Shopping for winter coats and jackets for the kids can literally leave you in the cold with all the choices, colors and variety. What do you look for? What style do you choose? What’s a parent to do?
Yes, shopping for winter wear, especially, jackets and coats is a toughie. Here are some of 5 tips to help you select the right coat for your child that can help make choosing the perfect winter coat or jacket easy for you:
1. Keep the Climate in Mind
Of course, one of the first things is to keep your local climate in mind. Does it snow a lot? Will it be raining all the time? Then, maybe you need a waterproof jacket. If it’ll be just cold weather, you may want to look at a jacket with down to keep kids warm and snug while they wait for their school bus or run errands with you.
2. What Activities will it be Used For
Will your kids need the jacket for a ton of outdoor sports activities, like skiing or snowboarding? If so, investing in a special sports winter jacket that’s waterproof, fully insulated, breathable and incredibly warm may be a good decision.
3. Take the Kids Shopping
As much as you’d prefer shopping on your own, winter outerwear for the kids is one thing you want them to try on for size and comfort. Kids can be picky about material that feels scratchy or colors that they just don’t wear. Also, the size should be perfect. Not too big nor too tight.
4. Look for Layers
I personally prefer jackets and coats that have removable linings or layers inside so that I can add or remove a layer according to the change in the weather or even, what my daughter would be doing that day. A jacket with a removable lining may cost slightly extra but actually saves me from buying both a light jacket and a heavier one. So, am not complaining!
5. Check for Quality
Once you’ve shortlisted a few options, check them for quality. Tug on the zipper to make sure it runs smoothly. Check the snaps. Look at the lining seams and stitching on the inside to make sure it’s strong and sturdy. While you don’t have to bust your budget, investing in slightly expensive but good quality jackets and winter coats saves you money in the long run.
What do YOU keep in mind when choosing winter outerwear for your kids?
Written By: Parenting Contributor, Prerna Malik, themomwrites.com
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