# Shoulder-Fitted Rain Shields The Rain Shield Folds Flat When It's Not in Use By Ell Smith | Published 2018-01-25 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rain-shields References: [kickstarter](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/aperella/rain-shield-pops-open-folds-flat-not-an-umbrella?ref=category&ref=discovery) The bulky and inconvenient design of umbrellas is typically enough to deter people from carrying one with them at all times, which is why one designer created the Rain Shield -- a protective alternative that folds flat when it's not in use. This device conveniently pops open when its needed, and offers a [hands-free solution](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-ventete-ah1) to remaining dry in wet conditions. The device is fitted over one's shoulders, providing the user with the freedom to text or even ride their bike, while offering the same coverage as a [standard handheld umbrella](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/weatherman-trek-umbrella). Because of its small size, the Rain Shield can be thrown into one's bag and forgotten about until it starts raining, making for the perfect, [rainy day alternative](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pieces-for-rainy-days). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.6/10 - Popularity: 54% | Activity: 46% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Hands-free Rainwear:** There is an opportunity for further development of hands-free rainwear, especially for those who are active or require the use of both hands. - **Flat-folding Rain Gear:** There is an opportunity for further development of rain gear that is compact and foldable, making it easy to store and carry around for when it's needed. - **Personalized Rain Protection:** There is an opportunity for further development of rain protection that can be personally customized for different situations and preferences. ### Where This Applies - **Outdoor Apparel Industry:** The outdoor apparel industry can benefit from developing rainwear that provides hands-free and convenient protection from the rain, especially for hikers, bikers, and other active individuals. - **Travel Industry:** The travel industry can benefit from offering rainwear options that are easy to pack and store, making it convenient for travelers to always have protection from the rain. - **Smart Accessories Industry:** The smart accessories industry can benefit from incorporating personalized rain protection options into their product offerings, such as adjustable coverage and color options. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Flying Umbrella Prototypes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/flying-umbrella.md) - [Space-Inspired Folding Umbrellas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bloombrella.md) - [Wearable Poncho-Style Tents](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/onetigris-tentsformer.md) - [Disappearing Umbrella Stands](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/coilo.md) - [Two-People Umbrella Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shed-rain.md) - [Enclosed Mobility Scooter Canopies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/scooterpac-canopy.md) - [Flatpack Cyclist Safety Equipment](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/folding-helmet-concept.md) - [OLED Weather Umbrellas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ori-umbrella.md) - [Ruggedized Rollable Bicycle Mudguards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bicycle-mudguard.md)