Zpacks Lotus UL Umbrella Review

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This is an in-depth gear review of the Zpacks Lotus UL Hiking Umbrella and Hands-Free Umbrella Holster in 2024.

I used and tested the Zpacks Lotus UL Umbrella in extreme heat, wind, and cold to see just how well it would withstand the elements. As one of the lightest hiking umbrellas on the market is it worth carrying one to shield you not only from rain but from the extreme heat of the sun.

I used the umbrella in conjunction with the hands-free holster kit to allow your hands to be free to use trekking poles while hiking and backpacking. Keep reading to learn more.

How We Tested

The Zpacks Lotus UL Hiking Umbrella and Hands-Free Umbrella Holster in this review have been extensively evaluated and researched by the expert author who has more than 30 years of experience in Thru-Hiking, Backpacking, and Hiking. He also spent several years managing a hiking retail store and is regarded as an expert in this field. The Zpacks Lotus UL Hiking Umbrella was supplied by the manufacturer for this review. It has been rigorously tested by the author in all the hot summer heat and heavy rain. The research, testing, and experience of the author have combined to come up with the opinions in this review. Read the Review Policy for further details.

In-Depth Review: Zpacks Lotus UL Umbrella and Holster 2024

Zpacks Lotus UL Umbrella and Holster

Umbrella Weight: 6.8 oz / 192 grams Holster Weight: 0.21 oz / 6 grams
Canopy Size: 38 inches
Overall Length: 25 Inches
Pros:
> Ultralight
> Very High Quality
> Large 38-inch canopy
> Can be used hands-free with the addition of the holster
Cons:
> Not much
> Can be a waste of time to carry it when not needed.

Zpacks are one of the leaders in the world ultralight backpacking gear. The Zpacks Lotus UL Umbrella was created to be one of the lightest hiking umbrellas in the world. And it is so well loved, you will see this umbrella on many long-distance thru-hiking trails.

The umbrella is not just for the rain, it can also be used as an umbrella to shade you from the sun. This strong and durable umbrella will be perfect for hiking through the desert regions of the Pacific Crest Trail, Arizona Trail, or any other area with strong sun and lack of shade.

Rest assured that the reflective material is UPF 40 rated and with a 38-inch canopy it is big enough to keep you in the shade. And did I mention it will also protect you from rain! If you think you might need an umbrella to protect you from the rain on the Appalachian Trail, then this could be for you.

As with all things Zpacks it is lightweight, weighing in at a negligible 6.8 ounces / 192 grams. You’ll forget you are carrying it.

If you find yourself on the Zpacks website, why not check out their umbrella holsters which I highly recommend to allow you to hike hands-free, and the umbrella stuff sack.

Overall, a great ultralight and durable umbrella for thru-hikers who are looking for a Sun Umbrella that also protects from the rain.

Weight

If you plan on carrying an umbrella the weight will be right up at the top of things to consider before you purchase. Luckily, Zpacks have created an umbrella that fits nicely into the ultralight category. The same can be said for the umbrella holster.

The Zpacks Lotus UL Umbrella weighs 6.8 oz / 192 grams.

The Umbrella Holster that clips onto your shoulder harness to secure the umbrella is super light at only 0.21 oz / 6 grams.

Materials

The Zpacks Lotus UL Umbrella is has a fiberglass shaft, polyester canopy with teflon coating which has a reflective coating and is rated to UV 40. There is also a foam handle and a metal tip at the base.

Size

Canopy size is 38 inches which is around the average size for most trekking umbrellas. The length is 25 inches which is a good size that is compact enough to be stored on the side of your backpack when not in use.

Zpacks Umbrella Holster

If you want to use the Zpacks Lotus UL umbrella hands-free then they have a nice little extra that you can buy called the Holster. It slips nicely into the webbing of any backpack. When I tested the umbrella and holster I used it on the Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra Backpack. I also tested it on several other lightweight packs, including the HMG Unbound and the Osprey Exos. It worked great with any ultralight backpack.

The shaft of the umbrella fits into the clip, which is similar to a clip that can be used for a hydration bladder. They are interchangeable, so why not buy two, one for the umbrella and another for your hiking hydration bladder.

Overall, the Zpacks Umbrella Holster is highly recommended.

Value for Money

At the time of writing the Zpacks Lotus UL Umbrella was listed at under $45 which is around the same price as most other high quality umbrellas from Six Moon Designs which are leading the pack for hihgh quality hiking umbrellas.

Conclusion

Overall, the Zpacks Lotus UL Umbrella is right up there at the pointy end of best hiking umbrellas. If you use any other gear from Zpacks then it makes sense to add this umbrella and holster to the shopping cart while you are on there. I like this umbrella and holster system so much it is now my go-to hiking umbrella that I use when hiking and backpacking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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