Instructions for using an Umbrella in the Sierra Nevada

[Tinkerbell]

Forget all those expensive waterproofs that dont work, Ive found the ultimate in breatheability and waterproofing. An Umbrella. Yes, it's lightweight, cheap, breatheable and waterproof. I decided to field test it today on a wet day's walk with clients up the Poqueira Gorge. How did it perform?

Advantages: Whilst the rest in the group swealtered in fleeces and waterproofs I travelled in comfort with just base layer and fleece vest to protect me. The light rain and winds never bothered the umbrella, which did a fine job. Excellent I thought, smugly looking at my Gore-Texted clients!

Disadvantages: As we neared Cortijo Thomas the heavens opened and the wind went from "light" to "strong". This was when the Gore Tex brigade got their own back. Firstly the wind tore at the umbrella, making it difficult to keep to the lee of the wind. Secondly and most important, the big rain drops consolidated on the umbrella into even bigger rain drops and then bucketfuls. They fell off the umbrella where, the strong wind blew them right into..... ME! Result was that no covering in the world is going to withstand an hour of driving rain. I was soaked within seconds as the buckets of water constantly lashed my body. The smug grin vanished and with much changrin I hurried back to a welcome coffee with Baileys in Capileira.

Conclusion: Umbrellas great for light winds and rain. Anything more, dont use, or better still dont go out at all and remain in your favourite tapa bar!