What is the Difference Between a Patio Umbrella and a Market Umbrella?

Market umbrellas were traditionally created to protect marketplace vendors such as those with farm stands or food carts, along with their customers, and their items for sale from the hot sun, rain, or even snow. It was vital that the umbrellas be built durably in order to withstand wind and other harsh weather elements. They were typically used for temporary spaces and would be brought and attached by the merchants as they set up their stands or carts.

The umbrellas were designed with a straight wood or metal pole running up through the center of a fabric shade and a weighted base attached to the bottom. Often in an octagonal shape, other configurations such as rectangular or square could also be seen.

Market umbrellas were at times able to be slipped through an insert in the stand or cart, but were frequently stabilized simply by their weighted base.

Conversely, patio umbrellas are designed for either residential or commercial patios and other outdoor spaces to extend comfortable areas for their occupants to relax or dine while sheltered from the weather. These umbrellas were initially created to slip through a hole in a table for stabilization, but could still use a weighted base for additional ballast.

Now, in their design and construction, market umbrellas and patio umbrellas are now indistinguishable. The terms have merged and are commonly used interchangeably.

Poggesi USA arose from the market stalls of Italy where the quality and durability of their umbrellas were renowned.

Today, Poggesi USA commercial and residential patio umbrellas provide hotels, restaurants, and private residences with outdoor furnishings unlike any other, with unique designs that provide unparalleled protection from the elements.

Our finely crafted Italian fabrics are beautiful, unique, and durable. Available in a variety of elegant colors, our high-quality TÜV certified umbrellas look great, withstand tough weather, and are easy to maintain. With a variety of base and stand options, our patented umbrella technology makes it easy to open and close your weather-resistant umbrellas with a mere touch and a push, leaving the rest to a complex series of springs.

Let us show you why we are the leaders in “The Art of Creating Shade.”

For more information about the many options to design and customize the patio umbrellas for your business or home, please contact us.