6 best kids’ umbrellas that make wet-weather outings much more fun

“It's magic,” squealed our four-year-old tester. Even us adults can't deny the appeal of this one. Grass & Air's collection of clothes, wellies and umbrellas change colour when they get wet, which is a brilliant way to encourage little ones to embrace outerwear.

Brightening up a rainy day (quite literally), the colour-revealing umbrella's clever design means the raindrops instantly change from white to multi-coloured as water hits the fabric. The curved handle is easy for small hands to hold, and it's smooth to open and close. Once you're done, leave the umbrella open to dry, then keep it compact with the Velcro tab.

Retro robots are out in force with this kids' umbrella by Djeco. This is the largest umbrella we tested (and the cheapest), so, the coverage is great, with no exposed shoulders. As the dome style design is transparent, it means little one's vision isn't compromised, while keeping them sheltered. The curved handle is super tactile, and it's easy to open and close. At first, we worried the umbrella was a little on the thin and light side, but once it's up it can handle typical British showers. We just love the fun robots dotted about the umbrella, too.

If your child is intrigued by dinosaurs, prepare for further fascination with this colour-change umbrella. The white dinosaurs change colour when wet, which mesmerised our four-year-old tester – who knew rain could be so much fun? Aside from its magical powers, this umbrella is sturdy yet light enough for children to hold, and the open and fold is smooth and easy to use. If you have a real dino fan on your hands, this one is sure to be a hit.

Aspiring zookeepers and animal-lovers will revel in pointing out the different species on this endangered animals kids' umbrella. From panda to snow leopard, there are creatures from across the globe, and our little tester was keen to show us her favourite and proudly walk around with it in the drizzle. Its curved matching green handle is easy to hold, and the open-and-close mechanism is easy for little ones to use.

Space enthusiasts will think nothing of blasting into storms with this umbrella as protection. The space age print looks cool against the dark background, too.

This one is spring-loaded, so, at the push of the button, the umbrella bounces into life. Needless to say, this was very entertaining for our mini reviewer, who gave this feature a thorough testing. While it's a doddle to open, it's a little trickier to close, as it does require some strength, so that's a job for parents.

Let children march in style with this dome-like brolly, which ensures there'll be no exposed shoulders. The canopy is transparent, so a child's vision isn't blocked when out battling the elements. Featuring a smooth open and close mechanism, it boasts patented technology to prevent injury to little hands. Our four-year-old tester is a huge fan of the “big smoke,” and she loves the illustrated guards marching along the bottom of this umbrella – fun yet highly functional.