Rain Gear

Here is a list that I comprised from doing some research on the internet, as well as knowing what stores in town offer kid's rain gear.

Remember also that on rainy days, in our climate it is also usually cool enough that if a child gets wet, they will get cold. The best protection for this is to layer up the clothing on your child, and avoid cotton layers especially (cotton absorbs moisture quickly and will literally wick away the warmth from their skin, which is why there is a saying “Cotton Kills”!!) Polyester or wool is the best material for rainy seasons. Also packing an extra change of clothes in a water-tight bag is helpful.

Local Shopping

  • If you have the time and patience, you can always check the local thrift stores just pre-season (October-November).

  • Apple Blossom Baby also has boots and other gear up to size 5T – you can call them first to see if they have the size you need.

  • Once Upon a Child (located next to Trader Joe’s) may also carry quality used rain gear for ages up to 8.

  • Big 5, Sportsman's Warehouse, Dicks, Walmart, Target, and sometimes Costco all carry children's rain gear leading into the rainy season.

Online Shopping
Rain Jackets/pants/coveralls

Tuffo Muddy Buddy, coveralls for up to 5T $38.99 https://www.snugglebugz.ca/products/muddy-buddy-12m-pink

Oaki Rain Gear is popular with a lot of European Forest Kindergartens, they are known to be great for extended periods of time in the elements, though a bit more pricey:
https://oaki.com

H2M Fleece-lined Splash Pants with foot straps (on sale now for $11.99, reg. $29.99)https://www2.hm.com/en_ca/productpage.0567741002.html? gclid=CjwKCAiAt8TUBRAKEiwAOI9pAGiV4qhDwkjarO5csjdOvALzA0ZlElpZ8katoSBN6dTCdb RcXwbkcxoCZakQAvD_BwE&s_kwcid=AL!860!3!197683918686!!!g!382089453787! &ef_id=VdTnHwAABFz3yeYg:20180225022908:s

Kushie's – Nice jacket/pants set, PVC-free, $59.99, jacket only is $39.99 https://www.kushiesonline.ca/Kushies-Rainwear-s/24.htm

Arshiner Rain Jackets – seems to only be available through Amazon, but affordable ($16.00) and gets great reviews. Here is a link to a girl's purple rain jacket: https://www.amazon.com/Arshiner-Waterproof-Outwear-Raincoat-Hoodies/dp/B073S32B3P? tag=thegearhunthurry-20

Here is a list of kid's rain gear that was put together by www.gearhut.com, it seems pretty good so I am also including that here:
https://thegearhunt.com/best-kids-rain-jackets-reviewed/

FroggToggs – I have received mixed reviews about these from parents. The pros are that they are very affordable (you can get the jacket/pant set from Walmart or online for around $20), they are breathable, lightweight, and very easy to smash into a kid's backpack. However, some parents have said that the material has ripped easily before.

Patagonia – They have great gear overall, and are an ethical company to support. They are, however, usually a bit more pricey. But, if you find any scores at the thrift store, you can be assured that it is a good find! They also have a great “worn wear” website where they sell used kids items at a reduced price, here is the link for that:

https://wornwear.patagonia.com/shop/kids-and-baby

Rain Boots

From the research I did online, it seems that Crocs, Boggs, and Oaki have the best reviewed rain boots for kids. They are all around the same $20-$25 range.

You can find these brands and a ton more at Heel and Sole shoe store in the Mangrove Shopping Center, tucked into the corner to the right of Safeway. I am sure they are also available at the big box stores. If you chose to go the thrift store route, be careful to check the seams and the soles of the rain boots for damage before buying.

Lastly – lots of rain boots will supply protection from water, but not always from the cold. It is wise to purchase some nice thick wool socks, and always pack an extra pair (we all know kids can't resist a good puddle to jump in!) We used to say to double up on socks, but I have also found that sometimes one good pair of socks will suffice, because the “dead air space” between the layers allows your foot to circulate heat on their own, therefore creating their own warmth. You can have your child experiment with what works best for them.