What are the parts of an umbrella?

Quick Scoop

An umbrella is made up of a few main parts: the canopy, ribs, shaft, handle, runner, and tips. These parts work together so the umbrella can open, hold its shape, and protect you from rain or sun.

Main parts

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Part	What it does
Canopy	The fabric cover that blocks rain or sunlight.
Ribs	The frame pieces that support the canopy and give it shape.
Stretchers	Smaller arms that connect the ribs to the runner and help the umbrella open and close.
Shaft	The central pole that connects the handle to the top of the umbrella.
Handle	The part you hold; it can be made from plastic, wood, rubber, or other materials.
Runner	The sliding piece that moves up and down the shaft to open or close the umbrella.
Tips	The small ends that cap the ribs and help protect the fabric and frame.

Other details

Some umbrellas also have a ferrule, which is the top cap, and may use vented or double-canopy designs to improve wind resistance. Folding umbrellas can also have a telescopic shaft that collapses for portability.

Simple way to picture it

Think of the canopy as the “roof,” the ribs as the “skeleton,” and the shaft as the “spine.” The runner and stretchers are the moving parts that let the umbrella open and lock into place.

TL;DR: The main parts of an umbrella are the canopy, ribs, stretchers, shaft, handle, runner, and tips.