For thousands of years, people from all over the globe have used parasols and their variations for their beauty, elegance and function.
A parasol is basically a device which is designed to shelter an individual from the sun.
It has a structure that is similar to an umbrella, with a long central shaft which holds the supporting spokes that are covered with a material that could easily be collapsed for portability.
There have been archaeological evidence found in paintings, writings and bas reliefs that prove they have been around for hundreds of decades.
In the past, the parasol was actually considered as a status symbol, carried by an individual for a high ranking member of the society.
Today, they are commonly used as an alternative protection from hot weather instead of using hats or other head coverings.
Since sunscreen cannot be applied on the head, using a parasol could effectively shield the top of the head from the harmful and damaging rays of the sun.
Additionally, by holding it properly, it could protect your face and your neck as well.
They are also used by many women as a stylish fashion statement since they come in a wide range of designs, colors and sizes.
Aside from the parasols that can be handheld, there are also parasols which can be used in the garden.
These parasols are usually larger and can cover a bigger amount of space compared to the parasols which can only be used by one individual.
They can come with a base that would help to hold it upright, providing shelter from the sun in the garden, yard or any outdoor area.
There are also some which can be set up on an outdoor table, providing a cool space in the garden to hang out.
If you are looking into buying a parasol for your garden, you need to know that there are several things that you should consider.
The first would be the material.
Parasols which serve as garden or outdoor furniture are generally made with stronger and more durable materials compared to those which are handheld.
However, you need to make sure that the one you would be choosing is made of a material that can withstand relatively stronger winds and would be able to endure the heat of the sun.
Another thing that you would need to consider would be its purpose.
For instance, if you are looking to buy one to be used as a sheltered space where you can dine or hang out in your garden, you might want to get one which already comes with a table.
If you are just looking for one to use as a shady spot where you could do your potting and planting as you tend your garden, then you could get one which just comes with a weighted base.
You might also want to consider getting a cantilever parasol.
Cantilever parasols are different from the traditional garden parasols in that they have a curved pole instead of a straight one.
This allows them to be placed on top of your existing outdoor furniture.
Many people also consider more stylish and attractive compared to the conventional ones.
Also, if you do not like having a large pole obstructing the view when you are entertaining your guests, having a cantilever parasol hovering above your furniture set would definitely be the better option.
It is also important to consider the ease of use of the parasol.
There are the traditional umbrella style parasols which could be opened through the same way that an umbrella is opened.
Although these are fine, there are some people who find pushing it into the locking position rather difficult.
If you want a garden parasol which is easier to use, then you could buy one that has a crank handle.
Such parasols can easily be opened and closed through turning the handle, making it quicker to set up and put away when needed.