The Best Umbrellas for Kids

You know that saying, "there is no bad weather, only bad clothing"? Well, it's true. In fact, if you have children in your life, you know there has never been a truer statement than that. Kids find joy in everything. In fact, if we teach children to only enjoy the days filled with sunshine and warmth, we're setting them up for a lifetime of disappointment. The key is, of course, to outfit your child in proper clothing. By doing so, you'll ensure that there really is no bad weather. With rain boots for puddle splashing, a wet suit for water play, and an adorable umbrella for long rainy day walks, the dreariness of gray weather's got nothin' on the sunshine-filled attitude of your delighted little one. Our team made a list of the best umbrellas available for kids, so if you're ready to see what rainy day play is all about, keep reading.

Totes Kid’s Clear Bubble Umbrella

I've Got Sunshine on a Cloudy Day

Like a personal bubble for your little one, this special umbrella makes even the dreariest days fun.
Best Overall

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I can’t be the only one who secretly wants an umbrella that’s designed for kids, right? Seriously – just look how cute they are. This clear bubble umbrella makes rainy day walks exceptionally fun for enthusiastic tots. With clear plastic that allows them to watch the rain fall all around them, they’ll stay safe and dry tucked inside the bubble. Ultra lightweight for the tiniest of explorers, there’s even an easy-grip, pinch-proof feature on the handle that’s the ideal grip for toddlers, preschoolers, or the big kids. With a 42-inch canopy size that folds down into a mere 12 inches, this is the quintessential kids umbrella.

Pros:

  • Multiple fun patterns to choose from.
  • Easy-grip handle that’s durable even for big kids.
  • Bubble shape protects your child from the rain and wind.

Cons:

  • The fabric sticks to itself a bit when opening.

MRTLLOA Kids Umbrella

Rain, Rain, Go Away

Handy fold-over design keeps the rain from drenching the indoors, too.
Runner Up

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Umbrellas can be a tricky thing for small, developing hands. That’s why this one from MRTLLOA is such a find. With an easily manageable open/close design, this umbrella is ideal for younger kids just getting the hang of umbrella use. Made with a reverse opening and folding design, this umbrella has the whole rainy weather deal down. It touts a two-layer configuration; the wet layer completely folds under the dry layer, allowing for the wet outer layer to drip out in one spot rather than the whole floor. This space-saving design means you can dry your umbrella indoors, too.

Pros:

  • Fun prints on both sides.
  • Vibrant color choices for those dreary days.
  • Encourages independence.
  • Handy hook for hanging.

Cons:

  • The handle is not the most comfortable to hold.

Western Chief Character Umbrella

What's an Umbrella Without a Fun Print?

The fun, vibrant prints on these umbrellas will have you wishing they came in your size.
Best Characters

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What’s a kids umbrella without a fun print? This nylon, fully waterproof umbrella from Western Chief certainly delivers, with 9 different fun print choices. (Some popular choices include Batman and an adorable bright green frog). It’s not just a cool print that has us loving this umbrella, however; rather, it’s the fact that it’s 37 inches around when opened. And at 22.5 inches in length, it is really the ideal size for your youngster to hide themselves in the umbrella, keeping perfectly dry no matter what the weather.

Pros:

  • Easy-fold closure.
  • 100% nylon for excellent water-resistance.
  • Easy-wipe-clean fabric.
  • Durable steel and plastic frame.
  • Matching boots and coat available.
  • The handle’s color perfectly matches the print.

Cons:

  • Mild rainy weather is just fine, but this umbrella isn’t meant for stronger wind or rain.

Disney Umbrella Rainwear Set

Disney-Themed

Proving that Frozen hasn't gone anywhere, this umbrella and raincoat Disney-themed rainwear is a darling take on a rainy day essential.
Best Set

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If you have a Frozen-loving tyke, this is going to be a huge hit. Featuring 100% polyester for full water protection, this 2-piece coordinating rain set comes with a matching raincoat and umbrella. And keeping independence in mind, the raincoat has easy snaps for closure, ensuring that your child can feel empowered dressing themselves. Additional features include an elastic band hood for protection from wind and rain, a durable vinyl fabric that repels water, and favorite Disney characters to encourage youngsters to get outside and explore no matter what the weather’s like.

Pros:

  • Umbrella works to protect in both rain or sun.
  • Handle and carry cord are also Disney-themed.
  • Durable, water-resistant fabrics.
  • Easy to open/close, which helps to foster independence.
  • Favorite Disney theme aids in encouraging children to get outside and play despite the weather.

Cons:

  • The raincoat is a bit thin, so for colder climates, you may want to size up for layering.

Hatley Printed Umbrellas

Tougher Than the Storm

Thick fabric, a durable wooden handle, and darling patterns will make this a favorite umbrella for years to come.
Most Durable

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Hatley is a company known for its adorable print choices, and it is no exception with their umbrellas, either. With contrasting, bright colors and cute animal prints, your tot will never want to come back inside. A full 28″ when open and 23″ long, this is the ideal size for a first umbrella. And at only 8.4 oz, it is lightweight enough for the youngest rainy day explorers. The wooden handle and wooden tip are thoughtful additions with durability in mind – this is no plastic handle that detaches easily or breaks.

Pros:

  • Adorable, bright prints.
  • Durable polyester fabric and parts.
  • Large size keeps kiddos dry.
  • Safe open/close system ensures no pinched fingers.

Cons:

  • The wooden handle on this should be treated prior to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do children’s umbrellas offer UV protection?

Some umbrellas don’t really supply much UV protection at all (think the clear plastic ones), but others can block more than 99% of UV rays. In general, the darker the better. However, they are not meant to replace sunscreen or sun protection, so it’s always advised to wear sunscreen as a base. Having said that, if you are getting an umbrella for sun protection and rain protection, you will want to find one that’s a bit larger, as well as one that has thicker, more durable materials. There is nothing worse than an umbrella flipping inside out, or the sun breaking down the material to reveal tiny little holes.

What is an appropriate age for a children’s umbrella?

As soon as children can walk steadily, umbrellas are a favorite rainy day item. In fact, I’d argue that some will even love them on sunny days (there’s just something delightful about an umbrella, isn’t there?). In general, at age three, children become especially infatuated with umbrellas, and by that point, you’ll know their preferences in colors, characters, and designs, so you can pick one out that they’d really love.

What are the benefits to rainy day playing?

This may surprise you, but rainy days are an absolute blast (and not just for the kids). The world just takes on a whole new sheen when rainy weather arrives, and it’s fun to witness that, even for adults. An excellent lesson in embracing whatever comes your way, rainy days also help in developing some pretty important childhood skills. Helping to develop everything from gross motor skills (balance, for one) to imaginative play to scientific understanding, rainy day play is as important as those sunnier days, too. With the proper gear, children can embrace mud, puddles, downpours, and more.

And who knows – if you outfit yourself with the proper gear, you must just find yourself jumping in those puddles, too.