When someone asks us for a "folding umbrella", the real question is usually this: will it fit in my bag and still keep me dry? The answer depends on how many times it folds. A 2 fold umbrella, a 3 fold umbrella and a 5 fold capsule umbrella all fold, but they behave very differently on a wet road.
Here is how we explain the difference to customers at our counter.
What 2 fold, 3 fold and 5 fold actually mean
The number tells you how many sections the shaft and ribs fold into. More folds make the umbrella shorter when closed. The trade-off is that every extra fold adds another joint to each rib. Canopy size depends on the model, so always check the size in inches.
| Type | When closed | Best for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 fold | Shorter than a straight umbrella | Daily commute, people who want a bigger canopy | Longer than a 3 or 5 fold when closed |
| 3 fold | Fits an office or college bag | Office, college, travel | One more joint per rib than a 2 fold |
| 5 fold (capsule) | Small enough for a handbag, office bag or pocket | Carrying "just in case" | More joints to fold back carefully |
2 fold umbrella: the bigger foldable umbrella
A 2 fold umbrella suits people who want a folding umbrella in larger sizes. Our 2 fold range runs from the 21 inch "Sando" to 23–24 inch jumbo and 27 inch sizes, in black silver, mono silver, check and printed designs. For something brighter, the floral print 2 fold comes in floral prints, including pink. The bend-handle models hang on your arm or a hook — handy if you are choosing a ladies umbrella.
Choose 2 fold if you carry the umbrella in your hand or in a car, not inside a small bag. See 2 fold umbrellas.
3 fold umbrella: the everyday bag umbrella
The 3 fold is a common choice for office-goers and students because it fits an office or college bag. We stock manual and auto open-close 3 fold umbrellas, plus 27 inch jumbo inverted models for people who want more cover.
With an automatic open close umbrella, one button opens the canopy and the same button closes it. Point it away from your face and other people when you press it. After it closes, push the shaft down until it locks so it stays shut in your bag.
5 fold and capsule umbrella: the small foldable umbrella
If the umbrella has to live in a handbag every day, go for a 5 fold. Our capsule umbrella comes in its own case. It suits anyone who wants a mini umbrella that is always in the bag.
If you expect long walks in heavy monsoon rain, compare canopy sizes before you choose — a bigger 3 fold or a straight umbrella may suit you better. See 5 fold and capsule umbrellas.
Five questions to pick the right one
- Where will it live? Handbag: 5 fold. Office bag: 3 fold. Hand or car: 2 fold.
- How heavy is the rain where you live? For heavy rain, look at the canopy size in inches first.
- Do you need one hand free? Auto open-close saves fumbling while getting out of a car or auto.
- Rain only, or sun too? Many of our folding umbrellas come with black-silver or mono-silver canopies for hot days too.
- Who is it for? For children, skip folding umbrellas and look at kids umbrellas.
Making a folding umbrella last
- Dry it open before you fold it. A folded wet canopy smells and the metal joints suffer.
- Fold each rib section back the way it came, and never force a joint.
- In a strong gust, close it. No folding umbrella is built to fight a storm.
More tips in our umbrella care guide.
Buying folding umbrellas in bulk
Shops, offices and event organisers can order folding umbrellas in wholesale packs, with a GST invoice and pan-India delivery. Logo printing is available from 100 pcs, depending on the model — useful for corporate gifts. WhatsApp us or call +91 99993 54066. Classic Umbrella has been in the umbrella business since 1990, with shops in Delhi and Mumbai.
