The wet season is usually over by July, leaving us free to enjoy and complain about the hot, steamy weather. But – perhaps due to climate change – weather patterns in Japan, and for that matter all over the world, are out of whack, and lately it’s been raining on and off and on again despite the calendar. Every morning we flip on the TV to see how wet the day is going to be. Almost every day the weather lady has been instructing us to “Remember the umbrella!”
During the wet season, carrying an umbrella is a must. Even though almost everybody owns an umbrella or two, it is one of the few everyday products that has not undergone any major innovation, until now. There are numerous companies that are coming up with some attractive and unique umbrellas. I would like to share a few.
Ultra portable umbrellas by Waterfront
If you have to carry an umbrella, it should be small and light. Of course, such umbrellas are available: Super Poketmini and Poketflat by Waterfront. The Super Poketmini is a short and stout umbrella. It can be folded down to 15cm (6 inches) long and 4cm (1.6 inches) thick. The Poketflat, for its part, is thin and sleek. It can be folded down to 22cm (8.7 inches) long and 2.5cm (1 inch) thick. I’ve been an avid user of Poketflat for some time now and it comes in handy during a sudden downpour. It’s so light and small that sometimes I forget I even have an umbrella in my bag.
Asymmetry umbrella – Senz Umbrella
This new umbrella designed by a Dutch company was recently released in Japan. Thanks to its unique shape, the Senz umbrella can withstand heavy winds. Also, thanks to its smart design, this umbrella covers what we want it to cover. It makes Senz!
Samurai sword umbrella
If you’re a big fan of Samurai, this umbrella is what you’re looking for. Because Samurai swords are banned, modern guys are no longer able to carry a stylish sword at their side. However, with this Samurai umbrella, their Samurai spirit will shine through once again. And with the umbrella holder, they can carry it on their shoulders like modern-day Ninjas.
Umbrella holder for bicycles
Getting around town in Japan is best on bicycle. It’s cheep, clean, and healthy. Sounds good all around. Unfortunately, bicycles have one downturn. They and their riders are exposed to the weather. When it’s raining outside, nobody wants to ride a bike. So, a simple yet clever solution was invented: an umbrella holder for bicycles. It is a small plastic contraption that can hold an umbrella. It’s not a particularly cool or sleek looking thing, but I’ve been surprised to see so many people with this gizmo on their bicycles already. It’s the function that matters at the end.
Wagasa
Last but not least, Wagasa is something many foreigners don’t see. Distinctly different from western umbrellas, they are beautiful works of art on their own. Made of all-natural materials (bamboo for the spokes and washi paper for the covering), the Wasaga is made only by skilled craftsman. If you want to make an impression, Wagasa can do wonders. They are colorful, beautiful, and one of a kind.
So if it’s raining cats and dogs on your side of the world, don’t worry. You can chase the blues away with a delightful and unique umbrella.
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