Louis Vuitton, $475
With a palladium metal spine, it resists the strongest winds and has a satisfyingly smooth release. But where’s the luxe, aside from the tan leather handle? (1 E. 57th St., nr. Fifth Ave.; 212-758-8877.)

Daisy Hill, $250
Weather-resistant Ultrasuede keeps you dry in style, and the laminated interior is as supple as a broken-in jacket. Almost too fancy to soil. (At William-Wayne & Co., 846 Lexington Ave., at 64th St.; 212-737-8934.)

Duncan Quinn, $145
Enough coverage to keep you dry, yet small enough for sidewalk negotiations. Treated polyester hood dries fast, and the ombré effect on the Lucite handle is a nice detail (8 Spring St., nr. Mott St.; 212-226-7030).

Cath Kidston, $85
The floral-printed tarp material will combat the heaviest rainfall, but it’s a little too southern belle—and heavy to tote around (201 Mulberry St., nr. Spring St.; 212-343-0223).

Moschino, $55
This adorable pint-size number easily fits into a back pocket. Unfortunately, it takes the strength of two to open, leaving you drenched before keeping you dry. (At Saks Fifth Avenue.)

Lexon, $45
The handle doubles as a clip, so this sturdy umbrella hooks onto anything. Quick release increases the probability of knocking someone out. (At Mxyplyzyk, 125 Greenwich Ave., at 13th St.; 212-989-4300.)

Muquel-Ruis, $35
The wrist strap tangles into bracelets and twists enough to cut off circulation within minutes. A cheery design, but for light rain and wind only. (At Olive & Bette’s stores; oliveandbettes.com.)

London Fog, $14.99
Conveniently fits in a medium-size purse and has a comfy gel handle that gives good grip. But it’s flimsy: Be prepared for the dreaded inside-out flip. (At Target stores; target.com.)

(Photo: Davies and Starr)

Street-Vendor Model, $3 and up
For those who eschew branding, it’s readily available on street corners during a rainstorm and easy to open. Price not guaranteed, though. And likely to collapse within minutes.

Related:

• Archive: “Market Research”
• Articles by Aja Mangum
• Table of Contents: Jan 24, 2005 issue of New York | Subscribe!