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The individual parts of a parasol at a glance

A parasol consists of many different individual parts that together ensure its functionality and stability. Below you will find an overview of the structure and the most important components of a parasol.

The basic structure

In principle, the structure of a parasol can be roughly divided into the following sections:

  1. Canopy
  2. Parasol crown
  3. Opening mechanism
  4. Parasol pole
  5. Parasol base

The individual parts at a glance

After the rough division into the five main areas, here is an overview of the many components of a parasol:

Parasol top / crown

  • Position:
    At the top of the canopy, often designed as a small “second” parasol above the main canopy.
  • Function:
    Allows air to circulate and reduces wind pressure, making the parasol more stable.
  • Design:
    Ventilation openings come either as a simple hole or as a second layer of fabric, which keeps the parasol stable even in light wind.

2. Canopy / Fabric

  • Material:
    Often polyester, acrylic, olefin or other UV-resistant fabrics.
  • Function:
    Protects against sun, UV radiation and, depending on the material, also against light rain.
  • Density and UV protection:
    Parasol fabrics often have a UV protection factor (UPF) and different densities, e.g. 180 g/m² to 300 g/m², which determines the degree of protection and shade.
  • Colours and patterns::
    Wide selection, often UV-stabilised so that the colour does not fade.

3. Rib crown

  • Position:
    In the middle of the pole, connecting the ribs.
  • Function:
    Central connecting mechanism that holds and stabilises the ribs.
  • Mechanism:
    Often designed so that it moves along as the parasol is opened and closed.
  • Mechanism:
    Usually made of plastic or metal to withstand pressure and movement.

4. Ribs

  • Material:
    Often aluminium, fibreglass or steel, depending on the desired flexibility and weather resistance.
  • Function:
    Tension the canopy and give it its shape.
  • Number:
    Usually 6 to 8 ribs on smaller parasols, and up to 12 on larger ones for increased stability.
  • Flexibility:
    Some materials, such as fibreglass, are more flexible and withstand wind better, while aluminium and steel are particularly robust.

5. Rib pocket / rib cap

  • Position:
    Along the outer edges inside the parasol. On square and rectangular parasols, in the middle of the edges as well as at the corners.
  • Function:
    Small tubes / pockets that fasten the ends of the ribs to the parasol.
  • Material:
    Either as fabric pockets, fabric tabs with a screw, or as a plastic holder.

6. Tilt joint

  • Function:
    Allows the parasol to be tilted in order to adjust the angle of the shade to different times of day.
  • Types:
    Ball joint, metal joint, plastic joint, crank joint, zinc joint.
  • Advantage:
    Provides better protection from the low afternoon sun.

7. Opening system

  • Function:
    Systems for easily opening and closing the parasol.
  • Position:
    Usually at the height of the lower part of the pole, or at the height of the rib crown.
  • Types:
    , pull cord, slider, push-up, or crank. You can find more information about the different opening system.
  • Material:
    Often made of plastic or aluminium. In higher-quality models, of stainless steel for greater durability.

8. Pole

  • Material:
    Usually aluminium or wood, as aluminium is rust-free and lightweight, while wood offers an attractive, natural look.
  • Function:
    Supports the parasol and connects it to the base.
  • Design:
    Often with a diameter between 2.5 and 5 cm. Some poles are telescopic or foldable.
  • Construction:
    Some parasols have a central pole, others (such as cantilever parasols) a side pole for more space underneath the parasol.

9. Parasol cover or protective cover (optional)

  • Material:
    Often made of waterproof polyester or PVC.
  • Function:
    Protects the parasol from the weather, UV radiation and dirt when it is not in use.
  • Design:
    Some covers have zips or straps for easy attachment. With high-quality parasols, it is often supplied as standard.

10. Parasol base / stand

  • Function:
    Stabilises the parasol and keeps it upright.
  • Material:
    Often made of concrete, granite, metal or plastic.

Special features

In addition, with many parasols it is also worth paying attention to other special features that are in no way inferior to the basic components in terms of functionality and comfort.

With valance

Without valance

Without valanceThe valance is a strip of fabric hanging along the edges of the parasol. It serves not only a decorative purpose, but also acts as additional protection against low-lying sun. Here you can learn further about the valance.

With wind hood

Without wind hood

The wind hood enables better air circulation beneath the canopy and thus increases the stability of your parasol. Here you can learn more about wind hoods.

With telescoping function

Without telescopic function

Especially in the catering and hospitality sector, so-called table clearance is a key consideration. The telescopic function enables your parasol to slide upwards when opening and closing, meaning that furniture underneath does not need to be moved.