Everything You Need to Know to Dress Your Child for Outdoor Play in Wet or Cold Weather
Maybe you’ve heard the Alfred Wainwright quote: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.”
But as parents, do we really believe this? We often worry our children will be cold, wet, crabby, or uncomfortable during their wet or snowy outdoor play.
If we want our children to play outdoors in all kinds of weather, we must take care not to pass along the opinion that there is such a thing as “bad” weather. Framing the play outdoors as exciting, adventurous, and FUN is especially important when the weather is wet or chilly. Our children follow our lead.
But that doesn’t mean we want them to be uncomfortable or miserable and cold!
Dressing children for outdoor play in wet or cold weather can help us STOP worrying and ENJOY sending our children outdoors in rain and snow. Kids can play safely and comfortably outdoors for long periods of time when they have the right clothing!*
*This article contains affiliate links to make it easy for you to review and/or purchase items we recommend. As an Amazon Associate, Outdoor Kids OT earns from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Earnings are used to fund scholarships for children to attend therapy services at Outdoor Kids OT.
Here are the 3 tips that will teach you everything you need to know to dress your child for comfortable play outdoors in wet or cold weather.
Tip #1: NEVER wear cotton! 🚫
Cotton does not insulate when wet. It takes a long time to dry and becomes very cold and uncomfortable on your child’s skin. Check the labels of all clothing and do NOT wear cotton. NO cotton in the socks, long johns, shirts, pants, jackets, or hats! Repeat after me: “I will NOT dress my child in cotton for rainy or snowy play.” 😁
Tip #2: Dress your child in 3 LAYERS.
Layered clothing traps warmth next to the body and keeps your child cozy.
There are 3 main layers your child should wear every time they play in wet or cold weather:
1. The Base Layer
This top and bottom layer goes next to the skin. (a.k.a. long underwear or long johns).
Merino WOOL is best! Wool is anti-microbial and does NOT stink. Wool also insulates even when it is wet. Gone are the days of scratchy wool. There are many options for comfortable soft merino wool base layers for children.
Smartwool (pricey but high-quality)
Simply Merino (more affordable and excellent value)
Polyester or nylon synthetics are also an option. They tend to be more affordable, but also trap odors and get stinky more quickly than merino wool. Some children may need synthetics due to wool allergies. If you choose synthetics, remember to check for COTTON and do NOT buy if there is cotton in the fabric!
Some good synthetic options:
2. The Warm Layer(s)
This layer provides the warmth! If your child gets cold easily, you may consider 2 warm layers.
This layer may be a fleece jacket with hood + fleece pants.
Hooded fleece jackets are great because hats often get lost!
Some good options are listed here but we highly recommend visiting your local thrift store! Fleece jackets and pants can often be found at thrift stores for very low prices. Plus then you’re reducing, reusing, and recycling…which as nature-lovers, we love. 💚
3. The WaterPROOF Layer.
This top (jacket) AND bottom (pants) layer provides protection from the cold and wetness of rain and snow.
Make sure to buy waterPROOF and not just water resistant outer layers!
Some good options are listed here.
Frogg Toggs is a popular, durable, and surprisingly affordable high-quality brand.
Tip #3: Wear the right footwear!
There are 2 things your child needs on their feet:
Warm thick wool SOCKS.
Smartwool is our favorite brand. They are an investment but last for a very long time and are high-quality. Double up on socks if your child’s feet tend to get cold or if temperatures are very low where you live.
2. WaterPROOF BOOTS.
Purchase an insulated boot if your child will play outdoors in snow or very cold weather.
Look for boots with the flattest soles possible! These can be hard to find since boots tend to be bulky. When soles are too bulky or thick, the boot does not allow the child’s foot to flex and can make walking and playing in the woods more challenging. The more flexible the sole, the better, while still being waterproof.
Rubber is more durable than PVC plastic, but many children’s boots are made of PVC. Check the materials if you want to avoid plastic.
Some good boot options are listed here.
Here’s the quick summary:
NO cotton, 3 layers, & the right footwear!
Now your child is fully equipped to experience the joy of play outdoors in the rain and snow! 🌧 ❄️