When it comes to exposing your kid's to the outdoor activities you enjoy there is a fine line of where they can love it or hate it. A sure way to ensure your children love it is buy making it a fun, comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Choosing the right rain gear that fits properly, keeps them dry and warm and is comfortable will help them to enjoy their surroundings and the experience when those afternoon storms hit. Making the experience and adventure will ask them begging to go again.
So how do you know what brand works best, fits best and will last. In today's outdoor industry kids are taken more seriously and manufacturer's are making serious gear for them. Attributes of a good rain jacket for boy's and girl's are breathability, waterproofness, durability, design and fit. Choosing a water proof jacket that is breathable keeps a child dry and prevents condensation build up on the inside of the jacket from body heat on warmer days unlike polyurethane jackets or ponchos. Although not the cheapest alternative, companies such as Marmot, Patagonia, The North Face and Sierra Designs are using an lining that works similar to Gore, but with out the Gore price. The difference in these liners is compared to Gore Tex is breathability about 20% less but are just as durable.
Choosing the right Jacket:
1) Make sure there is able material in the arms and shoulders that compensate for movement and some room to grow.
2) Length the jacket should fall below the hips
3) Venting Pockets/ Pit Zips help the jacket to breath better during exertion or on warm days
4) Hood will keep rain off the head and from getting to the inside of the jacket during down pours
5) Draw cords around the hood and bottom of the jacket help keep wind out
6) Durable quick drying nylon outer layer
Quality
A quality kids rain jacket will last and can be handed down to a little brother, sister, cousin so don't get discouraged by the price tag. Here are some great examples of kids rain jacket
Marmot Precip Jacket for Kids:
The Marmot Precip Jacket is lightweight, durable, and breathable! Made of a double layer of PreCip polyurethane coating for waterproof protection, this jacket also offers sealed seams and DryTouch technology to reduce condensation and cut down on the clammy feeling that so often accompanies rain gear. Complete with an adjustable brimmed hood that rolls up when the sun comes out, zippered pockets and a double storm flap, the Precip jacket will see your kids through the most challenging of storms and then pack away easily in their backpack for later use.
• Waterproof with sealed seams
• Breathable with DryTouch technology
• Adjustable brimmed hood
• DriClime lined chin guard
• Compact design fits easily in a backpack
Price: $55.00
One Sale: $45.00 Outdoorkids.com
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Sierra Designs Hurricane Parka for Kids:
The Sierra Designs Hurricane Parka for Kids has all the high-tech features of the adult design but is sized down for your little one. This parka is constructed of double layer waterproof yet breathable fabric, completely seam sealed with Extremity Vents for the ultimate in rainy weather protection. This Parka packs into its own attached pouch so small that your kids can keep it in their backpacks in case of sudden downpours.
Sizing Help: Based on customer feedback and product testing, Outdoor Kids recommends you buy this parka one size larger than your child's actual size as it runs small.
Double layers of breathable, waterproof fabric
• Completely seam sealed
• Extremity Vents to prevent overheating
• Packs into its own attached pouch
• Features two mesh pockets for convenience
Price $45.00
On Sale: $29.00 Outdoorkids.com
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