"Pokipoki" or "Rakuraku"? A new standard for folding umbrellas, chosen by how you stow them.

A folding umbrella kept in your bag for sudden rain. While they are convenient to open in a flash, have you ever felt flustered or struggled when trying to fold one up in public?

Actually, what largely determines the usability of a folding umbrella is not its performance when open, but "how the ribs are handled when storing it." In this article, we will take a professional look at the pros and cons of the two main structural types: the traditional "manual-folding" type and the modern, mainstream "easy-folding" type.

1. The "Manual-Folding" Type: Mastering Structural Beauty and Lightness

Commonly found in traditional Japanese folding umbrellas, this type requires you to manually fold each tip of the ribs to store it. Often called "poki-poki" (the sound of clicking/snapping) due to this action, the structure is actually highly logical.

• Unrivaled Portability and Lightness: Since it lacks the complex mechanisms to link the ribs, it is incredibly slim and light. The feeling of "forgetting you have it with you," seen in models like pentagon67 and pentagon LARGE, is only possible because of this structure.

• Durability through Simplicity: With fewer moving parts, it is less prone to breaking and possesses a robustness that allows it to be used for many years.

• Keeps Hands Dry: Because you fold it inward while smoothing the fabric, you minimize the chances of touching the wet surface.

Although it requires more effort, it offers a level of convenience favored by enthusiasts, such as the ability to carry it as a "two-stage fold" with the shaft extended.

2. The "Easy-Folding" Type: Pursuing Speed and Efficiency

The "easy-folding" type has gained tremendous support in recent years, particularly among business professionals. All the ribs fold automatically in synchronization with pulling down the runner (the part that slides along the shaft).

• Overwhelming Storage Speed: The biggest advantage is its speed. Whether you are entering a building or boarding a train or bus, you can be ready to store it in an instant. This mechanism is adopted in many models that support modern mobility, such as TOUGHNESS and ALTERNA SLIM60.

• Smart Operation: Even if one hand is occupied, you can fold the ribs just by pulling the runner, making your movements very seamless.

On the other hand, because of the linking mechanism, they tended to be bulkier to store than manual types, but recently, slim, lightweight models that overcome this drawback have been increasing.

3. Determining Your "Best Fit"

If you are unsure which one to choose, try reflecting on your own lifestyle.

• Recommended for those who prefer the "manual-folding" type: Those who prioritize "lightness" and "compactness" and want to keep one in their bag at all times. It is ideal for those who prefer minimal belongings or primarily want a spare umbrella.

• Recommended for those who prefer the "easy-folding" type: Those who value "storage speed" and "convenience." It is recommended for business professionals who are always on the move and open/close their umbrellas frequently, or for sun umbrella users who want to shade themselves from the sun whenever possible.

On our online store's product list page, try using the filter function to sort by folding type (Easy or Manual). You should be able to find the model that fits your priorities right away.

Conclusion: Make "Ease of Folding" Your Criterion

When choosing a folding umbrella, adopting the perspective of "how will I fold this" will deepen your attachment to the tool. Will you choose the "lightness as a weapon, folded carefully by hand" or the "mechanism-driven, swift and efficient" approach?

We hope this article helps you find the perfect umbrella that best fits your daily life.