
We won't compromise on lightness for the sake of "easy folding." A new frontier opened by shape memory technology.
Why is "easy folding," which should be convenient, a burden?
Around 2019, more and more umbrellas began to boast features like "folds neatly" or "folds quickly." I was one of those impressed by their convenience. However, at the same time, I was convinced that "this does not align with Anbello's philosophy."
This is because most of them used a method of attaching PET panels to the fabric, which inevitably made them heavy and thick when folded. For us, whose strength lies in being lightweight and slim, compromising portability was not an option.
Bringing a forgotten technology to the modern age. Pursuing "lightness" without relying on PET panels.
If you prioritize easy folding, it becomes heavy; if you prioritize lightness, folding becomes more troublesome. To resolve this contradiction, I recalled the pleated fabric using "shape-memory yarn" that I worked with in my previous job. I wanted to revive that technology where the pleats held their beautiful shape.
However, that yarn became unavailable. Still, I didn't give up and steadily pioneered my own unique channels. I spent a long time developing the technology, which was once used for rain umbrellas, into a high-performance fabric for "all-weather use" (sun and rain), essential for today's harsh summers.
Japan's first "astonishing neatness," proven by evidence.
The completed "Speed Pleats" uses a special core-sheath fiber structure with creases memorized by heat treatment. It maintains a thinness of just 0.13mm, achieving overwhelming lightness and slimness compared to panel-type umbrellas.
We conducted a test showing that the pleats retained 100% of their shape even after 500 opening and closing cycles. We are likely the first in Japan to objectively prove "easy folding" with evidence.
We have perfected a strong frame that can withstand wind speeds of 30m/s while featuring a "triple block" structure that blocks sunlight and heat.
Even the act of closing an umbrella is elegant and smart.
With "TOUGHNESS Speed Pleats," anyone can fold it beautifully and effortlessly in about half the time (individual differences may apply).
What we want to offer is not just numerical specifications. It's the "peace of mind" that emerges in your busy daily life, freeing you from strong sunlight, sudden gusts of wind, and the hassle of folding an umbrella.
We hope this innovative usability helps make your daily life lighter and smarter.