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Best Kids Raincoats
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
Of course, materials was one of the most important things that we looked at when conducting our research. We discovered the top two materials used for these products are nylon and vinyl. Nylon is considered to be water resistant, but it isn’t necessarily waterproof. Vinyl, on the other hand, is one of the best materials at wicking away water completely so that you stay nice and dry. The only downside to vinyl materials is that they can be a little too hot and it doesn’t breath very well. A jacket that is too hot and sticky is bound to find its way to the benches on the playground after outside playing for a while. To combat potential hotness and stickiness, we tried to select designs that utilized a nice and breathable cotton or polyester lining on the inside. The lining on these types of jackets helps absorb some of the moisture that comes from sweating while wearing vinyl, and it also makes it incredibly easy to throw into the washing machine if your little one has been splashing in too many mud puddles.
Size
Buying any type of clothing without trying it on first is worrisome, especially when it comes to your children that seem to be growing like weeds. That’s why we made a point to try and select brands that not only offered a lot of different size options, but that also uses a size chart to reference in order to buy the perfect size for their little ones. Another thing that we took into consideration was the percentage of parents that felt like their model fit as described. Generally, if the percentage of users were under about 70 percent, we typically moved on to the next product. When percentages are on the low side, it typically means that the consistency of each size is a problem rather than it just being a matter of finding the right size. We want to make sure that you get a perfect size the first time, because no one likes heading to the post office to return clothes.
Water Resistance
One of the most important things that we can impart is that if you are ever on the fence about what size to get, it is always better to buy just a little bit bigger than normal for a couple of reasons. The first reason because children are constantly growing, and you don’t want to turn around and find that the jacket that you just bought them doesn’t fit anymore. Sure, it may not look as sharp as when they first try it on, but it will serve its purpose of keeping them dry and comfortable while out in wet weather. Another reason we suggest buying a size bigger is that a lot of parents don’t like that these jackets are a little bit on the thin side. This means that it will be great in the summertime when it’s hot and muggy, but what about in the fall and spring when there is a little bite in the air? If you buy a size bigger than normal, it means that you will have more room underneath to layer warmer clothes on those cooler days. There should be no reason why you would ever have to cancel a trip to go hiking or a fishing trip with your little ones over the weekend on account of rain. If you are equipped with the right gear, a little bad weather shouldn’t ever have to slow you down!
Fit
It can frustrating buying gear for your little ones because it seems like every time the sun comes out after a thunderstorm, they grow another inch. We feel that it is important that you purchase something that is able to grow right along with your child, and that might mean buying something that is just a little bit bigger, to begin with. In our opinion, it is better if it fits just a little too big than too small. No one like to wear vinyl that fits incredibly skin tight. We tried to pick designs that were also more gender neutral so that not only will it be able to grow with your children as they physically grow taller, but it will also be something that they won’t grow out of emotionally- like that cute pig sweater that you bought your daughter but now she claims she is too old and mature to wear anymore. To narrow down the best of the best that is currently for sale out there on the market so that your child is prepared to go on adventures in any type of weather, there were a few things that we took into consideration.
Top 10 Picks
1. Hiheart
This was our absolute favorite pick because it not only comes in a lot of adorable color options, but it also made from high quality materials that will hold up to whatever your little one can throw at it. It’s slightly more expensive than many of the other designs on the market, but parents love the way this jacket looks as well as holds up over time.
Read moreDesign:
Parents can select from a number of different color options that include classic yellow, black, blue, gray, green, and red. Each option has a black and white striped lining, cuffed sleeves (something that you don’t find on many of these types of jackets), and red white and blue tabs on the flapped pockets as well as the hood.
Materials:
What we love most about this design is that it is a lot more comfortable than some of the others that do not have a lining. The exterior shell of this design is made from 100 percent polyester, and the black and white striped interior in made from 100 percent cotton.
Sizing:
About 74 percent of users felt that this design fit as expected. Sizing options include 4T, 5T, 4/6, 6/7, and 8/9. Some users have found that the arms are just a little too big for their little ones.
Summary:
If you are in the market for something that takes a lot of pride in quality and little details, and is incredibly comfortable, the Hiheart design is an excellent choice. Just keep in mind, however, that the price tag is slightly more expensive than many of the other similar options out there on the market.
2. Fabugears
What we liked about the Fabugears design is that it is a lot longer than many of the other options which will keep your little one drier when playing outside in wet weather. While some designs are made for perhaps just a little drizzle, this option is perfect for even heavy downpours while keeping your child completely dry.
Read moreDesign:
The design of this option is what makes it a little different from the rest. Instead of coming down to the waistline, it runs all the way down to the bottom of the knees. It isn’t offered in a lot of fun colors options, however. Parents can choose from black, navy, or pink. What parents really love about this option is that it has reflective strips on the front and the back of the jacket as well as on the arms and pockets so they can be seen while outside playing on cloudy and dark days.
Materials:
This unit is made from 100 percent vinyl materials that will do an excellent job at keeping your little one completely dry. It doesn’t have a lining like some of the other options, so you might have to layer this jacket with a warm sweater underneath it on those cooler fall days.
Sizing:
About 83 percent of users felt that this model fit as expected, which is a pretty impressive number. Users can select from sizes that start at extra small, and run all the way up to extra extra large.
Summary:
If you are looking for something that cannot be beat in keeping your little one dry even in those torrential downpours, the Fabugears is an excellent choice based upon its length as well as materials used. Parents also love that it comes in at a very affordable price point.
3. Columbia Glennaker
If you were looking to get your little one a jacket that is of the same quality as your Columbia gear, this is an excellent option. It has all of the attention to detail on the cuffs and pockets that you would find in an adult version, and it is made from the same high quality materials that will keep the rain off of your back. It comes in at a slightly higher price tag than most, but parents feel that the higher price point is well worth it.
Read moreDesign:
The only downside to the Glennaker design is that it is only offered in solid black with the Columbia logo printed on the breast. However, if your little one wants a jacket just like yours- this is a great option. It has a sharp gray lining, and cuffed wrists to keep the water off of your arms even if your child is swinging from the monkey bars.
Materials:
What makes this design special is that it is made from a special type of hydroplus nylon. Sometime nylon materials aren’t as water resistant as materials such as vinyl, but the hydroplus nylon is a lot more water resistant that most nylon materials, and it is actually a lot more breathable that vinyl. It’s the best of both worlds, and it’s what made this option of a higher quality than most.
Sizing:
An impressive 81 percent of past users felt that this design fit exactly as expected. It is offered in sizes that start at extra small, and run all the way up to extra large. It is offered in big, little, and toddler size options.Columbia also offers a sizing chart that determines the best size based upon height and weight.
Summary:
If you wanted something that is made from the same high quality material that you wear when adventuring outdoors, the Columbia Glennaker is a great choice. Keep in mind, however, the it comes in at a much higher price point than many of the other options out there.
4. Western Chief
The thing that really draws parents to this option is that it has a fun design that makes your little one look like a firefighter. If you have trouble getting your child to change out of their dress up clothes at home to put on boring old jackets to wear outside in bad weather, the Western Chief is going to be something that your little one might even want to wear on bright and sunny days!
Read moreDesign:
While the firefighter design really steals the show here, Western Chief also offers a variety of other designs that might be more suited to your little one’s imagination. Other options include a green frog, a grey robot, and a train conductor. Parents can also opt for a basic blue, green or camouflage option. Each design has wide arms, flapped pockets, a button up chest, and an attached hood.
Materials:
The exterior shell is made from waterproof nylon, and the interior lining is made from 65 percent polyester, and 35 percent cotton. The outer shell is design to wick away water, and the interior is made to absorb moisture so that your little one is always nice and comfortable playing outside in wet weather.
Sizing:
About 88 percent of past users feel that this design fits as expected- which is one of the highest numbers of any other brand. Parents can select from sizing options that include 2T, 3T, 4T, 5,6, and 7. Western Chief also provides parents with a sizing chart that uses age, height, and weight to determine the correct size.
Summary:
If you were looking for something that is just a little bit more fun and whimsical that will appeal to the wild imagination of your child, the Western Chief is your best bet. They offer great design options while still using high quality materials that will keep your little one high and dry when playing outside in bad weather.
5. Fit Rite
If you are looking for something that will really keep your child dry when the sky just opens up and it starts to downpour, the Fit Rite is a great choice because it is very long and has design features that will keep water away from faces and off of the lower body. It also comes in a very wide variety of fun colors that will appeal to almost every child out there.
Read moreDesign:
The thing we noticed first about this model is that it is made to fit just above the knees to help keep water off of the lower body. It also has an attached hood that has double snaps in the front to keep water out of your child’s face. Color options includes black, gray, blue, navy blue, green, pink, burgundy, tan, and rose pink.
Materials:
What’s great about this design is that each color comes with a lining the compliments out exterior shell. The shell is made from 100 percent vinyl that is great at wicking away water. The interior lining is made from 100 percent polyesters. This means that parents can simply toss it into the washing machine to wash off of the mud that comes from joyfully splashing in mud puddles.
Sizing:
About 70 percent of past users felt like this design fit as expect. Users can select from size options that that at 2 years, and run all the way up to 18 years. The sizing options that use age as a factor is a bit problematic, therefore they offer a detailed sizing chart that uses height and weight to determine the perfect size.
Summary:
If you are in the market for something that is great for those days that the sky just opens up an it just begins to pour, the Fit Rite it a great option that is incredibly affordable, and also comes in a lot of fun colors.
6. KID1234
What we liked most about the KID1234 model can be found in the small details that really make a difference. Plus, this jacket was designed for little ones that are constantly going on outdoor adventures with their parents such as hiking, camping, and climbing, and keeping them dry and comfortable all day.
Read moreDesign:
Parent’s can select from two color options that include bright blue and bright green. The shoulders have darker fabric detail, and the zippered are accented with neon green accents. What we really liked about this design is that the hood can be detached when the sun comes out but you still want to wear your jacket. The lining also has a fun and unique design that is unique to KID1234.
Materials:
The exterior shell of this design is made from 100 percent nylon, and the interior is made from 100 percent polyester. What this means for parents is that they will easily be able to throw this into the washing machine for a quick clean before getting back out there.
Sizing:
An impressive 86 percent of users felt that this design fit exactly as expected. Users can select from size options that include 8,10,12,14, and 16. KID1234 offers a sizing chart that uses your child’s height and weight to determine what size will be perfect for them.
Summary:
If you are in the market for something that will be perfect for your child that loves to climb and play in all sorts of weather, and you want to ensure that they stay comfortable and dry, the KID1234 is an excellent choice for those little ones that just can’t seem to sit still.
7. Zaclotre
What users love most about the Zaclotre design is that it comes in at an affordable price point, and it is offered in a ton of colors and designs that your little one is sure to love. The waterproof material is designed for those that want to spend the entire day splashing and playing outside in the rain without worrying about getting their clothes wet and muddy.
Read moreDesign:
The options offered for the Zaclotre is one of our favorite parts of this design. Users can select basic colors such as blue, green, black, and red, but they also offer various spotted bug designs that have a smiling face on the top of the attached hood. Each model has wide arms and deep flapped pockets for storing toys and extra gear.
Materials:
There is no need to worry about getting a little soggy when fishing out on the lake on a particularly raining day. The polyester materials that make up the outside shell of this design are made from completely waterproof polyester materials. The bad news is that this option doesn’t come with the additional of a lining, so it may become a little hot and sticky on humid days.
Sizing:
About 94 percent of past users feel that this design fit exactly as expected- which is incredibly impressive. It is offered in sizes that ram from 1 to 7 years, and they offer a sizing chart that uses your child’s height and weight to determine the perfect size for them. Based upon the success rate of fit, the sizing chart is incredibly accurate.
Summary:
What parents really appreciate about this design is that it comes in at an affordable price point that won’t break the bank. It might not have a nice lining like some of the other designs out there, but the waterproof exterior shell and fun color options make up for its shortcomings.
8. Arshiner
What we like most about the Arshiner design is that it is very simple, and it comes in bright colors. It also has a very low price tag that parents appreciate. While it doesn’t have any special accents such as a lining or cuffed sleeves or special design options, but it’s great about keeping water off of your little one’s back while outside on adventures in gloomy weather.
Read moreDesign:
The design of the Arshiner model is simple. It is offered in fun colors such as pink, green, blue, purple, and black, and each design is highlights with a thick white zipper with white trim that really makes this design pop. Due to the materials used, this design is incredibly lightweight.
Materials:
The materials used for this design are 100 percent polyester. What this means for children is that it is going to to an excellent job keeping dampness from penetrating to their clothes. What it means for parents is that it is going to be incredibly easy to just toss into the washing machine when the time comes to give it a good cleaning.
Sizes:
About 74 percent of users felt that this design fit as expected. It isn’t the highest rating, but it is still considered to be adequate. Users can select from sizes that include 90, 100, 110, 120, and 130. They also offer users a size chart that uses weight and height to determine what size you should get for your little one.
Summary:
For parents that are looking for something that is simple and affordable that will do a great job at keeping your little one high and dry as the family sets off on blustery fall adventures, this is an excellent option that won’t sting as much when your child happens to grow right out of it.
9. Carter's
What we liked most about the Carter's design is that there was a lot of thought that went into all of the little accents that really matter such as a unique lining, accented hanging loops, cuffed sleeves and velcro pockets. Children love all of the fun design options offered, and parents love that it comes in at an affordable price point.
Read moreDesign:
Carter's offers a lot of sun color and design option that users can choose from. Options include a blue camouflage, olive green with a dinosaur print, a black planetary print, a gray print with lightning bolts, as well as a few basic solid colors with accents along the zippers. It also comes with a non-detachable hood, and cuffed sleeves to keep water out.
Materials:
The exterior shell of this design is made from 100 percent polyester, and the inside lining is made from 100 percent polyester as well. The double layers of polyester not only ensure that this design will keep moisture out, it also means that it is just a little more heavier than some of the other designs that only utilize a single layer. It also means that it will be a snap to simply toss into the washing machine when the time comes that it needs to be cleaned.
Sizing:
An impressive 90 percent of past users feel that this design fit exactly as expected. It is offered in sizes that include 2T, 3T, 4T, 4, 5/ 6, and 7. Carter's also offers a sizing chart that will allow parents to use their child’s weight and height to determine the right size for them.
Summary:
What parents found most impressive about the Carter's design is that it looks like one of the more expensive options due to the attention to detail in all of the little accents, but it actually comes in at a very affordable price point. If you are looking for something that is built well to keep your little one high and dry, but doesn’t come at a high cost, the Carter's design will be a great choice.
10. Oakiwear
What we liked most about the Oakiwear option is that it looks like a lot of care and thought was put into the designs as well as the little accents on things like buttons and pockets. While this options does cost a little bit more than other similar options, parents love that this design is incredibly durable, and does a great job of keeping water and moisture away from clothes.
Read moreDesign:
Our favorite part about the Oakiwear design is the fun prints offered. Users can select from solid color options like royal blue with complimentary orange accents on the buttons, but they can also select from designs that include trucks, trees, raindrops, owls, clouds, or dinosaurs. Each unit utilizes buttons instead of a zipper, which some parents actually prefer over zippers.
Materials:
The material the make up the outer shell is made out of a flexible polyester that it make to move along with your child and never feels stiff or ridgid. We like that the interior uses a polyester/cotton blend to make up the lining so that it will offer your little one a little bit of warmth on those blustery autumn days.
Sizing:
82 percent of pater users felt that this design fit their child exactly as expected. Sizing options for this design include 2T, 3T, 4T, 5, 6, 8, and 10. Oakiwear also provides a detailed sizing chart that will allow parents to take accurate measurements of their child’s chest, waist, and wingspan to ensure they they select as size that if perfect for them.
Summary:
If you are in the market for something that could quickly become your child's new favorite piece of outdoor gear, the Oakiwear designs are a great choice. Keep in mind, however, that this option comes at quite a higher price point than many of the others, so you might want to ensure that you get a size bigger to allow a little room for growth.
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