This umbrella is great. It is sturdy and seems to be designed to sway in the wind, rather than crack. It sounds like people might have different bases from what is pictured, but I received what is pictured. For people wondering if this can be bolted to your deck: yes. You do not need to use the cross-peices. You can bolt directly, but this thing is MASSIVE so your deck floor alone is not likely strong enough. I attached a short 6 by 6 beam between 2 joists under my deck and then, using 8 inch carriage bolts, I bolted the umbrella through the floor and through the 6 by 6 beam. It is very solid.