Delivery
Despite being clearly and accurately labelled, my package was misdelivered by a parcel delivery service: these things happen from time to time. However, this incident did provide an opportunity for the staff at UmbrellaWorld to demonstrate their excellent customer service. All of my emailed enquires received a prompt, concise, helpful response - providing options where appropriate. Full marks to them!
First Impressions
The umbrella arrived well packaged and in perfect condition. It was as described, appears well made and is easy to open and close.
In Use
The asymmetric canopy design means that there are two very long ribs. When closed, these ribs run the whole length of the shaft, including the full length of the handle. The provided sheath also fully encloses the handle. Because of this, anyone looking for an umbrella which doubles as a walking stick might be better advised to consider another design. However, when used in its intended role as a means of keeping up to two people dry in the face of stormy conditions, it has performed faultlessly to date. It is comfortable to carry and stable in moderate winds. [I have not tried it in high winds yet.] The ability to rotate the canopy to accommodate wind direction has been useful. When walking into the wind, I was initially tempted to tilt the umbrella forwards - which reduces visibility. However, I quickly learnt that there is no need to do so - users can both keep dry and see where they are going if the shaft is kept vertical.
The umbrella does everything that I expected of it. I am very satisfied.