Best Sunbrella Umbrellas
After an extensive look at the patio umbrellas available with Sunbrella fabric, we have determined that the California Umbrella line of 9′ patio umbrellas are the Best Sunbrella Umbrellas around! With 21 Sunbrella color options and three pole finish choices (as well as several Olefin and Pacifica options!), you can customize everything completely to match your decor.
This umbrella features an aluminum pole and eight high-quality fiberglass ribs, resulting in an excellent build out for a patio umbrella.
California Umbrella also has an 11′ version of this, which we review below. Between the 9′ and the 11′ foot umbrella, we like the 9′ better, as the 11′ is a bit too large for the pole, and users may run the risk of the pole being too weak to support the 11′ umbrella.
- FABRIC: Sunbrella Performance Fabrics has been...
- Operation: Crank to Open with push button tilt...
- Construction: Entire frame is made from rust-free...
- Weather Protection: Featuring a Built in Wind Vent...
- Optional base is not included and must be...
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
For more information on this umbrella, please check out our Product Reviews section below.
Runner Up Best Sunbrella Umbrellas
As a runner-up, the Abba Patio 9′ Sunbrella Patio Umbrella line is an outstanding choice. This line doesn’t have as large of a color selection as the California Umbrella line but the build quality is high, and the price is aggressive given its design and construction.
The Abba Patio 9′ Market Umbrella features a combined crank/tilt mechanism that allows for easy operation and 8 steel ribs for structural integrity strength. A base weight is not included, and we strongly suggest purchasing at least a 60 lb weight to ensure that the umbrella doesn’t get damaged.
And of course, the Sunbrella fabric is unbeatable.
For more information on this product, check out our Product Reviews section below.
Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sunbrella Patio Umbrella Buyer’s Guide
Here we offer some information on the qualities of Sunbrella fabric, the maintenance of this fabric, and the re-treatment when necessary. In general, Sunbrella is the best patio umbrella fabric available on the market. That said, it’s always wise to cover your patio umbrella when it’s down for the season, to keep it looking its best.
Sunbrella Fabric
To those who pay attention to fabric quality, the Sunbrella one of the best names in the business. Sunbrella is associated with durability, functionality, and attention to detail. In the 1960s, Sunbrella set out to create a new class of fabrics capable of withstanding long-term exposure to the elements, and exposure to foods, drinks, etc. without being negatively impacted.
Sunbrella textiles are carefully crafted and engineered to supply a great deal of strength, resistance to fading, and resistance to degradation from excess sun and chemical exposure.
It is an excellent material to use for outdoor fabrics like awnings, furniture sets, pergola covers, umbrellas, and gazebo covers. Sunbrella’s fabrics are known to be a little bit rough on the skin, but in the case of simple covering and shading materials that don’t often come in contact with the skin, Sunbrella is the ideal material.
Cleaning Sunbrella Shade Fabrics
The easiest way to clean Sunbrella shade fabric is to simply hose it off on a regular basis with clear water. The mild pressure of a water hose spray will help prevent dirt from becoming deeply embedded in the fabric. This also eliminates the need for more frequent vigorous cleaning with a brush. Typically a more thorough cleaning will be needed every couple of years, depending on the outdoor environment.
Basic Steps to Clean Sunbrella Fabric
Cleaning Sunbrella fabrics are generally quite simple. For day-to-day maintenance of Sunbrella fabric:
Brush off any loose dirt and dust.
- Hose down the fabric
- With a spray bottle, spray a cleaning solution of water and a mild soap onto the fabric.
- Brush again with a soft bristle brush.
- Wait a little while. Let the cleaning solution soaked into the fabric.
- Hose down again thoroughly with water until all soap is removed from the fabric.
- Air dry fabric.
Stubborn Stains and Mildew
Typically, Sunbrella fabric does not promote mildew growth. That said, mildew can grow on dirt and other materials already embedded in the fabric. Should stubborn stains form, clean them in the following way:
- prepare a solution: blend one cup of bleach and one-quarter cup of mild soap 4 gallons of water.
- Pour the cleaning solution onto the fabric and let sit for up to 15 minutes.
- Vigorously scrub with a soft bristle brush. (note: this step should be avoided when cleaning the coated side of Sunbrella Plus, Supreme, or Clarity lines of fabric).
- Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue has been removed.
- Air Dry.
- Repeat if Necessary.
Note: retreatment of fabric for water and stain resistance will be necessary after the fabric has been clean with the bleach solution.
Retreatment of Sunbrella Fabrics
Sunbrella fabric comes treated with a proprietary water and stain repellent finish. This finish is designed to last for several years, but it may require a refresh after a thorough cleaning. The manufacturer of Sunbrella recommends retreating with 303 fabric guard to refresh Sunbrella fabric.
To apply the fabric guard treatment:
- Clean the Sunbrella fabric using one of the cleaning methods above.
- Allow the Sunbrella fabric to dry completely.
- Apply fabric treatment in a well-ventilated area, carefully following the instructions on the container.
Weighing Down Your Patio Umbrella
Once you’ve chosen the right patio umbrella, it is very important to purchase the proper weight for that umbrella. There are a few different factors that determine the proper sizing of a patio umbrella, specifically the diameter of the parasol, and whether the umbrella will be placed within a table or not.
For a detailed look at properly weighing down your patio umbrella, and protecting your investment, please check out our guide here.
Sunbrella Market Umbrella Product Reviews
Here we review several of the best Sunbrella patio umbrellas on the market and look at the features and the pros and cons of each.
Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#1. California Umbrella 9′ Round Market Umbrella, Sunbrella
The California Umbrella 9′ Round Sunbrella Market Umbrella, Sunbrella line is essentially a 9′ version of the California Umbrella line mentioned above.
This selection of umbrellas is available in 21 Sunbrella fabric colors as well as several great Pacifica and Olefin fabric options, and 3 different pole colors. There’s so much to choose from, you can find the perfect umbrella.
Umbrella Dimensions
The dimensions of this umbrella are:
- Canopy Size: 9′ (round)
- Umbrella Pole Height: 8’6″.
- Pole width: 1 7/16″
- Crank height: 36″ from pole base
- Base Weight: at least 60lbs
The Details
Like the 11′ California Umbrella line below, these umbrellas feature an aluminum pole and 8 fiberglass ribs. The fiberglass ribs are a better rib material than most, because of their strength and flexibility.
The umbrella features the standard control mechanisms found on all of the umbrellas on this list: a high-quality crank mechanism and a push-button tilt function.
All of the colors of the California Umbrella line use Sunbrella fabric, which is ideal. This fabric is covered under a 5-year warranty (a nice bonus!). Sunbrella fabric is UV resistant, fade-resistant, and designed to last 1,500 hours in the sunlight.
Like all of the umbrellas on this list, you’ll likely need to get a separate umbrella weight to support this umbrella, as one is not supplied with it. For an umbrella this size, you want at least 50lb of weight on the base to support it. Be sure whatever weight you choose will accommodate the pole diameter of this umbrella (most will).
The Bottom Line
[The biggest selling point of the California Umbrellas line of umbrellas, both the 9′ and the 11′ version, is the huge array of color choices available. These color choices make the California Umbrella line very compelling.The fiberglass ribs and quality construction are plusses, though some users report issues with the aluminum pole failing. If the winds pick up, close this umbrella up! The fabric selection on this umbrella is unreal, and is what makes this selection our top choice as the Best Sunbrella Umbrellas!
Overall these are outstanding patio umbrellas, and while they are not available on Amazon Prime, they are available with free shipping.
- Overall dimensions: 102-inch h by 108-inch l by 108-inch w
- Deluxe crank lift with auto crank tilt high durability resin housing...
- 8 heavy duty aluminum ribs with quality sunbrella fabric
- Model: SDAU908900-5439
- Brand Name: California Umbrella
Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#2. Abba Patio 9′ Sunbrella Fabric Aluminum Patio Umbrella with Auto Tilt and Crank, 8 Ribs
Abba Patio is one of our favorite outdoor equipment manufacturers, and once again they do a great job with their 9′ Sunbrella patio umbrella line.
Abba Patio offers six different Sunbrella fabric colors, so you’ve got a reasonable number of options to find the right parasol for your patio.
This is our runner-up pick for the best Sunbrella patio umbrella and is an outstanding value patio umbrella.
Umbrella Dimensions
The dimensions of this umbrella are:
- Canopy Size: 9′ (round)
- Umbrella Pole Height: 8’2″.
- Pole width: 1 1/2″
- Crank height: 36″ from pole base
- Base Weight: at least 75lbs
The Details
The Abba Patio 9′ Market umbrella features 8 steel ribs, which are strong and reasonably flexible, though not quite as sturdy as the fiberglass ribs found on the California Umbrella selection.
The Abba Patio umbrella features a standard crank, though the tilt function is a little different than the other umbrellas on this list. By engaging the crank mechanism, you open the umbrella, and once it’s fully open, the crank begins to tilt the umbrella until it reaches the amount of tilt you wish.
This is a cool system with a big plus and a minor minus. As a plus, it means that shorter users will be able to easily tilt the umbrella, as they only need to reach for the crank and not a button at the top of the pole. As a negative, it also means that you can’t tilt the umbrella unless it’s fully opened.
The Abba Patio does not have a cord to tie the umbrella when it is folded down, which may be a negative for some people.
Like all the umbrellas on this list, the Abba Patio does not include a base weight. For an umbrella this size, we recommend getting at least a 50lb weight to stabilize the umbrella.
It features a single air vent for wind gusts, which is pretty standard on a 9′ patio umbrella.
The Bottom Line
The Abba Patio 9′ Market Umbrella is a nice package, with a high-quality finish and solid materials.
While only six Sunbrella colors are offered, the colors are decent, and if you find you like one of the colors, this is an excellent choice for a patio umbrella.
As an additional incentive, this umbrella is available through Amazon Prime!
- Sunbrella Fabric - 100% Solution-Dyed Acrylic, 5 year on...
- Multiple functions - used as a visual barrier, safety Fence and Animal...
- Easy to work with- simple to remove, roll up, and stow away for future...
- Mesh can be personalized and cut with a utility knife. When being cut...
- Weight: 8. 6 Ibs; mesh size: 1. 25-In X 4. 5-In
Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#3. Ulax Furniture 9 Ft Sunbrella Market Patio Umbrella
The Ulax Furniture 9′ Outdoor Patio/Market Umbrella is a good quality patio umbrella with all the common features buyer’s need. There are only two Sunbrella fabric colors available at the moment, the Heather Beige, and Slate Blue shown here, which is a bit of a disappointment.
However, both colors look great, but if you happen to like the color, this is a pretty good choice for an umbrella with Sunbrella fabric.
Umbrella Dimensions
Here are the dimensions for this umbrella.
- Canopy Size: 9′ round
- Umbrella Pole Height: 7’6″.
- Pole width: 1 1/2″
- Crank height: Suitable for bar-height tables
- Base Weight: at least 50 lbs
The Details
The pole for this umbrella is made of aluminum, and powder coated bronze for a nice finish. It has 8 ribs, made of what appears to be aluminum. They are reasonably strong and flexible. The fittings are made of ABS plastic and nylon, for additional strength at those points.
This umbrella has a decent quality crank and basic push-button tilt functionality that allows it to be positioned at an angle. It is flexible enough without having a huge array of configuration options.
The Ulax umbrella has a single air vent, which allows air to flow through the umbrella and helps prevent gusts from toppling everything over.
It does not include a base, though it is well suited to fit into a table or to simply sit on a base by itself. This umbrella should be weighted down by at least 50 lbs of weight to ensure that it doesn’t flip over in a gust.
The Bottom Line
The Ulax Furniture 9′ patio umbrella is a nice umbrella, and the fact that it is Sunbrella makes it an attractive option. However, with only two Sunbrella fabric colors to choose from, there will likely be many who wish to look elsewhere for the right canvas color.
Note: the three other fabric color choices Ulax advertises are not made of Sunbrella fabric.
As an added feature, this umbrella is available on Amazon Prime!
- Fabric: Woven of 100% solution-dyed acrylic, 5 year warranty on...
- Dimensions: Premium-grade umbrella for commercial and residential...
- Construction: Sturdy aluminum Pole in bronze finish. 1-1/2" dia,...
- Wind vent: Octagonal umbrella with 8-rib canopy, and single-vent...
- Operation: Raise, lower, and adjust your canopy easy with the...
Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
#4. Sundale Outdoor 9 Ft Sunbrella Patio Umbrella
The Sundale Outdoor 9 Ft Sunbrella, Fabric Patio Garden Outdoor Market Umbrella, Push Button Tilt and Crank (Shown Here in Macaw Green) is quite a mouthful, but it is a nice patio umbrella.
Sundale supplies this in three Sunbrella fabrics, Macaw Green, Terracotta, and Camel.
Umbrella Dimensions
Here are the dimensions for this umbrella.
- Canopy Size: 9′ round
- Umbrella Pole Height: 7’6″.
- Pole width: 1 1/2″
- Crank height: Suitable for bar-height tables
- Base Weight: at least 60 lbs
The Details
The pole of this umbrella is made of sturdy powder-coated aluminum, and the frame features 8 aluminum ribs. The ribs are flexible and are of decent quality.
This umbrella is in photos shown with a base, but this package does not include one. Sundale recommends a base weight of approximately 60 lbs to hold this umbrella properly. They suggest this weight as a matching weight for this umbrella.
The Sundale Outdoor 9′ patio umbrella features the usual adjustments found on market umbrellas. There is a decent quality hand crank, which appears to sit high enough such that the umbrella would work in a bar-height table, and there is a push button tilt function that easily allows users to angle the umbrella as needed.
A single air vent gives a path for wind gusts to flow through the umbrella, which is standard.
The Bottom Line
The Sundale Outdoor 9′ Market umbrella is a nicely designed patio umbrella, with the Sunbrella fabric we love. The tilt function works pretty well, and helps provide directional shading.
If one of the three colors offered piques your interest, this is a good choice for a patio umbrella.
As an added bonus, the Sundale 9′ Market umbrella is available on Amazon Prime!
No products found.
#5. California Umbrella 11′ Market Umbrella, Sunbrella
The California Umbrella 11′ Round Aluminum Pole Fiberglass Rib Market Umbrella, Crank Lift, Collar Tilt, Bronze Pole, Sunbrella line of umbrellas doesn’t have a catchy product name, but it does feature a *lot* of options, and a great build out.
This line of umbrellas comes in 19 different Sunbrella fabric colors and has three pole color options (bronze, black, and white). The colors offered are bold and interesting, so you’re guaranteed to find something that will work in this selection of colors!
Umbrella Dimensions
This umbrella is the largest on our list, making it the best patio umbrella for shade out there.
- Canopy Size: 11’x11′ (round)
- Umbrella Pole Height: 8’6″.
- Pole width: 1 7/16″
- Crank height: 36″ from pole base
- Base Weight: at least 75lbs
The Details
The 11′ diameter California Umbrella market umbrella is quite large, and is capable of shading a great deal of patio furniture! See our umbrella size guide for more information on patio shading, and you will find out of the 11′ or 9′ California Umbrella is right for you.
Quality is found throughout these California Umbrellas, with aluminum poles and fiberglass ribs as the main structure. Fiberglass ribs offer a great deal of flexibility in windy conditions and are less prone to snapping under the load of a significant wind gust than some other rib materials are.
This umbrella works very well in a table, or as a free-standing umbrella. It does not include a base, and a base should be purchased separately. Be sure that the table and base you plan to use can accommodate a 1 7/16″ in pole diameter, and you should be looking for a base weight of at least 75 lbs. This is a BIG umbrella, and it needs to be properly weighted down.
The California umbrella features a crank system and a handy tilt system with four positions, which allows the umbrella to be angled to block the sun’s rays all day long. It also offers two air vents, which gives a channel for air gusts to flow through the fabric.
The umbrella offers Sunbrella fabric, which is covered under a 5-year warranty (a nice bonus!). Sunbrella fabric is UV resistant, fade-resistant, and designed to last 1,500 hours in the sunlight.
The fabric is water-resistant, and in a light to moderate shower will keep those underneath it dry for a good while. Eventually, however, the umbrella will get soaked and water will start to come through. It’s not waterproof, but is reasonably water resistant.
The Bottom Line
The California Umbrella 11′ umbrella is a very impressive umbrella system. The crank and tilt mechanisms are well thought out, and the fabric is unbeatable.
The biggest negative is that the pole may be a little weak for the weight of the huge umbrella fabric, so if you’re concerned about that, you may want to look elsewhere. And if the wind picks up, close this umbrella.
If are looking for a large umbrella and are ok closing the umbrella up when not in use, this is a great choice!
- FABRIC: Sunbrella Performance Fabrics has been engineered to withstand...
- OPERATION: Crank to Open, Twist to Tilt. We invented the Collar Tilt...
- CONSTRUCTION: Entire frame is made from rust-free all aluminum with...
- WEATHER PROTECTION: Fiberglass ribs offer superior flexibility in...
- Optional base is not included and must be purchased separately
Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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