Attaching an Umbrella

There have been some "hands free" umbrellas made, but they all fall into the "gizmo-gadget" category. You need to be able to move the umbrella to account for wind/rain/sun/brush/falls. A decent size umbrella getting a good gust could knock you off balance too. They are best on easy, clear trails where you don't need trekking poles. I'll bet most get used for sun in the desert than rain.

When you buy a drill, you don't want a drill; you want holes.

So, my question to you would be, do you want an umbrella or do you want shade/rain protection? Maybe an umbrella is not the ideal solution for everyone. I was thinking that you could use, modify or make your own sun shade similar to the ones for child carriers. They look like they would be much more stable in the wind without having to hold on to them.

Mike

camelbak makes a small clip used to hold a "hose" seen here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0019DAQJM/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B001ACKC46&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1E40KC7C6DBH42NF7B26
on my packs with 3/4 webbing or daisy chain on the shoulder straps, i can attach my montbell brolly and keep it secure. trouble is, it works great for overhead sun but not so well when it starts to dip.

this method gets a 3/5 stars from me.

… people using their sternum straps to keep the umbrellas stable.

Mike, it sounds like you're on to something great — I would like to hear about what you are envisioning. What kind of frame would you be able to make to keep a fabric shade held over your head and shoulders?