Why most umbrellas end up in landfill – and what makes SOAKED different

The Problem With Umbrellas (And Why We’re Doing Things Differently)

Let’s be honest: umbrellas have a reputation problem. Cheap. Flimsy. Disposable. And when the wind picks up? Game over.

But here’s the real issue: over one billion umbrellas end up in landfill every year. That’s one billion broken spokes, plastic handles and torn canopies dumped worldwide — often after just one use. Because believe it or not, most umbrellas are still made like they’re single-use items. Designed to break. Easy to forget. And impossible to recycle.

At SOAKED, we think it’s time to rewrite the forecast.

The Disposable Umbrella Dilemma

Pop into any high street shop on a rainy day and you’ll see rows of umbrellas that look identical: lightweight, low-cost, and low-quality. Most are made using cheap materials, weak frames, and poor construction — destined to collapse in the first gust of wind.

Manufacturers have been mass-producing throwaway umbrellas for decades, with little regard for the planet or the people who use them. It’s convenience over durability. Volume over values.

And the result? A growing waste crisis, with broken umbrellas piling up in bins, gutters, and oceans. Not exactly the legacy we want to leave behind.

How We’re Built Different

At SOAKED, we make umbrellas that are made to be kept. Loved. And used again and again.

Here’s how we’re changing the game:

• Durable by Design

  We’ve swapped flimsy frames for reinforced fibreglass ribs and wind-resistant canopies that won’t turn inside out at the first sign of trouble. Our umbrellas are engineered for real weather — not just a light drizzle.

• Sun and Storm Protection

  Not just for rain. Our brollies are UPF 50+ rated, giving you built-in sun protection on brighter days too. Think of them as your all-weather sidekick.

• Sustainable Thinking

  We don’t believe in fast fashion, and we definitely don’t believe in fast umbrellas. Our designs are built to last, helping you cut down on waste and reduce your environmental impact — without compromising on style.

• No More Single-Use

  We design umbrellas you’ll actually want to keep. With bold prints, clever colour combos and a touch of attitude, SOAKED is all about standing out in the storm.

Why This Matters

Umbrellas shouldn’t be part of the problem. They should be part of the solution. By investing in high-quality, long-lasting umbrellas, we can start to reverse the damage — and look great doing it.

Every SOAKED umbrella is a small rebellion against the throwaway culture we’ve come to accept. It’s time we expected more from our rain gear. It’s time to get SOAKED — on purpose.

Looking for a durable, windproof, eco-friendly umbrella? Browse our latest collection and discover why SOAKED umbrellas are made to last, not landfill.