When the sun comes out, a the best garden parasol lets you actually use your outdoor space without overheating. They’re a simple, practical way to add shade for everything from relaxing on your garden sofa set to enjoying a meal outside.Parasols are one of my go-to garden additions because, much like the best egg chairs and the best deckchairs, they immediately make your space more comfortable, without needing to add any permanent structures. Even if you’ve got a small patio or a huge lawn, they’re a flexible piece of kit.Garden parasols come in plenty of different styles to suit different outdoor looks. From cantilever designs and traditional market umbrellas to more modern shapes and neutral finishes, it’s usually easy to find one that fits in with your furniture and space.To find the best parasols, I’ve reviewed a range of options across different prices and styles, focusing on durability, ease of use and design. With years of experience covering homes and gardens, I can tell the difference between a flimsy sunshade and one built to last.Read more:Best garden furniture stores From sleek cantilever styles and classic market umbrellas, I tested a range of parasols (Eve Smallman/The Independent)Best overall – Lazy Susan stone parasol: £199.95, Lazysusanfurniture.co.ukBest budget buy – Habitat tilting garden parasol: £30, Habitat.co.ukBest budget cantilever – Charles Bentley banana cantilever umbrella: £64.99, Charlesbentley.comRead more: Best garden sofa sets, tested