A lightweight sun shade known as a Shibumi has emerged as a polarizing topic on America's beaches this summer, sparking debate in coastal communities over safety, space, and noise. The Wall Street Journal highlighted the widespread controversy, stating, "The most polarizing topic on on America’s beaches this summer isn’t loud music or open container laws. It’s a lightweight sun shade known as a Shibumi." This comes as popular tourist destinations like Myrtle Beach and Horry County in South Carolina continue to restrict their use during peak season.
Shibumi Shades, invented by North Carolina natives Dane and Scott Barnes and Alex Slater, have rapidly gained popularity since their prototype in 2015 as a portable, wind-powered alternative to traditional beach umbrellas. Beachgoers appreciate their quick setup, ample shade, and reduced risk of becoming airborne projectiles in strong winds compared to conventional umbrellas. The company has sold over 300,000 units by 2024 and secured an investment from growth equity firm Stripes in late 2021.
However, the widespread adoption of Shibumi Shades has led to concerns among local authorities and some beachgoers. Critics cite issues such as the shades occupying a wider footprint than traditional umbrellas, contributing to beach crowding, and the flapping sound they produce in the wind. More significantly, officials in places like Myrtle Beach have expressed safety concerns, particularly regarding obstructed visibility for lifeguards, which could hinder their ability to monitor swimmers effectively.
Myrtle Beach's regulations, which predate the Shibumi Shade's popularity, restrict shading devices during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day) to circular umbrellas under 7.5 feet in diameter, positioned behind the lifeguard line. Horry County Council recently voted down a trial period for wind-driven shades, with some council members citing existing crowding issues and safety recommendations from the public safety department. Shibumi Shade co-founder Dane Barnes has voiced disappointment, stating that "it's a bummer that their freedom is being restricted."
In response to some criticisms, Shibumi has introduced new product innovations, including a "Quiet Canopy" designed to reduce flapping noise and a "Wind Assist" for windless days. The company has also aggressively pursued legal action against copycat products, filing patent infringement lawsuits to protect its intellectual property, with one case against Beach Shade LLC resulting in a federal judge ruling in Shibumi's favor. The ongoing debate highlights the challenge for coastal communities in balancing visitor enjoyment with public safety, accessibility, and environmental responsibility in shared public spaces.
