OBERSON BUYING GUIDE
How to Choose Kids’ Winter Clothing
Here’s how to dress your kids for winter with layers, materials, and features that let them stay outside longer.
AT A GLANCE
Dress kids for winter with a three-layer system: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid layer, and a waterproof outer shell. The right materials in each layer—merino wool or synthetic for the base, down or synthetic insulation for the mid layer, and a membrane-backed shell for the outer layer—will keep your child warm, dry, and comfortable. Then add accessories to protect their hands, feet, and head from the cold.
What Is the Layering System and Why Does It Matter?
The three-layer system is the best, most adaptable approach to dressing kids in winter. Each layer plays a specific role: the base layer moves moisture away from the skin, the mid layer traps warmth, and the outer layer blocks wind, snow, and moisture. Together, they let you add or remove warmth based on temperature and activity level. You can pull off a mid layer when your little one is expending energy and then slip it back on during the next break.
Which Base Layer Should You Choose for Kids?
The base layer keeps your child dry. The right materials pull sweat away from the skin before a chill sets in. Merino wool and synthetic fibre are two excellent options. Avoid cotton: it absorbs moisture and holds it against the skin, which will quickly result in a freezing cold child.
| Merino Wool | Synthetic Fibres | |
|---|---|---|
| Warmth when wet | Retains thermal properties | Loses some insulation when saturated |
| Drying speed | Slower to dry | Dries quickly |
| Odour resistance | Naturally anti-odour | Traps odour over time |
| Softness | Naturally soft against skin | Varies by construction |
| Price | Higher | More affordable |
| Best for | All-day outdoor wear, cold and variable conditions | Intense activities, very active children |
Merino Wool
Choose merino for a child who spends long stretches outside in cold or variable conditions. It regulates temperature, stays warm even when damp, and won’t smell at the end of the day. The downsides are that it dries more slowly and costs more.
Synthetic Fibres
Go with synthetic materials for a highly active kid who tends to get hot. It wicks moisture faster and dries more quickly than merino, which is a big plus when they’re actively playing or during a warm spell.
Which Mid Layer Should You Choose?
The mid layer comes in two formats: fleece or puffer. Choose fleece for an active child who tends to get hot and sweaty. A vest works well for mild conditions. When it’s colder or for young ones who tend to get chilly, go with a puffer jacket. Either way, mid layers also work well as a standalone jacket in spring and fall.
Fleece
Choose fleece for an active child who runs warm. It’s breathable, stretchy, and comfortable.
Puffer Jacket
Go with a puffer jacket for colder conditions or a child who needs a bit of extra warmth. It traps more heat than fleece and is easy to compress and pack away when not needed. The insulation comes in two types:
- Down — Warmer and lighter, but loses most of its insulating ability when wet
- Synthetic — Retains warmth even when damp, dries faster, and is generally more affordable
Which Jacket and Snow Pants Should You Choose?
Choose a jacket with either down or synthetic insulation. The same logic applies as with the mid layer: down is warmer and lighter, synthetic performs better in wet conditions and usually costs less. Keep in mind that a thicker jacket isn’t necessarily a warmer one; modern synthetic insulations are thinner and lighter than older fills while retaining more heat.
Also look for a waterproof membrane combined with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating; water will eventually soak through a garment labelled “water-resistant.” You may see a rating on the hangtag: 10,000 mm and above handles most conditions comfortably. At 16,000 mm or higher, the garment can handle wet snow and some rain during long days outside. Construction details can make a difference: adjustable cuffs and a drawcord hem seal out wind and cold, and a well-fitted hood protects the head and neck. For little skiers and snowboarders, be sure the hood is helmet compatible.
Key Features
- Waterproof membrane and DWR coating
- Windproof fabric
- Insulation type (down or synthetic)
- Adjustable cuffs and drawcord hem
- Hood (helmet compatible for skiers and riders)
- Zippered pockets
- Ski pass pocket (for skiers and snowboarders)
Snow Pants
Pick snow pants that match the jacket’s waterproofing standard: kids often spend a lot of time sitting and kneeling in the snow. For the same reason, reinforced knees add durability. Check for a waist adjustment system, which can allow the pants to accommodate growth spurts.
Key Features
- Waterproof membrane + DWR coating
- Windproof fabric
- Insulation type (down or synthetic)
- Waist adjustment system
- Reinforced knees
- Zippered pockets
One-Piece or Two?
Choose a one-piece snowsuit for maximum protection and warmth—no gap at the waist means no snow or cold getting in. But bear in mind that bathroom breaks are more complicated.
Go with a two-piece jacket and pants for more flexibility. Layers can be mixed, matched, and replaced as kids grow. A jacket that works on the ski hill can also be worn on the walk to school.
Which Accessories Should You Choose?
Accessories complete the outfit and are essential for keeping your little one warm. As with the base layer, stick to merino wool or synthetic fabrics for everything that touches skin, and avoid cotton entirely.
Mittens and Gloves
Mittens are warmer than gloves. Fingers share heat when they’re together. Choose a waterproof, insulated model with an adjustable cuff to keep snow out. Consider some with attachment straps if your child is the type to leave mittens strewn about the yard.
Beanie and Balaclava
Keeping your child’s head warm is essential. A well-fitted beanie that covers the ears handles most days. A balaclava, which covers the head, face, and neck, is a great option for extra cold, windy days.
Neck Warmer
As the name suggests, neck warmers keep the neck warm. They’re also less restrictive and safer than a scarf. They stay in place better, whether your child is tucking straight down the mountain, sledding, or throwing snowballs.
Socks
Go with merino wool or synthetic socks that fit snugly without wrinkles and are thin enough not to compress the toes inside their boots.
Boots
Choose boots with a grippy sole that are lightweight, waterproof, and insulated. A warm lining in merino wool or synthetic fibres helps retain heat, and a collar that overlaps the snow pants—or better yet, with a drawstring closure—will keep snow from getting in.
How Should Kids’ Winter Clothing Fit?
Properly fitting clothing keeps your child warm and comfortable through a full day of fun in the snow. The fit should be roomy enough for layering and movement, without so much extra room that cold air circulates inside or movement is hindered.
Room to Grow
Look for garments with extendable sleeves and pant legs. They can lengthen the life of a garment by a full season.
What to Look For
Snow pants and jackets: enough room to layer underneath without pulling or bunching
Boots: a thumb’s width of space at the toe, tried on with the socks your child will actually wear
Mittens and gloves: snug at the wrist, enough room to wiggle fingers
FAQ — How to Choose Kids’ Winter Clothing
What’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant in kids’ winter clothing?
Water-resistant means the fabric is tightly woven enough to prevent light moisture from soaking through the garment within a limited timeframe. Waterproof means the garment has a membrane that blocks water from penetrating and a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating on the outer fabric. For kids who spend a lot of time outdoors in winter, waterproof is the standard to look for. A rating of 10,000 mm and above handles most conditions comfortably; 16,000 mm or higher is best for wet snow or long days outside.
How should I care for kids’ winter clothing?
Wash winter garments in cold water with a mild detergent or with a cleaner designed for technical gear and then air-dry. Over time, the DWR coating that makes water bead off the outer fabric will wear down with washing and use. You can restore it by tumble drying the clean garment on low heat for 20 minutes or by applying a DWR spray. Recommendations vary by material, so always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
How can I tell if a winter jacket is warm enough for my child?
Insulation type is a major factor. Down offers the best warmth-to-weight ratio; high-quality synthetic insulation performs nearly as well and has the advantage of retaining warmth even when wet. A jacket also needs to be both windproof and waterproof. Thickness alone isn’t a reliable guide: modern synthetic fills are both thinner and warmer than older ones.
What’s the best material for kids’ winter base layers?
Merino wool and synthetic fibres are both excellent choices. Merino wool is soft, regulates temperature, stays warm even when damp, and resists odour naturally. Synthetic fibres, which are generally more budget-friendly, also wick moisture but dry more quickly. Either way, avoid cotton: it absorbs moisture and quickly becomes clammy, which will make your child cold and uncomfortable.
How do I keep my child’s feet warm in winter?
Yes, for skiing and snowboarding, goggles are essential. They protect against wind, cold air, branches, and UV rays reflected off the snow. For everyday outdoor play, a good pair of UV-protective sunglasses does the job.
How do I keep my child's feet warm in winter?
Start with the right socks: merino wool or synthetic, never cotton. They should fit snugly without wrinkles and be thin enough not to compress the toes inside the boot. Keep in mind that tight boots restrict circulation and make feet colder. Then choose an insulated, waterproof boot with a slip-resistant sole.
Before heading out, be sure the boots aren’t already cold. Warm the boots near a heat vent, a woodstove, or a car heater on the drive over to the park or ski resort.
Kids’ Winter Clothing at Oberson
Oberson carries a wide selection of kids' winter clothing—base layers, mid layers, jackets, snow pants, one-piece snowsuits, and accessories—from trusted brands, such as Helly Hansen, Kombi, Lé Bent, and Smartwool. Our specialists are available in-store and online to help you find the right apparel for your child. Stop by our Laval or Brossard locations or shop online.
