We get this often at Shade Specialists, “Which is better: Centre Pole or Cantilever parasols?” And our answer is usually dependent on the area you would like to cover, and how the area will be used.
Through this blog, we want to help you pick the best parasol type for your outdoor space, so you can enjoy this summer and more to come, provided you make the right choice.
When you’re selecting a parasol for your outdoor space, the difference between centre pole and cantilever parasol types do vary, as they have different appearances and different strengths and weaknesses that suit different outdoor spaces.
For a hassle-free, but informative shopping experience, we have created a number of online materials to help you make the right decision for your outdoor space.
Reading this in-depth guide to choosing between centre pole and cantilever parasols will provide you with all the technical knowledge to make the right choice, whether you’re shopping with us or another brand.
Table of Contents
Key Technical Considerations for Parasols
These key technical considerations are instrumental in helping you decide between a centre pole or a cantilever parasol with various base options.
Parasol Size & Shape
For the best shade experience, a parasol needs to fit the area like a glove, in terms of size and shape. Finding the correct size and shape of a parasol is crucial for ensuring complete protection from continuous UV rays and shade on all sides.
Parasol size
Golden Rule for Selecting the Right Parasol Size
To ensure sufficient shade, the size of the parasol needs to be at least 1m (100 cm) larger than the furniture arrangement to account for personal comfort of your guests.
Golden Rule for Selecting the Right Parasol Size
To ensure sufficient shade, the size of the parasol needs to be at least 1m (100 cm) larger than the furniture arrangement to account for personal comfort of your guests.
What we mean when discussing the ‘size of the parasol’ is the width of its canopy, and not the height or diameter of the mast.
If you’re placing a patio table (let’s say, 140cm or 1.4m square) beneath the parasol canopy, then you should always ensure the following:
- To get the most shade possible, buy a parasol that completely covers the area you’ll be using. You will want to use a parasol that is at least 1.5m more than the required shaded area. This includes the functional area or in simple words, the table and chairs under the canopy are occupied, then the parasol size must extend at least an additional 1.5m
- If you’re looking for just an adequate amount of shade, then stick to the golden rule of 1m over the size of your furniture and required shaded area
Parasol shapes
Rectangle parasols
Perfect for long tables and loungers. Available with 8-ribs only.
Round parasols
Classic look, great for circular tables. Available as octagonal (8-ribs) and hexagonal (6-ribs).
Square parasols
Perfect for long tables and loungers. Available with 8-ribs only.
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
Our range of parasols start from 2m and ventures up to 9m, available in rectangular, round, and square shapes. For custom parasol sizes, please complete the contact form so our friendly team can contact you to discuss your specific needs.
Canopy Fabrics
Don’t let the canopy’s colour be your only deciding factor for canopy material. Instead, you should examine its features, such as colour durability, weather resistance, tear resistance, etc.
The most important amongst all of it is the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) ratings. UPF ratings show how effectively the canopy fabric protects people and outdoor furniture from constant UV ray exposure.
Polyester fabrics
Price level: Affordable choice
UV Rating: UPF 30+ (minimal UV protection)
Features: Water-resistant when treated and fade resistant when UV coating applied
Lifespan: Average (1-2 years)
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
The Polyester canopy fabric is available on Shade Specialists within our Bambrella collection of parasols and is possible to select in both centre pole and cantilever parasol styles. Available in 2 colours – Ecru and Beige.
Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics
Price level: Midrange pricing point
UV Rating: UPF 50+ (good UV protection)
Features: Water-resistance, mould and mildew resistance
- Additional features: Fade resistance with colourfastness properties that makes it ideal when buying even in darker canopy colours
Lifespan: Medium (4-5 years)
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
Shade Specialists offers this particular fabric, known as Bamcrylic, which works well with all centre pole and cantilever parasols. Whether the canopy is lighter or darker, you can be reassured that the colour fastness isn’t affected either way, and is available in a wide array of different colours.
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
Shade Specialists offers this particular fabric, known as Bamcrylic, which works well with all centre pole and cantilever parasols. Whether the canopy is lighter or darker, you can be reassured that the colour fastness isn’t affected either way, and is available in a wide array of different colours.
Premium Acrylic Fabrics
Price level: Premium pricing point
UV Rating: UPF 80+ (excellent UV protection)
Features: Water-resistance and resistance to traction, lengthening, and seams splitting
- Additional features: More shade with colour fastness to light and weathering
- Lifespan: Durable (10 years)
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
Recasens Recarcil, offered by Shade Specialists, is a premium acrylic fabric that can be used with any size of centre pole or cantilever parasols. With over 15+ colours available, there’s a shade that suits everybody. Plus, there’s 5 years of guarantee from fade and tear.
PVC Vinyl
Price level: Expensive
UV Rating: UPF 80+ (excellent UV protection)
Features: Fade and tear-resistant with an unbeatable UV protection
- Additional features: Modern satin finish with enhanced resistance to dust and dirt
- Lifespan: Superior durability (10+ years)
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
Shade Specialists provides Ferrari 502 PVC, a top-quality PVC vinyl fabric suitable for the Bambrella Hurricane Extreme centre pole parasol only. This canopy material, available in over 35 colours, has undergone wind tunnel testing to assess its tear resistance at speeds of over 125 km/h.
How does the UPF ratings in parasols work?
A UPF rating for each parasol canopy indicates the fraction of the sun’s ultraviolet rays that penetrates through. For example, a parasol canopy fabric with a UPF rating of 50, allows just 1/50th of the sun’s UV radiation to reach your skin. The higher the UPF rating, the greater the UV protection and shade offered.
Want help picking the perfect colour for your parasol canopy? Find tips on selecting the right canopy colour by visiting our choosing a canopy colour guide or simply contact us today.
Parasol Frame Material
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Aluminium Parasols
Durable and lightweight, aluminium parasols are a popular choice. They also have a contemporary design. Their aesthetic is the perfect match for outdoor areas that house modern outdoor furniture.
Specifications
- Weight: Light (12 – 40kg)
- Durability: Excellent
- Price: Mid to high
- Best for: patios with modern décor, areas prone to humidity and heavy rainfall
Pros of aluminium parasols
- Extremely durable
- Rust-proof and corrosion-resistant
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Low maintenance compared to other frames
- Rain or shine; stands the test of time
Cons of aluminium parasols
- A heavier parasol base or permanent fixation is necessary because of the frame material being lightweight
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
At Shade Specialists, you can find aluminium parasols from sizes 2m and up to 9m. If you need custom sizes, we can meet your requirements. Should you prefer in wood like appearance, we can supply an aluminium frame with bamboo finish and special frame coating. Explore our range of aluminium parasols.
Wooden Parasols
A wooden frame parasol is perfect for any outdoor area. The strength of the materials depends solely on the type of wood used. This frame complements outdoor areas with wooden décor.
Specifications
- Weight: Heavy 9-36kg
- Durability: Requires occasional oiling, which makes it last
- Price: Low to mid range
- Best for: Traditional settings, well-maintained gardens
Pros of wooden parasols
- Classic, elegant appearance
- Sturdy and traditional
- Wood stays cool, even when it's hot
- Premium look and feel
Cons of wooden parasols
- Heavier than aluminium, due to their strong build
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
At Shade Specialists, wooden parasols are available in sizes from 2m and up to 4m in round (octagonal and hexagonal), rectangular, and square shapes. Our range of wooden parasols are made with sustainable, superior-quality laminated bamboo and hardwood. Explore our range of wooden parasols.
Stainless Steel Parasols
Stainless steel parasol frames are suitable for any outdoor settings. No matter the location – a yacht, garden, terrace, or cruise ship, this frame is built to withstand all weather elements, from hot and sunny days to stormy conditions.
Specifications
- Weight: Very Heavy 50kg+
- Durability: The best amongst all frame materials.
- Price: Expensive
- Best for: Every outside environment, even the toughest conditions
Pros of wooden parasols
- Withstands the extreme British weather
- Resistant to fading, rust, corrosion, and stains
- Stylish and aesthetically pleasing to the eye
- Unrivalled durability
Cons of wooden parasols
- Expensive
- The material's weight prevents easy relocation of base
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
Shade Specialists offers stainless steel parasols in round, rectangular, and square shapes, from 2.5 to 5.8m sizes. Our stainless-steel parasols, priced from £4583.33 (excl. VAT), are made of premium 304 stainless steel, and are wind tunnel tested at 120+ km/h for superior durability. Don’t miss out on this gem – discover this windproof parasol.
Opening and adjustment mechanisms
Opening Mechanisms
Opening mechanisms are, in our definition, the systems that are responsible for opening and closing a parasol. The opening mechanisms and method differ between centre pole and cantilever parasols. However, for whichever parasol you opt for, they all include a system that is designed for easy and fast use.
Winch with crank handle
The most popular and easy-to-use.
- Easy to operate
- Smooth opening and closing
- Good for large parasols
- Minimal effort required
Push up system
Simple manual push mechanism.
- Lesser moving parts
- Budget friendly
- Simple umbrella-like mechanism
- Requires extra effort to open and close
Rope and pulley mechanism
- The pulley gives you a mechanical advantage, and so it requires less force to raise or lower the canopy
- You’ll have better control over the parasol as you’ll be able to raise or lower the parasol smoothly and gradually
- It’s a safer operation as the load is shared through the rope and pulley, avoiding any strains in your arms, shoulders and back
- Over time, there can be rope wear and degradation
- Even with a mechanical advantage, lifting a larger sized parasol can still take some strength, therefore not suitable for users with limited mobility or grip strength
- The rope can slip if it’s not secured properly
Tilt Mechanism
If your parasol doesn’t have a tilt function, the canopy can only lay in a fixed vertical position
Push-button tilt – Simple push-button to angle the canopy. They’re popular because they balance functionality, cost and ease of use
Crank tilt – Crank to adjust angle smoothly, and they’re also known as ‘auto-tilts’. They allow you to make smooth, controlled adjustments to your canopy angle and are perfect for those with mobility and grip issues
Cantilever parasol specific features
360° Rotation
With a 45° tilt of the canopy to follow the sun as it moves.
- Foot pedal or hand crank operation
- Smooth swivel mechanism
- Lock in any position
Multi-Position Tilt
Multiple tilt angles for optimal shade
- Typically 3-5 tilt positions
- Vertical to 45° angle
- Easy adjustment mechanism
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
Shade Specialists offers a double and pulley rope system for their centre pole parasols (with Bambrella Hurricane and Levante models being most popular). For a cantilever parasol, operation is quick and easy as they have a winch system using 304 stainless steel wire.
Parasol base types and weight requirements
Parasol base types
Permanent fixation base
The most popular and easy-to-use.
- High stability and durability for parasols of any shape and size
- Does not take up much space on the ground
- The base remains flat and even with the ground
- Involves digging and setting the base in concrete
- Can only be placed in one spot
Portable base with weights
- Simple installation
- Easy storage
- Available in different types to go with your parasol shape and size
- Heavy and large
- For windy areas, a heavier base is a must
Parasol base weights (portable)
Important Base Weight Guidelines
The parasol base weight is critical for stability and safety. Not enough weight could lead to the parasol tipping, breaking, or hurting someone. It is best to use heavier bases for peace of mind.
Important Base Weight Guidelines
The parasol base weight is critical for stability and safety. Not enough weight could lead to the parasol tipping, breaking, or hurting someone. It is best to use heavier bases for peace of mind.
Centre-pole parasol base weight requirements
| Canopy Size | Minimum Base weight | Recommended weight |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 2m (up to 6.5ft) | 25kg | 25kg-50kg |
| 2.1 – 2.8m (7 – 9ft) | 50kg | 30kg-60kg |
| 3.0 – 3.3m (10 – 11ft) | 70kg | 70kg |
| 3.6m + (12ft and above) | 70kg | 120kg |
Cantilever parasol base weight requirements
| Canopy Size | Minimum Base weight | Recommended weight |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4 – 3m (8 – 10ft) | 120kg | 120kg |
| 3.3 – 3.6m (11 – 12ft) | 140kg | 140kg |
| 4m+ (13ft+) | 280kg | 280kg |
Parasol base weight options
Concrete/stone
- Heaviest option
- Semi-permanent
- Weather resistant
- Cost depends on the weight required
- A base frame, with or without wheels, is required for heavier weights
Wooden base
- Wooden parasol’s stylish base
- Heavy base option to match with wooden furniture
- Priced similarly to concrete/stone bases
- Weather resistant
Water/Sand base
- Light-weight base weight option
- Requires a plastic base container
- Budget-friendly
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
We recommend purchasing a base with your parasol as Shade Specialists offer the most appropriate bases for your parasols, which keeps you safe and avoids any damage to the parasol. We do not sell bases on their own, without a parasol. Please read our guide to choosing a parasol base. Should you have questions, feel free to comment below or reach out to us today.
Centre pole Parasols
The traditional option, centre pole parasols, often referred to as market umbrellas, have a central mast that goes through the canopy’s middle. This parasol design type, which is classic, has been a common shading feature with other outdoor furniture for many years.
Advantages of centre pole parasols
- Affordability: Centre pole parasols are less expensive than cantilever parasols, so they’re great for those who want good sun protection without spending too much money.
- Stability: The mast ensures a stable centre of gravity. With proper anchoring, this design resists wind better than any other parasol styles.
- Lighter Base Requirements: If you place the parasol through the centre of a sturdy table, the table provides extra support. This allows you to factor in the table’s stability, meaning you can often use a lighter, smaller, and less expensive base than you would need for a freestanding parasol.
- Space Efficient: The base sits centrally (or under a table), keeping the edges of your shaded outdoor space free from obstruction.
- Easy Handling: Simple mechanics mean they are easy to assemble, lightweight to move, and have fewer moving parts that could break down over time.
- Minimal Storage: Some centre pole parasols feature a split pole, allowing you to disassemble them quickly for storage in a compact spot or shed.
- Traditional Style: It’s a shading structure that complements classic wooden or rattan outdoor furniture sets.
Disadvantages of centre pole parasols
- The ‘Conversation Blocker’: With the table arranged as it is, the mast is now in the centre of your dining space, sometimes making it hard to maintain eye-to-eye contact.
- Reduced Usable Shade: The mast occupies the prime spot directly under the canopy. This prevents you from placing a sofa or large lounger directly in the centre of the shade.
- Fixed Coverage: You’ll usually have to physically move the centre pole parasol or your chair because the canopy’s position stays put while the sun traverses the sky.
- Limited Adjustability: Although some market umbrellas provide basic tilting, they do not possess the full 360-degree rotation and adaptable angles that cantilever-type feature.
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
At Shade Specialists, our centre pole range covers everything from compact 2m models up to massive 9m commercial sizes. You can choose from round (octagonal or hexagonal), rectangular, or square shapes in three premium frame materials - aluminium, stainless steel, or wood.
Why shop with us? We’re not just shade specialists, we’re also base specialists and know which base is the most suitable for your parasol. Every parasol is pre-matched with the correct base weight, so you don’t need to spend time worrying about stability or searching for compatible weights.
- Recommendation: If you want the strongest wooden look on the market, check out our Bambrella Levante (made from laminated bamboo).
- Next Step: If a centre pole umbrella is the best choice for your outdoor space, browse our full collection today.
Cantilever Parasols
Cantilever parasols, also called offset parasols or hanging parasols, feature a side-mounted pole with an overhanging canopy. The sleek design of cantilever parasols provide great adaptability and is now widely used in various outdoor settings.
Homes with a lot of exterior space would greatly benefit from this kind of parasol.
Advantages of cantilever parasols
- Unobstructed Living: There’s no mast obstructing the view or separating guests, which is different from centre pole parasols. This offers 100% usable space underneath, which is perfectly suited for open conversations and large furniture sets.
- Follow the Sun (360° Rotation): The standout feature. Almost all units can perform a complete 360-degree rotation around the base and tilt up to an angle of 45 degrees. This feature enables the canopy to be adjusted by tilting and rotating to align with the sun’s angle, all while the sturdy base remains stationary.
- Versatile Positioning: Since the base is positioned beyond the shaded area, the canopy can be placed over challenging spots like hot tubs, paddling pools, or corner sofas, where a central pole would be impractical.
- Modern Aesthetic: Cantilever parasols add a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ to your outdoor patio, making the area look modern and luxurious, all thanks to their sleek, offset designs.
- Larger Coverage: Generally available in larger canopy sizes than standard centre pole umbrellas, offering a wider shade coverage from harsh UV rays.
Disadvantages of cantilever parasols
- Higher Cost: This is a premium investment. The complex mechanisms, including rotating gears, winches, and tilt arms, make these options two to three times more expensive than centre pole alternatives, but this increased cost reflects their superior functionality.
- Large Footprint: While the space under the canopy is free, the space beside it is not. The offset design requires a very large, heavy base to act as a counterweight, which takes up significant floor space on your patio.
- Wind Sensitivity: The side-hanging canopy, which looks like a lantern, functions as a sail to a greater extent than a centre pole does. These generally have lower wind speed tolerances and need to be closed when it’s gusty.
- Maintenance Needs: With more moving parts (cranks, wires, and pedals) comes a greater need for care. Unlike the simple centre pole, these mechanisms may require occasional maintenance to keep them running smoothly.
- Complex Assembly: This parasol comes with a lot of features. It usually takes two people and a greater degree of patience to set up than merely fitting a pole into a socket.
Shopping tips on Shade Specialists:
At Shade Specialists, our cantilever parasol range covers everything from 2m models up to 4m sizes. You can choose from round (octagonal), rectangular, or square shapes in two premium frame materials - aluminium or wood.
Why shop with us? Our collection of cantilever parasols offers maximum flexibility.
- The Recommendation: Our Bambrella Side Wind range is a customer favourite. It features a 360° rotating base and a 45° tilt function, giving you total control over the shade.
- The Heavy-Duty Option: For exposed areas, look at our Hurricane Side Wind. It uses a specialised aluminium profile to offer higher wind resistance than standard cantilevers.
Note: All our cantilever parasols include the necessary heavy-duty base weights, so you need not have to search for suitable bases elsewhere.
Quick Comparison Between Centre-pole and Cantilever Parasols
| Feature | Centre Pole | Cantilever |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | £150 - £900 | £600 - £1,000+ |
| Space Efficiency | Excellent | Moderate |
| Adjustability | Limited | Excellent |
| Coverage Area | Standard | Large |
| Wind Resistance | Good | Moderate |
| Setup Difficulty | Easy | Moderate-Hard |
| Furniture Compatibility | Tables with holes | Any furniture |
Which Parasol Should You Choose: Centre Pole or Cantilever type?
Choose centre-pole parasol if:
Based on the technical considerations above, a Centre-Pole Parasol is the perfect choice for your residential space if:
You Love “Al Fresco” Dining
If you are prioritising shade during family lunches or BBQ dinners, a centre pole parasol with a base between 25-50kg is the ultimate choice, depending on the size. You’ll find most outdoor dining tables equipped with a central hole, typically 38 – 58mm in diameter, already drilled. It provides ample shade, allowing diners to enjoy the superb al fresco setting in comfort.
You Have Limited Space (Balconies & Terraces)
For city dwellers or those with compact patios, a cantilever base is simply too big. A small garden centre pole parasol with base sits easily between two lounge chairs or under a small table, allowing you to make the most of your floor space covered in shade.
You Live in a Windy Area
If your patio is situated in an exposed location, such as on a hill or by the coast, and subject to the full force of the weather year-round, then aerodynamic considerations become important. The smooth passage of wind over the symmetrical design of a centre pole parasol with heavy base weights or in-ground base mitigates the risk of damage during unexpected gusts.
Choose cantilever parasol if:
If you are looking to create a luxurious outdoor experience, the cantilever parasol is likely your best choice.
It is ideal for:
Lounge Sets and Corner Sofa
Cantilever umbrellas are ideal for modern outdoor furniture arrangements, providing complete shade for seating areas without a central mast obstructing the view, ensuring everyone stays comfortable.
Poolside and Hot Tubs
You cannot put a parasol base inside a hot tub! A cantilever allows you to keep the heavy base safely on dry land while the canopy extends out over the water to shade you while you soak.
All-Day Sun Chasers
If you spend long hours in the garden, the 360° rotation is a game-changer. You can swing the canopy to shade your breakfast table in the morning, and then rotate it 180 degrees to shade your lounger in the afternoon, all without lifting a finger to move the base.
Our Verdict
Determining the “best” option is impossible as it entirely depends on your personal needs, space considerations, and budget. Centre pole umbrellas are a great choice due to their lower cost, easy setup, and classic appeal, ideal for informal outdoor meals and compact areas. Cantilever parasols, whilst more expensive, offer unmatched flexibility and shade coverage, ideal for those who want premium functionality and modern style.
At Shade Specialists, we’re here to help you make the perfect choice for your outdoor space. Whether you’re shopping with us online or visiting a physical store, this guide provides all the technical knowledge you need to invest wisely in a parasol that will serve you well for many summers to come.
Pro Tips for Your Parasol Purchase
Size matters: Remember the golden rule – your parasol should extend at least 1m beyond your furniture on all sides for adequate shade.
Consider your climate: If you live in a coastal or humid area, aluminium or stainless steel frames are your best bet.
Don't skimp on fabric: Higher UPF ratings mean better UV protection for you and your outdoor furniture.
Test the mechanism: Before purchasing, ensure the opening and closing mechanism operates smoothly.
Think about storage: Consider where you'll store your parasol during winter months and choose accordingly.
Contact us: Have questions? Leave a reply below or complete our contact form, The Shade Specialists team is here to help you find your perfect parasol solution.
