This is how you choose the right parasol

Thinking about buying a parasol? Follow this step-by-step guide for the perfect match!

A parasol is more than just a sunshade. It’s your partner for cool shade on warm summer days and adds a touch of atmosphere to your garden or balcony. But how do you choose the right parasol? With the step-by-step guide below, we’ll help you find the perfect parasol to suit your outdoor space and your personal needs.

Step 1: What size parasol do you need?

The size of your parasol depends on how much shade you want and how much space you have. As a general rule, take the longest side of the parasol and subtract 50 cm to estimate the shaded area in square metres.

For example:

A 250x250 cm parasol → approx. 2 m² of shade
A 300x300 cm parasol → approx. 2.5 m² of shade

For canopies up to ø300 cm, you can choose between a centre pole parasol or a cantilever parasol. Need something larger? Then a cantilever parasol is your go-to option.

Step 2: Centre pole parasol or cantilever parasol?

  • Centre pole parasol: The classic model, with the pole in the middle. Lightweight, compact, and easy to store. Perfect for smaller gardens and balconies.

  • Cantilever parasol: The more luxurious choice. The pole is positioned to the side, giving you full use of the space underneath the canopy. It can tilt, rotate, and is ideal for lounge sets or larger terraces.

For canopies up to ø300 cm, both types are available. Larger canopies are only available as cantilever parasols.

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Did you know that nearly all of our cantilever parasols can be tilted both horizontally and vertically, and rotate 360 degrees?

Step 3: Round or square parasol?

Both shapes have their own charm and advantages:

  • Round: A round parasol is a perfect match for round or square tables, offering an even distribution of shade around the centre. This shape has a friendly, playful look, and thanks to the shorter ribs, it's often easier to fold and store. Ideal for those looking for both flexibility and atmosphere.

  • Square: Square parasols are especially practical if you want to place them neatly against a wall or in a corner. They align well with straight lines like fences or façades and often provide just a bit more shade than a round parasol of the same size, since no space is lost in the corners. They also pair nicely with rectangular or square tables, creating a tidy, calm look in your garden or on your terrace.

Note: Because of their longer ribs, square parasols are often less convenient to place directly over a table.

A round parasol instantly creates a cosy atmosphere and is perfect if you like to keep your outdoor setup flexible.

Step 4: Which parasol canopy material suits you best?

We offer three types of canopy fabrics, each with its own fabric class. This class indicates how well the fabric resists fading due to sunlight. The higher the class, the longer the colour stays vibrant – ideal if you use your parasol frequently outdoors. A higher class may come at a slightly higher price, but it’s also more durable. Do you use your parasol less intensively, in a shaded area, or do you store it often? Then a lower fabric class will work just fine. This way, you can choose exactly what suits your needs.

  • Polyester: Strong, UV protection 50, colour fastness class 5, dirt-repellent.

  • Spuncrylic: Tighter weave, UV protection 80, colour fastness class 7, dirt- and water-repellent.

  • Comforma: Our top choice! Very densely woven, UV protection up to nearly 100, colour fastness class 8, extra heavy with a luxurious look and feel.

Please note: No fabric is fully waterproof, so close your parasol during heavy rain and use a protective cover.

Want to enjoy your parasol for years and keep its colour vibrant? Then a higher fabric class is definitely worth it.

Step 5: Which colour suits your style?

A parasol is a real eye-catcher, so choose a colour that complements your outdoor space. You can choose from:

  • 4 frame colours: lava, white, beige, and wood-look aluminium

  • 8 canopy colours: ranging from classic beige to stylish grey or modern anthracite

Mix and match however you like – all colours are carefully selected to blend beautifully with a variety of styles and outdoor settings.

Step 6: What kind of parasol base do you need?

No worries – you don’t have to figure that out yourself. At Life, every parasol comes with a matching base, perfectly weighted for optimal stability. And here’s a bonus: many of our bases are equipped with wheels, making it easy to move your parasol along with the sun (or against it).

Curious to learn more about choosing the right base for your parasol? You can read more about it here.

Choosing a parasol base

Bonus tip: how to keep your parasol in great shape

Every parasol comes with a free protective cover – perfect for keeping the fabric looking good for longer. Still, it’s wise to clean your parasol regularly and occasionally treat it with a maintenance product. You’ll find more helpful tips on our cleaning and care advice page.

Read maintenance advice