Kids' Coats, Ponchos and Rainwear

Waterproof, or just warm?

Rainwear and warm coats solve different problems. Thin EVA or PE ponchos and raincoats keep water out and fold small, but they trap sweat and offer no insulation. Polyester ponchos and jackets last longer and some add a fleece lining for cool days. A sherpa or fleece jacket is warm yet not waterproof, so it needs a shell in heavy rain. Look at the insulation field: unlined means nothing between the child and the cold, and a hood is worth having for rain.

Sizing by height, packs of many and neck safety

Sizes come as age bands such as toddler, little kid and big kid, as small to large letters, or as a height range printed on a poncho, for example about three and a half to five feet. When age and height disagree, go by height and allow room for a sweater. Multi-packs of light raincoats suit school trips and events, and the number of pieces is in the title. For young children, choose snaps, hook-and-loop or elastic rather than cords around the neck or hood, which can catch on equipment.

Questions about Kids' Coats, Ponchos and Rainwear

Is a fleece-lined jacket waterproof?

Only if the outer layer is. Fleece and sherpa add warmth but soak up water, so a waterproof jacket needs a coated or film shell, which the listing should state. A plain fleece jacket is for dry, cold days.

How do I size a rain poncho for a child?

Use the height range printed in the title rather than the age, and pick a poncho that reaches the knees but clears the hands. A little extra length is fine, since ponchos are cut loose.

Are EVA raincoats reusable?

Thicker EVA raincoats can be reused several times if you dry them flat and avoid folding them damp. Very thin film ponchos tear easily and are best treated as single-use for events.