An outdoor umbrella stand isn't one of those things where they're all created equal. For beginners, they come in a lots of shapes, colors and designs. You spent time picking out an umbrella you liked, therefore take the time to pick a stand you like.

Many of us have a backyard that we worked hard in. We like to sit out there and enjoy the afternoon. Porches with roofs can often make you feel like you're still inside. But if you spend any real time outside, you need some shelter from the sunlight. I mean, that gets hot after a while, if nothing else.

An umbrella can offer the shade you require while not encroaching on the feeling of outdoors. If you are not going to move the umbrella around a lot, you could select an outdoor umbrella stand that's permanently weighted. You don't want the thing to fall over as soon as the wind blows, thus weight it down. Bases are available in a variety of widths and weights. A lot of websites online have charts to let you know just how much weight you require based on the size of your umbrella.
Now for those of us who want to visit the beach a lot, or maybe love to go camping, we don't wish to haul around a 70 pound stand. The option there is to buy a hollow one. Once you get to where you're going, you can fill it with sand or water to give it weight. When it is time to leave, simply empty it out.

If you aren't certain if there is going to be sand or water available where you are going, you could get an outdoor umbrella stand that screws into the ground. Just like a cork screw, it goes into the ground, holding your umbrella just where you put it.

Therefore think about your requirements, what you use your umbrella for, and you can get the stand that suits your requirements best.