If the thought of several inches of snow piling up on your porch makes you loathe the thought of venturing outside with your little snow bunny during the winter, fear not!
In an effort to help out other mothers trying to find the best winter gear for their children, we rounded up all of my favorite items that will keep your little guy or girl toasty (and stylish) until the spring.
To shop these picks by category, simply click on the following links below:
- Best winter coats for kids
- Best snow boots for kids
- Best kids' snow pants
- Best kids' thermal underwear
- Best fleece jackets and sweats for kids
- Best ski masks and gloves for kids
Best winter coats for kids
Amazon Essentials Heavyweight Hooded Puffer Jacket
With a near-perfect 4.8-star average from almost 1,900 Amazon shoppers, this comfy essential checks off all the boxes when it comes to winter gear. For starters, it's machine-washable, water-resistant-fleece-lined and available in 17 eye-catching colors and patterns.
Uniqlo Kids Warm Padded Coat
Is your child more a minimalist? This Uniqlo coat with a faux fur-lined hood and hand-warming pockets may be more their speed.
Boden Sherpa Lined Anorak
For an anorak that's as whimsical as their evolving personality, grab this sherpa-lined option from Boden. Shoppers love how "cheerful and warm" it is — one even noted how they "can always spot my daughter in a crowd" whenever she's wearing it.
Columbia Katelyn Crest Jacket
Columbia is renowned for their cold weather-friendly outerwear, so it's no wonder over 1,800 Amazon shoppers rated this jacket five stars. Made with a water-resistant Storm-Lite DP II polyester material, your snow bunny will be shielded from all the elements in optimal comfort.
L.L. Bean Kids' Colorblock Down Jacket
Available in three colorblock options and sizes for toddlers and big kids, this L.L. Bean down jacket has been a consistent favorite thanks to its cozy DownTek insulation and wind-resistant detailing.
Patagonia Boys’ Snowshot Jacket
A high-quality winter coat with built-in insulation and waterproofing is the one winter essential worth the splurge. This Patagonia jacket is breathable, waterproof and insulated to give your little one extra hours to burn off energy at the playground.
Best snow boots for kids
L.L. Bean Toddlers' Ultralight Winter Boots
There's nothing cuter than tiny shoes. Case in point? These L.L. Bean boots that are equally lightweight, sturdy and insulated.
Sorel Kids Snow Commander Boot
Available in seven vibrant colors, these durable boots from Sorel will keep their tootsies toasty throughout sledding and snowball fights thanks to its thermal rubber shell and generous amount of insulation. Several shoppers have also noted how easy these are to put on and get off, which will definitely help keep indoor messes limited to the entryway.
Kamik Waterbug Snow Boot
Made in toddler, little kid and big kid sizes, these moisture-wicking Kamik boots were made to protect their growing feet throughout all kinds of inclement weather. Over 1,200 Amazon shoppers have rated these kicks a perfect five stars, noting how "high-quality and durable" they remain over time.
Sperry Saltwater Rain Boot
Whether your toddler is sledding the slopes or blazing slushy trails down urban sidewalks, a pair of warm winter boots are a must. These waterproof, fleece-lined duck boots are super stylish and have a side zipper which makes them so easy for your little ones to get them on and off by themselves.
Bogs Solid Waterproof Winter Boot
Not only are these neoprene boots plush and flexible, but they're also 100% waterproof. The dual-side handles make this style easy for those independent toddlers who must “do it myself” or parents who need to get out the door quickly!
Best kids' snow pants
Arctix Unisex Snow Pants
Currently Amazon's top bestsellers in Boys' Skiing Pants, this pair remains a consistent favorite thanks to its lightweight design, durable water repellant finish and ThermaTech insulation that'll keep little ones comfortable in frigid conditions.
L.L. Bean Kids' Cold Buster Snow Pants
Staying toasty while playing in the snow has never been this easy. These L.L. Bean snow pants are padded with Thinsulate™ and designed with an adjustable waist for additional layers or growth spurts.
Columbia Ice Slope II Pant
If you're raising a polar cub who loves snow sports, a snowsuit may warrant the investment. These Columbia Ice Slope II pants offer more warmth and insulation than others on this list. They're cozy, and have a relaxed fit — perfect for when you're teaching your little one on the slopes!
Patagonia Snow Pile Bib Pant
Bibs are great if you're trying to prevent accidents. This Patagonia snow bib is waterproof and has insulated comfort without too much bulk. The deep front zipper accommodates easy on and off mobility while the pant legs extend a few additional inches as part of Patagonia’s "grow with me" functionality.
Discovery Rain Pants
Unless you live in the Arctic or plan on spending lots of time playing in a winter wonderland, investing in a snowsuit for outdoor play is expensive. For one-time sledding excursions, a pair of rain pants over several insulating layers will provide a waterproof outer layer to stay warm and dry.
Plus, for just $20, you can’t beat these waterproof pants. They're easy to pull on and off quickly and adjust to accommodate insulating layers for colder weather.
Best kids' thermal underwear
Hanes Premium 2-Piece Thermal Underwear Set
Time to get your hands on these Hanes before the cold weather kicks in. Made with lightweight, moisture-wicking 100% recycled polyester material, Target shoppers have rated this $10 set a stellar 4.5 stars.
Only Boys Waffle Knit Thermal Underwear Set
What's cozier than thermal long johns? Thermal long johns made with a soft cotton/polyester waffle weave! Aside from being constructed for optimal movement and heat regulation, each purchase comes with two tops and two bottoms.
City Threads Little Boys Thermal Underwear Set
Choosing the right combination of layers is essential to maximizing your child’s warmth while minimizing potential meltdowns. For less than $30, you can stock up on this thermal set, which also comes in a variety of colors. This versatile must-have is made in the USA and will keep your toddler dry and comfortable during the winter months ahead.
Enfants Cheris Little Girls & Boys Long John Set
This long john set from Enfants Cheris is cozy, warm and perfect for any winter activity, whether you're indoors or at the playground. Did we mention you can grab this set for less than $20?
Best fleece jackets and sweats for kids
Cat & Jack Printed Zip-Up Fleece Hoodie
Add a playful pop of color to their winter wardrobe with this zip-up fleece hoodie from Target. Available in six whimsical patterns, this layering option currently holds a strong 4.7-star average on the brand's website.
H&M Fleece Jacket
How about dressing up your little lumberjack in this checkered fleece jacket? Besides looking super cute, this pick from H&M can effectively act as transitional outerwear or a mid-layer for colder stretches of weather.
Columbia Steens Mountain Fleece Jacket
Over 12,700 Amazon shoppers can't be wrong about rating this Columbia jacket a perfect five stars. Available in over two dozen colorful options, this fleece layer allows for comfortable movement for all of their outdoor adventures. No wonder why it's currently Amazon's top bestseller in Boy's Fleece Jackets & Coats!
Patagonia Retro-X Fleece Jacket
Fleece jackets are great because they can do double duty as a great mid-layer for colder climates and make the perfect outerwear on warmer days. This shaggy-styled fleece jacket pairs well with any pair of pants, from flannel-lined jeans to dressier tan khakis. Either way, your little one will be nice and toasty.
Old Navy Cozy-Lined Leggings
Perfect for layering underneath their snow pants or rocking solo with their favorite hoodie or dress, these "snuggle-in soft" pull-on leggings will keep them effortlessly cozy all season long.
L.L. Bean Kids' Mountain Fleece Pants
Whether they're climbing around the playground or tubing down the slopes, they'll be doing it all in style and comfort in these L.L. Bean fleece pants. Its reflective material will also make them visible in low-lit conditions, if they're the sort to prefer evening igloo-making sessions.
French Toast Toddler Boys' Fleece Jogger
These comfy cotton-blend fleece pants make playtime easy, thanks to a convenient drawstring closure which also ensures a secure fit. The front and back patch pockets add some extra style — and a pair of retro kicks easily complete this athleisure look.
Sasha + Lucca Alpaca Pants
They are a bit pricier, but who can resist a pair of super warm, 100% Peruvian alpaca sweater pants? Not only are they super stylish, but they are also lined in the coziest Pima cotton.
Best ski masks & gloves for kids
All in Motion Ski Gloves
Made with waterproof, 100% recycled polyester, these affordable quilted gloves are a win for the environment and your wallet.
The North Face Toddler Mitt
Mittens are much easier to put on than gloves, especially for younger toddlers. This style is perfect for an extended playground session or snow sports because they're waterproof and insulated. Look for pairs that ride high on the child’s wrist and fasten easily for fewer on and off struggles.
YQXCC Kids Ski Mask
Who needs a separate hat, scarf and ski mask when you have all three rolled into one? This balaclava currently holds a strong 4.5-star average from over 5,000 Amazon shoppers, thanks to its adjustable design and thick fleece lining.
Outdoor Research Kids' Ninjaclava Headwear
Beanies are always a good idea, but nothing beats a balaclava for those blustery days. This ski mask-style headgear acts as a hat, ear-warmer and a scarf. Your little one will stay dry for more fun-filled playtime in the snow or on the slopes with this moisture-wicking, low-profile head and neck layer — perfect for added warmth under a helmet or hood.
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This article was originally published on Jan. 4, 2018.