Best Cantilever Parasols in the UK Compared for 2022 | Buyers Guide
Your home’s outdoor space can be just as important as the indoors if you give it the proper attention. One way to ensure that you are making the most of it is by installing a cantilever umbrella. Imagine lounging around in style, shielded from the heat of the sun. Here, you’ll find five different models of the best cantilever umbrellas from £89 up to £600.
Cantilever Umbrella Buying Guide
Also known as an offset umbrella, the cantilever umbrella is used to keep the elements at bay for outdoor seating. Its uniqueness stems from its canopy.
The canopy has a cantilevered feature that allows you to change the angles of the umbrella. The effect is that you can adjust it to provide a better shade. The canopy is attached to a base that is either straight or curved.
How Cantilever Parasols Differ
Quality is the big-picture goal when buying a cantilever umbrella. But, how do you determine which umbrella has it? Here is a breakdown of what to look for to get the most out of your investment.
- Durability of materials. The pole of the umbrella should be strong and sturdy. The most common materials used for this type of outdoor furniture are aluminum and steel. Not only are these materials hard enough to carry the weight of the canopy, but they are also rustproof.
The base of the umbrella is the part that stabilizes the whole thing. The best kind of base is made from steel. Other designs even allow you to add sand or water to further weigh down the base. In looking for a cantilever umbrella, ensure that the base is heavy enough to anchor the whole structure.
Finally, the canopy of the umbrella should be made from durable material that is specifically made for the outdoors. For example, polyester is often used because it is relatively inexpensive and can withstand the elements. It is important to look for a material that is thick enough to block out the sun. Otherwise, the umbrella will not be able to perform its main purpose.
Sanitation is also a consideration when it comes to choosing the materials for the canopy. It should be breathable in order to resist mould. The growth of mould can be a respiratory irritant and cause a musky smell to occur.
- Wind Resistance. If you live in a windy area, the umbrella should be stable enough to withstand strong blows of 30 MPH/~50 km/h. So there will be very solid construction with heavy-duty umbrella bones and ribs, and a stable big 100-150kg weighted base.
- Size. Cantilever umbrellas are usually a great pick for outdoor places that have less floor area. The designs are varied enough that you can pick one that can go against the wall. The footprint of the umbrella is just one aspect of the size consideration.
The bigger issue is the size of the parasol because this is what determines how much shade you will receive. Most umbrellas have canopies that range from 3 to 3.3M. There are also rectangular (2.7 X 3.65 m), round, and square (from 2.5 to 3.65 m) shapes.
Another thing to think about when choosing a cantilever umbrella is the height of the pole. The standard length of the central pole is about 2.5M. However, there are some that can go higher. Take note of regulations in your residential area when choosing the height of the pole. Some communities have restrictions on the height of outdoor structures. Those who live in windy areas should also think about getting poles that are on the short side for more stability.
When buying a cantilever umbrella, it helps to see one already assembled and see if the size of the base, pole, and canopy fit together harmoniously. There should be a balance to ensure that the umbrella is stable.
- Cantilever mechanism. The defining feature of a cantilever umbrella is the ability to adjust the angle to provide better shade. Thus, one of the most important quality control issues is how well the adjustment feature works.
Consider how many angle settings the umbrella can have. Some brands only offer a 90-degree adjustment rate, while others can go as high as 360 degrees.
The mechanism itself should also be easy to operate. Some models have a slider mechanism while others operate with a crank. Either way, the movements should be smooth and easy to use. Also, look for how responsive the canopy is to the operation. It should adjust quickly enough.
Top Best Cantilever Umbrellas Compared
1. Purple Leaf Double Top Deluxe Garden Umbrella | Best Trusted Heavy-Duty Cantilever Parasol
The defining feature of the Purple Leaf Patio Umbrella is its double-top canopy design. It provides protection from the elements while providing ventilation and airflow.
The umbrella adjusts with a crank system and features a 360-degree rotation capability.
Shapes & Sizes: Rectangular (2.7 X 3.65 m), Round, and Square (from 2.5 to 3.65 m). The LED lighting is charged by a solar panel. Each purchase of this umbrella also includes a storage cover. Other umbrellas require you to purchase the protective cover separately.
| Pros | Cons |
| A tiered canopy helps with air and heat flow. Strong construction: Shockproof & Wind Resistant design. | High price point compared to competitors |
| 8 colors: Turquoise, Navy, Grey, Black, Brick Red, Terra, Beige | A base is not included, needs to be ordered separately |
| Easy assembly |
FAQs
- Does the umbrella rotate? — A crank swivels the umbrella at its base. Another crank adjusts the angle of the umbrella.
- Does the umbrella need to be bolted down? — It can be bolted down. For mobility, separate weights can be purchased to anchor down the umbrella. The structure has wheels, so it can be moved easily.
- What are the dimensions of the parasol? — It's an extra-large model — 330 x 330cm
- How does the umbrella handle strong winds? — Its weight of 30 kilograms + a stable big weighted 100-150kg water/sand filled base ensures wind resistance of 30 MPH/~50 km/h (strong, moderate-high risk level). Customer feedback has good reviews when it comes to durability during windy weather.
2. C-Hopetree Offset Patio Umbrella Cross Base Stand | Budget-friendly under £100
This umbrella with a cross-base stand uses a combination of powder-coated aluminum and steel for the body, while the canopy is made from dyed polyester. According to its manufacturer, these materials ensure that it can withstand extreme weather.
As for versatility, this patio umbrella features a 360-degree rotation capability and vertical tilt positions.
The C-Hopetree Premium Offset Patio Umbrella is compatible with a separately-sold umbrella cover that can protect the product when it is not in use.
| Pros | Cons |
| 8 different colors | There are some variations in color |
| Features a Velcro closure for convenience | Weights are sold separately |
| Easy to operate. Strong canopy |
FAQs
Testing & Customers Reviews
Here are reviews from YouTube bloggers, who tested the сantilever umbrellas and have found them effective and worth buying.
DreadTech: "Fantastic umbrella, by the way. I really like the strap here, that keeps it in place. Yesterday we had like very windy night and I was afraid that it was gonna blow away, but that it's still here.
Pretty easy to use, you don't have to use a lot of force, that's the thing that I like about this umbrella. This is gonna cover my area where we sit, with our furniture. I like it so much. Awesome, good quality."
Review Ninja: "This umbrella features an easy crank function with a push button tilt to block the sun's rays at any angle.
The umbrella's diameter is wide enough to shade dining table. A rust-free aluminum pole and eight sturdy ribs provide extra support and durability.
The canopy fabric is waterproof and fade resistant and features a single wind vent for stability.
This is a very nice patio umbrella."
Products with a 5-star rating
Best-Selling Cantilever Parasols in the UK | Comparison Table
Most Popular
VOUNOT 3m Cantilever Garden Parasol, Banana Patio
- Crank handle mechanism to easily open and close your garden parasol. Included top vents and parasol cover.
- Our tilting parasol can adjust the height and tilt angle according to the position of the sun, it can also rotate 360°.
- High-quality and stable aluminum-steel construction, its large cross-shaped base ensures that it stands securely on solid ground. In order to increase stability, you need to increase the weight of the base (not included).
PURPLE LEAF 3 X 3 M Garden Cantilever Parasol, Large Square Overhanging Patio Umbrella with Crank Handle and Tilt...
- [Sturdy and Durable] Sun umbrella for garden with All-aluminum umbrella bones and 8 heavy-duty ribs, anti-oxidation spray painted. Keeps the banana parasol in good shape for a long time.
- [Easy to Operate ] This outdoor parasol has a unique handle design and crank system, 6 heights and angles to choose from, 360-degree rotation.
- [High-Quality Fabric and Free Cover] Includes free sun parasol cover. High quality 240/gsm polyester fabric, UV protection, water-repellent and colorfast fadeless, 3 years warranty.
- [Double Top Design] The double-top canopy design of the freestanding parasol can allow air circulation to enhance stability.
- [Not Include Base] Weighted base in the picture is NOT included. Please search B09HRHG61M for the water tank base of the tilting parasol
GardenCo 3m Cantilever Banana Parasol INCLUDES by Dawsons Living
- 3M CANTILEVER PARASOL: Add a great shade to your outdoor space with the Cantilever Parasol. Featuring a 3m fabric diameter, the piece is perfect for use above seating areas in your garden or on your patio.
- COVER AND BASES: The cantilever parasol comes with all the pieces you need to fully get the best out of the piece. Featuring a great PVC coated cover for when you are not using the piece. Also, 4 fillable bases allow you to weigh the gazebo down when full of sand or water.
- CRANK HANDLE: The free arm parasol features an easy-to-use crank handle, making the parasol easy to put up and take back down. The foldable design means the shelter folds into a small area that doesn't take up space in your garden or patio.
Other Popular
Sunnyglade Patio Parasol
This has a diameter, which is ideal for about 4 to 6 people. The material of the canopy is polyester. It is waterproof and provides UV protection. It is also certified to resist fading for up to 800 hours.
There are eight ribs holding up the canopy, which is the standard amount. This ensures that the canopy is stable and can resist the elements better. The pole is made from powder-coated iron to resist rust.
The Sunnyglade Patio umbrella has a wind vent at the top of the canopy to provide ventilation. It prevents the area from getting too hot and also reduces the wind pressure, adding to the stability of the umbrella.
| Pros | Cons |
| Color appears as advertised | Shaky during strong winds |
| Easy to assemble | Reports of damaged parts and packaging upon receipt |
| Steady base |
How can you stabilize the umbrella during strong winds?
Other customers recommend refraining from using the umbrella when the wind is too strong. During slight winds, the swaying of the umbrella is normal.
Can this umbrella withstand salt air?
According to the manufacturer, coating the umbrella with antioxidant paint can ensure durability against salt air.
AIRWAVE Apollo 3m Banana Cantilever Overhanging Parasol Garden Umbrella with Solar Powered Built in LED...
- ► Crank - open and close the parasol's umbrella using the easy-to-use crank found at the rear of the parasol
- ► Tilt - The parasol can be tilted by releasing the connector on the main pole and sliding it up and down to adjust the angle
- ► Solar Powered - The solar panel that connects to the top pole recharges the batteries to provide long-lasting illumination
- ► LED Lights - Offering atmospheric illumination, the bright LED lights on the parasol can be turned on and off using the switch found at the end of one of the ribs
- ► Base Weights - We highly recommend using a base weight with the parasol to ensure that it is kept sturdy and secure (sold separately)
Jarder Libra Garden Parasol Set Cantilever Umbrella, 4-Piece Base and Waterproof Cover (3m Parasol, Grey)
- COMPLETE GARDEN PARASOL SET FROM JARDER Includes 3m Parasol, Fillable Heavyweight Plastic 4-Piece Base and Jarder Cover, All Designed to Fit Perfectly Together
- EXTRA LARGE 3 Metre Diameter Parasol Provides Shade When and Where You Need It Most
- HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION – Built to Last, the 3m Canopy Is Made From 180g/m² Thick Polyester
- EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Comes with Full Instructions for Simple Construction by One or Two People
- MODERN DESIGN The Adjustable Cantilever Tilt Means You Can Position the Parasol Anywhere Around the Garden
Jarder Milan Parasol Set - 3m Cantilever Garden Parasol Umbrella with Base & Cover | 360° Rotation (Grey)
- ✓ THE PERFECT SET - 3M Parasol, Base & Cover Which Are Manufactured To Work Perfectly Together. No More Wobbly Parasols With Poor Fitting Covers!
- ✓ CANTILEVER DESIGN - The Parasol Is Suspended From The Frame So That You May Position The Shade Directly Where You Need It, Without Obstruction From A Central Pole!
- ✓ FULLY ADJUSTABLE - 360º Rotation & Adjustable Height With Handy Tilt Feature Allows You To Create The Shade You Desire!
- ✓ LARGE 3 METRE COVERAGE | Canopy Material: 180g/m² Polyester | Close Strap
- ✓ USER FRIENDLY - Simply Turn The Ratchet Handle To Open The Parasol & Slide Into Position. The Jarder Parasol Requires No Tools To Construct And Can Be Erected In A Matter Of Minutes!
Greenbay Garden Banana Parasol Solar LED Lights 3m Sun Shade Shelter Crank Hanging Rattan Cantilever Outdoor...
- Stylish LED cantilever banana parasol, allows you to spend more time outside after the sun has disappeared.
- 32 built-in solar powered LED lights, 4 LED lights on each rib.
- Comes with a solar panel to store the energy in a sunny place during the day.
- Colour: Grey
- Cross base included – weights are required but not included.
GardenKraft 14810 3m Cantilever Garden Parasol / Banana Parasol with Tilt & Crank Mechanism / 6 Steel Ribs / UV...
- CANTILEVER GARDEN PARASOL – Keep yourself safe this summer with this Beige coloured 3m Cantilever Garden Parasol from GardenKraft. Featuring UV 30 rated protection, you can be assured of protection from the sun’s rays while you enjoy the warmth in your garden, with an air vent & flap also included for when you want to feel a nice cool breeze.
- TILT & CRANK MECHANISM – This parasol is incredibly easy to set up thanks to the tilt & crank mechanism built into the pole! Simply turn the crank to put the parasol up or down, and the 6 steel ribs at the top of the pole will straighten out or fold up depending on which way you turn it. This allows you to react quickly and easily to sudden changes of weather during the day. The canopy can also be tilted in order to block the sun from different angles as the sun moves through the sky.
- PERFECT SIZE – The cantilever parasol has a canopy diameter of 3m, and is able to fully cover this area without a pole in the middle thanks to its overhanging design. This means that more people & objects such as tables and chairs can be safely covered in the shade compared to a normal garden parasol! For added stability, the pole will need to be anchored into a weighted base of at least 9kg (NOT INCLUDED – must be purchased separately).
- DURABLE MATERIALS – The parasol cover is made from durable 160g/M2 Polyester, ensuring that it will help you to keep dry in the event of any sudden rain showers, while also remaining lightweight and easy to move. The cantilever pole is made from light and durable steel, as well as the 6 ribs at the top of the pole, and both are strong enough to keep the cover upright even on windy days.
- GARDENKRAFT - GardenKraft is the leading manufacturer of a wide range of outdoor furniture, artificial turf, garden lights and many other great products.
Greenbay 3m Banana Parasol - Crank Mechanism Sun Shade Canopy Cantilever Hanging Umbrella for Outdoor Garden...
- Stylish banana hanging parasol, superior in material and excellent in workmanship.
- Crank winding mechanism to open and close your parasol conveniently
- Strong solid metal pole with 8 natural finish frame ribs to bear weights
- The inclination angle of the umbrella is adjustable with the crank winding mechanism
- High quality 180g/m2 polyester fabrics with top vents. Lift slider to extend your parasol outwards.The parasol base is not included.
Outsunny 2.5 x 2.5m Patio Offset Parasol Umbrella Cantilever Hanging Sun Shade Canopy Shelter 360° Rotation with...
- STYLISH DESIGN: The overhanging parasol is with beautiful and simplistic colour that suits all style gardens, patios etc. 2.45M x 2.45M SQUARE CANOPY: Covers a large surface area. UV and fade resistant.
- STURDY STRUCTURE: The cantilever patio umbrella is with aluminium pole and 8 steel ribs are powder coated, preventing chipping, peeling, rust and corrosion for reliable use.
- 360 DEGREES ROTATING: The garden parasol can provide 360 degree shade, which is controlled by foot pedals.
- FIVE-POSITION TILT: The canopy angle of the cantilever parasol is adjustable to fully suit your preferences and relax all-day long with protection.
- CRANK MECHANISM OPENING: Allows you to open and close umbrella quickly and easily. DIMENSIONS: 248H x 245L x 245Wcm. CROSS BASE INCLUDED. WEIGHTS NOT INCLUDED.
VonHaus 3M Banana Parasol - UV30+ with Crank Mechanism for Flexible Sun Shade - Garden Cantilever Hanging...
- A stylish overhanging garden parasol for flexible shade coverage and protection from the sun with 3m canopy and crank mechanism
- Made from a rust-resistant powder coated steel frame with a hardwearing polyester cover in classic ivory
- Features a robust crank mechanism for easy opening and closing as well as an air vent at the top - aids through flow of air and prevents wind pulling up the parasol
- The parasol will need to be secured using weighted parasol segments. We recommend the VonHaus 2 Pack Banana Parasol Base (two sets are required to weight the parasol evenly – both sets not included)
- The parasol measures D310 X W290cm X H240cm, weighs 11.5kg and has a robust pole diameter of 53.4mm
ZXL Patio Umbrella
It has a wide diameter. It also has settings that allow it to tilt to multiple positions, including a vertical tilt position. The settings of the umbrella can be adjusted via an easy-to-grip crank handle.
As for the construction of the ZXL Patio Umbrella, its body is made from aluminum while the canopy is made from polyester. The umbrella itself has the standard eight ribs to ensure a firm grip on the canopy material.
| Pros | Cons |
| Inexpensive compared to similar products | The nuts used on the base are low-quality |
| Durable | Variations in color |
FAQs
The pole leans back slightly when assembled.
The umbrella does not turn but can provide sufficient coverage for eight seats.
Yes, the base can be bolted, but it will then become a permanent fixture and cannot be moved around.
It comes with a base, but you will have to provide your own weights.
Cantilever Patio Umbrella
This uses a crank mechanism to easily adjust its angle for better protection. It is also capable of rotating 360 degrees.
The base of the umbrella is designed with a cross base for stability. It has pre-drilled holes, so it can easily be anchored to the ground. Another unique feature of the Benefit Cantilever Patio Umbrella is that it has 40 built-in LED lights on the ribs.
| Pros | Cons |
| Features built-in lighting | Canopy diameter is relatively small |
| Easy crank mechanism | Lack of reviews make it difficult to get objective assessments |
Tips to Using a Cantilever Umbrella
Each manufacturer has different recommendations when it comes to how the base is anchored down. There are those that provide holes in the base of the umbrella, so it can be bolted down easily. Others sell weights separately.
Take note of these considerations, especially if your preference is to bolt down the base directly. Pre-made holes will make installation more convenient.
Also, patio umbrellas are not built to withstand very strong winds. For safety, take down the umbrellas during severe weather. Consider investing in a protective cover to further extend the life of the outdoor umbrella.
Conclusion
In terms of reviews, the Purple Leaf Double Top Deluxe Umbrella leads the pack. It receives glowing reviews for its strong construction and clever double-tier design. It tends to lean on the pricier side but can be a worthwhile investment in the long run.
