Living for the past month in the south of Ireland, one of the world’s most notoriously rainy landscapes, is enough to make me re-evaluate not only my footwear and wardrobe, but also my pitifully weak first defense; my umbrella. With all the talk of the climate change and rainfall, it’s no wonder the Nubrella, caught my eye. When featured on the Today show, I was naturally curious about this odd-looking piece of equipment. Could it keep me dry? But not only me, can it also protect my laptop and other valuables that tote on the walk to campus every morning?
The website has a lot to say about this device, boasting a reliability at up to 50mph- perfect for those really nasty days- waterproof and rip proof nylon, and a design that will never flip-out. The dome-like look of the nubrella is intriguing, to say the least. Much like the popular bubble umbrella, the wind stands little to no chance of catching under this design, actually keeping you warmer as you walk. There is also the option to use a “shoulder support,” eliminating the need to hold you Nubrella in place.
The official website appears rather loath to show its product in use, but from what I can see, it’s a very… interesting look, and strangely enough, one I can see it catching on. Indeed the Nubrella is hands-free, almost appearing like an overlarge spaceman’s helmet, but the novelty of two-handed access to my cell phone or iPod while also staying dry is a big plus point.
I have to admit, while at first the idea to redesign the umbrella seems folly, the Nubrella has some very serious merits, and could do well in metropolitan markets with a wet forecast. My qualms seem to be with size. The Nubrella involves a rather large crescent-shaped carrying case that seems inconvenient to tote around, not to mention storage once you get to your destination. No quick grabbing my umbrella and putting in my bag before I run out the door. There is also a price consideration. At $49.99, it is far more costly than any umbrella I have encountered before.
For now I think I’ll have to stick to my good ‘ol quick-collapse Totes. But I have to admit, however strange the Nubrella looks at first, look closer and you’ll see the merits. Especially when broken umbrellas in trashcans is a daily sight.
