The UK spends £10m a year on umbrellas: little surprise, for a nation all too conscious of it's tendency for bad weather. But that number reflects a bad habit: we're as likely as not to buy a cheap umbrella, for expediency's sake, only to find it unable to last a season. Here, we're looking at umbrellas that may be a mark-up in price, but are better built, to keep you drier, and withstand blustery weather. You'll be familiar with the two types of umbrellas. Full-length walking umbrellas have the advantage of looking elegant, doubling as a walking aid, and providing broad coverage. Compact umbrellas are brilliant for convenience: small and easy to fold up and pop in your handbag or briefcase. If you do go for a compact number, we'd opt for automatic: these unfurl with pleasing ease at the push of button. But you likely know this: what you don't necessarily know is where the best umbrellas to be found are. Don't let the rain stop you from your daily walk: these nifty umbrellas will keep you sheltered from the elements. Here are the brollies that will do you proud.