In a quest to find the most reliable protection against the British elements, a Guardian journalist embarked on an unconventional field test, taking a selection of umbrellas to the blustery summit of Mam Tor in the Peak District.
A Battle Against the Elements on Mam Tor
The mission was simple: discover which umbrellas could withstand a proper British gale. The location chosen was the 517-metre summit of Mam Tor, a Peak District hill notorious for its winds. Upon arrival, the conditions were fierce, described as a "near gale", strong enough to make standing still a challenge for the testing party.
Finding a slightly less exposed spot, the real trial began. Each umbrella was opened defiantly into the wind and turned against it. While all had performed adequately in standard rainy conditions, the high winds of the Peak District proved a far tougher test. Most lightweight, folding models inverted almost instantly, turning inside out with the force of the gusts.
The Winners and Losers of the Wind Test
Some umbrellas, however, stood their ground. Larger city and golf-style brollies showed impressive resilience, their frames and canopies holding firm even as the tester was pushed off balance. The clear champion of the day was the London Undercover Classic umbrella. Its dual-layered canopy was credited with superb wind resistance, earning it the highest rating.
Thankfully, none of the brollies broke during the extreme test, though it became evident that many were simply not designed for such severe weather. The experiment underscored a crucial point: a good umbrella is an investment. The top-rated models spanned from around £30 to well over £100, highlighting the importance of checking for repairability and a solid guarantee before purchasing.
More Than Just Practicality: The Sentimental Brolly
Beyond the technical ratings, the article reflects on the personal value an umbrella can hold. The writer's most cherished is a Betty's Tearooms-branded umbrella inherited from her mother, described as cosy, protective, and embodying a love for coffee and cake. It serves as a reminder that the best umbrellas offer not just shelter, but a certain lightness and character.
The unique test, documented by photographer Christian Hopewell against backdrops of Winnats Pass and Hope Cement Works, provided both practical consumer advice and a memorable adventure, proving that sometimes you have to go to extreme lengths—or heights—to find the best gear for UK weather.
