Last updated at 21:10 27 February 2008

They may appear to be kitted-out for a voyage into outer space. But this bubble-headed pair are merely preparing to take on the British weather.

They are modelling the Nubrella, which claims to be the world's first hands-free brolly and which promises never to turn inside out in high winds.

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Hands free: With the Nubrella, you can sip a coffee and speak on the phone at the same time

Its designer, Alan Kaufman, came up with the idea while watching shoppers struggle with umbrellas on a windy day.

"We all know the problem with umbrellas is that they invert, that's where I came up with the idea. They are not great in the wind," he said.

"I never planned on inventing a product, I just noticed a problem and came up with a solution."

The former tennis pro, 45, spent six years developing the Nubrella.

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Wind-proof: Oval in design, the Nubrella keeps off the wind and won't turn inside out

Made of nylon with aluminium alloy ribs and a clear Thermoplastic Polyurethane front, it weighs 2.6lb.

The £30 contraption is worn on the shoulders and opens out at the touch of a button.

In addition to keeping off the rain, the wind-proof device also keep the wearer warm.

And because it is hands-free, users can chat on their mobile phone or ride a bike while listening to the gentle pitter-patter above their heads.

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On the road: A cyclist takes to the streets sporting the latest brolley for braving the British winter

Mr Kaufman says that anyone put off by the Nubrella's odd appearance should reconsider.

"When you're outdoors and it's a miserable day, guess what? Not many people will be looking at you. They'll be trying to get from A to B," he said.

Speaking of the six-year project, he said: "If I knew back then how difficult it was going to be I probably never would have pursued this.

"At times it has felt like climbing a mountain on roller blades."