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Guide
Kids' Waterproof Jackets
A waterproof jacket must keep rain out and fit over your warm layer. Sealed seams, a secure hood and ventilation matter alongside the fabric rating; a hydrostatic head alone cannot settle the choice.
Key points
- Check the model description for waterproof construction and sealed seams.
- Turn your head in the hood and try the jacket with a rucksack.
- Choose by body measurements; sleeves should leave hands free.
Buying advice
Which rain jacket suits you?
Four questions on activity, ventilation or construction, fit and budget help you compare rain jackets.
- Compare by use
- Check fit and features
Which choice for which use?
| Use | Your choice | Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking | Your choiceRucksack-friendly cut | ConsiderCheck pocket access with a hip belt |
| Commuting | Your choiceRoom over everyday clothing | ConsiderA long hem can pull when seated |
| Weather backup | Your choicePackable shell | ConsiderLow weight does not establish abrasion resistance |
What to look for
| Question | In brief | Why |
|---|---|---|
| What keeps rain out? | In briefCheck construction and seams | WhyA water-repellent face fabric alone does not make a waterproof jacket. |
| Does the hood follow your head? | In briefTurn both ways | WhyIt should preserve your view without slipping off the back of your head. |
| How can heat escape? | In briefLook for vents | WhyMoisture can build up during steep climbs even when the jacket has a membrane. |
Frequently asked questions
Waterproof or water repellent?
Water repellency describes surface beading. Prolonged rain calls for waterproof construction with suitably protected seams and fastenings.
Why can I still feel damp inside?
You may produce sweat faster than water vapour can escape. Open available vents and adjust warm layers before you overheat on a climb.
Can a shell replace a winter jacket?
An uninsulated shell blocks wind and rain. Warmth comes from the layers underneath. Try on the combination you intend to wear in winter.
How do I care for the protection?
Follow the label and the fabric-specific instructions. Dirt or worn surface treatment can reduce beading; that alone does not mean the membrane has a hole.
How much does an example weigh?
For example, CMP lists CMP KID G Jacket Fixed Hood at 295 g. Compare weight figures only when their reference sizes match.
How do I check the fit?
Choose size by body measurements and the brand chart rather than age alone. Ask your child to reach, squat and operate the fastenings. Excess sleeve length gets in the way of hands; lots of growing room is not a good fit. Still leave space for the intended layers.
Last updated: October 2026
Hiking
Look for protected fastenings, an adjustable hood and pockets you can reach above a hip belt. Leave room for your usual midlayer.
- Sealed seams
- Adjustable hood
- Try with a rucksack
Easy walks
Choose a comfortable fit over everyday clothing and accessible pockets. A longer hem can help while walking but should not pull when seated.
- Room for clothing
- Protected pockets
- Check the seated fit
Mountain walks
Compare fabric construction and the intended use. A durable face fabric helps with frequent rucksack contact; assume helmet compatibility only when the manufacturer specifies it.
- Durable face fabric
- Free shoulders
- Hood to suit equipment
Changing weather
Check rain protection and warmth separately. A lined jacket can suit cool, easy outings; an uninsulated shell works over different warm layers.
- Full rain protection
- Lining to suit your pace
- Room for warm layers
