If your kids are like mine, they absolutely love all things water-related, including rainy, wet days. They don’t see the inconvenience of trudging to the store in the rain or dealing with soggy footwear as they tiptoe through unavoidable puddles. To them, rainy days are magical. The puddles become oceans, sticks become boats, and every raindrop feels like an invitation to play.
However, that magic can wear off fast if our kids end up soaked, shivering, and cranky. If you’ve ever had to haul a drenched, screaming toddler to the car for a warm change of clothes while they exclaim, “I’m never going in the rain again!”, you know what I mean. Thankfully, choosing the right raingear can help you avoid chilly meltdowns and keep the magic of nature alive.
The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune or buy three different sets based on the season. You just need to know what to look for. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the best rain gear for your kids so you can stop stressing and get back to making outdoor family memories in all weather.
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant
I’ve heard many people use these terms interchangeably, but they are very different. A water-resistant jacket may suffice if there is a chance of a light drizzle or your kiddo needs something in case it starts to snow on the walk home. However, once the drizzle turns into a downpour or your kiddo can’t resist diving into a puddle, they will likely get soaked to the bone rather quickly in water-resistant outerwear. In other words:
- Water-Resistant: These fabrics repel small amounts of water but soak through in a steady downpour. They’re okay for a light drizzle, not so great for puddle-jumping contests.
- Waterproof: This is your best friend for downpours, dancing in puddles, or a soccer game that refuses to be canceled. These materials provide a full barrier against rain, keeping your child dry even in heavy showers or when sitting in wet grass.
Tip: Check the seams! The terms “Taped seams” or “sealed seams” mean water won’t sneak in where pieces of fabric are stitched together. Low-quality raingear may carry the label “waterproof”, but if the seams are left unsealed, water WILL leak through.
One Piece vs. Two Piece Rainsuit
Both one-piece and two-piece rainsuits are great options depending on how you plan to use them and your child’s personality.
- One-piece Rainsuit: If you have a “puddle swimmer” that likes to fully immerse themselves in water and mud, a one-piece suit is the way to go. It will help prevent water from seeping in through the middle and provide extra protection while jumping in epic puddles. My boys fall in this category, so we generally stick with a one-piece suit such as the Oaki Trail Suit or the Muddy Buddy from Tuffo.
- Two-Piece Rainsuit: If you want a rainsuit that can be used separately (like a jacket on drizzly days or rainpants for creek adventures), you’ll want to consider a two-piece. This is also a great option for kiddos who are potty training. There’s nothing quite like the stress of having to remove a whole suit quickly enough to prevent an accident!
Breathability
Have you ever unzipped your child’s rainsuit after a morning of splashy fun only to find their clothes damp, not from rain, but from sweat? Sprinting through the rain and leaping over puddles is hard work. With no way to escape, the moisture from their sweat builds up in their clothes. This leaves kids feeling overheated on warm days and chilled on colder days.
Look for raingear that breathes. This could be through vent zippers under the arms, a mesh lining inside, or a coating on the fabric that allows moisture vapor to escape.
Durability
When my oldest was a toddler, I let him pick out the cute character rain suit we found on sale. He loved it and insisted on wearing it every time the weather even hinted at rain. Within a few weeks, there was a hole in the backside from him sliding down a hill, and the zipper would no longer zip all the way up. Needless to say, I learned my lesson.
Kids are hard on clothes, especially rain gear. Here are some things to look for to ensure their raingear will last more than a few splashy outings.
- Reinforced Knees and Seats: This is a game-changer if your kid lives on the ground, sliding along or scooting down hills. The Keep the Littles Wild One-Piece Rainsuit has super durable reinforcement on the knees and tush areas to help prevent holes and tears.
- Strong Zippers With Storm Flaps: This helps prevent rain from sneaking in.
- Sturdy Fabric: You want to choose something that doesn’t feel like it’ll tear the first time it brushes against a stick. Polyurethane (PU) and Shell rainwear are both good options.
- Double-Stitched or Taped Seams: While this is important for waterproofing, it also helps with durability. The taped seams and double stitching help prevent tears at the seams from rough play.
Durable gear may cost more, but it often lasts long enough to be handed down to a younger sibling or a friend, making the cost worth it in the long run.
Layering-Friendly Fit
Raingear is usually worn over clothes, so you’ll want a roomy fit that can be layered over base layers, sweaters, or even snow gear. But here’s the tricky part: too big, and suddenly sleeves are flopping into puddles and pant legs are dragging through the mud.
Adjustable cuffs, ankles, and waistbands can ensure a snug fit, even if the gear is a few sizes too big. This also provides a better seal to keep out water. If you’re looking at a two-piece rain set, consider pants with suspenders to help them stay up, no matter how wild your kiddo likes to play.
Safety First
Have you ever dressed your kiddo for an outdoor adventure, only to discover that they somehow blend in with their surroundings like a chameleon? If so, you know how important bright colors are, especially in the gloomy, dim lighting of a rainy day. Choosing rain gear that comes in brighter colors and includes reflective strips can ensure that your child stays visible, especially when splashing near parking lots or roads.
Also, keep an eye on materials. Avoid raingear made with PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is not only harmful to the environment but may contain unsafe chemicals. Many brands now offer PVC-free and eco-friendly alternatives (such as Polyurethane) that are safer for kids.
Details Matter
The small things really matter when it comes to comfort. Here are some details to consider when choosing rain gear:
- Hoods: You want one that actually stays up when the wind blows, not one that droops into your kid’s eyes. Bonus if it has a little brim.
- Zippers: Look for zipper guards that prevent the zippers from rubbing or pinching at the chin.
- Linings: Unlined jackets are lighter and easier to pack, but a fleece or mesh lining makes a big difference on chilly days.
- Easy On, Easy Off: The last thing you need is a wrestling match just to get the raingear on. Look for things like Velcro closures, elastic hems that can slip over boots, and boots with handles that kids can slip on themselves.
- Packability: For families on the go, packable gear can be a lifesaver. Many jackets and pants now come with their own stuff sacks or fold into pockets for easy storage. I like to fold our Oakiwear Trail Suits up into the hood for easy storage. These are perfect for school backpacks, diaper bags, or glove compartments, so you’re never caught off guard by a sudden downpour.
- Style: Function matters most, but kids are more likely to wear the gear they love. Giving kids some input in choosing the color and design of their gear can make it less of a chore to get them to wear it. It also encourages independence and pride in taking care of their clothing.
Don’t Forget the Boots
Rain boots are half the fun, right? At least until someone steps in a puddle deeper than their boots. We’ve all been there. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing rainboots:
- Waterproof materials such as rubber or synthetic are your best friend here. If you have a puddle swimmer like mine, I highly recommend a boot that forgoes the lining, such as Crocs boots. This will make drying out the insides a breeze.
- Slip-resistant soles for traction on wet playgrounds.
- Proper fit: Boots that are too loose can cause blisters, while ones that are too snug will be uncomfortable over thick socks.
- Removable insoles for easy drying.
- Handles or pull tabs for independence.
And don’t forget wool or moisture-wicking socks to keep little feet dry from the inside. Cotton socks, while common, tend to hold moisture and can leave little feet cold after just a short puddle session.
Price vs. Value
We’ve all been there. You’re shopping for rain gear and spot the fun, cheap raincoat with an appealing pattern. The one next to it is pricey with rugged-looking material. It’s tempting to grab the cheapest set, but cheaper gear often means you’ll need to replace it mid-season. Think about how often your child will actually use it.
If your climate experiences an occasional drizzle, the budget-friendly option might suffice. However, for daily school walks or sports in a rainy climate, it’s better to invest in higher-quality gear. It’ll last longer and probably also keep younger siblings dry.
Looking for used gear is a great way to find budget-friendly gear without having to skimp on quality. The first Oakiwear Trail Suit we bought lasted through both of my children and was just recently passed on to a younger family friend. That’s 3 (or more!) kids wearing the same rainsuit!
Rain doesn’t have to cancel playtime. With the right gear, your child can jump, splash, and explore to their heart’s content while staying warm and dry. As parents, our job isn’t to stop them from getting messy. It’s to make sure the mess is fun, safe, and not followed by a meltdown in soggy socks. Check out the Morrison Outdoors online shop for some of our favorite rain gear brands such as Oaki, Tuffo, and Keep the Littles Wild.
Rebecca is a transplant Coloradoan living in Hawaii with her husband (Derek) and their two boys. She’s a teacher turned freelance writer/ homeschool mom working towards exploring as many of the Pacific Islands as possible before the next move takes her family elsewhere. You can follow her family hiking, kayaking, SUPing, geocaching, camping, and all things outdoor adventuring on Instagram @frazzlednaturemom.
