How many jackets should a kid have?

The number of jackets your child need depends on the climate where you live. If you’re raising your family in a place that experiences all four seasons, you’ll likely need a lightweight coat for fall and spring, a heavy, waterproof winter coat, and a lighter weight waterproof jacket for rainy days.

What is the best way to clean a child's jacket?

Check the label before cleaning your child’s jacket. Some require spot cleaning or dry cleaning while others can be tossed in the washing machine.

At what temperature should a child wear a jacket?

A good rule of thumb is to dress your child in a jacket when the temperature dips under 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Above 50 degrees, a lightweight jacket can still be appropriate, but layers—like a sweatshirt, vest, and hat—can suffice.

Should you go up a size when buying jackets for toddlers?

Some toddler jackets run slightly large to last through any growth spurts that occur during a single season. Reviews can help you get a sense of whether particular brands run large or small. Some may have extra-long cuffs that allow for growth.

The 9 Best Jackets for Kids of 2023

'Tis the season for cozy sweaters, pom-pom hats, and warm jackets. The best jackets for kids will not only be fun and stylish by design, but they will be made with certain materials that keep cold air out, can be washed and cleaned easily, and maintain their condition all season long.

Depending on the age of your child and where you live, the best jacket for kids could be a parka for sledding and snowball fights or something as simple as a denim jacket. Baby buntings are best for infants, and toddlers might be better with something that grows with them since they're developing so fast. We researched popular jackets with various seasons, sizes, and comfort in mind.

Here are our picks for the best jackets for kids in every price range and style.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Columbia Glennaker Rain Jacket at Amazon

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Best Denim :

Wrangler Denim Jacket at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Amazon Essentials Boys Puffer Jacket at Amazon

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Best for Winter:

Arctix Slalom Insulated Winter Jacket at Amazon

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Best Down-Alternative:

Lands’ End Kids Expedition Down Winter Parka at Kohls.com

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Best for Big Kids:

The North Face Youth Moondoggy Hoodie at Moosejaw.com

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Best for All Seasons:

L.L. Bean Kids' Mountain 3-in-1 Jacket at L.L.Bean

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Best Rain Jacket:

Hatley Splash Jacket at Amazon

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Best Hooded:

Primary Lightweight Puffer Jacket at Primary.com

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Family

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Backcountry.com View On Basspro.com

We named this jacket our best overall for kids because it is versatile in design for rain, wind, and chill. You’ll love the waterproof nylon shell, elastic cuffs, zippered pockets, and polyester lining. It’s lightweight, protective, warm, washable, and budget-friendly, and you can layer it for colder months. Available in various colors, it comes in sizes 2T to 4T and XXS to XL, and the brand has a size chart you can reference to find the right fit for your kid.

Every child who wants to be equipped but trendy can use this jacket. With its contrasting front zip and signature Columbia chest logo, the Columbia Glennaker Rain Jacket makes a statement but does so in a casual way. Since the quality is top-notch, your little one will be able to engage in all kinds of outdoor play.

Price at time of publication: $45

Amnazon

View On Amazon

Wrangler has been around since 1947 and continues to make quality products for the entire family. This jean jacket is built to withstand the everyday rigors of kids at play. Made from 100% cotton, it has a real authentic signature denim look that is built to last.

Depending on your child's age, they may find the buttons can be tricky to close, but this jacket is best worn open anyway. Fans of the jacket rave about how well it fits and have purchased it for multiple kids and growth spurts.

Price at time of publication: $39

Amazon

View On Amazon

The Amazon Puffer jacket is our top choice if you are looking for a stylish jacket that will not break the bank. It is best suited for mild climates but can also be layered on top of a sweater for those colder days. Offered in multiple color options, it packs neatly into the included carrying bag, or will easily fit into a kid's backpack.

The elastic cuff and hood paired with the down-alternative fill add to the warmth factor with this jacket. There is a lot of value to be had with this jacket!

Price at time of publication: $40

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Sportsmans.com

If you are on the hunt for that winter jacket that stands up to the harshest climates, then the Arctix Slalom Jacket is the one. It features ThermaLock wind-resistant and waterproof 5000mm coating for ultimate protection. The zippered hand warmer style pockets close for added convenience, warmth, and security.

This jacket is a relaxed fit made from lightweight, flexible material to make winter activities as comfortable as possible. Whether it is hitting the ski slopes, walking to school, or just weathering the cold months, this jacket is our top pick for winter.

Price at time of publication: $60

Kohl's

View On Kohls.com View On Landsend.com

This parka by Lands’ End is their warmest jacket with 600-fill power down and can be worn in temperatures as low as -18 degrees Fahrenheit. With a mature look to it, this parka has a stylish faux fur hood and hits below the hips for extra warmth.

The waterproof outer shell keeps your kiddo dry while the quilted lower body and sleeve lining keep insulated and warm. The SnowGuard wrist cuffs are a must for the next snowball fight. Lands’ End uses Responsible Down Standard (RDS) through an ethically sourced supply chain so you can feel good about the impact of your purchase. They claim there is no jacket that is warmer out there!

Price at time of publication: $180

Moosejaw

View On Moosejaw.com View On The North Face

This jacket by North Face is a bit pricier, but an older kid can be given more responsibility than a toddler. A great option for those frigid winters, it is 550-fill down and has a sherpa fleece-lined hood and shoulders. Very durable, this jacket can withstand many washes and comes out looking brand new.

Kids will love the compartments within the pockets to hold electronics and other gadgets. Although only water-repellent and not waterproof, it will still withstand snowy days.

L.L.Bean

View On L.L.Bean

Purchasing a 3-in-1 jacket is a smart choice if you live somewhere that has multiple seasons; this jacket by L.L. Bean comes in fun and stylish colorways. The hooded jacket features a water-resistant shell that'll keep your kiddo dry and a cozy double-layer fleece for extra warmth.

Each piece looks great worn on its own but when paired together it is the perfect winter jacket to keep warm and dry during the colder months. Parents rave about the value and versatility of this three-season jacket.

Price at time of publication: $119

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Hatley.com

This rain jacket by Hatley has everything you would need. Fleece-lined for those cold and wet days, it is 100% waterproof and has pockets to keep your child’s hands warm and dry. With a little rain usually comes mud and this jacket can be thrown in the washing machine to get stains out.

If you are looking for full body weather coverage, Hatley also makes a matching splash pant to complete the set. Fans rave about the quality of the product and recommend sizing up to get a few years out of the coat.

Price at time of publication: $70

Primary

View On Primary.com

A good hood is important when the temperature drops or the rain starts to fall, and we love the elasticized trim around the hood, cuffs, and trim on this jacket by Primary. Made of 100% recycled polyester, it is just right for cool weather and makes for a great layering piece in the extreme cold.

It comes with pockets, a full-zip front with a chin guard, and has a durable water repellent finish. On the inside, there is a cute rainbow pocket with an “I belong to” label to add your child’s name to ensure the coat always makes it back home.

Price at time of publication: $58

Final Verdict

For a jacket that’s geared to all kinds of weather, check out the Columbia Boys Glennaker Rain Jacket (view at Amazon). It earned our Best Overall pick thanks to its waterproof nylon shell, elastic cuffs, and zippered pockets. If your kiddo needs a jacket for cold weather specifically, there’s the Lands’ End Kids Expedition Down Winter Parka (view at Landsend.com). It can be worn in -18 degree weather since the coat has 600-fill power down. The faux fur hood is a stylish touch, too.

What to Look for in Jackets for Kids

Sizing

The best jacket for your child will depend on the weather where you live and your child’s age. When it comes to sizing, you want something they feel comfortable in but can also get great use out of. Your best bet is to check out the manufacturer’s size chart and take measurements of your kiddo.

Once you’ve taken their measurements, check out the cut of the jacket. Many parents and caregivers buy jackets a size up from their child’s regular size so they can grow with it or if they expect their child to wear multiple layers underneath.

Comfort

The best way to ensure your child is comfortable in their jacket is for them to try it on. They will be able to let you know what doesn’t feel right. While you may be certain of your kid's size in other clothing, coats and jackets can vary by brand and type, so trying them on is helpful.

If trying on the jacket is not possible, check out the material as some fabrics are softer than others. Ensuring the jacket’s material is not too itchy or uncomfortable will help your child feel cozy and snug (and more likely to keep the jacket on).

Seasonality and Climate

While you'll want to reach for a puffy, lined coat for a colder winter climate, you may want to choose a lightweight option for warmer climates or to use in milder spring and autumn weather. Otherwise, your child will be uncomfortably warm or cold in the jacket.

For winter, you’ll want to pick out something that’s heavy and insulated. Coats lined with flannel or wool will keep the frost out all season long. Additional features you may wish to have on jackets for weather include a hood, warm pockets, and a double zipper for easy removal.

For milder weather, you’ll want a jacket that keeps kids warm during brisk mornings but still feels light enough during the afternoon. Those seasons can be tough when it comes to picking out which jacket to wear, so your best bet is to go with something that is light enough for a slight chill but roomy enough to be worn as a layering piece for extra warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many jackets should a kid have?

The number of jackets your child need depends on the climate where you live. If you’re raising your family in a place that experiences all four seasons, you’ll likely need a lightweight coat for fall and spring, a heavy, waterproof winter coat, and a lighter weight waterproof jacket for rainy days.
What is the best way to clean a child's jacket?

Check the label before cleaning your child’s jacket. Some require spot cleaning or dry cleaning while others can be tossed in the washing machine.
At what temperature should a child wear a jacket?

A good rule of thumb is to dress your child in a jacket when the temperature dips under 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Above 50 degrees, a lightweight jacket can still be appropriate, but layers—like a sweatshirt, vest, and hat—can suffice.
Should you go up a size when buying jackets for toddlers?

Some toddler jackets run slightly large to last through any growth spurts that occur during a single season. Reviews can help you get a sense of whether particular brands run large or small. Some may have extra-long cuffs that allow for growth.

Why Trust Verywell Family?

Deanna McCormack is a freelance writer and creative consultant based in Scottsdale, Arizona. She enjoys working with start-ups and regularly covers product launches in the lifestyle, beauty, and motherhood space. She has a 3-year-old son and an infant daughter and is the co-founder of Loonie Kid, a Canadian clothing company for kids and toddlers. Both of her kids have the Hatley Splash Jacket (view on Amazon) for the fall and spring seasons. It is surprisingly durable and warm.