The best kids’ raincoats, waterproof jackets and coats

best kids raincoat

by Laura Healy |
Updated on

There are a few staple things that should be in your toddler's wardrobe, and a good kids' raincoat is one of them, particularly in the UK. It doesn't matter the season, your little one will want to go out and explore whatever the weather so it is best to be prepared with essentials like toddler puddlesuits, wellies, raincoats, a waterproof jacket or coat.

Rainy days should never stop play - with the right waterproof clothing, there should be nothing to stop your toddler from adventuring outside, whether it's a quick spring shower, torrential rain, or even snow! Plus a waterproof coat is an essential if your tot attends forest school, or it is often a requirement at nursery or school.

Whether you're looking to shop at a high street favourite or want to get a jacket delivered tomorrow, we've made it our mission to find the best kids' raincoats for your little one. Here are some of our picks, as well as some waterproof trousers and all-in-one rainsuits.

Best kids raincoats, waterproof jackets and coats at a glance:

•Best summer kids raincoat: Torrent II Kids Waterproof Jacket
•Best insulated kids raincoat: Forest Leader Insulated PU Jacket
Best all year round kids raincoat: Forest Ranger PU Waterproof Jacket

With a practical kids' raincoat, your little one (and you!) will be prepared for all the British weather has to throw at you, and the fun adventures, essential school run or grocery shop won't have to wait because of the rain. Plus, we might not like wet weather, but it doesn't normally bother children and with a good raincoat they can still play in the garden even when the weather is a bit unsettled. Have a look at our selection below to help you choose the best kids' raincoat.

Best kids puddlesuit

Waterproof splash suit for little adventurers. Whether they're chasing the dog with the hosepipe, having fun in the park or it's a wet weather day at nursery, with this classic puddle suit you have peace of mind they're protected from the rain. Parents leave positive reviews on durability, functionality, and value for money, with many agreeing it keeps their kids dry while splashing in puddles or playing in the rain.

The lightweight design means it's easy to wear, easy to clean, easy to pack up when not in use, and comfortable to layer over clothing. Some reviewers have commented that it could do with adding zips to both legs for easier on and off and providing more consistent sizing options across colours and sizes. Finished with elastic around the cuffs to keep the wet weather out, your little one will stay dry in the heaviest downpour – parents love these and have commented that the elasticated wrists, waist and ankles mean it fits really well with room to grow, and that it doesn’t hinder movement at all.

Pros

  • Elasticated cuffs
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Very thin

Best duck raincoat

With a range of fun designs to choose from including a unicorn, duck, dinosaur and shark, your toddler is going to love this raincoat so much they'll be wishing for it to rain! Plus, with waterproof and taped seams to keep little one dry, you won't need to worry about them getting wet and uncomfortable during inconvenient showers. One reviewer specifically stated how well they withstand the British rain, which we thought was worth noting!

We all know how much kids hate being restricted – you'll be pleased to know that this raincoat has been praised in reviews for not being too hot, big or puffy. Hopefully your little one will agree and enjoy wearing it too. There are some concerns about sizing in reviews, with a few customers finding them smaller than expected. Despite this, the majority of buyers are satisfied with their purchase, describing them as perfect and true to size.

Pros

  • Fun design will appeal to children
  • Lightweight but durable

Cons

  • Hand wash only

Best insulated kids jacket

An all-around great jacket, this is waterproof, windproof and warm. It features a fleece lining and a detachable peaked hood, as well as adjustable elasticated cuffs. Plus it comes in lovely vibrant colours to brighten the darkest winter day.

Commercial Content Writer for Mother&Baby, Laura Healy, said: "For cold, blustery and wet winter days, you can't get better protection than this jacket. It really is great and my four year old is so comfortable in it. With the colourful design, it stands out in a crowd, or in wet, grey parks at the weekend. With the fleece lining, it really does keep my little one snug but doesn't restrict her at all. The sizing is quite large, which is fine for my four year old because she is tall, but it is something to be aware of. We haven't needed to detach the hood because there has been no nice weather but on a cold, sunny day, this coat would be perfect to keep your child dry without the need for a hood to protect from the rain. It is also easy to clean, which is important after a day in preschool where her favourite activity seems to be the mud kitchen!"

Pros

  • Vibrant colours
  • Insulated

Cons

  • Large sizing

Best summer waterproof jacket

Aqua blue coloured kids raincoat with hood and pink zip
Price: £14.99 (was £32.99)

www.mountainwarehouse.com

A lightweight, colourful raincoat that is ideal for Spring or Autumn days outdoors, and great for that walk to school when it's likely to rain before you get home. It's got a hidden hood that easily unpacks when the clouds descend. Available in sizes from two years to 12 years, and comes in a range of gender-neutral tones. It is waterproof, breathable and has adjustable cuffs. A few reviews mention sizing issues, advising to go one size larger than usual, while others find it true to size. Parents generally think the jacket is made from high quality non-sweaty material, provides a good fit, and one reviewer loves the fact that it folds down small to go in a school bag.

Pros

  • Hidden hood
  • Different colour options
  • Folds down small
  • Non-sweaty material
  • Gender-neutral tones

Cons

  • Not great for cold winter weather
  • Mixed reviews on sizing – reviews say go one size bigger

Best waterproof jacket and trousers set

This cute floral patterned waterproof jacket and matching waterproof trousers set come in a variety of different colours, so your tot can pick their favourite out of blue, purple, green, yellow, pink, red and more. Parents and kids love the pretty patterned lining too!. Plus, with matching trousers, they will be fully protected from the rain and keep your little one snug as a bug. Reviewers have commented on the excellent value for money, with one customer even purchasing a couple more!

It is easy to layer clothes underneath, and parents appreciate the convenience of not needing to strip off the entire outfit for bathroom breaks. A few reviews have mentioned issues like difficulty in washing off stains or small hoods, but overall, the product receives high ratings for its style, comfort, and practicality.

Pros

  • Matching trousers and jacket
  • Elasticated waist and ankles on trousers

Cons

  • Wipe clean only

Best all year round jacket

Perfect for puddle jumping all year round! It is ideal for wearing over any outfit from school uniform, weekend casuals, or glittery party dresses, it will keep your little one dry in all seasons. It features a chunky zip and press stud storm flap that your little one should be able to do themselves, plus it has a detachable peaked hood and buttoned pockets.

Laura Healy, Commercial Content Writer for Mother & Baby said: " This is a great waterproof coat for my seven year old. It has kept her dry on the walk to school, while horse riding and also sliding down a slide in the rain, especially when teamed with waterproof trousers! It is comfortable and lightweight and we love the bright colours. My seven year old is tall for her age, but because the sizing on this is generous, age 7-8 fits her perfectly. The peaked hood is great for added protection and importantly, she doesn't feel too bunched up while wearing it over jumpers or school uniform so she can still run around freely. It feels great quality and I think it will withstand many muddy, wet winters."

Pros

  • Great all year round
  • Capped hood to keep rain off the face
  • Zip and button front

Cons

  • Sizing is quite large

Best raincoat for school

Long blue hooded raincoat with an aeroplane design
Price: $23.99

Not only is this a brilliant waterproof jacket, but it has a hidden flap at the back to protect their school bag from the rain as well. Your little one can choose from some fun designs and the jacket is an extra long poncho length for added protection. Parents have commented on how spacious the overcoat is, while being a good fit and keeping kids dry when walking to school.

Pros

  • Long length
  • Extra protection built in for backpacks

Cons

  • Quite thin

How to choose the best kids' raincoats?

When looking for the best kids' raincoats for one-to-three-year-olds there are a few important things to bear in mind:

Breathability - how warm does the coat need to be? If you're looking for something thicker perhaps a winter toddler coat would be a better fit. When trying on, also think about how many layers you're going to want to be able to fit underneath.

Water resistant/waterproof - if you want something that can put up with a brief spring shower as well as persistent rain, choose waterproof over showerproof.

Durability - this coat needs to keep up with your toddler, to cope well with mud, lots of running, and jumping in puddles

Drying time - let's face it, no one wants a house full of damp coats. It's also more than likely that as soon as your toddler has decided to come in they'll immediately want to go and play outside again - so a kid's coat that is easy to dry is a must.

Washability - can you pop it in the washing machine if it gets caked in mud?

How often do you wash a raincoat?

It really depends on your little one. If they are constantly splashing in muddy puddles, you might need to wash it more frequently, but if it is just for walking or playing in wet weather then your little one's raincoat shouldn't need frequent washes, and you can also do spot cleans if they spill something down it. Some kids' raincoats are machine washable, while others are hand wash only or wipe clean, but use your own judgement as to how often they need a freshen-up, it will most likely be once a month or so, unless they get really dirty. Also consider how easy they are to dry, even if you wash them infrequently, they will still get frequently wet and it would be great to be able to throw them on a heated airer, or the washing line in the summer, to quickly dry after a soaking!

Why is a raincoat important?

Wet clothes are uncomfortable for everyone, adults and kids alike, and so having a good raincoat will hopefully keep you dry. It doesn't matter if you keep it in your bag in case you get caught in a quick shower, or you are planning a trip out on a rainy day, or your little one just loves going out in the rain, a good raincoat will keep you dry and let you enjoy time together. There are lots of features to consider such as whether it is lined or insulated, if the pockets are button or zip, perhaps it has a detachable hood, or is longer in length. Finding the best kids' raincoat for your needs is important and will probably save a lot of complaining on days out or even just the school run.

Laura Healy is a Commercial Content Writer for Mother&Baby. She is a mum-of-two girls and loves writing about all things parenting, she is particularly interested in the toddler years and eco-friendly baby products, as well as children’s literature. She has a PhD in Creative Writing and has published short stories in the UK and Ireland, as well as previously writing freelance for her local paper.

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