What shape patio umbrella is best?

For symmetry and maximum shade protection, a square-shaped umbrella is your best bet. Octagonal is a common umbrella shape that appears more round and will look best covering a circular table. For a more traditional look, opt for an octagonal shape to shade your space

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Cantilever Umbrella

Cantilever Mechanism

Cantilever umbrellas can be quite heavy, so an easy-to-use opening and closing mechanism is a must. Most cantilever mechanisms use a crank system to open and close the canopy. The crank is usually mounted on the pole to stay within easy reach.

Users turn the crank in one direction to open the canopy and in the other direction to close it. Compared to push-up or pulley systems, a crank mechanism requires the least amount of effort, making it a logical choice for heavy cantilever umbrellas. An additional crank or slider mechanism is often present to adjust the angle or the height of the canopy once it’s fully open.

UV Protection

To provide proper cover from the sun, many cantilever umbrellas feature UV-resistant fabrics to block some of these damaging UV rays.

The fabric weave, color, thickness, and stretch can affect its UPF rating. To ensure proper sun protection, look for a cantilever umbrella with a certain level of UV resistance. For example, Sunbrella provides up to 98 percent protection from harmful UV rays.

Tilt and Rotation

Many cantilever umbrellas feature a tilt or rotation option to shield UV rays from all directions. These options allow the umbrella canopy to sit at an angle or rotate around the pole to keep users covered during a full day of outdoor fun.

For flexible sun coverage, a tilt function allows you to angle the canopy to block UV rays without moving the umbrella. A rotating cantilever umbrella swivels around its base—up to 360 degrees—to permit versatile patio seating arrangements.

Weight and Stability

A sturdy base prevents the umbrella from falling over or blowing away. Its weight and stability are important safety considerations—a stable base prevents damage to the umbrella and keeps everyone in the vicinity safe.

Most cantilever umbrella bases are an extension of the frame, shaped in an X or a T design and made of steel, aluminum, or fiberglass. If it isn’t bolted to the ground, a cantilever umbrella must be paired with a weighted base. These bases can be built in, included with the umbrella, or sold separately. They usually take the form of weight bags or hollow plastic bases ready to fill with sand or water. Weighted bases can range from 40 to over 100 pounds.

A wheeled base adds portability to move the umbrella around the yard—have it beside a pool during the day and in an outdoor dining area at dusk.

Aesthetic

The large canopy of a cantilever umbrella makes a statement in an outdoor space. These umbrellas combine form and function, protecting you from the sun while also providing a stylish backdrop to warm summer nights.