Umbrella Unique Redesign Resolves Wet Umbrella Problem

The design of the umbrella hasn’t really changed that much since they were first invented, and that has a lot to do with the fact the design just works. You open a canopy above your head and it stops you getting wet in the rain. In recent times we’ve seen umbrellas get much more compact so they are easier to carry around when not in use. There’s also been a clever design tweak to make them easier to hold on to when it is windy.

One problem remains, though, and that’s how exactly you handle a soaking wet umbrella once out of the rain. Typically you shake off as much water as possible, or use a drying machine if available. But ultimately you still end up with a slightly wet folded piece of material on a stick, which can easily transfer on to your clothing as you carry it around. Then there’s that other problem of having to lean it against things to dry as it won’t stand up on its own.

Japanese designer Hiroshi Kajimoto has come up with a clever solution to the wet umbrella problem, however. And with a simple design tweak he’s created the Unbrella. You can see how it works in the video above.

The clever bit is the placement of the metal frame on the outside of the canopy rather than inside like we have today. By doing this, when you close the umbrella the wet side becomes an enclosed area. And as the frame is on the outside, the ends form a base so the Unbrella stands up on its own. Don’t want to stand it up? That’s fine, just close the frame tight together and secure it like you do with a Velcro strip on existing umbrella designs.

As is typical with new and clever designs that come to market, the Unbrella is by no means cheap. You can pre-order one now for delivery in February next year, but it will cost you $95. In time that price should fall, so for now I’ll stick with my umbrella shake technique and hope for the best.