is taking an umbrella in the sun weird?

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Izzy-bella19800@reddit

I get severe heat rashes and sometimes struggle in the heat. I found using an umbrella was a god send..I didn't care if I looked silly. It made a massive difference and I'll always use one again when needed

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KinManana@reddit

It's camp but it's not weird

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Talinia@reddit

Yeah, I think if you strut about with it then you'd pull it off. If you seem awkward or embarrassed about it then you'd get more grief/looks about it

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whyy_i_eyes_ya@reddit

Absolutely. If you’re going against the grain, just fucking own it and you’re cool as fuck.

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BrexitVoter@reddit

I've always said this. (Not about sun brollies specifically)

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AnxiousTerminator@reddit

I mean there's nothing wrong with it but yeah people will probably give you a look. It doesn't hurt them though so crack on and do what you like. That being said, factor 50 suncream will do you much better than a parasol.

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Katharinemaddison@reddit

I can burn with factor 50 on. An extra uv block is a good idea.

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ouzo84@reddit

How long are you wearing that factor 50?

Because all it means is it takes 50 times the normal amount of time before you burn.

So if you would start to burn in full sunlight after a minutes exposure, you should be redoing the factor 50 every 45 minutes.

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Katharinemaddison@reddit

Not after a minute but within the 50 minutes

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BrexitVoter@reddit

His advice is BS anyway. He's talking about one, since disregarded output from a test under lab conditions.

The higher the factor, the more protection you get from the same amount of sun exposure. For example, in an hour's sun, 50 filters out more UVB than 30 does.

My OH works for an NHS trust regarding Skin Cancer.

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BrexitVoter@reddit

That's not true, factor 50 blocks more UVB than factor 30, 20 etc.

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PennyBunPudding@reddit

It's extremely common in Asia. The UK we prefer to just burn.

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CommercialAsparagus@reddit

Southern California a bit too

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Moppo_@reddit

Our disdain for the clouds is so great that we allow the sun to burn us, out of spite.

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TheNinjaPixie@reddit

I use a upf umbrella. It's not a fashion parasol. The shade it produces feels cool and i hate the hot sun on my skin, and although i do use a day cream with spf i dont want heavy suncream because i don't want to be in the sun longer for a tan, just exist in hot weather. I have a neurological condition that affects how i deal with heat. Im also older. Also idc about random strangers and their looks

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Clari24@reddit

Parasols don’t tend to replace sun cream, they’re added shade and help with the heat of direct sunlight

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AnxiousTerminator@reddit

Which is why I said suncream is better. OP's concern is sun protection, not shade or heat, and for that suncream is the right choice.

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LichenTheMood@reddit

It doesn't really work that way though. Step 1 is always shade. Then sunscreen. In that order.

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AnxiousTerminator@reddit

That is simply not true. Being in the shade does not prevent you getting sunburnt or block all the UV rays. Suncream does a much more effective job. Don't speak with authority on stuff you are just making up, it's misleading to people who come for advice.

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whyy_i_eyes_ya@reddit

Wading in just to talk about the time my ~pasty as fuck~ alabaster-skinned wife got sunburnt on the beach, slathered in Factor 50 and under a parasol all day.

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blamordeganis@reddit

I think you need two wiggly things at either end.

\~\~Like this\~\~ -> ~~Like this~~

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whyy_i_eyes_ya@reddit

Every day’s a school day! Thanks!!

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Specialist-Web7854@reddit

It’s not about better. Both are good, but the umbrella will also reduce the intensity of the heat and shade your eyes.

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Jazs1994@reddit

It's not the norm here but Asian countries it happens a lot with their weather it's to be expected

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mdmdmdmdmdmdmdmdmdm@reddit

Its the weather.

Its also the horrible amount of white/light privilege or whitewashing.

Its also because hyperpigmentation is more noticeable on asian skin.

But mostly they dont want to tan because tanned skin is a symbol of lower status

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dayofthe_misanthrope@reddit

There's a goth that lives near me that uses a parasol in the summer, a proper Tim Burton looking fucker with lace edges and a big point on top. Looks straight of the Addams Family, or an Edward Gorey illustration. Absolute vibes, and I've never seen her with sunburn. 10/10

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Background_Ad5513@reddit

Unusual here but normal in other countries, people might just think you’re a tourist. Either way, who cares? Go for it

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BrickAccomplished338@reddit

Mate you really need to stop caring so much about what random people think, I can assure you noone cares

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The_JimJam@reddit

And me and my partner go out in high sun we both suncream up and take her umbrella. We'll take turns holding it and both get shaded from the heat

I might feel a bit strange if it was just me but in reality who cares what others [that'll you'll never see again] think for a moment? Protect your skin

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Experiment328095@reddit

I have to do this, sunlight irritates my skin and so does suncream 🤦🏻‍♀️😂

I got an awesome upf50 that has its own scabbard!

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Silvagadron@reddit

The parasol was invented thousands of years before the umbrella. I'd avoid using a dark-coloured one but otherwise no, it's perfectly normal. The people who might give you weird looks would be the same who give you weird looks for wearing sunglasses in winter because they associate sunglasses with "hot sun".

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grimaces111111@reddit

I'd say as long as its summery-themed, I wouldn't look twice, parasols are a thing

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NecroVelcro@reddit

My umbrella that sometimes doubles as a parasol is black, covered in a skull pattern and says "In Goth We Trust".

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phatboi23@reddit

goths are the one group i know who tend to be parasol enjoyers haha

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ASpookyBitch@reddit

Honestly as a goth and someone from the north of England, I can genuinely feel a difference if I have sunblock on or not when sunlight hits me… I really want a UV umbrella.

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vagueconfusion@reddit

I am indeed the local goth with a parasol (a black parasol with a UV silver lining) and it's well worth carrying around.

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TheShakyHandsMan@reddit

They do have a habit of turning to dust in sunlight

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phatboi23@reddit

they do haha

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Kexxa420@reddit

Doesn’t that just attract even more heat?

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Hythy@reddit

As long as it's not actually pressed against you it's fine.

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NewtSoupsReddit@reddit

We do need to keep the sun off us

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Sasspishus@reddit

I took one to a botanical gardens last year in the summer, it was great!

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LilacScentedStoat@reddit

People have been using pasasoks for the sun for a long long long time.

I carry one when hiking. I reckon more men would carry a parasol if Maxpedition released a camo one and called it a "Tactical Shade"

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whyy_i_eyes_ya@reddit

Tactical Shade Turbo Nitro 5X if we’re following usual ‘men’s’ naming stuff.

Always makes me laugh at some of the names they give shit like moisturiser to play to the egos of some fragile blokes. “Hydra Energetic”. It’s just moisturiser lads, it’s won’t make you gay.

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Incident-Putrid@reddit

Diet Coke and Coke Zero have entered the chat.

It’s all a lie though as I’ve been drinking diet for years and still can’t stand the taste of cock.

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No-Row-9994@reddit

You'd be great on The Apprentice.

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sara61wilson@reddit

Overthinking it. Nobody cares. Also consider some gloves

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Motor-Comment-6557@reddit (OP)

where can i buy upf gloves and clothes in the uk? i’ve looked everywhere

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vagueconfusion@reddit

Solbari!

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sara61wilson@reddit

Have you not looked online? You can find them easily.

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Motor-Comment-6557@reddit (OP)

i’m quite lean so alot of sizes are hit and miss. i’md rather go to a store and see if they fit rather than taking a gamble online, upf clothing isn’t cheap either

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sara61wilson@reddit

I get that. I have the same issue - so also prefer to do all my shopping in store. You may be able to find some with Velcro wrist straps to tighten to your liking b

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vagueconfusion@reddit

I've actually gotten a lot of compliments from older folks saying how it's a very clever idea.

However I'm also a goth so the visual of carrying a parasol is almost expected.

And my partner has started to do the same and bought his own. He looks like your average alternative music fan and outright doesn't care about perception because the comfort of not feeling the sun on his skin beats any odd looks.

Although when we're together it probably looks like he's being gallant, holding the parasol, when in truth he hates the sun more than I do!

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xmastreee@reddit

Ever looked into the etymology of the word umbrella? Comes from the Latin umbra, meaning shade. So providing shade was the original purpose.

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JoDohornf@reddit

In the UK you will look out of place - if you don’t care about that then do it

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IamNATx@reddit

I think the biggest thing to learn is to not care what people think - looking after yourself is more important than looking 'weird"

I say this as a youngee person that's become & has to use a walking stick, carry an emergency kit/ouchie pouch for when symptoms play up ... you'd be surprised how many odd looks you get just from using a fan or a mobility aid

It's also something most older people will say they wish they learned younger (not caring what others think) so if you can start now, it sets you up for a whole load of things you might find more freeing

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Sea-Tea9524@reddit

No not weird.

Anybody you don't know doesn't really care about what you wear or what you look like. Think about how long you spend thinking about a stranger..

I don't like too much sun exposure either so I use a cute parasol in the sun, if you feel self conscious about the umbrella then maybe get a parasol but honestly nobody cares (meant in the nicest way possible)

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panicattheoilrig@reddit

I used to use my umbrella for shade on sports day - school took us all to the local leisure centre and we had to sit outside in the sun in June for about 4-5 hours, it was horrendous. I did get questioned and get a lot of strange looks, but I didn't get sunburnt like everyone else lol

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Soggy_Detective_4737@reddit

More people should use one.

Go at it. Maybe you could start a trend.

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hallerz87@reddit

Its uncommon, not weird. Like, its obvious why you're doing it, and it makes sense why you're doing it, its just not what people do in the UK. Go to Asia and you'll fit right in.

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Bgtobgfu@reddit

An umbrella I’d find a bit weird because it’s for rain, but a parasol would be fine

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AXX-100@reddit

I wish it was common - I love using an upf umbrella when it’s crazy hot . I live London and thankfully here people mostly leave you alone

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Boofagoofdoof@reddit

If it's really hot out I'm more comfortable if I have an umbrella, especially at the bus stop which has no shade at all anywhere near it. I got stared at a bit the first few times, but the stares usually preceded comments like "that's such a good idea" or "I'm going to do that"

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psychmancer@reddit

Its totally normal. Don't worry about people looking, you get looked at for wearing a sports jacket nowadays because everyone is in a tracksuit. Just use the umbrella and be chill

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Lopsided-Stable8441@reddit

Extremely normal in SE Asia, absolutely use one.

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dbxp@reddit

It's common for women, I don't think I've ever seen a guy with one

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Top_Classic8445@reddit

So is eating dogs

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RowRow1990@reddit

Not being racist is free

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clutchnorris123@reddit

Hardly racist tho is it. If someone said I must take heroin because I'm Scottish it isn't racist, Ignorant and a stereotype but hardly racist.

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Top_Classic8445@reddit

Wait so eating dogs is racist and using an umbrella isn't??

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MaChao20@reddit

This. It’s normal in Asian countries, at least from where I visited.

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kalendral_42@reddit

You could get a parasol/sunshade style umbrella

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Final_Flounder9849@reddit

I have one that I use on exceptionally sunny days. I don’t get any funny looks and I’m a 59m. I started using it last year and if I had any reaction at all from strangers then it was positive.

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ExcitementKooky418@reddit

It IS a bit weird, but it shouldn't be, very sensible really. Especially if you're pale

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Fun_Gas_7777@reddit

Ive used one before when its sunny and I didnt have sun cream because I burn easily. I got so many people making jokes at me and staring and thinking it was hilarious that after a while I just let myself burn

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ThreeFiddy2203@reddit

Why would you be concerned about sun protection in the UK?

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TheUnSungHero7790@reddit

Please make sure you get sun exposure also, it is a fundamental for health.

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lexx-ray@reddit

I use an umbrella and suncream, but honestly I'm pretty gothic so I get weird looks anyway and the umbrella just adds to the look 😂

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Moppo_@reddit

The word literally means "shade".

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Ok_Bumblebee_9873@reddit

Maybe you'll start a trend.

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matbur81@reddit

In this country it's unusual as it's so widely associated with rain but in other countries it's considered more normal.

Regardless, you do you. If it improves your skin and quality of life in some way, then just do it.

And with respect, the sooner you stop giving a fuck about what other people might be thinking, the less complicated your life will be. 🙂

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resident_queerdo@reddit

I think it's classy.

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Thick_Handle7693@reddit

I think you to worry more about your vitamin D levels

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shelbyeatenton@reddit

Or you can “worry about” more than one thing at a time?

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Motor-Comment-6557@reddit (OP)

i take vitamin d every day. i also get moderate sunight in the morning when uv is below 2

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gentletonberry@reddit

In the UK we should be taking vitamin D supplements in winter but in summer you really don’t need that much sun exposure to get the levels you need, something like 15 minutes a day

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DrachenDad@reddit

Umbrella (little shadow. (Latin word umbra (shade or shadow) combined with the diminutive suffix -ella))

parasol (from French parasol (1570s), from Italian parasole, literally "protection from the sun," from para- "defense against" (see para- (2)) + sole "sun," from Latin solem (nominative sol; from PIE root *sawel- "the sun").)

"is taking an umbrella in the sun weird?" That's literally the job of an umbrella

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NoodleDoodlesocks@reddit

Parasols are a bit old fashioned and if you have one that just looks like an umbrella then you probably will get weird looks... I mean you will probably get looks either way but for different reasons.

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TurnoverStreet128@reddit

I spent some time in Japan almost 20 years ago and my host family gave me a parasol as a present. I used it when I got back to the UK. Some idiots started yelling at me that it wasn't raining 🙄 I still use it (along with sunscreen) and so far my skin looks pretty great for my age. I even got ID end of last year and I'm pushing 40.

So I say, use one if you'd like to and ignore anyone saying something stupid. If they weren't making fun of a parasol they'd be making fun of something else anyway

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Wise-Independence487@reddit

Really common in Asia

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Klakson_95@reddit

I'd think "oh that guy's got an umbrella" and then never think about you again

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heyitsed2@reddit

One of these will be less intrusive on people around you.

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LadyMirkwood@reddit

Have at it. Us goth ladies have been using parasols for years

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oldpunk57@reddit

It’s fine I think you should protect yourself from the sun from a 68 year old who has had skin cancer twice

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Motor-Comment-6557@reddit (OP)

i will! and i’m sorry to hear that, hope all is well!

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Glittering_Win_5085@reddit

Don't worry about it but be courteous to others when on narrow paths.

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Motor-Comment-6557@reddit (OP)

this is what i was worried about lmao

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HauntingCicada2630@reddit

I'm at high risk of skin cancer due to past treatment for lymphoma............I started carrying one last year for if I get stuck waiting anywhere exposed! (M 60s)

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Motor-Comment-6557@reddit (OP)

i’m sorry to hear that. it’s good that you’ve got one now though!

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benistowninspector@reddit

This is the original purpose of the umbrella coming from the latin route of Umbra meaning shade or shadow. Not strange at all

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JacktheStripper_666@reddit

Excellent fact!!

Im annoyed I didn't consider this.

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whyy_i_eyes_ya@reddit

Oh I knew parasol as in for-sun but never thought about umbra for umbrella! Thanks! Love random etymological titbits

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Dazpiece@reddit

Also parasol (para- defense against, sole- sun)

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Revolutionary_West56@reddit

I wish these were more accepted in UK too! I’m constantly battling with an annoying hat in summer

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Virtual_Opinion_8630@reddit

Just get a small UV umbrella

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Revolutionary_West56@reddit

I will. Just saying no one else has them

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Virtual_Opinion_8630@reddit

true, because we're such a sun starved country so people just put up with it

also the UV index doesn't really go too high

https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/anti-uv-upf50-micro-umbrella-100-cm-profilter-black/327154/c382m8596949

£8

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Motor-Comment-6557@reddit (OP)

i got this one lmao, it’s really good. not too big or small, just right

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Revolutionary_West56@reddit

Thanks! Yeah pre heat waves I’d never even bother considering this

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doegrey@reddit

Yeah, people will look at you weirdly, but I have one too and it’s in my bag all year round.

Wish it was more common!

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Impossible_Volume811@reddit

I use an umbrella in places like Cyprus in June. The shade is so welcome in that heat and way cooler than a hat.

I don’t like to wear sunscreen unless I’m on the water and the rays are bouncing up at me.

I have a white umbrella with black inside. In hot weather in the UK it’s fine to use one, as long as you’re considerate and don’t smack people in the face with it.

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RegretEasy8846@reddit

Weird is unexpected, in the UK that is unexpected in my opinion. It would not bother me in the slightest and if I saw someone else with one it would provoke a fleeting thought/observation, nothing more or less. I always remember just before the pandemic, seeing a lady sat in a train station with a PPE face mask on, it was a completely alien concept to me at the time. I definitely looked… and as above it was fleeting and passive. The only reason I remember it was because well, that was 2019. 2020 it all changed. I think people will passively observe but you do not need to worry. Nothing will happen.

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newtonbase@reddit

If it really bothers you then just hire 15-20 slightly chubby Americans to walk behind you.

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cheezypeazy123@reddit

In Japan it was the norm. In the UK the UV index generally doesn't get above a 7 (I saw an 8 on the solstice once) on any given day and not for very long. That's not to say it's not dangerous but most people don't feel it's oppressive like in Equatorial climes so it looks a bit out of place. I'm as close to Dulux pure brilliant white as you get and factor 30/50 is so uncomfortable but necessary and I look a nob in a hat. Ha ha I've had sunburn on a cloudy day.

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PKblaze@reddit

Parasols are a thing for a reason. So no, I wouldn't find it weird.

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Douglas______@reddit

A umbrella will give you shade, but a parasol won't keep you dry. - Albanian proverb.

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SpectreSingh89@reddit

People do use umbrella under the sun so u should be cool (no puns).

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VolcanicBear@reddit

Nah, my wife's a massive goth and used to do that all the time.

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Noctemme@reddit

In goth we trust.

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Competitive_Pen7192@reddit

In warmer countries this Is often entirely normal.

It's only here we don't get enough sun so we're desperate for every shred. Whereas in hot places they probably want a bit less of it....

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whyy_i_eyes_ya@reddit

There’s also the weird ‘grass is always greener’ thing that in a lot of hot countries, especially in Asia, being pale is the societal desire, whereas we do the opposite and a tan is seen as desirable. Slightly less so these days at least.

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Terrible-Group-9602@reddit

Get a parasol rather than an umbrella

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whyy_i_eyes_ya@reddit

Seems to be something Chinese youngsters are big on in my city. Bit like wearing masks when poorly, it’s something sensible they’ve got right. I still think chopsticks are mad when spoons and forks exist though. But then I am a gannet who eats like a starving animal.

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dreadwitch@reddit

It's weird that people stopped using them in the sun imo.

We sit under them in a pub, on the beach, even in the garden, so why would using one while walking around be weird? Lol I use one.

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omniwrench-@reddit

Is it a plastic brolly like for rain? Or a cloth parasol?

I feel like a cloth parasol would vibe harder, that way people would just be staring at your Edwardian rizz

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Crossy7@reddit

Tbh, the simple fact you want to do it should be the only reason. It’s not harming anyone else and it’s just for you and won’t affect anyone else other than being something they look at.

So do what you want to do. Anyone else’s opinions don’t weigh anything if they’re just negative and degrading, you’re doing it because you’re protecting yourself.

If it’s borderline obsessive like 0 sun on you ever or you’ll have a meltdown, Then maybe it’s not healthy as you should have 10 mins a day of direct sun for full benefits. But if it’s just to stop long exposures when out in exposed places then they’ll be the jealous ones when you’re not melting!

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sivri@reddit

If I were you I would carry one of those gothic embroidery parasol. If you are going to do it, do it properly.

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pintsized_baepsae@reddit

Nah, do it! I started doing it two years ago - I have one of the fancy UV umbrellas a friend got me from Korea - and it's quite nice to have your own patch of shade :)

I've seen some Chinese girls tie a hand fan to the umbrella handle too... So clever.

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NoCat4442@reddit

Considering the sun is good for you… yes

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Wonderful-Weight-997@reddit

No, it's not weird. Sincerely, the global South

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Historical_Project86@reddit

It would look quirky, but they're not called parasols for nothing.

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Discopants180@reddit

Of course it is.

Most of Reddit saying it isn't is the biggest indicator.

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Brookiekathy@reddit

Fellow sun umbrella user. People will look at you weird but it's better than baking

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AndrewHinds67@reddit

An umbrella used in the sun is called a parasol and is perfectly normal.

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redditboy9001@reddit

Really common in Japan. I caved in Kyoto and bought one after a day in 40° weather in August.

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sneddsdead@reddit

Just put a hat on and ruin your hair, quick question how long does it take to do your hair that you're so stressed about ruining it? Just get it cut short for the summer.

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TheCosmicGypsies@reddit

I recently started using a UV one from Uniqlo for when I go out for lunch. Seriously so much cooler. If you're pretty white then I'd say defo worth it.

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caketaster@reddit

I'd think it weird. Sun isn't all that bad for you anyway, yes it's associated with a few types of cancer but getting some sun is associated with reduction of risk for many more types of cancer. It'll also help with vitamin D and circadian rhythm. All in all is healthier to get a bit of sun on you.

Wear some factor 30 if it makes you feel better, but umbrellas can be a kind of rude implement, forcing people to get out ofthe way and fear getting a prong in the eye. I don't mind people carrying them when it's raining but it would annoy me a bit to see one swinging towards me on a sunny day.

I wouldn't say anything obviously, just tut and judge you silently

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anotheraccount999999@reddit

It is "weird" as in not many people do it, but you'll soon learn not to care! I always have my brolly out in the sun and encourage my children to do the same.

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Motor-Comment-6557@reddit (OP)

thats amazing!

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MCL-Jonathan@reddit

Nope. All the middle age aunties in China does it! Totally fine

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Sagegreenlama@reddit

Another option I have is a straw hat that I think is intended for gardening, it functions as a personal sun umbrella and it’s a bit soft and floppy so it won’t hurt someone if you bump them on a walking trail.

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Tyruto@reddit

In the UK? Are you a vampire?

Just go outside and get some sun on your skin, it is good for you.

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Motor-Comment-6557@reddit (OP)

i do in the morning and afternoon when uv is low

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Auntie_Cagul@reddit

I use an umbrella as a sunshade when I help supervise the local community swimming pool. Other than that I wear a Tilley Hat.

I would totally consider using an umbrella if I needed the shade when walking around. I'm old enough to longer care what others think of me.

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Sagegreenlama@reddit

Oh yeah a big bucket hat also works amazing as a sun shade and you can easily tuck it away in a backpack when you are done with it.

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Jezzle219@reddit

I took a golf umbrella to Glastonbury once... everyone wanted to sit next to me in my shady spot 😆 I say do it!

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_rayn3r_@reddit

i don’t think it’s weird, i did that during that massive heatwave a few years ago and most ppl told me i had the right idea lol. also u shouldn’t let the opinions of others get in the way of doing what u want especially when it’s for a health reason

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NewtSoupsReddit@reddit

I use an umbrella as a parasol in strong sunlight too.

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Sagegreenlama@reddit

There are umbrellas made for golf that I use when I plan to be outside all day going for hikes or at sporting events and they work amazing, they are pretty light, and are not made of metal so they resist lightning.

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MysticSmeg@reddit

Screw what other people think mate. Just do it

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ams3000@reddit

Nope. It’s very sensible and chic.

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itsfourinthemornin@reddit

May be considered weird, but do it anyway. My mum uses an umbrella, admittedly, she uses a mobility scooter and has it on the back of that. She's had some small bouts of skin cancer, is terminal and can't manage a lot of sun anyway but still likes to go for family days out. I bring one for me and son to sit under as well anytime we go for days out, as not everywhere we go has options of shade either!

I struggle with my vision when it's bright too, I regularly wear sunglasses as they help being able to see including at periods of the year that most wouldn't consider sunglasses weather. I just roll with it.

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According_Sundae_917@reddit

You’ll be an early adopter - we will all be doing it in ten years

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Hawkstreamer@reddit

In lots of countries a sun umbrella (parasol) is quite normal. Go for it, you might start a trend. 🌂

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Scratchy-cat@reddit

As a pale person I keep considering one, it's more having to carry it around when I go into shops thats an issue for me that anyone thinking it's weird

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Magic_mousie@reddit

I wish it was a thing, they work so well! But yes, you would get weird looks.

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smolbig87@reddit

Only if you continue calling it an umbrella... It's a parasol now!

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snakeoildriller@reddit

No, and even better if you've got a themed umbrella - always a good conversation starter!

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OzzyinKernow@reddit

You know what catches my eye? Short people with umbrellas. (Copyright Gary Delaney)

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Clari24@reddit

I brought a parasol with UV protection back from Japan and I use it. I tend not to use it out walking but more sitting out, waiting in the playground to get the kids from school etc

I’ve not really had many looks or comments

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VagabondOfLancashire@reddit

Perspective, the Japanese do it. Don't worry too much and unfurl the brolly

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fickle_tartan@reddit

It's unusual and some people won't understand and will think you're weird, but that shouldn't stop you from doing it if you want to.

I was at a festival with limited shade during a heatwave last year and was frankly quite jealous of everyone who had thought to bring an umbrella.

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olivinebean@reddit

Some people spend every sunny day squinting their way too early wrinkles and sun damaged retinas just because they worry about what other people think of them wearing sunglasses...

Who cares what other people think?

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PvtRoom@reddit

a parasol isn't weird in period melodramas like pride and prejudice.

it is weird when beer gardens exist with shady umbrellas for whole tables, Orr you can just be inside.

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KittyHalfEyes@reddit

Depends where you live.

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maythesunalwaysshine@reddit

It would stand out, as it's not that common. You will always get some people who would find it weird, others might not be too bothered.

If the umbrella was on the larger side, think of golfing umbrellas, then that could be very annoying to others if you are walking around a town or city centre and the pavements are narrow etc.

Have you tried wearing a wide brimmed hat? Why are you so concerned about your hair? In what way would wearing a hat ruin your hair? Which is worse, ruined hair or sunburn/skin cancer?

The more skin you can cover up, the more protection you will get. I am sure you are well aware of using the appropriate levels of sunscreen for your skin type.

What types of clothes do you wear to protect yourself?

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Similar_Many_6507@reddit

It provides better shade compared to a hat. Some might find it weird but look at it this way.. more than half those people who judge you will never see you again! People will always have strong opinions on things and life is too short to think about what others think over what makes you most comfortable. Do whatever you want to do and what makes you happy because it’s not hurting or harming anyone.

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GoanGeek@reddit

If you bought the umbrella with your own money then. YES!

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Yikes44@reddit

It shouldn't be weird, but because so few people do this, you might get a few funny looks. I've seen spectators in golf tournaments use umbrellas this way but not people just out and about. But be brave and do it. It might start a trend.

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koalabear20@reddit

You will probably get looked at but who cares lmao I see old East Asian people with them all the time

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Maleficent-Win-6520@reddit

No. My wife carries one in the sun.

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thorn312@reddit

Go with something light and summery, you might get an odd look of you're bashing people's faces with a whacking great golf umbrella in the sun.

My partner also struggles with sun sensitivity and has to wear sunglasses and a hat all the time in the summer if we're out and lots of factor 50, he burns in minutes. I'm the total opposite, despite being fair skinned with blue eyes (which apparently makes it worse for light sensitivity than darker eyes due to light reflection).

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CarfireOnTheHighway@reddit

Get a nice looking parasol! My wife has lupus that gets worse with UV exposure; nobody has ever been rude to her about it. If anything people are usually jealous when it’s really hot and want one of their own ;)

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NecroVelcro@reddit

*a lot

People may make judgements on the use of umbrellas as sun protection. You're being sensible and they would be idiots.

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Firm_Tomorrow837@reddit

i dont know about other people but do not mind them, sun can and will damage your skin, they wll be looking at you 30 years from nw when they look old and you are still glowing hahaha i mea i do the same i carry an umbrella whenever i go out

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Amazing-Visual-2919@reddit

You'll get weird looks but who cares. It's your life and people looking oddly at you should have no effect.

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Violet351@reddit

I take one, I dye my hair red and it fades really quickly in the sun plus I burn really easily

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soapyjoe59@reddit

Me and my wife once walked up Coniston old man ,(a lake district mountain). It was a hot day and there were crowds of people up there. I took my walking umbrella with me just to shade from the sun and everyone was like,hey that's an awesome idea . I sat there on top feeling very smug ha ha . So no not in my eyes its not. Good luck to you.

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FloydEGag@reddit

No, I do it all the time. I do get the odd funny look, but whatever. People do it regularly in a lot of hot countries, and the sunlight is where the ‘sol’ in ‘parasol’ comes from after all

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Sirlacker@reddit

You'd be better off with a parasol but an umbrella works in a pinch.

And to be honest, I'd be staring at you, but only in awe.

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