On the surface, choosing the type of rain gear that will best suit your kids might seem like a simple task. However, there are a lot of factors that you should consider when buying rain gear for your kids–what will they be using it for? How old are they? For how long will they be able to use their jackets for? How do you know when you’re getting your investment’s worth?
In this article, we will be breaking down the different factors that you should keep in mind when shopping for your kids’ next rain jacket. Keep reading to get the scoop on everything you need to know about choosing the best rain protection for your youngsters!
Choose a Level of Protection
Kids love to splash around in puddles–that’s just a fact of life. What might be a health hazard to adults is just another opportunity to play for young kids full of excitement about the world around them. Keeping this in mind, you should be well informed about the different levels of protection that are available on the market. The level of protection you choose should coincide with the types of activities your kids enjoy.
Water-Resistant
Water Resistant jackets are ideal for quick exposure to the rain–for example, this provides great protection if you and your kids are quickly running through the rain to cross the street. However, if your kids like to play in the rain and are going to be standing outside for a long time, the water will eventually soak through. That said, water-resistant rain gear is usually the least expensive. If your kids won’t be standing in the rain for very long, then this might be a reasonable option for you.
Waterproof
Waterproof jackets come in various strengths, usually measured in the amount of water that they can take before the liquid starts to leak through. The standard minimum is at 5000 mm, which is a lot if the kids are just going to be playing outside since water tends to slide off of waterproof fabric anyway. One thing to consider when buying waterproof rain gear is the price–since this is made with premium technology, it can often be very expensive if your kids aren’t going to get frequent use out of it.
Breathable
This is one of the most underrated factors when it comes to choosing rain gear for kids. Most parents focus on waterproofing or water resistance when they should be checking on breathability and venting as well. Venting refers to the areas in the rain gear which can be zipped or unzipped to let out heat that builds when your kids are moving while wearing their rain jackets or raincoats. This is very important because it keeps your kids safe from pneumonia, bronchitis, and overexertion, giving their bodies the proper temperature regulation that they need especially when it’s raining. Make sure that you choose rain gear that’s both durable and breathable so that your kids are safe as they play in the rain.
Durable Water Repellent (DWR)
DWR is a protective coat or laminate that helps with the jacket’s waterproofing or water resistance. This is very important because it helps the longevity of your kids’ rainwear. You definitely don’t want to buy an expensive, waterproof raincoat that doesn’t have any DWR–no DWR means that the waterproofing might only last you a few bouts rainy weather. One way to check for DWR is to splash the fabric with a bit of water: if the water beads on the surface, then that’s definitely DWR at work.
Type of Rain Gear
The type of rain gear that you’re purchasing is also a very important factor to consider as you shop for your kids’ rainy day clothing. Rain-proof pants are a good option for kids who like to play on the slides while it’s raining. A pair of cute but durable rubber boots are great for when kids will be splashing in rain puddles. While rain jackets and raincoats might be standard, make sure to explore other options based on your kids’ needs. Making the switch from a raincoat to a jacket and pants can make a huge difference when it comes to your kids’ comfort and protection.
Take Note of Weather Concerns
A raincoat or rain jacket can be useful for more than just rainy weather. There are a number of brands that make jackets and coats that are multipurpose. It’s very useful to see whether or not a single investment can carry your kids through many different seasons. There are a lot of styles on Uniqlo, The North Face, and MK Nordika which are suitable both for rain and snow.
Consider Your Kids’ Age
This is definitely a big factor when it comes to how much you should invest in rain gear for your kids. Kids who are aged 6 years old and below grow very, very quickly. You could buy a jacket in the Spring and it might not fit anymore by the start of Winter. In this case, it might be best to go for something a bit more affordable.
You can also consider how many kids you have and whether or not some of the raingear can be passed down once they no longer fit. However, if your kids are a bit older, say 13 or 14, then it might be a good idea to invest in something a bit more expensive because they can wear it for a longer period of time.
Conclusion
Buying rain gear is very important when it comes to making sure your kids are protected and safe. Investing in good gear can make a big difference when it comes to your kids’ health and comfort. By taking all of these very important factors into account, you can choose the perfect coat, jacket, or pair of boots for your kids’ needs. Keep these things in mind as you shop for your kids this rainy season!