Oct 14, 2025

The ultimate compact showdown: "Micro" vs "Travel" - which one will you choose?

by 辻野義宏

"I want an umbrella the size of a smartphone that won't get in the way when I put it in my bag."

When you think about it, many people are torn between the two models "FLATLITE Micro" and "FLATLITE Travel."

Both are incredibly compact, flat-type folding umbrellas, but there are clear differences in their design concepts. This time, we'll compare these two models in detail to help you decide which one is best for your style.

1. Design "goals" as seen from the specifications

First, let's compare some basic numbers.

item	FLATLITE Micro	FLATLITE Travel
Total length when stored	Approximately 14.8cm	Approximately 13cm
Width when stored	Approximately 5cm	Approximately 7cm
weight	Approximately 175g	Approximately 185g
Number of shaft stages	6 steps	7 steps
Diameter when used	Approximately 91cm	Approximately 91cm

The price and size when opened are the same, but the biggest difference is the shape: the slim Micro and the short Travel.

2. Slim Micro vs. Short Travel

■ FLATLITE Micro : A "pen case type" that fits in your pocket

The strength of the Micro is its slim silhouette, just 5cm wide.

It's about the same size as a smartphone, so it fits comfortably in your pants pocket or small bag. This slim design is a big advantage for those who want to go out empty-handed or make effective use of the narrow, dead space in their bag.

■ FLATLITE Travel : "Square type" with minimal height

The Travel's strength is its incredibly short length of just 13cm.

It's 2cm wider than the Micro, but its height is reduced accordingly. With a 50cm rib and seven sections, it's one of the world's smallest folding umbrellas. This short length is perfect for storing it in tight spaces in a suitcase or in a low-profile bag like a makeup pouch.

3. Attention to structure: 6 or 7 shelves?

The difference in size is caused by the number of sections in the middle rod (shaft).

Micro (6 speeds) : Uses a hexagonal shaft for slimness and stability.
Travel (7 sections) : A complex 7-section structure is deliberately adopted to allow for a shorter folding time.

The weight difference is about 10g (about the weight of one cherry tomato), so you can't go wrong by choosing purely based on which bag you want to put it in.

4. Common "Ambell Quality"

Although the shapes are different, they share the high-spec functionality that is unique to Amvel.

Wind resistance : Made with a combination of flexible parts, it has passed wind speed tests of 15 m/s.
Powerful water repellency : Easy-Dry processing lasts even after 20 washes. Water droplets come off easily with just a light shake.
High-quality fabric : Made with 15 denier ultra-fine yarn, the same as stockings. Eco-Tex® certified, this material is gentle on the environment and the body.

Conclusion: Which suits your style?

FLATLITE Micro Recommended for
- I want to put it in my pocket and travel hands-free.
- I want to utilize the narrow vertical spaces for storage.
- I want to choose a model that is even 1g lighter.

FLATLITE Travel Recommended for
- I want to pack my luggage for trips and business trips as quickly as possible.
- I want to put it in a low-profile mini bag or pouch.
- I would like to include an umbrella in a gadget pouch or something similar.