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François Umbrella Factory Logo

La Fabrique
de Parapluies François

Since 1882

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  • parapluie pliant ou parapluie droit lequel choisir

    Folding umbrella or straight umbrella, which to choose?

    Our customers sometimes hesitate between a folding umbrella or a straight umbrella.

    The choice of this type of umbrella will depend on several criteria. The most important thing when choosing an umbrella is that it suits you and your lifestyle.

    Burgundy men's folding umbrella

    If you tend to take public transport or go cyling, a folding umbrella is more appropriate for its portability and practicality. You can carry it with you all day long.

    You can stow it in your backpack, satchel or handbag and take it out in case of bad weather (without having to check the weather beforehand).

    On the other hand, if you're taking the car or walking, a straight umbrella is more appropriate. Its diameter is larger. Its grip is more pleasant. It's also lighter and more resistant, and its carbon-fibre ribs mean it can stand up to the winds of the seaside.

    The straight umbrella is also more authentic and aesthetic than a folding umbrella, which is above all practical! The straight umbrella predates the folding umbrella (which was invented in the 1700s for its practicality and portability).

    Straight umbrella woven blue flowers

    What are the advantages and disadvantages of a straight umbrella?

    Advantages of a straight umbrella

    A straight umbrella will give you better shelter than a folding umbrella, thanks to its larger diameter.
    It's the ideal companion for one-person outings, or two-person outings with our large umbrella.

    It's more comfortable to carry with its curved maple handle, and also more elegant with its beech shaft and larger canopy, which is tighter than that of a folding umbrella.

    Its carbon-fiber ribs make it lightweight (approx. 500g) and highly strength to all weathers without turning over.

    Disadvantages of a straight umbrella

    On the other hand, it won't be as easy to carry if you're taking the bus or metro and also less practical if you need to go shopping.

    It's not advisable to leave it at the entrance to a store, as beautiful umbrellas like François umbrellas are usually quickly spotted! And you may not find it again when you leave the store!

    Carbon fiber straight umbrella ribs

    What are the advantages and disadvantages of a folding umbrella?

    Advantages of a folding umbrella

    A folding umbrella can be carried anywhere (bag, satchel, backpack) and in all conditions. Whether you're traveling, hiking, taking the bus,plane, or metro, it doesn't matter!

    You're in the mountains with the sun shining, and suddenly the weather changes and it starts raining? All you have to do is pull your François folding umbrella out of your bag, press a button to make it open by itself and you're protected from the vagaries of the weather!

    If it's windy, don't worry: our ribs are made of fiberglass and steel, making our folding umbrellas highly wind-resistant.

    Disadvantages of a folding umbrella

    However, the diameter is smaller than that of a straight umbrella.

    ur folding umbrellas have a larger diameter and weigh more than the low-end umbrellas you'd find in any store. which is why they're heavier (around 400g) and, above all, much more resistant, thanks to the high-quality materials and steels we use.

    The fiberglass alloy will allow it to turn over in strong winds without breaking, and you'll be able to put it back in place, which isn't possible with a disposable umbrella that'll break in the 1st gust of wind!

    Folding umbrella ribs in steel and fiberglass

    Choosing the right umbrella for you

    Now you know the difference between a folding umbrella and a straight umbrella so you can find the one that best suits your lifestyle. But sometimes, a folding umbrella and a straight umbrella can also be complementary.

    Straight
    umbrellas

    Folding
    umbrellas

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Opening hours

MONClosed
TUE10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
WEN10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
THU10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
FRI10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
SAT10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
SUNClosed

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