16 Best Winter Coats For Kids

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Winter is coming, and now is the perfect time to start looking for the best winter coats for kids. If your children are anything like mine, keeping them warm and dry during the winter season may seem impossible. But don’t worry, you are in the right place!

At a Glance: The Best Winter Coats For Kids to Buy

We highly recommend looking at the comparison table we have below where we highlighted the features of each product.

Ever since I had kids of my own, I started to appreciate how much trouble my parents went through to keep me dry and warm during winter. After last winter, I realized that bundling my kids and dressing them in layers doesn’t mean much if they don’t have good winter jackets.

Finding the right winter coat for my kids was important for me since I want them to experience all the joys of winter without catching a cold. But I also didn’t want to spend a fortune on jackets that my kids will outgrow in a season or two.

I needed warm, comfortable, lightweight, and waterproof coats for my kids, and after extensive research, I found jackets that I was pleased with and they liked to wear. I will now share my findings with you, to help you find the right winter jacket for your kid!

16 Best Children’s Winter Coats – Reviews

Below you will find in-depth reviews of the warmest winter coats for kids! I’ve included key features, pros, and cons of each product to help you decide which coat is right for your child. Let’s begin!

1. Columbia Girls’ Bugaboo Interchange Jacket – Best Overall

Columbia is a well-known company that manufactures high-quality outerwear for adults and children. The Columbia Girls’ Bugaboo Interchange Jacket is made from high-quality materials and will keep your daughter warm and protected from wind and snow. This model comes in several sizes and girl-approved prints and colors.

This Bugaboo Interchange Jacket comes in x-small size and is ideal for girls who are four or five years old. The great thing about this model is that it features an outgrown system that adjusts with your growing child which extends the lifetime of the jacket and lowers the expenses of buying a new jacket every winter.

This winter coat is designed to be waterproof and windproof and features completely sealed seams. But this model is extremely breathable, and you won’t have to worry if your child is sweating inside the jacket. 

Pros:

• Lightweight design reduces bulk and makes it easy to wear
• Machine washable and dryer safe
• Hook and loop cuffs keep your child warm
• Fleece-lined and zippered hand pockets

Cons:

• A few customers stated that the inside of the coat is thinner than expected 

Overall, the Columbia Girls’ Bugaboo Interchange Jacket is a great child winter coat that will last more than one season. It is lightweight and breathable, but at the same time, it will keep your young girl warm and protected from the elements.

2. Carhartt Boys Active Taffeta Quilt-Lined Jacket – Runner Up

The Carhartt Boys Active Taffeta Quilt-Lined Jacket comes in several different sizes and a few different color combinations for your son to choose from. This model is designed to keep winter and cold weather at bay in a very fashionable way.

Made out of cotton, this boys winter jacket has a taffeta lining on the inside, including the sleeves. The hood, while not detachable, features the same type of lining and will ensure that your kid’s head is warm and protected from the wind and snow.

This jacket has a strong zipper on the front and two split kangaroo pockets that will keep your kid’s hands warm if he isn’t a fan of mittens and store small toys. The ribbed-knit cuffs and waistband prevent the wind from entering inside the jacket and will make your son look just like his dad in a grown-up jacket.

Pros:

• High quality and super warm
• Washing machine safe
• Functional cuffs and sleeves serve to keep the wind out
• Durable and allows for a full range of motion

Cons:

• Smaller kids may have trouble zipping this coat

The Carhartt Boys Active Taffeta Quilt Lined Jacket is a high-quality winter coat that will keep your child warm in a very fashionable way. I really like how durable this jacket is and that my son can move in it freely.

3. Nautica Boys’ Toddler Expedition Parka – Best Value

The Nautica Boys’ Toddler Expedition Parka is a high-quality winter coat for kids who are 10 to 12 years old. However, this jacket is available in other sizes and several colors, so you will easily find the right one for your boy, toddler to preteen.

Featuring a front zipper, this jacket may appear a bit bulky, but it is comfortable and will keep your kid warm even if he rolls in the snow all day long. The hood is lined with super soft Sherpa material and has removable faux fur that offers extra protection against wind and snow.

The cuffs on the sleeves prevent the wind and snow from entering inside the jacket and ensure that your kid’s arms and hands stay warm. Your kid will have the option to store smaller items and toys in any of the four front pockets or use them to warm his hands if he isn’t a fan of mittens.

Pros:

• Lightweight and allows a free range of motions
• Sits below the hip for extra warmth
• Durable and warm
• Hood is large and protects the entire face from wind and snow

Cons:

• Sizing can be an issue, so double check your kid’s measurements

The bulky and warm Nautica Boys’ Toddler Expedition Parka is a great option if your kid gets wet and chilled every time he plays in the snow. It is well made, and the hood is large enough to keep your kid’s face protected from extreme cold and wind.

4. The North Face Girls’ Reversible Mossbud Swirl Jacket – Great For Stylish Girls

The North Face Girls’ Reversible Mossbud Swirl Jacket comes in different sizes, and you will easily find the right fit for your daughter whether she is a toddler, preschooler, or a teenager. Your child will get two jackets in one and would be able to reverse it to suit her needs.

Designed to be lightweight and allow for a full range of movements, this winter jacket is super soft and will keep your kids warm. The xx-s size is perfect for five-year-old girls, but you can always go a size bigger if you want for this jacket to last more than one season.

The North Face Girls’ Jacket is made from fleece, polyester, and taffeta, and features welt pockets on the sides. The fluffy interior is so cozy and warm that some girls don’t want to take it off even when they are inside playing with their playhouse!

Pros:

• The soft fleece makes the jacket very warm
• Machine washable
• The exterior is wind resistant
• Lightweight and allows for a full range of motion

Cons:

• Sizing is on the smaller side, so you will have to order up

Overall, the North Face Girls’ Reversible Mossbud Swirl Jacket is a great option for girls of any age and a high-quality jacket that will keep your daughter warm. And since it is reversible, you are getting two jackets at the price of one.

5. Columbia Girls’ Nordic Strider Jacket – Best For Cold & Snow

The Columbia Girls’ Nordic Strider Jacket is another great model by this manufacturer, and the L size is a great option for teenage girls. This model looks a lot like a parka jacket and features an adjustable storm hood with removable faux fur.

Columbia’s signature Omni-Heat reflective thermal warmth technology reflects body heat, keeping your child warm. The nylon exterior is waterproof and breathable which will ensure that your kid doesn’t sweat inside the jacket.

The outgrown system ensures that this jacket grows with your child and lasts more than one season. This jacket also features two front pockets, a media pocket for a phone or MP3 player, reflective detail, and microfleece-lined hood to protect your kid from wind and snow.

Pros:

• Waterproof design and removable storm hood
• Comfortable cuffs prevent the wind from entering inside the jacket
• Retains heat without making your kid sweat
• The outgrown system ensures that it fits more than one season

Cons:

• Some customers noted that the zipper may malfunction

The Columbia Girls’ Nordic Strider Jacket is one of the best kids warm coats you can get for your daughter. Due to its many colors and cute parka style, this jacket is a real hit among girls of all ages, and your daughter is going to love it.

6. Phibee Big Boys Waterproof Breathable Snowboard Ski Jacket – Great For Active Boys

The Phibee Big Boys Waterproof Breathable Snowboard Ski Jacket is a great winter outerwear option for adventurous boys who like to play in the snow. It is available in several sizes, from toddlers to teenage boys, and several different colors.

The jacket’s exterior is made from waterproof polyester fabric and the lining is made from soft fleece that traps warmth. To ensure that your kid stays warm and dry while playing in the snow, this jacket is completely waterproof.

The powder skirt design helps to keep the wind out and makes this jacket windproof and suitable for even the strongest blizzards. And thanks to its lightweight design and added features like forearm zip pocket, this jacket won’t restrict your kid’s movements and will allow him to keep his keys safe while playing in the snow.

Pros:

• The helmet-like hood is removable
• The jacket is water and windproof
• Insulated lining system retains heat and keeps your kid warm
• Internal pockets 

Cons:

• A few customers noted that the sizes are on the small side, so double check your kid’s measurements

The lightweight and warm Phibee Big Boys Waterproof Breathable Snowboard Ski Jacket is a great option for adventures boys who like to ski or ride dirt bikes. Thanks to its strong seams and waterproof material, you can rest assured that your kid will come back home completely dry.

7. Rokka & Rolla Girls’ Water-Resistant Hooded Heavy Padded Coat – Best For Extra Warmth

The Rokka & Rolla Girl’s Water-Resistant Hooded Heavy Padded Coat is designed to maintain optimal body temperature in cold and wet conditions without being bulky or heavy. This jacket comes in several sizes, and the small size is designed for six-year-old girls.

This cute jacket comes in several different colors and features a girly star pattern. It is made of polyester with a thick filling that retains body temperature in winter conditions.

The inside features high-density synthetic yarns which are soft to the touch and make the coat more comfortable to wear. Although the hood isn’t detachable, it sports a fashionable faux fur which offers extra protection against wind and snow.

Pros:

• Chin zipper guard prevents painful accidents
• Machine washable
• Insulation provides extra warmth
• Protected with a water-resistant finish

Cons:

• There are no interior zip pockets

The Rokka & Rolla Girl’s Water-Resistant Hooded Heavy Padded Coat is designed to keep girls dry and warm even if you live in an area with extremely cold winters. It is big and fluffy, but at the same time, lightweight and won’t prevent your child from moving freely.

8. Mallimoda Big Boys’ Hooded Bubble Jacket – Great For Stylish Boys

The Mallimoda Big Boys’ Hooded Bubble Jacket is a mid-length heavyweight winter coat for boys. This coat is also available in normal length and comes in several different sizes and colors.

The coat’s outer layer is made from polyester, and the lining is filled with white duck down which makes it ideal for the cold winter season. The thick cotton-padded hood is lined with faux fur that provides additional protection from cold wind and snow.

This model is designed for boys who are 13 and 14 years old and will keep your kids warm on ski trips or on the way to school. And the threaded cuff design makes the sleeves windproof and ensures that your child’s arms are always warm.

Pros:

• Two front pockets and a sleeve pocket for storage
• Extra insulated and ideal for cold weather
• Fashionable and ideal for every occasion
• Lightweight and comfortable

Cons:

• The sizing isn’t completely accurate

Overall, the Mallimoda Big Boys’ Hooded Bubble Jacket is a fashionable but functional winter coat for boys. It is styled so it can be used in every occasion, and it will definitely keep your kids warm during colder winter days.

9. Columbia Horizon Ride Jacket – Comfortable & Lightweight

The Columbia Horizon Ride Jacket features a colorful geometric print that will be a real hit with your daughter and all her friends. This winter coat for kids features a regular fit which allows for a complete range of motion.

This coat features a waterproof fabric which doesn’t absorb liquid to prevent staining. And the great thing, it dries several times faster than regular fabric which means that your kid’s coat will be always dry and ready for a new adventure in the snow.

The crimped polyfill insulation provides warmth without making the coat bulky or heavy to wear. And an attached three-piece brimmed hood will keep your child’s face protected against the elements.

Pros:

• Retains less moisture than regular coats
• Lightweight and comfortable fit
• Full zip with hook-and-loop storm flap
• Machine washable and dryer safe

Cons:

• Smaller kids may have trouble pulling the zipper

The Columbia Horizon Ride Jacket is another great winter coat from this high-quality brand. It is durable, lightweight, and will keep your kids warm and looking great for every occasion.

10. Columbia Boys’ Lightning Lift Jacket – Versatile & Waterproof

The Columbia Boys’ Lightning Lift Jacket is a versatile kids winter coat that can be used for playing in the snow, trips, school, or other winter activities. This model comes in several sizes and different prints and colors that are suitable for boys of all ages.

The jacket’s outer shell is made of waterproof nylon which will ensure that your kid stays dry even if he rolls in the snow. While the lining is also made from nylon, polyester is used for insulation and ensures that the coat keeps your son warm.

This model comes with a full front zipper and a storm hood which offers protection against cold wind and snow. Your kid can keep his hands warm in front pockets and use the zippered chest pocket to store keys or binoculars.

Pros:

• Hook-and-loop cuffs make the sleeves windproof
• Relaxed fit allows free range of motion
• Insulated and retains the heat
• Lightweight and durable

Cons:

• The front zipper can malfunction 

Overall, the Columbia Boys’ Lightning Lift Jacket is a great winter option if you are looking for a relaxed fit and a warm coat for your boy. It is great for everyday activities, and its superb insulation will keep your child warm even in the dead of winter.

11. Lisueyne Big Boys' Hooded Down Coat – Extra Warm & Cozy

The Lisueyene Big Boys’ Hooded Down Coat is another mid-length winter coat for boys who have troubles staying dry and warm while playing in the snow. This model is suitable for 14 and 15-year-old boys, but the coat comes in different sizes as well.

This high-quality boys coat is filled with white duck down that provides great insulation against elements and ensures that your kid stays warm regardless of the weather. The shell and lining are made from windproof and waterproof polyester.

The cozy, detachable hood is lined with soft Sherpa material that will keep your kid’s ears and head warm and prevent wind and snow from chilling his neck. The elastic cuffs seal in the warmth and keep your son’s arms and entire body protected from the wind.

Pros:

• Two deep side pockets for keys or other items
• Mid-length ensures that your kid’s waist is always warm and protected
• Zipper and button closure for better fit and security
• Soft and lightweight

Cons:

• Zipper on the hood isn’t the strongest and may break

The Lisueyene Big Boys’ Hooded Down Coat is, in my opinion, a great option for active boys who can’t seem to stay dry in the snow. Being mid-length gives me peace of mind when I let my child roll and play in the snow.

12. Columbia Girls’ Katelyn Crest Jacket – Great For Toddlers

Yet another great option by Columbia, the Girls’ Katelyn Crest Jacket comes in several girl-approved colors and sizes. The xx-s size is made for girls who are four or five years old, and the black color is a great option if your kid gets dirty often.

Featuring a water-resistant polyester shell and insulation, this girls winter coat isn’t bulky, but it will keep your kids warm. The lining is made from durable nylon which won’t rip at the seams after just a couple uses.

Cuffs ensure that the sleeves remain windproof and will help your child to stay warm even during a blizzard. And the faux fur-trimmed hood will protect your toddler’s face and neck from frostbite and is spacious enough to be fitted over a cap.

Pros:

• Machine washable
• Two fleece-lined front pockets
• Full-length front zipper
• Properly insulated and retains body heat

Cons:

• Jacket can be narrow at the waist, so make sure you double check your kid’s measures and order a size up

The Columbia Girls’ Katelyn Crest Jacket may be a great option for your daughter if you are looking for a warm and lightweight coat. It is well insulated, with cuffs and hood that act as protection from wind and snow.

13. Carhartt Girls’ Redwood Jacket – Soft & Warm

The Carhartt Girls’ Redwood Jacket is a must-have if your daughter is a huge fan of pink. This coat comes in several colors and different shades of pink that will give your girl a chance to make a fashion statement every time she puts on her new coat.

This coat is made from cotton which means that it isn’t waterproof, but it is well insulated to keep your daughter warm during dry winter days. The soft and cozy Sherpa lining retains heat and provides extra warmth.

This coat is equipped with rib-knit storm cuffs that will prevent the wind from getting inside the jacket and cooling your daughter. The two front kangaroo split pockets may not hold large items, but they will keep your kid’s hands warm and protected from the elements.

Pros:

• Triple-stitched main seams for extra durability
• Lightweight and comfortable
• Regular fit allows for a wide range of motions
• Sherpa-lined hood provides extra warmth

Cons:

• The hand openings are on the smaller side

Overall, the Carhartt Girls’ Redwood Jacket is a warm and cozy winter jacket that will be a real hit if your girl is a fan of pink. The relaxed fit will give your kid a chance to explore the outdoors freely and experience the best things winter has to offer.

14. Columbia Boys Powder Lite Water-Resistant Insulated Jacket – Lightweight For Toddlers

The Columbia Boys Powder Lite Water-Resistant Insulated Jacket comes in a vivid python green color and is also available in blue, black, and dark grey colors. The xx-small size is suitable for toddlers and is well insulated to keep your kid cozy and warm.

Featuring a Storm-Lite DP II shell, this water-resistant kids coat will keep your kid dry and protect him from the wind. The faux down insulation retains body heat and ensures that your child stays warm without making the coat bulky or heavy.

The adjustable hood is lined with taffeta and can’t be removed, but your child will not even notice that it is there since it is lightweight and inconspicuous. This jacket has binding on the sleeves instead of cuffs that will offer protection from the wind.

Pros:

• Lightweight and supports free movement
• Full-length zipper closure
• Insulated and retains warmth without making a child sweaty
• Binding at the cuff and hood for a better fit

Cons:

• The sizing runs small, so you may need to order up

Overall, the Columbia Boys Powder Lite Water-Resistant Insulated Jacket is a great option if you are looking for a lightweight jacket that will keep your toddler warm and dry. The fit is comfortable and won’t make your kid look bundled up.

15. Dickies Boys’ Sherpa-Lined Duck Jacket – Great For Adventurous Boys

The Dickies Boys’ Sherpa-Lined Duck Jacket is available in preschool and youth sizes and comes in three colors, including Realtree camo pattern. This Sherpa-lined jacket is perfect for winter and will keep your child warm in cold weather.

Made from durable sanded cotton, this winter coat will hold up to everyday wear and tear. The brass zipper and triple needle seams are strong and will handle all of your kid’s activities.

The jacket’s interior is completely lined in Sherpa and makes it super warm and comfortable to wear. This jacket also has two front pockets which can warm your kid’s hands or be used to hold keys or other smaller items.

Pros:

• Sherpa-lined hood prevents frostbite
• Ribbed knit storm cuffs make the sleeves windproof
• Tough brass zipper is made to last
• Lightweight and easy to move in

Cons:

• Cuffs may be too tight for some children

Overall, the Dickies Boys’ Sherpa-Lined Duck Jacket is a great option for active boys who have trouble staying warm during winter. The Sherpa-lined interior makes it very comfortable and soft to the touch, and the jacket is lightweight and durable.

16. London Fog Boys’ Active Puffer Jacket Winter Coat – Snug & Puffy

The London Fog Boys’ Active Puffer Jacket Winter Coat is available in several sizes and colors, and this model is suitable for boys between the ages of 10 and 12. The heavyweight puffer jacket is a great option for active kids and retains body heat.

Made from polyester, this puffer jacket features a removable hood that offers great protection against wind and snow. The cuffs are easy to adjust, thanks to Velcro, which makes the sleeves completely windproof.

The two front pockets come with zippers which makes them ideal for kids who tend to lose their keys every time they go out. To ensure a snug fit, this jacket comes with a front zipper and Velcro.

Pros:

• Front zipper closure is reinforced with Velcro tape
• Puffer design makes it warm and ideal for cold weather
• Removable hood
• Adjustable cuffs make sleeves windproof

Cons:

• The hood is shallow and may be too small for some kids

Overall, the London Fog Boys’ Active Puffer Jacket Winter Coat is a great option if you have a more active child that likes to spend a lot of time out in the snow. It is puffy and comfortable and will keep your kid warm whenever he ventures outdoors. 

Why Kids Need Quality Winter Jackets

If your kids are anything like mine, they can’t wait for the first snow to fall to run outside and roll in it or build a snowman. However, your kid won’t be able to enjoy the outdoors in cold weather if he isn’t dressed properly.

While most kids hate the idea of being bundled up in layers of puffy clothes, keeping your child warm and dry in the winter is imperative. If a child isn’t properly dressed for cold weather s/he will lose body heat more quickly and be at risk of hyperthermia and frostbite.

Kids also like to run and play in the snow which triggers their bodies to perspire. As this sweat evaporates in the dry air, it can chill a child and harm his immune system, making it more likely for him to get sick.

Kids warm winter jackets aren’t just any piece of outerwear, they are invented for a reason, and every child needs to have one. They are there to keep your kids warm, dry, and protected from the elements during the winter season, and every time you buy a winter coat you are basically investing in your kid’s health.

Factors To Consider Before Purchasing A Kids Winter Coat

Let’s face it, most winter coats aren’t cheap. Especially when you consider that toddlers and younger children tend to outgrow most of their clothes just in one season.

Thus, when you are looking to buy a kids winter jacket, you’ll want a model that will last and keep your kids warm as long as possible. 

When looking for the best winter coats for kids you should consider the following things:

1. Material

The material from which the winter coat is made is one of the most important factors you need to consider. You want to make sure that it will keep your kid warm and dry during cold and damp winter weather and, at the same time, be comfortable to wear. 

Generally, materials like polyester are ideal for kids winter coats. They are very durable, lightweight, and can be treated to be windproof and water resistant.

2. Stitching And Durability

Most younger kids are careless with their belongings and won’t be overly upset if their new jacket rips after a few days. So, it is up to you to find a jacket that is durable enough to hold up rough handling and rolling in the snow.

Generally, triple stitching is a great choice if you are looking for a strong and durable jacket that won’t rip easily. 

3. Protection

To find the best coat for your kid, you need to think about what your child will be doing while wearing it. A shorter lightweight coat with a hood is an ideal option for active kids who will run, play, and roll in the snow all day long.

On the other hand, a mid-length coat is a better option for kids who will be standing in cold weather, since it offers more protection from the elements.

4. Number Of Pockets

Pockets are an important feature to consider if your kid needs space for keys or smaller toys. Most kids’ jackets have the two front pockets, but some models feature inside or arm pockets for ski goggles or other items.

And if your kid isn’t a big fan of gloves, you will have to look for a jacket with at least two front pockets that will keep your kid’s hands warm in cold weather.

5. Easy To Wash

Most kids manage to get dirty in record time, so you will need a jacket that is relatively easy to wash. The majority of kids winter coats are machine washable, and some are even dryer safe. 

However, some models can only be washed by hand. So, consider how often you will have to wash your kid’s jacket, and pick one that won’t be too big for your washing machine.

6. Hood

A hood on a kids winter jacket or a coat can be beneficial, since it will protect your child’s head from the wind and cold. Keep in mind that hood can’t be detached from all jackets, and look for a model that has a detachable hood if that is more convenient for you.

7. Color Choices And Design

Great winter jackets for kids come in a variety of different colors and design choices to pick from. This factor is more important if you have a teenager with a developed sense of style, since most youngsters don’t care for fashion that much.

FAQs Section

Q: What is the most important feature in a kid’s winter coat if you are on a budget?

A:  The best kids winter coats come with several features that ensure that your kid stays warm and dry during winter. However, if you are on a tight budget, you will have to limit the number of these features and stick with the essentials. 

When on budget, make sure that the jacket comes with a hood that will keep your kid protected from the wind, snow, and prevent frostbite.

Q: What makes up a high-quality winter jacket for kids?

A: High-quality winter jackets should withstand various cold weather conditions including wind, snow, and rain, but at the same time keep a child warm and comfortable. 

The jacket also needs to be well insulated and to keep your kid dry so the moisture from the outside can’t affect your kid in any way. Insulation also has to be breathable enough so your child won’t become sweaty while wearing the jacket.

Q: Is it worth splurging on a down jacket for my kid?

A: Down is a lightweight filler and excellent insulator which is easy to pack or store, since it doesn’t take too much space. While down jackets are more expensive than those with synthetic filling, they are well worth the extra cost. 

However, since kids tend to grow really fast, splurging on a down jacket may not be worth it if your kid is going to outgrow it in one season. But if you have someone to pass the down coat on to, it might be worth investing in one.

Conclusion

All things considered, a winter coat is a must for any child and especially if you live in an area with extremely cold winters. The best winter coats for kids are not just functional, they should be durable, have great insulation, and be waterproof and windproof. 

For me, the Columbia Girls’ Bugaboo Interchange Jacket is the best kids jacket overall, and it will keep your girl warm and dry this and the following winter. On the other hand, the Nautica Boys’ Toddler Expedition Parka offers the best value. It is durable and warm, comes in many different sizes, and is a great option for active boys.

And if one of these two jackets isn’t the right choice for your kid, one of the other models reviewed above will certainly be!