The most common mistake parents make is dressing a child too warmly. The child runs around, sweats and then quickly catches a chill in damp clothes. So the main rule is not thickness but the right layers.
Three layers
- Base layer — thermal underwear or thin clothing with wool that wicks moisture. For an active child this is better than cotton.
- Mid layer — a fleece or wool top that holds warmth.
- Outer layer — a waterproof, windproof jacket or snowsuit.
A simple check: touch the back of your child’s neck. Warm and dry — all good. Damp — they are overheating; cold — add a layer.
Snowsuit or jacket and trousers
- Snowsuit — for little ones (up to 3–4 years): snow can’t get in and the back stays covered.
- Jacket and warm trousers — more practical for schoolchildren: they can take the jacket off in a warm classroom.
Winter footwear
- A thick, non-slip sole.
- 1–1.5 cm longer than the foot — room for a warm sock and an air gap. But boots that are too big are cold as well.
- A removable lining (wool or synthetic) is easier to dry.
- Measure your child’s feet again before winter — feet grow one or two sizes a year. How to measure: choosing sizes online.
Hat, scarf and mittens
- The hat should fully cover the ears.
- For toddlers, a neck warmer or gaiter is safer than a scarf.
- A second pair of mittens for school — after playing in the snow they need a dry pair.
Visibility
It gets dark early in winter. Make sure the jacket, backpack or shoes have reflective details so drivers can see your child from afar.
Outdoor play
For sledging, snow games and trips to a ski resort, waterproof trousers and gloves matter most. The same applies to adults — more in our article on the ski season.
In the catalogue: boys’ clothing, girls’ clothing, boys’ footwear, girls’ footwear.