Comments about Euroschirm Swing Liteflex Trekking Umbrella:

It's great for hot, sunny hikes, it can shade your entire upper body. I haven't tried it in rain yet but I can't imagine it won't do the job. I like it's light weight and easy use. I also like the lack of metal parts since when it rains here, there is often lightning. It's a bit of a problem when the wind blows but that's true of any umbrella. I haven't use it much yet but it appears durable.

Comments about Euroschirm Swing Liteflex Trekking Umbrella:

This is my first umbrella for backpacking trips and I think I will prefer it to applying sunscreen and carrying rain gear for the occasional rain storms we get in summer in the Sierras. Only weights 8oz. and opens to provide 38 inches of coverage. I have the silver version, and it is darkened on the underside, which will be great on spring snow trips. It's strong but light, and has a smooth action opening and closing. Also I've heard an umbrella can deter mosquitoes in the early summer months. I'm anxious to see if it's true.

Comments about Euroschirm Swing Liteflex Trekking Umbrella:

My current Swing Liteflex umbrella has over 4500 trail miles on it. There are some holes on the top of it and the sliver is wearing off so I'm replacing it.

I think this is the same company that makes the Chrome Dome umbrella for Golite, as they look exactly alike except the Swing Liteflex is lighter and doesn't sport a logo.

I've tried other umbrellas on the trail like the regular Golite umbrella, totes, and ones I bought a discount stores. None of them lasted more than 500 miles.

I use this umbrella to block wind, rain, sun, hail, snow. Wouldn't head out to the trail without it.

I like carrying a full size umbrella because when I need it, I can just reach back and pull it out of my side pocket without having to stop and take off my pack.