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Still used to protect from the sun, umbrellas are the only easy solution to traveling by not and staying dry on a rainy day. Climate changes, more wet weather as well as health risks due to overexposure to the elements, has shored up business for umbrella manufacturers around the world.

Brilliant colors, unusual shapes, myriad textures and intricate designer work have altered the drab umbrella image of the past. Stark black accents bobbing along crowded streets are no longer the norm. Today, rain umbrellas make chic statements about you and your personality. They double up as a great gift item for birthday parties, showers or anniversaries, especially when customized and emblazoned for the occasion.

Children fall in love with umbrellas that have polka dots, smiley faces, or frisky kittens, puppies or cartoon capers. Little girls cling to that lilac-hearted splendor with ruffles to frame the beauty. Rainbow-hued umbrella alternatives fixed by elastic around the forehead allow young boys unhindered romps in the puddles!

The variations of rain umbrellas are endless, and you can find one to suit your needs according to budget, size and temperament.

Some newer variations include dome bubble umbrellas that are transparent and cover the person up to the shoulders, enabling easy navigation on crowded streets. Another ingeniously modified umbrella is the dog umbrella, which enables a guilt-free walk in the park with your pet who stays comfortably dry too!

A recent addition is a hands-free device that Velcros your umbrella frame on to you and encourages unhindered movement. Perhaps the newest reinvention is the Lotus 23, invented by an Australian university design student who has taken the umbrella industry by storm. Its dynamics and flexibility prevent buffeting from the wind. It unfolds from and can retract completely into a slim handle. The inventive mechanism helps squeeze out all the extra rainwater and permits easy storage. Carrying an umbrella can become as simple as a pen in your pocket!

Rain umbrellas also make great souvenirs. Exquisite lacquered bamboo and paper umbrellas from the Orient are hugely popular and decorate many homes. Whether decorated with foreign city skylines, architectural wonders or quaint traditions, umbrellas evocatively bring back a bit of that heaven into your home.

A rain poncho is a quick easy way to cover up during inclement weather. These are great portable rain gear that can easily be carried in the car or in your purse. They are typically made from thin plastic and are rolled up to fit compactly in the palm of your hand and be on the ready to be pulled out and slipped over your head.

This rain gear is very popular with folks that have to work outdoors in the elements. It allows them to be constantly ready for the bad weather.

Hooded Rain Poncho

These items come in several different styles. They can be simple slip over your head triangular shaped styles or they may have hoods on them as well. Of course the hooded styles are favored because they provide head covering as well as a way to cover up the torso in the rain.

The hooded models usually do not have toggles in which to tie the hood on but the hood is simply placed on the head. Typically this type of poncho is worn over the over coat or outdoor jacket.

Simple Types

There are some very simple types of ponchos that are available they are usually disposable and look a bit like a plastic garbage bag that is cut on the bias. These types are sometimes sold at amusement parks and other outdoor venues to patrons when the weather is not at its best.

These types are usually very thin and are meant to be disposable. You wear them while you are at the event then when you are done with them in the trash they go, although some frugal consumers will tuck them away for another time.

Heavy Gauge Types

There are some heavy gauge types that are favored by folks that work outdoors, they provide ample coverage from the rain while allowing the user to have their arms and hands completely free of additional clothing. These types are usually the hooded variety and offer the most durable wear. They are made to be used over and over again and are often issued as part of a uniform.

Rain ponchos are the perfect outdoor wear for foul wet weather they easily slip on and off and can be easily stowed away for easy access. They come in a variety of colors and can be fun to wear. They are readily available for purchase both online and in traditional apparel stores. They are not only a functional wardrobe accessory but they are stylish and fun.