Cheap umbrellas (£8-15) typically break within one rainy season. One quality umbrella (£40-80) lasts decades, handles UK wind, and never lets you down.
What to look for
Wind-resistant construction (Senz, Blunt, or quality classic models). Solid handle. Replaceable tips. UK options: Fulton (heritage British), Senz Original.
Cost-per-use of quality umbrella over 10 years is pennies. Cheap umbrellas through cumulative replacement cost more and produce frustration.