Reviews You Can Rely On

totes Clear Bubble Review

Fun style with a more encompassing bubble canopy for greater rain protection
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totes clear bubble umbrella review
Bubble canopies are not only fun but all the more protective against the rain.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Price:  $26 List
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Manufacturer:   totes
By Sara Aranda ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Mar 20, 2024
67
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#4 of 12
  • Rain Protection - 30% 9.0
  • Ease of Transport - 25% 5.0
  • Construction Quality - 20% 6.0
  • Ease of Use - 15% 6.0
  • Versatility - 10% 6.0

Our Verdict

Although its non-telescoping shaft classifies it as a traditional umbrella, the totes Clear Bubble has a unique appearance that defies the classic look. Offering a deep dome for a canopy, this model has exceptional rain protection, and the plastic handle and metal shaft provide plenty of support. In terms of wind resistance, this product never flipped inside out on us. All these things considered, this piece does have some significant drawbacks, including its size and weight. If you need something lightweight and compact, this probably isn't going to work for you. But for those that want a fun and functional design for casual outings, this is a great choice. See it rated versus top competitors in our umbrella review.
REASONS TO BUY
Affordable
Stylish
Ample rain protection
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavy
Not as easy to transport
Editor's Note: On March 20, 2024, we added new photos and video of our testing process.

Compare to Similar Products

 
totes clear bubble umbrella review
This Product
totes Clear Bubble
Awards Top Pick Award Top Pick Award Best Buy Award Top Pick Award  
Price $26 List
$28.00 at Amazon
$30 List
$23.00 at Amazon
Check Price at Amazon$24 List
$20.90 at Amazon
$15.00 List
$13.99 at Amazon
Overall Score Sort Icon
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Star Rating
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Bottom Line The see-through canopy on this fun umbrella is more protective against the rainA more traditional, quality model at a great priceReliable automatic open and close capability with added style notesRoom enough for two but heavy and not the easiest to tote aroundOf average quality and functionality, but with fun style
Rating Categories totes Clear Bubble totes Auto Open Wooden Balios Double Canopy G4Free Golf Umbrella SY Compact Automatic
Rain Protection (30%)
9.0
8.0
6.0
9.0
5.0
Ease of Transport (25%)
5.0
5.0
6.0
4.0
8.0
Construction Quality (20%)
6.0
7.0
8.0
7.0
5.0
Ease of Use (15%)
6.0
8.0
7.0
6.0
7.0
Versatility (10%)
6.0
8.0
8.0
6.0
5.0
Specs totes Clear Bubble totes Auto Open Wooden Balios Double Canopy G4Free Golf Umbrella SY Compact Automatic
Measured Canopy Diameter 33.5 in 42.0 in 40.0 in 52.0 in 38.0 in
Depth of Canopy 16.75 in 10.25 in 9.0 in 12.0 in 6.5 in
Sleeve Included No No Yes, with zip Yes, w/ shoulder sling Yes
Measured Weight (including sleeve) 16.0 oz 18.5 oz 15.5 oz 24.6 oz 11.0 oz
Measured Length (collapsed) 35.75 in 36.5 in 14.0 in 39.75 in 11.25 in
Measured Length (deployed) 35.75 in 36.75 in 25.5 in 40.0 in 22.0 in
Handle Design Acrylic crook handle Wooden crook handle, button operation Wooden ergonimic grip, inset button operation Long foam handle and plastic trim, inset button operation Short, rubberized, non-slip handle, inset button operation
Canopy Material Thermoplastic polyurethane, snap fastener Polyester, velcro closure 300 thread-count water repellent fabric, snap fastener 210T pongee fabric (polyester) 210T pongee fabric (polyester), velcro closure
Support Structure Aluminum and carbon fiber Wood and aluminum Steel and fiberglass Fiberglass and unknown metal Aluminum and fiberglass

Our Analysis and Test Results

The totes Clear Bubble is a trendy model that will certainly turn heads as the rain falls. The diameter isn't particularly wide, yet its deep canopy performs better than you might expect, especially in horizontal rain. You can also rest assured that it won't spontaneously fail or flip inside out on windy days. However, it lacks the ease of use of some of the other models we tested and takes up a lot of space and weight. We also found the skeletal design to be less durable than its nylon and polyester competitors.

Performance Comparison


totes clear bubble umbrella review - a clear view means we can tuck ourselves inside for protection yet...
A clear view means we can tuck ourselves inside for protection yet still see where we're going.
Credit: Sara Aranda

Rain Protection


With a 33.5-inch diameter, the Clear Bubble has one of the narrowest canopies of all the products we tested. We had to pay close attention to the length of our stride so our legs wouldn't extend too far outside the protection of the canopy and become soaked. Despite this smaller diameter, the bubble design of this umbrella forms a hemisphere that is deep enough to fit over the head and shoulders — a depth of 16.75 inches, which our testers found to be very advantageous. If the wind picks up and the rain starts coming in sideways, you have the option of ducking inside the bubble canopy and at least saving your upper body from being soaked. However, if you are going to hide inside the bubble, there is a chance that the canopy will become foggy from body heat, forcing you to tip the front end upwards and thus reducing its actual coverage area.


We are positively impressed that this model refused to invert during wind testing. We took it out in stormy conditions and purposely attempted to flip it inside-out, to no avail. Not once did it flip on us during use, and at this point, our testers don't think it's even possible without physically breaking the spokes supporting the canopy.

totes clear bubble umbrella review - the long handle length and broad arching ribs built into the totes...
The long handle length and broad arching ribs built into the totes Clear Bubble make it deep enough to fit comfortably over one's head and shoulders and produce substantially protective results.
Credit: Natalie Kafader

Ease of Transport


This product suffers the most in this metric. Of all the models we've tested thus far, the Clear Bubble is one of the longest and heaviest. It measures 35.75 inches, no matter if it's packed or deployed, and it weighs in at one pound. Though our testers find it easy to stash this umbrella in the trunk of a vehicle and in various places about the house, it is a little cumbersome to carry around all day.


The crook handle on the Clear Bubble definitely helps in the ability to carry it more easily. You can hang this umbrella on your arm, and once you've reached your destination, it can easily hang on a chair or coat hook. The handle also aids in the ability to steady the canopy while using it, making for a more pleasant experience.

totes clear bubble umbrella review - one of our favorite go-to options for rainy days.
One of our favorite go-to options for rainy days.
Credit: Sara Aranda

Construction Quality


Despite being tossed around cars and tested in stormy conditions, this product held up well. If you live in a windy environment, this canopy will be able to stand up to intense gales. We never experienced any problems with the spokes that support the canopy, which are made of carbon fiber.


We did find a drawback in the canopy material, however. When we received the product, the inside of the canopy was coated in a powdery substance. Wanting to have a clear view from inside the canopy, we used a wet washcloth to remove the powder. Apparently, the powder is there to keep the thermoplastic polyurethane canopy from sticking to itself after resting in its closed form. After removing the powder, we had to physically pull apart the canopy before deploying. It actually clings to itself so strongly that we feared we might break either the stretchers or the canopy itself. Because of this, we do not recommend trying to remove the powder and feel that the visibility overall is still quite adequate. Some testers hardly noticed the powder at all. Overall, the construction quality is fair but not the best.

totes clear bubble umbrella review - flexible ribs and sturdy overall construction make this a great...
Flexible ribs and sturdy overall construction make this a great choice if you often contend with high winds on stormy days.
Credit: Sara Aranda

Ease of Use


The Clear Bubble has a classic, straightforward design for opening and closing the canopy. A sliding collar moves up and down the stem to open and close. The collar locks securely into place when the canopy is fully deployed, which means the collar won't dislodge on its own and cause the user to become exposed to the rain. Additionally, the cane-shaped plastic handle is easy to grip and long enough to allow both hands to be used at once, which is of great help when the wind picks up and tries to steal the umbrella away.


Unfortunately, this model doesn't have any soft foam for a comfortable grip, and the non-ergonomic plastic is slick at times. Additionally, during our 30-times open-and-close-in-a-row testing session, we found that the plastic clasp for the shaft wasn't as user-friendly as we would like. We pinched ourselves a few times when collapsing the canopy, which is not fun. We also noticed new squeaks developing over time, detracting from fluidity.

totes clear bubble umbrella review - the slide on this manual umbrella operates relatively smoothly...
The slide on this manual umbrella operates relatively smoothly, although care should still be taken to avoid pinching the skin.
Credit: Sara Aranda

Versatility


The Clear Bubble has a very youthful design that'll stand out in a crowd from the more simple and stereotypical umbrellas. Its bubble shape is complemented by the J-shaped handle. Our testers felt that this model looked a bit more feminine than masculine, but we don't think that should stop anyone from using it. It's fun and quirky, but the design is also very functional. Whether walking through a park or through the city, you'll definitely stand out.

But given its design and stature, versatility might be limited. If you need something to block out the sun, then this umbrella is a bust. If you plan to travel to or commute often in a rainy climate, this model might also not be the most ideal as it isn't compact whatsoever.


Should You Buy the totes Clear Bubble?


This product offers a good value, especially if style matters to you. Not only will this umbrella keep you from breaking your bank account, but it'll also give you repeated protection from the rain through the worst spring showers and summer storms. With some of the highest rain protection due to its deep and bubble-like canopy, we highly recommend the totes Clear Bubble for anyone wanting something more physically encompassing and fun. It also offers decent ease of use and construction quality. However, it is quite large and heavy to continually keep by your side and not the most versatile. Still, the flashy looks and affordable price tag make this piece a justly tempting choice.

totes clear bubble umbrella review - certainly very youthful, we enjoy the cute and fun touches.
Certainly very youthful, we enjoy the cute and fun touches.
Credit: Sara Aranda

What Other Umbrellas Should You Consider?


Not really your cup of tea after all? Check out the totes Auto Open Wooden for a classic but non-bubble design. Or, if you're in need of something simpler and compact, we highly recommend the Balios Double Canopy or the Weatherman Collapsible.

The frame of this model was strong enough to withstand a lot of windy abuse.
Credit: Natalie Kafader


Sara Aranda