Which parasol to choose: Central or offset pole?
Can you feel summer approaching? Want to invite the whole family for lunch outside? Or your friends over for drinks on the terrace? The first rays of sunshine have barely appeared, and you already need to review your garden furniture if you want to invite them in good conditions.
However, it's at this moment that you realize your current parasol probably won't last the summer. Faded fabric, damaged frame, or broken ribs due to the wind—you realize you absolutely need a new parasol to enjoy good times with your loved ones this summer.
But where to begin? Should you choose a straight parasol with a central pole or one with an offset pole ?
And what about the dimensions? Here are our answers:
The central pole parasol
A center-pole parasol is simply a straight parasol. It is the most classic model. Its canopy is centered above the parasol base and can be square, rectangular, or round.
The center-pole parasol has the advantage of being well-balanced and therefore very stable. If your garden table has a hole in the middle, you can easily insert it, and the table will also contribute to the parasol's stability, further enhanced by its weighted base. The straight parasol offers several significant advantages:
Robustness and stability: The mast must be made from strong and durable materials, such as aluminum or stainless steel, to effectively withstand outdoor conditions and ensure optimal stability, especially in strong winds.
Ease of use: Look for a parasol pole with simple and practical mechanisms for opening, closing, and tilting. Intuitive systems ensure easy daily operation, without hassle or extra effort.
The size and weight of the parasol: Make sure the pole you choose is suitable for the size and weight of your parasol. A properly sized pole ensures adequate support and prevents any risk of imbalance or instability.
The offset parasol
The offset pole parasol refers to a right-angled parasol, equipped with an articulated, eccentric, and rotating arm, allowing it to take all positions.
Its canopy is offset above the parasol base and can also be square, rectangular or round.
The cantilever parasol is generally larger than the center-pole parasol, making it ideal for large patios as it provides a greater shaded area. Regardless of its shape, it tilts and rotates 360° to follow the sun and protect you throughout the day, without needing to move its base. Consequently, it is more expensive than a center-pole parasol . The cantilever parasol offers several significant advantages :
Flexibility and versatility: exceptional freedom of arrangement. You can arrange your furniture as you wish, without being hindered by a mast in the middle of the table. This allows for efficient use of the available space, enabling you to create different configurations according to your needs.
Maximum shade: The offset pole allows you to cover a larger shaded area, which is ideal for large tables or spaces where several people gather. With an offset parasol, you can enjoy maximum sun protection without compromising on available space.
Easy tilting: Most cantilever parasols are equipped with an adjustable tilt system, allowing you to easily adjust the angle of the parasol according to the sun's position throughout the day. This allows you to stay comfortably in the shade, regardless of the sun's angle.
Aesthetics: In addition to their functionality, cantilever parasols stand out for their elegant and modern design. Their clean lines and high-end finish add a touch of style to your outdoor space, transforming it into a place for relaxation and socializing.
So, what type of parasol should you choose?
Choose a parasol with a central pole
If you have limited space on your patio, this product will take up less room, especially if you place it in the middle of your garden table. You can also position it in your garden between two lounge chairs or near a pool between two sunbeds.
Furthermore, opt for a central pole if stability is your top priority. Naturally balanced and held to the ground by a weighted base, the central pole is undeniably the most stable parasol.
The drawback is that it remains not very adaptable: even if there are parasols with straight poles that can be oriented, it is difficult to keep everyone out of the sun at certain times of the day.
Choose a parasol with an offset pole
If you have a large patio or larger shaded areas to protect in your garden, the main advantage of a cantilever parasol is that it allows you to easily protect yourself from the sun at any time of day thanks to the tilt and rotation of its articulated arm.
You can therefore easily install it anywhere in your garden or patio, next to a table or a swimming pool. Finally, in addition to its functionality, the cantilever parasol is also very stylish .
Its main drawback is stability. Sometimes, if the wind gets too strong, the parasol might tip over. You'll need to choose a sufficiently heavy base to prevent it from being blown away . Some models have a cross-shaped base that can be weighted down with concrete slabs (highly recommended). Others have a fastening system for securely attaching it to a patio, for example.
