Golf Umbrella Sizes Explained: 58, 62 and 68-inch Canopies
What 58, 62 and 68-inch golf umbrella sizes actually measure, how arc, flat diameter and rib length relate, and which figures to ask for on a spec sheet.
Por el equipo de Lotus Umbrella6 min de lectura
Golf umbrella sizes such as 58, 62 and 68 inches usually describe the arc: the distance over the top of the open canopy from one rib tip to the opposite tip. As a rough guide, a 58-inch canopy has ribs of about 28–29 inches, a 62-inch canopy about 30–31 inches and a 68-inch canopy about 33–34 inches, and each covers a flat width several inches narrower than its arc. Because measuring methods vary, ask for both rib length and arc diameter on every spec sheet.
Three ways to measure an umbrella
Umbrella sizes are confusing because the trade uses three different measurements, often without saying which one is meant.
Rib length
Rib length is measured along a single rib, from the top notch, where the ribs meet at the top of the shaft, to the tip. Chinese factories usually quote size this way, followed by the number of ribs: "30 inch × 8K" means 30-inch ribs and eight ribs. For production it is the most useful figure, because it defines the frame.
Arc diameter
The arc is measured over the top of the open canopy, following its curve, from one tip to the opposite tip. Because it runs along two ribs plus the top notch, it comes out at roughly twice the rib length. Many retailers and golf brands quote this figure, partly because it is the largest number, so an umbrella with 30-inch ribs is usually sold as a 60 or 62-inch umbrella.
Flat (open) diameter
The flat or open diameter is the straight-line distance across the open canopy from tip to tip, as if measured with a rigid ruler. It is the closest guide to how much ground the umbrella actually covers. Because the canopy is curved, the flat diameter is noticeably smaller than the arc, often around 85% of it, depending on how deep the canopy is. Listings in centimetres usually give this figure.
Two catalogue models show how the numbers relate. A golf umbrella listed as 62 inches with eight ribs has an open diameter of 132 cm, about 52 inches, while a model with 30-inch ribs lists an open diameter of 135 cm, about 53 inches.
58, 62 and 68-inch canopies compared
The figures below are approximate. They vary with canopy depth, the size of the top notch and the way each factory measures, so treat them as a starting point for your specification rather than exact conversions.
| Arc size | Rib length, roughly | Flat diameter, roughly | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 58 in (about 147 cm) | 28–29 in (71–74 cm) | 48–50 in (122–127 cm) | Compact or two-fold golf umbrellas, everyday large umbrellas |
| 62 in (about 157 cm) | 30–31 in (76–79 cm) | 52–54 in (132–137 cm) | Standard golf umbrellas, corporate and event gifts |
| 68 in (about 173 cm) | 33–34 in (84–86 cm) | 57–59 in (145–150 cm) | Oversized golf umbrellas, hospitality, sharing between two people |
58-inch canopies
A 58-inch canopy covers one adult comfortably with some room to spare. It is lighter and shorter when closed than a full golf size, which makes it a sensible choice for commuters, retail ranges and two-fold golf umbrellas that need to fit in a bag.
62-inch canopies
Around 60 to 62 inches is the size most people picture as a golf umbrella. It covers a golfer and part of a bag, gives eight large panels for printing and is a common choice for corporate gifts and sponsored events. Many of the golf umbrellas in our catalogue use 27 or 30-inch ribs, which puts them in or just below this range.
68-inch canopies
Oversized canopies of around 68 inches shelter two people, which is why hotels, venues and doormen use them. The extra size comes at a cost: more weight, a longer closed length and much more wind load on the frame. Canopies this large are outside the common rib lengths in our catalogue, so discuss them with the sales team at the inquiry stage.
Straight and two-fold golf umbrellas
Golf sizes are not only made as straight stick umbrellas. Two-fold golf umbrellas close to a much shorter length, which suits car boots, luggage and retail shelves. The canopy is measured in exactly the same way, so a two-fold model and a straight model with the same rib length cover roughly the same area.
The folding frame adds joints, so on a sample check how smoothly the ribs open and lock, and compare the weight with a straight version of the same size. Our catalogue includes two-fold golf models with 27-inch ribs and double canopies, alongside straight models in the same sizes.
Why the same umbrella is sold under different numbers
Because three measurements are in use, one umbrella can carry several sizes. A "46-inch umbrella" could be a model with 23-inch ribs measured over the arc, or a model with 27-inch ribs measured flat. Listing names are not standardised either, so an umbrella with 27-inch ribs may be described as anything from about 54 to 58 inches.
This matters when you replace an existing product or compare quotations from several suppliers. Two umbrellas both sold as "60 inch" can differ by several centimetres of real coverage, and a few centimetres of rib length also changes weight, closed length and price.
Choosing a size for your programme
- Coverage: think about who will use the umbrella. One person walking needs less than a golfer with a bag, or two guests walking to a car.
- Weight and closed length: both increase with rib length. A longer closed umbrella also needs a longer carton, which affects freight cost per piece.
- Wind: a larger canopy catches more wind, so frame choice matters more as size goes up. Fibreglass ribs and a vented double canopy are common on golf sizes; see our guides to umbrella frame materials and wind testing.
- Print area: bigger panels take bigger logos. Our guide to umbrella printing methods explains the options.
- Rib count: most golf umbrellas use eight ribs. Models with 12 or 16 ribs have a rounder outline and more, narrower panels.
What to put on the spec sheet
To avoid misunderstandings, ask for these figures in both centimetres and inches, and confirm how each one is measured:
- Rib length and number of ribs
- Arc diameter and flat diameter
- Closed length and weight
- Shaft and rib materials
- Single or vented double canopy, and the opening mechanism
When the sample arrives, measure it yourself. Run a flexible tape over the top of the open canopy from tip to opposite tip for the arc, measure straight across between opposite tips for the flat diameter, and measure one rib from the top notch to the tip. If the numbers match the spec sheet, you can compare offers on equal terms. It also helps to agree a tolerance for each figure, so that small differences between the approved sample and bulk production do not come as a surprise.
For a starting point, browse our large and golf umbrellas, such as this 30-inch fibreglass golf umbrella, which lists an open diameter of 135 cm. Then send the size, quantity and logo you have in mind through the inquiry form and ask for a sample to measure.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is a standard golf umbrella size?
A common golf size is around 60 to 62 inches measured over the arc, which usually means ribs of about 30 inches. That is enough to cover a golfer and part of a bag.
Is a 62-inch umbrella 62 inches wide?
Not across the ground. The 62 inches is normally measured over the curved top of the canopy, and the straight-line width is closer to 52–54 inches.
How do I convert rib length to canopy size?
Double the rib length for a rough arc figure, then allow a little extra for the top notch. For the flat diameter, take around 85% of the arc, and confirm with the supplier because canopy depth varies.
Which golf umbrella size suits two people?
A canopy of around 68 inches over the arc is generally used to shelter two people. It is heavier and catches more wind, so it needs a strong frame, usually with fibreglass ribs.
