pack?

Oh, and if forgot to say that no, I wasn't able to attach it to walk under, but it was so light it was no problem to hold overhead.

 

[trecile]

We are umbrella converts. Could not find a means of attaching it to the shoulder straps without it wobbling around. Eventually found a You Tube video showing how to thread the shaft through the "handle" on the top of the pack, which sits behind one's head, then to the front over one shoulder and pull down and tie the elastic on the bottom of the handle through the pack waistband. It works.

Do you have a link to that YouTube video?

Never mind. I found it in your other post. That method looks much simpler than attaching it to the backpack straps.

 

[trecile]

Do you have a link to that YouTube video?

Never mind. I found it in your other post. That method looks much simpler than attaching it to the backpack straps.

I wasn't at home with my backpack when I first watched the video. Unfortunately the loop at the center back of my backpack is down too low for this method. I could sew on a small loop up there for the umbrella.

 

[skipronin]

When I walked the Camino Frances this year I used 3 small bungee cords with cord locks. The trick to keep the umbrella from swaying was to have the uppermost cord wrapped around the shoulder strap and then looped over the load lifter strap in a figure 8 pattern. It worked like a charm. I used a Euroschirm umbrella.

 

[Kanga]

I now have a Eurochirm handsfree umbrella. It has a long telescopic handle and attachments for the front of the shoulder straps of a backpack. It works beautifully, but it is heavy to my mind. I wish they made it in carbon fibre.

 

[trecile]

I now have a Eurochirm handsfree umbrella. It has a long telescopic handle and attachments for the front of the shoulder straps of a backpack. It works beautifully, but it is heavy to my mind. I wish they made it in carbon fibre.

I bought a barely used Euroschirm handsfree umbrella from another member here, but after I received it, it seemed so heavy that I bought a smaller, lighter trekking umbrella. Now I'm not sure which one to take. I love how easy it is to attach the Euroschirm to my backpack, and how large the canopy is, but I'm just worried that at 13+ ounces (which is twice the weight of the small umbrella) it's pretty heavy. I think that I will wait until I have all my gear together to decide if the extra weight is worth it. I'm hoping that I won't encounter too much rain during my late August/September Camino, but I want the umbrella for the shade factor.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

I bought a barely used Euroschirm handsfree umbrella from another member here, but after I received it, it seemed so heavy that I bought a smaller, lighter trekking umbrella. Now I'm not sure which one to take. I love how easy it is to attach the Euroschirm to my backpack, and how large the canopy is, but I'm just worried that at 13+ ounces (which is twice the weight of the small umbrella) it's pretty heavy. I think that I will wait until I have all my gear together to decide if the extra weight is worth it. I'm hoping that I won't encounter too much rain during my late August/September Camino, but I want the umbrella for the shade factor.

I LOVE my Euroschrim handsfree umbrella. It may be 100 grams heavier than other umbrellas but its size is perfect, the wind doesn't turn kt over, if you have the silver quoating, even better. And because of its size you don't need the attchment peices in case they break.

 

[grayland]

I wonder if anyone is offering umbrella bearer services...much like caddies or the old gun bearers on African Safaris.

It could be similar to the rapidly increasing "luggage" service now being encouraged by so many able bodied persons.

 

[trecile]

I LOVE my Euroschrim handsfree umbrella. It may be 100 grams heavier than other umbrellas but its size is perfect, the wind doesn't turn kt over, if you have the silver quoating, even better. And because of its size you don't need the attchment peices in case they break.

Do you mean that the long handle makes it easier to attach to the backpack even if the attachment pieces break?

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Do you mean that the long handle makes it easier to attach to the backpack even if the attachment pieces break?[/QUOT

With the extra long handle all you need to do is to positionong it between yourself anf the packpack straps. But the handle needs to be long enough to go through both top and bottom straps.

 

[trecile]

With the extra long handle all you need to do is to positionong it between yourself anf the packpack straps. But the handle needs to be long enough to go through both top and bottom straps.

Thanks, that's what I thought.

 

[trecile]

I did a 10 mile practice hike today with the Euroschirm umbrella today. It worked great, and wasn't affected by light breezes.

 

[domigee]

I have been using mine on this Camino, both for rain and strong sunshine. It's been perfect.

 

[ivar]

I just started selling this one here:
https://www.santiagodecompostela.me...la/products/swing-handsfree-trekking-umbrella

 

[domigee]

I just started selling this one here:
https://www.santiagodecompostela.me...la/products/swing-handsfree-trekking-umbrella

Fabulous, Ivar!
This is the model I have, used it both for rain and sunshine, on the VdlP last year, the CF this Summer and walking in Kent.
I can strongly recommend it, it even doesn't budge in strong winds (and that includes the Meseta wind ).
Worth its price and the extra weight, which I compensated by not taking a poncho. It worked very well.

 

[Kanga]

Good move - yes I use this one too @ivar - it works really well, and is very sturdy - has stood up to three caminos (the CF twice). My only complaint is weight - wish they would make it in carbon fibre. Although it is expensive enough as is.

For anyone in Australia - I can tell you no-one here imports the handsfree model I had to contact the manufacturer directly and get mine from the US; it took ages to arrive and in fact missed my departure date (I'd planned to take in on the Norte), was a pain to organise and freight was ridiculously expensive. So Ivar's shop is definitely the way to go!

 

[cher99840]

I just started selling this one here:
https://www.santiagodecompostela.me...la/products/swing-handsfree-trekking-umbrella

Is there a color choice? I have one in the cart but wondered about color choices before completing order.

NeverMind. I see the color now. Silver on outside and black on inside.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Excellent idea Ivar. This umbrella is terrific. I received it as a bday present last yeart and it is super. Highly recommended.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Excellent idea Ivar. This umbrella is terrific. I received it as a bday present last yeart and it is super. Highly recommended.

 

[ivar]

NeverMind. I see the color now. Silver on outside and black on inside.

Yes, since I decided to sell the ones with UV protection, and they are only available in silver outside and black inside..

 

[cher99840]

Can umbrella "wearers" wear Altus (or similar poncho) with these? I'm waiting for mine to arrive but the mind is busily pondering options.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

You can put the umbrella's shaft under both of your backpack straps andclose the Altus over them. With the umbrella I zip up only the bottom of my Altus and keep the top open to get good ventilation while being protected from tne rain.

 

[cher99840]

You can put the umbrella's shaft under both of your backpack straps andclose the Altus over them. With the umbrella I zip up only the bottom of my Altus and keep the top open to get good ventilation while being protected from tne rain.

I'm so glad. Thank you. By "both backpack straps" which 2 please?

 

[Anemone del Camino]

I'm so glad. Thank you. By "both backpack straps" which 2 please?

The one around your chest and the one around your waist.

 

[cher99840]

Thanks @Anemone del Camino. Can't wait to get mine.

 

[Davey Boyd]

I also have used this UV handsfree umbrella on all my caminos. It is an excellent piece of kit, would not be without it! Good to see Ivar is now selling this. I could of sold hundreds of these while walking!

 

[BlackRocker57]

Hi Kanga, I am very keen to invest in a trekking umbrella and have just been following this thread ... Just interested to know which model Euroschirm you ended up with? Is it the Swing Lite? 12 months on, are you still happy with it? If not available in Australia, where do you suggest I look? Appreciate your advice ... and kind regards

**

I now have a Eurochirm handsfree umbrella. It has a long telescopic handle and attachments for the front of the shoulder straps of a backpack. It works beautifully, but it is heavy to my mind. I wish they made it in carbon fibre.