The myth that "UV protection keeps you cool" - the truth about parasols revealed through conversations with bank employees

The other day, I was having a business meeting with a bank representative. As we were chatting, I mentioned to him, "Parasols have been selling well recently," and he replied without hesitation, "If I choose an umbrella with UV protection, I'll be cooler, right?"

As a professional, I was momentarily at a loss for words when asked this question. At the same time, I was keenly aware that this is a serious misunderstanding that is commonly held. The term "UV protection" sounds so powerful that it is thought to be a magic solution to all sun protection needs. However, as someone who has been involved in development for over 30 years, I can tell you that this is a big mistake. There are clear differences in the functionality of parasols, and you should choose one depending on your purpose.

The true nature of "UV protection rate" that protects the skin

First, you should know that the main purpose of a UV-blocking umbrella is to block UV rays, and that it is specialized in preventing sunburn. The important numerical value is the "UV blocking rate," which is an indicator for preventing skin damage and blemishes. It is like a "sunscreen." However, because UV rays themselves do not generate heat, even if this number is high, it does not mean that you will feel "cool" by itself. Preventing sunburn is the "basic" of a parasol, but it is only the beginning of comfort.

"Heat blocking rate" and "near infrared rays" determine coolness

So what is it that creates true coolness? It's not light, but the ability to block heat. The true nature of the sweltering heat of summer is the near-infrared rays contained in sunlight. When choosing an umbrella that is truly cool, you need to pay attention not only to the UV blocking rate, but also to the heat blocking rate and near-infrared blocking rate.

Even though a typical parasol blocks light, the fabric itself retains heat, and that radiant heat pours down on your head. The " HEATBLOCK " I developed uses a special multi-layer structure to reflect and absorb these heat rays, physically suppressing the rise in temperature inside. One step inside and the perceived temperature drops immediately. This surprise is the true value that a parasol with the ultimate in functional beauty should provide.

A smart way to spend the summer with functional beauty

Choosing a parasol is nothing less than designing your own summer lifestyle. While offering basic sun protection, having an umbrella that also blocks heat is an intelligent decision that allows you to control your own comfort rather than passively enduring harsh environments. Forget the easy priority of cost and choose a product backed by technology. HEATBLOCK will dramatically change your everyday life for the better.


アンベル株式会社 CEO

執筆者:辻野義宏

30年以上に渡って傘の開発および研究を続けている。革新的な機能を追求し続ける日本の傘ブランド「AMVEL (アンベル) 」では、時代によって変化するベストを追求し、最先端の技術を駆使した傘をお届けしています。