【Uniqlo vs Workman】 A lightweight umbrella priced at 1990 yen that won't be a burden!

A must-have item for the height of summer, the Uniqlo "UV Cut Compact Umbrella." I can't live without this one, but if you want to use it in seasons other than midsummer— the Workman "Durable Water-Repellent Lightweight Survival Umbrella" that's 100g lighter could also be a good choice.

Workman and Uniqlo: A Comparison of Usability

With the sudden weather changes common in this season, I was looking for a lightweight foldable umbrella that I could keep in my bag. The "UV Cut Compact Umbrella" from Uniqlo that I'm currently using is light enough, but it feels a bit heavy when I put it in a small bag...

So, while watching social media, I came across information that Workman's "Durable Water-Repellent Lightweight Survival Umbrella" is currently popular. I rushed to the nearest Workman store right away!

Surprisingly, it seems that Workman has a lot of foldable umbrellas in stock. I was a bit flustered because I hadn't properly checked the product name, thinking I would recognize it once I got to the store, but I found it instantly. The moment I picked it up, I could tell it was "the one!" because of its lightness.

The theory is that "lightweight umbrellas = so small that your shoulders might get wet"... However, the rib size of the "Durable Water-Repellent Lightweight Survival Umbrella" is 55cm. It has a size that can cover a man even with a backpack.

It seems that by intentionally not including a one-touch feature, they achieved weight reduction. It has eight ribs and does not compromise on durability. Manually assembling the ribs when opening and closing takes a bit of effort, but since I'm not looking for convenience in a foldable umbrella, it honestly doesn't bother me much. What I want is lightness.

Since it has a durable water-repellent finish, water beads and rolls off easily. Just a light shake sends the rainwater flying, making it easy to manage. I think it's also because I just purchased it, but seeing this water-repellent ability is quite satisfying.

The fabric is very soft, so even if I stuff it in a bit carelessly, it slips right in, which I also like.

Product Name / Durable Water-Repellent Lightweight Survival Umbrella
Price / 2300 yen
Size / Rib Size 55cm
Material / Umbrella Fabric 100% Nylon
Weight / About 127g.

I bought it at Workman and put it in the outer pocket of my jacket on my way home. After running some other errands, I completely forgot to take it out of my pocket and went three days without realizing it. That's how light Workman's "Durable Water-Repellent Lightweight Survival Umbrella" is!

What are the differences with Uniqlo?

Product Name / UV Cut Compact Umbrella Rib Size 55cm
Price / 1990 yen
Size / Strap 22cm, Rib 55cm, Folded Length (including handle) 27cm.

When I heard the term "Rib Size 55cm," I was reminded of the Uniqlo "UV Cut Compact Umbrella" that I purchased last year due to the intense heat. This one also has a rib size of 55cm, but weighs about 257g (measured by the author). Compared to Workman's "Durable Water-Repellent Lightweight Survival Umbrella," there's a difference of 100g.

When I put it into my large commuter backpack, I didn't feel much of a weight difference between the two. However, when walking for long periods with the umbrella or putting it into a small personal bag, the difference is obvious. The act of holding an umbrella begins to feel cumbersome, and honestly, that 100g made a significant difference for me!

However, Uniqlo has user-friendly features like a handle that rotates and the ability to attach the storage bag to the handle. The fabric is also thicker, so it seems to be superior in terms of durability.

Additionally, since it has UV cut features, when the sun is strong, Uniqlo is definitely the go-to choice. The summer in Japan is too hot. I started using a parasol last year, and now I can't walk outside without it.

In summer, it's Uniqlo, but for other seasons, it's all Workman!

After all, Uniqlo with its UV cut function is convenient in the summer. However, Workman’s lightweight, water-repellent umbrella is perfect for everyday use. Its lightweight nature means you can completely forget about it in your bag. With a simple design and no logos, it's also recommended for commuting.

Search Foldable sun umbrella on Amazon