Gossamer Gear Lightrek Hiking Umbrella

I carried the Gossamer Gear Lightrek Hiking Umbrella on my hikes along the Hayduke Trail in 2020 and the Continental Divide Trail in 2021. It provided reliable protection from both sun and rain. I appreciated how lightweight and durable it was, especially on long days when every ounce matters.

The umbrella kept me dry during rain showers and shaded me effectively from the sun. I was surprised by how much of a mental difference it makes to have a way to shield your face from constant rainfall or intense sun. However, it does not perform well in wind. On gusty days, it can be difficult to control and may get damaged — I’ve spent several minutes chasing a runaway umbrella across desert terrain.

The umbrella also does not collapse very small, so it occupies more pack space. Finding a secure place to store it when not in use can take up valuable space. Carrying it for long stretches can become tiring, and the clip accessory occasionally fails to hold as securely as I would like, especially in light wind.

Despite these limitations, the Lightrek Umbrella is very useful for hikers who want lightweight sun and rain protection on calm days, or as an extra layer of protection during unexpected storms. For long-distance hiking or backpacking in moderate conditions, it adds comfort without significantly increasing pack weight. It is less suitable in windy conditions or when minimal pack space is a priority.