What size parasol do I need?
A parasol is essential once the sun comes out, but what size do you actually need? A parasol that's too small provides insufficient shade, whilst a parasol that's too large takes up unnecessary space and is more susceptible to wind. In this guide, we'll help you choose the right parasol step by step — whether you want to shade a garden set, lounge set or sun lounger.
The golden rule: the parasol must be larger than the area to be shaded
The sun is rarely directly overhead. Throughout the day, the shadow shifts, which means you always need some extra margin. The rule of thumb: add at least 1 metre to the longest side of the area you want to shade.
Do you have a table that's 180×90 cm? Then you need a parasol with a minimum diameter of 280 cm. Prefer a bit more space? Then choose 300 cm or more — that way you'll be in the shade all afternoon, even when the sun is lower.
Parasol size table: from table to parasol
Use the table below to quickly determine the right size based on your table or lounge set:
| Table / lounge set | Number of people | Recommended parasol |
|---|---|---|
| Bistro table (Ø 60-80 cm) | 2 | Ø 200-250 cm |
| Square table (90×90 cm) | 4 | Ø 250-300 cm |
| Rectangular table (150×90 cm) | 4-6 | Ø 300 cm or 300×200 cm |
| Rectangular table (180×90 cm) | 6 | Ø 350 cm or 300×300 cm |
| Large table (220×100 cm) | 8 | 350×350 cm or 400×300 cm |
| Extra large table (260+ cm) | 10+ | 400×400 cm or Ø 400 cm |
| Compact lounge set | 4 | Ø 300 cm or 300×300 cm |
| Large corner lounge set | 6-8 | 350×350 cm or 400×400 cm |
| Single sun lounger | 1 | Ø 250-300 cm |
| Double sun lounger / daybed | 2 | Ø 350 cm or 300×300 cm |
Round or rectangular parasol?
The shape of your parasol depends on the shape of your table:
- Round table → choose a round parasol. The shade falls evenly around the table.
- Rectangular or oval table → choose a rectangular parasol. The shade fits better with the table shape.
- Square table → both round and square work. With a square parasol, the shade fits slightly more snugly.
Pole parasol or cantilever parasol: when do you choose which?
In addition to size, the type of parasol is important:
Pole parasol — the mast is in the centre of the table. Ideal for smaller tables (up to approximately 6 people) and compact terraces. Pole parasols are lightweight, easy to set up and often equipped with a tilt function that lets you adjust the shade.
Cantilever parasol — the mast is on the side. Ideal for larger tables, lounge sets or situations where you don't want a pole through the table. Cantilever parasols are 360° rotatable and tiltable, but require a heavier parasol base (minimum 60 kg).
How heavy should the parasol base be?
A good parasol base is essential for stability and safety. Rules of thumb:
- Pole parasol: allow 10-15 kg per metre of canopy diameter. A parasol of Ø 300 cm therefore requires a base of 30-45 kg.
- Cantilever parasol: minimum 60-80 kg. For models larger than 3.5 metres, even 90-100+ kg.
- When in doubt, always choose the heavier option — a base that's too light is dangerous in windy conditions.
Don't fancy hunting for a separate base? Check out our parasols with base — complete and ready to use straight away.
Also note: canopy material and UV protection
Size is important, but the material of the parasol canopy determines how well you're protected:
- Polyester — affordable, UPF 15-30. Fine for occasional use.
- Olefin — colour-fast and water-repellent, UPF 40-50. Good mid-range option.
- Spuncrylic — the best canopy material. Extremely colour-fast, water-repellent, UPF 50+. Lasts for years.
Summary: how to choose the right size
- Measure your table or lounge set — note down length × width (or diameter if round).
- Add 1 metre to the longest side — that's your minimum parasol diameter.
- Choose the shape — round for a round table, rectangular for a rectangular table.
- Choose the type — pole parasol for compact, cantilever parasol for maximum freedom.
- Choose the base — 10-15 kg per metre for pole parasols, 60+ kg for cantilever parasols.
Browse our complete range of parasols or visit our showroom for personal advice. Our experts are happy to help you find the perfect parasol for your situation.
