Toddler & Kids' Rain Jackets

What to Look for in a Kids' Waterproof Jacket

For a jacket that holds up through a school day, outdoor preschool, or a long trail in rain, these are the features that make the difference:

• Fully waterproof membrane - blocks rain even in sustained heavy downpours, not just light drizzle

• Sealed seams - waterproof fabric alone isn't enough; every seam must be sealed or water gets in at the stitching

• Breathability - active kids sweat; a jacket that traps moisture inside defeats the purpose

• Windproof construction - rain almost always comes with wind; windproofing keeps the chill out

• Adjustable hood with a brim - channels rain away from the face; keeps the hood in place when kids run and turn their heads

• Chin guard on the zip - prevents zipper rub on the chin and neck during sustained wear

• PFAS-free and PVC-free - conventional waterproofing uses fluorine-based chemicals parents and pediatric health organizations recommend avoiding

• Adjustable cuffs - seal out rain at the wrists and extend the fit as kids grow

• Reflective details - stormy days are dark; visibility matters, especially near roads

• Packable design - easy to stuff in a bag when rain stops mid-day

Which Reima Rain Jacket is Right?

Two materials, two strengths. Both keep kids dry - the right choice depends on how your child plays.

ReimaTec is built for active movement 

The waterproof-breathable membrane blocks rain and wind from outside while letting moisture vapor escape from inside. With ReimaTec, your child can run, climb, sweat, and still stay comfortable all day. Lighter weight, packable, and windproof.

All ReimaTec jackets have fully sealed seams - no moisture gets in at the stitching, even in sustained heavy rain. Waterproof rating exceeds 5,000mm, which is sufficient for school runs, hikes, and prolonged wet weather.

Rubber rain is built for toughness 

Rubber rain jackets are built for mud kitchens, puddle jumping, and the kind of play that happens closest to the ground. The solid PU outer shell sheds water and wipes clean with a quick rinse. Ready again the next morning. 

Handles crawling, sitting in puddles, and rough wet surfaces without wearing down. Right rain coat for toddlers and younger kids who are hardest on their gear. 

When Kids Need a Rain Jacket

• School runs and recess. The walk to school, outdoor recess, and the walk home - even when it rains all day. A breathable waterproof jacket handles sustained rain without trapping heat during active movement. Fits over a school uniform or everyday clothes.

• Outdoor preschool and forest school. Kids in outdoor programs spend full days outside in any weather. A jacket that holds up to sustained rain, moves freely during play, and goes in the washing machine at the end of the day is the baseline requirement.

• Hiking and trail days. Rain at altitude arrives without warning. A lightweight waterproof jacket packs into a daypack and handles sudden showers without adding noticeable weight to a child's pack or yours.

• After-school and everyday outdoor play. Playground after school, weekend time outdoors, sports practice in shoulder season. A rain jacket that breathes during active movement - and survives regular machine washing - holds up to daily use across fall and spring.

What to Wear Under a Kids' Rain Jacket

An unlined rain jacket is a shell layer - it blocks rain and wind but doesn't provide warmth on its own. What goes underneath depends on the temperature:

• Mild weather (10-15°C / 50-59°F) - a long-sleeve synthetic or wool base layer is enough under an unlined jacket

• Cool weather (5-10°C / 41-50°F) - add a fleece or light midlayer between base layer and rain jacket

• Cold and wet (below 5°C / 41°F) - a warmer fleece or insulated midlayer; the rain jacket acts as the waterproof outer shell

• Avoid cotton next to the skin - cotton holds moisture and stays cold; wool or synthetic base layers work best

Many ReimaTec raincoats for kids come with a built-in fleece lining that adds warmth without giving up the breathability of the membrane.

Rain Jacket or Rain Suit - Which is Right for Your Child?

• Rain suit (jacket + pants set) - full coverage from head to toe. The right choice for toddlers, crawlers, and younger children who spend time on the ground or in puddles. Both pieces can be replaced separately when one wears out faster.

• Rain jacket alone - practical for older children who stay on their feet, can dress themselves, and don't need full-body coverage for their play style. Easier to put on and take off independently.

• Transition age - most children move from rain suits to jacket-only or jacket + separate pants around age 4-5, when bathroom independence and self-dressing become routine.

Details Built for Active Kids

• Adjustable, detachable hoods - protection when it's raining, out of the way when it clears up

• Adjustable cuffs - seal out rain and extend fit across a size range

• Long back hem - stays tucked over pants when kids bend, reach, and climb

• Two-way zippers on select styles for easier movement and layering

• Zipped hand pockets - things stay put even upside down on the monkey bars

• Reflective prints and details - visible in low light on dark rainy afternoons

Frequently Asked Questions About Kids' Rain Jackets

Do toddlers need a special rain jacket, or will any waterproof jacket work?

Yes - look for sealed seams, an adjustable hood with a brim, easy-on/off closures, and a fit that covers the seat when sitting or crawling. A general outdoor jacket often skips these details. They're what make a rain jacket actually work in rain.

How should a kids' rain jacket fit?

Room to fit a fleece underneath without restricting arm movement. Sleeves should cover the wrists when arms are raised. The back hem should cover the waistband when the child bends forward. When between sizes, go up.

What waterproof rating does a kids' jacket need?

5,000mm is the minimum for school runs and outdoor play. ReimaTec jackets exceed this. Sealed seams matter just as much - a high waterproof rating means nothing if water gets in through the stitching.

Should a kids' waterproof jacket be breathable?

If your kid loves active outdoor adventures, yes. A breathable membrane like ReimaTec lets moisture vapor escape from inside while blocking water from getting in. Without breathability, sweat builds up inside and kids get wet from the inside out.