Theres no better way to raise future adventurers than getting them outside when they’re little. It’s not always easy, but it is always worth it. That’s why quality kids snow gear and apparel matters so much. We never regret a day spent outside with our children — but we will definitely take help when we can get it.
Not only is this gear for kiddos the first line of defense protecting our little ones from the bitter cold, but it also enables parents to get outside more, too. And now, kids’ snow gear is better than ever before. Instead of shrinking down adult ski jackets, outdoor brands are specifically designing gear that caters to our kids’ movements. End result: happy kids, happy parents, and more days outside.
Its best to start with a base layer like the Iksplor Kid Iksplorer Set, followed by a midlayer such as the Patagonia Baby Down Sweater Vest. To shield against the weather, youll want to snag an outer layer — for instance, the Reima Stavanger Snowsuit — or a pants and jacket set.
Editor’s note: We updated our Kids’ Snow Gear guide on December 16, 2024, to include the field-tested Airblaster Youth Ninja Suit, Town Hall Down Town Puffy, Hootie Hoo Pinnakle Insulated Jacket and Insulated Bibs, and Reima Ote Waterproof Mittens.
The Best Kids’ Snow Gear of 2024-2025 Best Base Layers for Kids: Iksplor Kid Iksplorer Set Best Bunting Suit for Kids: Patagonia Bunting Sweater Best Base Layer Onesie: Airblaster Youth Ninja Suit Best Insulated Winter Jacket for Kids: Town Hall Down Town Puffy Best Insulated Ski Kit for Kids: Hootie Hoo Pinnakle Insulated Jacket and Insulated Bibs Best Snowsuit for Kids: Reima Stavanger Snowsuit Best Mittens for Kids: Reima Ote Waterproof Mittens Iksplor Kid Iksplorer Set Check Price at iksplor
Specs Available sizes: 2T-12 years old Materials: 100% merino wool Waterproof: No Pros Made in the USA Machine washable Merino naturally regulates body temperature Cons Wool always costs more than synthetic fibers Heather Balogh Rochfort Our Oregon-based tester raves about these American-made wool base layers for kids, and it’s easy to see why. Not only is the Iksplor Kid Iksplorer Set ($109) made from 100% merino wool, but it’s also fully certified under the Responsible Wool Standard. This means that the wool comes from suppliers who are paying attention to land use and animal welfare requirements.
Beyond their environmental impact, the Iksplorer Set gets high marks for a universal fit. Iksplor designs the layers to be a bit long so kids can hopefully get a couple of seasons of use. And, one tester noted that the longer length gave her kiddo extra coverage along the hemline and wrists.
The merino of the Kid Iksplorer Set is soft to the touch — no itchiness to irritate a fussy kid — and breathable enough that your children won’t overheat while tossing those snowballs.
Best Bunting Suit for Kids Patagonia Infant High-Loft Down Sweater Bunting check price at patagonia$169 at evo
Specs Available sizes: Newborn – 24 months Materials: Recycled polyester, recycled nylon, and recycled down insulation Waterproof: No Pros Made from recycled materials Plenty of room to grow, no matter the size Extreme warmth Cons Not truly waterproof Heather Balogh Rochfort Sleep well at night, knowing your babe is wrapped in environmentally friendly warmth. The Patagonia Infant High-Loft Down Sweater Bunting ($169) is made from exclusively recycled materials: recycled nylon from fishing nets pulled out of the ocean, recycled taffeta in the shell, and 100% recycled down insulation reclaimed from other projects. Bonus: Patagonia also uses a PFC-free Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, so your kid isn’t wrapped in chemicals, too.
And, this piece performs well. Our testers loved the intuitive entry and exit zipper placement, which makes it easy to get onto wriggling babies.
Warmth is also top-notch, as one Colorado tester learned after taking her five-month-old on a backcountry hut trip near Crested Butte. Caveat: While water resistant, this bunting is not waterproof.
Fit note: The Infant High-Loft Down Sweater Bunting runs large. One tester’s daughter wore her six-month bunting until she was nearly 15 months old.
Best Base Layer Onesie Airblaster Youth Ninja Suit $90 at evoCheck price at Backcountry
Specs Available sizes: XS-Large (5-6 through 10-12) Materials: Polyester blend Waterproof: No Pros Simple design so kids can dress themselves One-piece style is warmer than two pieces Comfy enough to double as pajamas Cons One-piece design may not appeal to older kids Heather Balogh Rochfort It’s comfortable, it’s warm, and it’s downright adorable. The Airblaster Youth Ninja Suit ($100) is simple in design yet so functional that your kiddo may refuse to come inside.
The concept is pretty straightforward. It’s a gigantic onesie with two main zippers: one vertical on the front and one horizontal around the backside to create a drop seat for bathroom breaks. The front zipper is long enough to make it easy for your kiddo to dress themself, which is a huge perk for busy parents everywhere. The drop seat zipper is quite generous, wrapping all the way around to the front of the onesie. During one emergency bathroom situation, our 6-year-old tester was still able to zip the bottom off and make it in time — saving the ski day.
Since there are no clothing breaks or exposed skin when wearing the Ninja Suit, it is incredibly warm, as one tester discovered during a late spring blizzard in Colorado. Still, thanks to the four-way stretch in the polyester fabric, our crew was still able to crawl into a snow fort with nary a mobility complaint.
Bonus: Eight colorful patterns for the Ninja Suit will make any kid happy.
Best Insulated Winter Jacket for Kids Town Hall Down Town Puffy $160 at evo$160 at REI
Specs Available sizes: XS-XL Materials: Recycled polyester, recycled nylon Waterproof: No Pros Fully recycled materials are better for the planet Technical puffy for kids who need high performance Fun colors that will please almost any kiddo Cons Expensive Heather Balogh Rochfort For little rippers who go hard, there is no better option than the Town Hall Down Town Puffy ($160). With a fully sustainable design and technical prowess that rivals adult jackets, the Down Town is a sure thing for kids who like to get out and stay out.
Almost all outdoor gear calls for synthetic (derived from fossil fuels) materials. But the Down Town offsets the reliance on petroleum with a slew of recycled materials, including a 100% recycled polyester exterior fabric and an interior liner that is 75% undyed recycled nylon and 25% recycled polyester.
The 650-fill power down is 100% certified recycled, and even the webbing pulls and hanger loops are made from recycled materials. And, the entire puffy uses PFC-free DWR treatment, so there are no ‘forever chemicals’ in the water-resistant coating.
The sustainability is great, but the performance is even better. The Down Town is a true puffy, and it acts like one. The elastic insulated hood and two zippered hand pockets kept our tester cozy during her weekly evening Nordic ski lessons in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley when temps dropped as low as the high teens. The included Grow System adds two inches of length, so the jacket will last you even longer. And when it’s time to tuck it away, the Down Town packs up decently small — almost as good as an adult jacket.
Best Insulated Ski Kit for Kids Hootie Hoo Pinnakle Insulated Jacket and Insulated Bibs $126 at evo Shirt$165 at evo Pants
Specs Available sizes: 4-12, Small-Large Materials: Recycled polyester, recycled nylon, Primaloft Silver recycled insulation Waterproof: Yes Pros High waterproof and breathability ratings Recycled materials throughout Growing system extends use Cons Expensive for the whole kit Heather Balogh Rochfort Hootie Hoo is one of the many newer outdoor brands specializing in kids-only apparel, and we are here for it. This dedication to kiddo-specific movement is evident in the Hootie Hoo Pinnakle Insulated Jacket ($180) and Insulated Bibs ($165). Not only did the high-quality materials protect our kids from nasty weather, but this ski kit enabled them to go bigger than ever.
The 100% recycled four-way stretch polyester is used in both the bibs and the jacket, allowing for a full range of movement. This became evident during one late-season ski day when our 6-year-old tester hiked Highlands Bowl at Aspen Highlands Ski Resort. The steps kicked into the snow were well over knee high on her little legs, yet she still had enough mobility to climb upwards without any complaints (well, she was tired…but that has nothing to do with the kit!)
Both items are rated with a 20K waterproofing and an 8K breathability rating. This is fairly standard in an insulated ski kit and was plenty for most ski days. While hiking the Bowl, our tester did get a little warm — but that’s to be expected while wearing an insulated kit in the sunshine and hiking 900 vertical feet in ski boots.
Added bonus: This kit just looks good. We tested the matching Lavender Breezy color combination and couldn’t go a single step without an adult commenting on our little tester’s steeze.
Best Snowsuit for Kids Reima Stavanger Snowsuit check price at reima
Specs Available sizes: 2T 10 years old Materials: Regular and recycled polyamide, regular and recycled polyester, Fellex insulation Waterproof: Yes Pros Unparallelled warmth and waterproofing Unique, kid-specific features Plenty of fun colors for kids Cons Pricey Kids have complained that it’s too warm Heather Balogh Rochfort We’re convinced: There is no burlier snowsuit than the Reima Stavanger Snowsuit ($200). Our GearJunkie testers often ski tour while towing their daughter in a Thule Chariot in the mountains outside of Aspen, Colorado, and the Stavanger was always the last line of defense against extreme cold temperatures thanks to copious amounts of recycled synthetic insulation.
When combined with a sturdy synthetic outer shell and waterproof-sealed seams, it’s nearly impossible for chilly weather to find its way inside.
Reima includes plenty of kid-specific features that make the Stavanger a crowd favorite. Not only do they pack in extra insulation on the butt to offset kids sitting in the snow, but the snowsuit also includes silicone foot loops that hook around snow boots to prevent pant legs from riding up. At forest school, one tester walked through an ankle-deep river, and the Stavanger still never wet out.
The fit runs a bit large but go with the standard sizing — your kiddo will just wear it for a few years. Bonus: The Stavanger Snowsuit has a removable hood lined with faux fur that helps keep snowflakes off rosy cheeks.
Read Review: You Won’t Find a Warmer Kids’ Snowsuit: Reima Stavanger Snowsuit Review
Best Mittens for Kids Reima Ote Waterproof Mittens Check price at reima
Specs Available sizes: 1-10 year Materials: Polyurethane, polyamide, recycled polyamide, polyester, recycled polyester Waterproof: Yes Pros Easy to get onto little hands Secure wrist strap works with elastic cuff to stay on kids’ hands Incredibly warm Cons Larger size range can be tricky to navigate Heather Balogh Rochfort We’re not sure how it works at your house, but mittens cause all-out battles at ours when they fall off cold hands or get bunched up beneath jacket sleeves. Fortunately, that is all in the past, thanks to the Reima Ote Waterproof Mittens ($40).
Bottom line: If there is one mitten to rule them all, it’s the Ote. With 100% recycled Primaloft synthetic insulation and a Hipora insert (straight from the moto world) that adds warmth and breathability, we’ve never encountered such a warm mitten. Our tester used the Ote mittens for an entire year of forest school where she was outside for 30 hours per week in the Colorado Rockies and never once did she complain about cold fingers.
And, they stay on, which is a miracle unto itself. The elastic cuff fits on top of a jacket sleeve like a gauntlet glove, but it’s stretchy, so it’s easy for a child to put on by themself. An added cinch strap secures the mitten around the wrist, acting as a second layer to keep cold out while preventing the mitten from easily falling off.
Sizing comes in two-year increments (i.e., 4-6 years old), so it can be finicky depending on where your child’s measurements fall. But that’s a small price to pay for such a fantastic winter mitten.
Best of the Rest WeeDo Snowsuit $210 at evo$130 at Backcountry
Specs Available sizes: XS- L Materials: Polyester and recycled polyester Waterproof: Yes Pros Cutest design on the ski hill Internal suspenders are a great feature for snowsuits Toilet zipper for bathroom breaks Cons Very expensive Heather Balogh Rochfort If your kid wants to make a statement on the ski hill, there is no better way to do so than the WeeDo Snowsuit ($282). WeeDo managed to create a series of fun-loving snowsuits themed after a variety of creatures such as a unicorn, dinosaur, or even a raccoon.
But, they function even better than they look thanks to unique features designed for kids. Our favorite: the full-waist zipper that splits the snowsuit in half to make bathroom breaks easier.
We also love the internal suspenders on this fun Snowsuit that allowed our 5-year-old tester to walk around the ski lodge without dragging the top of her snowsuit behind. And, did you note those cute lil’ antlers?
Read Review: Unique, Functional, and Downright Cozy: WeeDo OhDeer Deer Snowsuit Review
L.L.Bean Kids’ Down Jacket check price at L.L.BEAN
Specs Available sizes: Little kids 4 Big kids 18 Materials: Ripstop nylon, polyester fleece, and down insulation Waterproof: No Pros Great mobility for kids to play and run Plenty of warmth for most winter adventures Wide range of sizes Cons Puffy jackets aren’t very durable Heather Balogh Rochfort When the mercury drops, put your kiddo in the L.L.Bean Kids’ Down Jacket ($109). Reported to be one of the brand’s warmest options for littles, one lead tester wore it to forest school for a winter in Colorado, and it quickly became her favorite jacket to bring.
The secret: ultra mobility and supreme coziness. Credit the 650-fill DownTek down and an uber-soft fleece interior for making it a favorite among kids.
Two zippered hand pockets are lined with a light fleece and have plenty of room for small toys, snacks, or the occasional pinecone. The insulated hood on the Kids’ Down Jacket is a game changer on blustery days, but it’s removable for when the sun peaks out again.
Read Review: Waterproof Down Warmth, Fleece-Lined Comfort: Kids’ L.L.Bean Down Jacket Review
Namuk Crusade Snow Pants Upcycled check price at namuk
Specs Available sizes: 2T 13 years old Materials: Upcycled polyester; recycled synthetic insulation Waterproof: Yes Pros Biodegradable insulation Loose, freerider fit that pleases most kids Machine washable Cons Pricey for just snow pants Heather Balogh Rochfort It’s the perfect trifecta: style, functionality, and environmental responsibility. The Namuk Crusade Snow Pants Upcycled ($149) comes from a Swiss brand that only makes kids gear — nothing for adults. That means they have the details dialed on kids gear and apparel since it’s their only focus.
In the Crusade snow pants, that means plenty of pockets for snacks and the occasional toy, as well as brightly-colored patterns that stand out against other snow pants. They’re fully waterproof too, and one tester wore them skiing all winter without any saturation issues.
But the highlight of the Crusade Upcycled snow pants is their dedication to sustainability. Each pair of Upcycled snow pants uses leftover fabric remnants from previous years, so no two pants are the same. (There’s also a non-upcycled Crusade snow pant made with 100% polyester, so don’t be confused.)
And the warmth of the Crusade Snow Pants Upcycled comes from PrimaLoft Bio, a 100% recycled synthetic insulation that also biodegrades in landfills. Of course, all that goodness comes with a tradeoff: They aren’t cheap.
Patagonia Baby Down Sweater Vest check price at patagoniacheck price at backcountry
Specs Available sizes: 3 mos.- 5T Materials: Recycled nylon, recycled taffeta, and recycled down Waterproof: No Pros Adds mobility compared to a puffy 700-fill power makes it super packable for parents Elasticized arm cuffs don’t pinch skin Cons Fairly pricey for a vest Heather Balogh Rochfort Kids wiggle and move a lot. They also whine—especially when something is uncomfortable. For kids who love to fuss over the bulk of their layers, consider the Patagonia Baby Down Sweater Vest ($99). It has all the good stuff to keep your kiddo warm including 700-fill power of 100% recycled down.
This layer is ultra-packable, too, with our tester noting that she shoves her child’s vest in the exterior water bottle pocket of her backpack.
As with the Patagonia bunting, the vest runs big. One preschooler wore her size 2T until she was nearly five years old. But even then, the spandex elasticized armholes weren’t constricting or cutting in her armpits.
In more good feedback, the Baby Down Sweater Vest is lightweight and easily fits under jackets.
Gordini Easy-On Mittens check price at rei
Specs Available sizes: XXS-XL Materials: Ripstop nylon, Megaloft synthetic insulation, Dri-Max waterproof insert Waterproof: Yes Pros Easy on-off for kids Grippy palm that makes mittens less cumbersome Incredibly warm Cons Some testers had a hard time keeping them on Heather Balogh Rochfort When it comes to mittens, Vermont-based Gordini knows what it’s doing. The brand makes amazing gloves and mittens for all members of the family, but we were beyond impressed with the Gordini Easy-On Mittens ($30) for toddlers.
The features are everything you want in a mitten. The outer material is grippy enough for kids to hold onto things, and the dreaded thumbhole is super easy for them to put their own thumb into, thanks to the long zipper on the side of the mitten. Our 5-year-old tester had zero issues pulling these on by herself—a modern miracle.
The side zipper serves two functions since it also makes it easy to pull the gauntlet wrist over any jacket. Both our 5-year-old and 2-year-old testers agree — the Easy-On Mittens are the warmest and most playful mittens we’ve tested.
Patagonia Midweight Capilene Crew Bottoms check price at patagonia Shirtcheck price at patagonia Pants
Specs Available sizes: XS-XXL Materials: Recycled polyester Waterproof: No Pros More affordable than wool Recycled polyester is less reliant on fossil fuels than virgin polyester Smooth surface is great for layering Cons Not a ton of fun colors for kids Heather Balogh Rochfort If allergies or pricing keep you away from wool, then Capilene is another great option. We love the Patagonia Midweight Kids’ Capilene Crew ($39) and Bottoms ($39). They’re made from 100% recycled polyester with an exceedingly soft surface that kids love.
When combined with the slim fit, we had zero complaints from one preschool tester as we layered her snowsuit over top of them.
Polyester layers typically hold onto odors more than wool, but Patagonia uses an antimicrobial coating that keeps smells at bay. One tester wore the Patagonia Midweight Kids’ Capilene Crew and Bottoms through four days of skiing and her parents barely noticed a smell.
Columbia Kids’ Omni-Heat Midweight Baselayer Crew Bottom check crew price at columbia
Specs Available sizes: XXS-XL Materials: Polyester Waterproof: No Pros Super warm during high-output activities Affordable Cons Definitely stink after a few use Heather Balogh Rochfort The Columbia Kids’ Omni-Heat Midweight Baselayer Crew ($25) and Bottom ($20) check a lot of boxes for outdoor and active kiddos. These 100% polyester baselayers have Columbia’s OmniHeat thermal reflective technology lining the inside, designed to bounce your kid’s body heat back at him. And, it works.
Our field testers pulled on these layers for 3 months and found themselves happy and dripping sweat after an intense snowball fight.
While the Kids’ Omni-Heat Midweight Baselayer Crew and Bottom do wick moisture well, we still noticed a bit of body odor after a couple of days. Bonus: The price tag is also nice on the wallet.
Oaki Rain/Trail Suit check price at oaki
Specs Available sizes: 12 month – 15 years old Materials: Nylon and polyester Waterproof: Yes Pros Waterproof one-piece keeps everything out Wide range of sizes to fit a swath of kids Cons Requires hand washing and air drying, which can be time consuming Heather Balogh Rochfort Forest school is usually where kids’ snow gear goes to die. But, the Oaki Rain/Trail Suit ($79) proved otherwise after one GearJunkie tester sent her son out for 5 hours per day all winter long—and he always came back dry, warm, and delightfully clean.
The secret is the fully waterproof, one-piece design that is more impenetrable than a fortress thanks to a nylon and polyester outer with a polyurethane membrane.
In testing the Oaki Rain/Trail Suit, we also loved the off-center zipper that goes all the way past the crotch, making nature pees quick and easy.
Chasing Windmills Merino Sweatshirt Fleece Sweatpants check Shirt price at chasing windmillscheck Pants price at chasing windmills
Specs Available sizes: 2-14 Materials: Merino wool Waterprooof: No Pros Versatile enough to be outdoor midlayers or indoor jammies Soft fleece interior is ultra cozy Cons Pricey for a full set Heather Balogh Rochfort The Chasing Windmills Merino Fleece Sweatshirt ($59) and Sweatpants ($59) are envied by parents but built for kids.
Both layers are made with 100% New Zealand and Australian merino wool, so they dry quickly and help regulate body temperature. But the brushed fleece interior is beyond cozy, making this kit a perennial favorite for one 4-year-old who wears his to forest school during the day and on the couch at home at night.
Like traditional sweatpants, the fit is looser on the Merino Fleece Sweatshirt and Sweatpants. These are meant to be worn as midlayers.
Patagonia Baby Reversible Tribbles Hoody check price at patagoniacheck price at backcountry
Specs Available sizes: 3 mos. – 5T Materials: Recycled polyester and recycled polyester taffeta Waterproof: Yes Pros Reversible so you get two styles All recycled materials Cons Some kiddos claim it’s “too warm” for moderate temperatures Heather Balogh Rochfort Parents always love a good deal, and this one is a twofer. The Patagonia Baby Reversible Tribbles Hoody ($109) is not only fully reversible but it’s also made out of 100% recycled fleece on one side and 100% recycled polyester on the other.
Our testers loved this jacket for its big, cozy hood that comes with two snap buttons around the chin.
While in forest school, the Baby Reversible Tribbles Hoody kept our 4-year-old tester plenty warm and dry. That said, he did refuse to put it on indoors because it’s “Too hot!” Fortunately, that’s exactly what we’d like to hear.
Obermeyer Snoverall Bib $100 at REI
Specs Available sizes: 1-8 Materials: Polyester Waterproof: Yes Pros Quick-release shoulder straps Plenty of color options for kiddos Cons Younger children may struggle with the design while using the bathroom Heather Balogh Rochfort When your 2-year-old wakes up and immediately asks to put on his snow pants and go outside, you know you’re doing something right. These Obermeyer Snoverall Bibs ($100) are a true bib design with material covering the lower stomach.
The straps are adjustable and come with a quick-release feature, which makes them a lot easier to remove. But, one tester still struggled to get them off in time for the bathroom.
These Snoverall Bibs also feature an I-Grow system; snip a few threads and add up to two inches of length.
Hestra Junior Tracker Gloves $50 at Amazon
Specs Sizes: 3-7 Materials: Polyester and Primaloft insulation Waterproof: No Pros Great dexterity-to-warmth ratio Very breathable Cons Not waterproof or warm enough for sedentary activities Heather Balogh Rochfort Sweden-based Hestra has been making gloves and mittens since 1936, and the Hestra Junior Tracker ($50) gloves are one of our favorites for high-octane sports like cross-country skiing.
Durable stretch polyester on the palm made it easy for our tester to hang onto his poles, and the three-layer polyester shell offers plenty of breathability.
Still, the Hestra Junior Tracker is plenty warm thanks to the PrimaLoft Gold insulation.
Testing out the layering system with the L.L.Bean Fleece cuffs; (photo/Will Rochfort) Kids Snow Gear Comparison Chart Scroll right to view all of the columns: Price, Sizes, Materials, Waterproof.
Kids Gear | Price | Sizes | Materials | Waterproof |
---|---|---|---|---|
Iksplor Kid Iksplorer Set | $109 | 2T-12 years old | 100% merino wool | No |
Patagonia Infant High-Loft Down Sweater Bunting | $169 | Newborn – 24 months | Recycled polyester, recycled nylon, and recycled down insulation | No |
Patagonia Baby Down Sweater Vest | $99 | 3 mos.- 5T | Recycled nylon, recycled taffeta, and recycled down | No |
Airblaster Youth Ninja Suit | $100 | XS-Large (5-6 through 10-12) | Polyester blend | No |
Town Hall Down Town Puffy | $160 | XS-XL | Recycled polyester, recycled nylon | No |
Hootie Hoo Pinnakle Insulated Jacket and Insulated Bibs | $180 | 4-12, Small-Large | Recycled polyester, recycled nylon, Primaloft Silver recycled insulation | Yes |
L.L.Bean Kids’ Down Jacket | $109 | Little Kids 4 – Big Kids 18 | Ripstop nylon, polyester fleece, and down insulation | No |
Namuk Crusade Snow Pants Upcycled | $149 | 2T – 13 years old | Upcycled polyester; recycled synthetic insulation | Yes |
Reima Stavanger Snowsuit | $195 | 2T – 10 years old | Regular and recycled polyamide, regular and recycled polyester, Fellex insulation | Yes |
Reima Ote Waterproof Mittens | $40 | 1-10 year | Polyurethane, polyamide, recycled polyamide, polyester, recycled polyester | Yes |
Gordini Easy-On Mittens | $30 | XXS-XL | Ripstop nylon, Megaloft synthetic insulation, Dri-Max waterproof insert | Yes |
WeeDo Ohdeer Deer Snowsuit | $282 | XS- L | Polyester and recycled polyester | Yes |
Patagonia Midweight Capilene Crew Bottoms | $35-39 | XS-XXL | Recycled polyester | No |
Columbia Kids’ Omni-Heat Midweight Baselayer Crew Bottom | $30-20 | XXS-XL | Polyester | No |
Oaki Rain/Trail Suit | $79 | 12 mos – 15 years old | Nylon and polyester | Yes |
Chasing Windmills Merino Sweatshirt Fleece Sweatpants | $59 | 2-14 | Merino wool | No |
Patagonia Baby Reversible Tribbles Hoody | $109 | 3 mos. – 5T | Recycled polyester and recycled polyester taffeta | Yes |
Obermeyer Snoverall Bib | $100 | 1-8 | Polyester | Yes |
Hestra Junior Tracker Gloves | $50 | 3-7 | Polyester and Primaloft insulation | Yes |
Playing in the snow for long hours requires warm, waterproof, and breathable layers for kids; (photo/Will Rochfort) How We Tested Kids’ Snow Gear Our Expert Testers Based in Carbondale, Colorado,Heather Balogh Rochfortis an avid outdoors person with decades of experience in mountain snowsports, like backcountry skiing, downhill skiing, uphilling, and cross-country skiing. She is also a mom to a vivacious kindergartener who logged more than 50 days at the local ski hill during the 2022-23 ski year. She also logged more than 50 days for the 2023-24 ski season: She boot packed Highlands Bowl for the first time. Not only did her daughter enjoy weekly full-day downhill ski lessons at Snowmass Ski Resort, but she also participated in weekly Nordic ski lessons, making her a prime tester for all kids’ gear and apparel. Her daughter also enjoys sledding after school.
Contributor Chelsey Magness was also a lead tester with her family in the Pacific Northwest.
Our Testing Grounds In addition to extensive research and knowledge of the category, we loaded our own children up with various apparel items last winter. They wore this gear downhill skiing, during family adventure trips, and every day to forest school, a type of outdoor preschool where the kiddos spend all day outside — no matter the weather. This meant the kids’ snow ski clothes were put through the wringer while walking through streams, hiking winter trails, cruising the local Nordic skiing loop, and riding bikes down snowy trails.
Our Testing Process For this guide, we first looked at the essential items needed to safely get children outside in the snow: base layers, midlayers, jackets, snow pants, snowsuits, and gloves. From there, we looked at the overall quality of the item, durability, affordability, fit, and sustainability in regard to renewable fibers. We also considered kid-specific factors like ease of use and functionality since kids prioritize different components than adults do. We tried to look at each item from an adult perspective to evaluate everyday features like washability or easy-to-use buttons.
Finally, we considered style. While toddlers don’t really care about what they’re wearing, older kids definitely have opinions. It’s important for children to like their snow gear, so we took style and trends into consideration.
A group of kiddos testing cold-weather gear on an autumn day; (photo/Chelsey Magness) Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Kids’ Snow Gear Choosing kids’ ski clothing is daunting because you’re looking at a number of items and factors. However, here are the most important criteria to consider no matter what type of item you’re considering.
Waterproofness Contrary to what you may think, not all kids’ gear and apparel is waterproof, nor does it need to be. Items like the L.L.Bean Kids’ Down Jacket or the Town Hall Down Town Puffy are only water-resistant, which means that a light rain for a short period of time won’t cause any problems. However, a jacket like the Patagonia Everyday Ready Jacket or kits like the Oaki Rain/Trail Suit and the Hootie Hoo Pinnakle Insulated Jacket and Insulated Bibs are completely waterproof. This means that water resistance is enough to keep out driving rain or — in this case — total saturation when a child is sitting in a snowbank for 2 hours.
Snowball fights are a prime time to test out snow gear for kids; (photo/Will Rochfort) If you know you’re looking for waterproofing, it’s good to know that there are varying levels of water resistance. These are called waterproof ratings, and they are measured in millimeters. During this testing process, a one-inch by one-inch cylinder is placed over the tested fabric. The cylinder is then filled with water. The height that water reaches before the fabric leaks — known as the water column — is where the waterproof rating comes from.
0-5,000mm: Minimal to no water resistance. 6,000-10,000mm: Rainproof and waterproof under light pressure. 11,000-15,000mm: Rainproof and waterproof unless under high pressure. 16,000-20,000mm: Rainproof and waterproof under high pressure. 20,0000mm+: Rainproof and waterproof under very high pressure. For most external kids’ snow gear, you’ll want waterproof ratings that minimally fall between 6,000-10,000 mm.
Dropseats like the one on the WeeDo Ohdeer Deer Snowsuit can be super convenient for letting kids quickly go to the bathroom; (photo/Will Rochfort) It’s also a good idea to understand where waterproofing comes from, as most fabrics arent naturally waterproof. To get this waterproofing, most apparel uses either a laminate or a coating. A laminate is similar to wallpaper in that it provides full coverage with the best level of waterproofing. It costs more and is frequently made from polyurethane (PU). Unlike wallpaper, a coating is painted on in a similar fashion to how we paint a wall. While this is more affordable, it doesn’t offer as effective waterproofing.
Most outerwear uses Durable Water Repellent or DWR. This is an added chemical finish that allows the moisture to bead up on the surface of the garment. Historically, DWR was a toxic concoction packed with “forever chemicals” called polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAs. These days, many brands like REI and Patagonia are taking a stand against these toxic chemicals and using PFA-free DWR that is better for the environment.
Final note: while most outdoor brands would disagree, there really isn’t such a thing as “waterproof-breathable” fabric. The more waterproof a fabric, the less breathable it will be; that’s the inherent tradeoff. Materials like rubber are 100% waterproof, but we don’t often wear them skiing because we would overheat immediately. That’s why most kids’ snow gear uses “waterproof-breathable” materials like GORE-TEX. They breathe better than impermeable materials like rubber, but still offer decent waterproofing.
Fleece-lined jackets can add warmth, softness, and comfort to kids outerwear; (photo/Will Rochfort) Insulation Insulation is the ingredient that keeps you warm, but it comes in a variety of forms and fibers.
Down Down insulation comes from ducks or geese, but it’s not the feathers. Instead, it comes from the plumage, that soft and fuzzy layer that sits beneath. This plumage lofts up inside the garment and traps heat in the air space between all of the fuzzy stuff.
Found in items like the Patagonia Baby Down Sweater Vest or the Patagonia High-Loft Down Sweater Bunting, down is often considered the gold standard since it provides the highest amount of warmth with the lowest amount of weight. But it’s not without its drawbacks. Down doesn’t dry quickly, so when it gets wet, it loses its loft and, thus, its warmth. It also costs more than synthetic insulation.
The Reima Stavanger has a vertical snap closure system in the front; (photo/Will Rochfort) Synthetic Insulation Synthetic insulation goes by a number of names since many brands make their own proprietary version. In general, synthetic insulation uses some type of man-made, compressible fibers to warm us up. Unlike down, these are water resistant, which makes synthetic insulation a better choice in wet environments. Synthetic insulation is often heavier and less packable than down, but it often costs less money. It can be found in a ton of kids’ ski and snowboard clothing like the Patagonia Everyday Ready Jacket, the Patagonia Baby Reversible Tribbles Hoody, or the Reima Stavanger Snowsuit. It’s also the common choice for mittens and gloves like the Reima Ote Waterproof Mittens.
Hoods can be removable via a zipper like on the L.L.Bean Kids’ Down Jacket; (photo/Will Rochfort) Alternative Insulation While down and synthetic insulation are the most popular forms of insulation, there are many other alternate options for fibers that keep us warm. For example, the Columbia Sportswear Omni-Heat Midweight Baselayer Crew and Tights use the brand’s proprietary thermal reflectivity, a series of silver dots inside the clothing that reflect your body heat back at you to maintain warmth.
Some hoods are insulated like the one photographed here, which adds warmth around the head, while others are not; (photo/Will Rochfort) Windproofness Windproofing may not immediately be something you consider when buying kids’ snow gear, but it’s an important factor. If an item has low windproofing, wind can rip through the warmth.
In general, kids’ ski and snowboard clothing will fall into one of two categories: windproof or wind-resistant. Any item that is waterproof will also be fully windproof since the barrier blocking the rain and snow is also blocking the wind. Simultaneously, a water-resistant item will also be wind-resistant.
The tradeoff with wind-resistant items is that they are more breathable than windproof gear, making them great choices for high-output activities like cross-country skiing. That’s why the Hestra Junior Tracker Gloves are only wind-resistant; they are very breathable for Nordic skiing.
Waterproof and breathable outerwear is a great investment for keeping kids warm while they hike around in the snow; (photo/Will Rochfort) Breathability As we mentioned before, breathability is the game changer when it comes to water or windproofing. While it’s great to be dry and safe from the snow and rain, no one wants to go skiing inside a portable sauna. That’s where breathability comes in.
In science terms, breathability is the transfer of water vapor from the inside of the fabric to the outside. This happens because opposites attract: Your warm, sweaty body heat is drawn to the cold and fresh outside air. The more efficient this process is, the better you feel without getting cold or clammy. However, breathability is much easier when there isn’t a waterproof or windproof barrier blocking the path of the vapor transfer.
That’s why non-waterproof items like the Airblaster Youth Ninja Suit and the Chasing Windmills Merino Sweatshirt and Sweatpants are so breathable: They don’t have any type of waterproofing. Snow gear like the Obermeyer Snoverall Bibs will have less breathability but perform far better against wet and snowy weather.
Strong bootstraps on the Reima Stavanger help latch the lower leg down; (photo/Will Rochfort) Reinforcements It’s no secret that children are tough on gear. That’s why kids’ snow gear often has reinforced sections to add durability in high-wear areas. For kiddos, these areas are often the knees, elbows, butt, and hem of snowpants or snowsuits. The fabric of the reinforcement varies but is often a high-denier polyester, Cordura, or ballistic nylon.
The Namuk Crusade Snow Pants Upcycled have an adjustable interior waist belt; (photo/Will Rochfort) Adjustability Growth System Kids grow like weeds, and it’s the parents who have to shell out cash every year to buy the next size. That’s why adjustability and growth systems are a key element to most kids’ snow gear. Brands like Columbia Sportswear, Obermeyer, and WeeDo all have similar systems that allow parents to remove some stitching or undo a snap to release 1-2 inches of added length in the arms or legs. This allows kids to wear items longer and get more use out of them.
Other brands like Reima intentionally make a roomy product so that it lasts longer. If your child wears a size 4T in the Reima Stavanger, he will likely find it big at first. This is intentional because Reima wants the snowsuit to last for more than one season.
The Reima Stavanger has an adjustable hood and adjustable velcro collar; (photo/Will Rochfort) Hood Collar The vast majority of kids’ snow jackets have some type of hood. That’s because we lose the majority of our heat through our heads, and a hood is a great way to keep your kiddo warm.
However, there are various types of hoods depending on how you plan to use the jacket. A fixed hood is one that is permanently attached while a removable hood (like the L.L.Bean Kids’ Down Jacket) is one that is attached via a zipper or snaps. This means your child can take it off during a warm day or if they are wearing a beanie and don’t need it. Hoods can also be lined, unlined, or insulated.
Insulated hoods are warmer and are best for sedentary activities in cold weather. A lined hood has a second layer of fabric sewn into the interior, which adds a little more warmth but is mainly a nicer aesthetic.
Kids’ snow gear doesn’t have as many collar options as adults, but you’ll still see options varying from unlined to fleece-lined. When possible, opt for a fleece-lined collar since that warm coziness goes a long way toward keeping your child comfortable.
The top of the Reima Stavanger hood has a strip of velcro with an adjustable tab to tailor the size; (photo/Will Rochfort) Pockets Pockets are equally important for adult ski jackets and kids winter jackets, but zippered pockets are especially crucial for our littlest rippers. At a minimum, look for kids’ gear and apparel that has at least two zippered hand pockets for children to use for warmth or to stash away secret treasures.
Snow pants like the Namuk Crusade Snow Pants Upcycled go above and beyond by adding Velcro cargo pockets on the side of the leg. Butt pockets are less essential for kids — especially toddlers — since they spend so much time sitting on their rears.
The Namuk Crusade Snow Pants Upcycled have a secret pull-out pocket inside a cargo pocket; (photo/Will Rochfort) Sustainability Gone are the days when we don’t pay attention to the fibers our children are wearing. When possible, opt for natural fibers like the Merino wool found in the Iksplor Kid Iksplorer Set. While they are more expensive than synthetic options, natural fibers are not derived from the fossil fuel industry and degrade at the end of their life cycle.
If you can’t swing the cost of natural fibers or it doesn’t make sense (like with waterproof outer layers), try to choose kids’ ski clothes made from recycled materials like those found in the Patagonia Kids Capilene Midweight Crew and Bottoms. While these still struggle with degradation at the end of their life cycle, they are less reliant on fossil fuels since we are only dealing with a single extraction.
For insulation, it’s also a good idea to make sure your down is Responsible Down Standard (RDS) or Global Traceable Down Standard (GTDS) certified. This means that the plumage is coming from a reputable source with high standards for animal welfare and a transparent production process.
Some snow gear for kids has a built-in growth system for multiyear use; (photo/Chelsey Magness) Price Value Kids’ snow gear runs the spectrum when it comes to pricing; some items simply cost a lot more than others. An expensive item doesn’t necessarily mean it is better than an affordable alternative. However, sustainable fibers and eco-friendly manufacturing do come at a cost; you’ll pay more so the planet pays less.
Budget Mittens for kids will be one of the more affordable items you buy and will typically range from $20-$60.
The Reima Ote Waterproof Mittens ($40) are in the middle of the price range but offer higher warmth and all-around weatherproofing. The Hestra Junior Tracker Gloves ($50) are the priciest in this buyer’s guide. While they aren’t waterproof (by design), they do have high-quality craftsmanship and premium materials that add to the cost.
Interior elastic suspenders can help secure snow suits and are easy to pull on; (photo/Will Rochfort) Base layers are a necessity for your children and you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $60 per item. The Columbia Omni-Heat Midweight Baselayer Crew ($25) is the most affordable in our grouping because it’s made of synthetic materials with less of an emphasis on sustainability.
The Patagonia Kids Capilene Midweight Crew ($39) is priced in the middle of the spectrum. While it still uses synthetic materials, they are all recycled and that adds to the cost. At $109 per set ($55 per item), the Iksplor Kid Iksplorer Set is the priciest of the base layers, but you’re getting 100% merino wool that is certified by the Responsible Wool Standard.The Airblaster Youth Ninja Suit is slightly lower ($100) but it does come with top and bottom coverage, along with high-quality materials.
The interior leg of the Namuk Crusade Snow Pants Upcycled is reinforced with a burly cuff to prevent wear and tear; (photo/Will Rochfort) Mid-Tier Midlayers look very different from kid to kid and brand to brand, and the cost is commensurate, ranging from $50 to $120. On the more affordable end is the Chasing Windmills Merino Fleece Sweatshirt, at $60 for Merino materials.
The Patagonia Baby Down Sweater Vest falls somewhere in the middle ($99) thanks to a host of sustainable materials like recycled polyester and recycled down. The L.L.Bean Kids’ Down Jacket ($109) sits at the top of the spectrum because it offers more warmth and weather resistance than any of the other midlayers.
Faux fur on a hood is often removable and offers protection from wind and snow; (photo/Will Rochfort) Premium Outer layers like snow pants, ski jackets, and snowsuits will be the most expensive item you buy since they offer warmth and all-around weather protection. For ski jackets and snow pants, the price range is vast: $80-250. The Oaki Rain/Trail Suit ($69) is the most affordable outer layer in our guide. While it offers complete waterproofing, it does not have any insulation.
The Obermeyer Snoverall Bibs ($100) are next on the list. Like the Oaki, they offer solid waterproofing but also have a decent amount of insulation to keep kids warm, too. The Patagonia Baby Reversible Tribbles Hoody is at a similar price point ($109). While it also has waterproofing and insulation, you’ll also get a host of recycled materials.
Certain snow jacket or snowsuit collars are taller than others, offering more protection for the chin and mouth; (photo/Will Rochfort) The Patagonia Infant High-Loft Down Sweater Bunting ($169), Namuk Crusade Snow Pants Upcycled ($149), Hootie Hoo Pinnakle Insulated Jacket ($180) and Insulated Bibs ($165) are all near the premium end of the pack in regard to price. While it can be used as a midlayer or exterior layer, the Town Hall Down Town Puffy ($160) is also near the top of the spectrum. While each of these products is completely waterproof and fully insulated, they’re also constructed by brands with an ethos rooted in sustainability — and the materials show that.
Finally, the Reima Stavanger Snowsuit ($195) sits on the highest end of the spectrum. This is a full snowsuit, so you’re getting both a jacket and snow pants with waterproofing and tons of insulation. Beyond that, you’re also getting a lot of attention to detail with kid-specific features that no other brand has. If you and your child spend a lot of time outside, the added cost may be worth it.
Kiddos playing outside in the cold and shade while testing snow gear; (photo/Chelsey Magness) Frequently Asked Questions What is the best brand for kids’ snow gear? There isn’t a single brand that is categorized as the “best” brands for kids’ ski clothing.
However, there are certainly brands that make high-quality products for kids. In the United States, Patagonia has long been known for exceptional kids’ apparel, with a special nod to theirInfant High-Loft Down Sweater Bunting. Columbia Sportswear is also known for decent and affordable kids’ snow gear. But in the past 5-7 years, more new or European brands have come to the American market with kids-only apparel, adding more competition and quality into the category. These brands include Iksplor, Reima, WeeDo, and Namuk, to name a few.
Additionally, the last few years have brought innovation to this category from American brands like Town Hall (started in Steamboat Springs, Colorado) and Hootie Hoo (founded in Vermont).
Testing the adjustable cuffs on the Namuk Crusade Snow Pants Upcycled; (photo/Will Rochfort) How should winter gear fit on my kids? Winter clothing is especially pricey, so it’s tempting for parents to size everything up to get the most use out of it. While that can be a temporary solution, it may not be your best bet. Remember: large outdoor layers will fit sloppy and can cause tripping hazards for your kiddo (or even ripped layers if they step on pant legs).
Additionally, winter layers perform best if they fit properly. An oversized baselayer is going to hang on your child, which means the fabric won’t be able to properly wick sweat away from their skin. For an insulating puffy or exterior ski kit, a larger size means lots of extra space on the inside. Since both down and synthetic insulation keep us warm by warming the air around us, extra space will take much longer to warm up for your child.
On the flip side, you don’t want your child’s gear to fit too snugly. This will make it tougher for them to move around and stay warm, which could be problematic.
Ultimately, use the accompanying sizing guides for each brand and choose the size that works best for your kiddo when you need it — and then double down on those growing systems that are included in most exterior layers these days!
Which is better: Snow pants or a snowsuit? Neither is better and there is no overall rule on snow pants versus snowsuits. However, a general rule of thumb is that snowsuits are better for smaller kiddos (younger than kindergarten) whereas snow pants are more popular with the older crowd. Snowsuits work best for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers because there are no cracks to let cold air or snow inside.
As a result, they tend to be warmer which is especially helpful for babies who cannot communicate their needs. However, they are more cumbersome, particularly for kids who are not wearing diapers. That’s why most older children start to rebel against them and ask for snow pants.
Some kids winter gloves are designed with a long gauntlet that can go over the jacket cuff to block wind and snow; (photo/Will Rochfort) How do I know how warm my baby is while outside? Gauging your baby’s warmth during outdoor adventures is one of the most stressful parenting tasks. It’s so relative: Some babes run warm and others are little ice cubes.
If you’re worried about them while playing in the snow, check on their temperature by feeling their core every once in awhile. If it feels cold to the touch, put another layer on them. If it’s too hot, remove a layer.
Certain kids snow gear is durable, functional, warm, fun, and a great choice for all-mountain skiing at the resort like the WeeDo Ohdeer Deer Snowsuit; (photo/Will Rochfort) Which pieces of gear should we emphasize first? It is often overwhelming to build out your child’s first winter kit, so start with the basics. First, prioritize high-quality baselayers. These are the items that will sit next to your child’s skin and can make or break their comfort. Second, emphasize the outer layers (which may or may not include insulation).
Children have a tendency to wallow in the snow far more than adults do, so it’s more important to guarantee waterproofness and a reliable layer against Mother Nature. Lastly, consider their appendages. Hands and toes are typically the first things to get cold, so pay extra attention to their hand coverings. For the most part, ditch the gloves; mittens are much warmer for little fingers.
Our favorite kids snow gear has plenty of pockets to hold little treasures and snacks; (photo/Will Rochfort) Where can I find affordable used gear? If parents made all of the kids’ outdoor clothing, it would probably be more affordable. But as it is, kids’ clothes can be outrageously expensive. On the one hand, we want our babies to be comfortable on outside adventures. On the other hand, we still need a few bucks left in the bank for said winter adventure.
We’ve found a few strategies for gearing up for winter without breaking the bank. First, before you drop a ton of money on winter gear for your child, check out local thrift or used gear stores.
Ask your fellow parent friends if they have anything they don’t need anymore. Having a go-to source for secondhand gear can be a real treasure.
Next, prioritize and think about how often you’ll really use something. If it’s something you know you’ll use quite often, it’s worth the splurge. But if it’s a once-per-year kind of item, consider finding an affordable alternative.
Most of all, just get out there. Whatever gear you end up choosing, your kid, your sanity, and your family memories will thank you for making the effort to get outside — even when the temperature drops and the snow flies.
Some zippers are fully waterproof while others are water-resistant, so be sure to check before you put valuables inside; (photo/Will Rochfort)
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