A Fun Guide to Choosing the Perfect Jacket for Active Kids

Keeping up with our little ones can feel like a full-time sport! Between school, playdates, and all those outdoor adventures, you need a jacket that can hang with your kid’s boundless energy. But, finding the right jacket for active kids? That’s a whole different ball game. You want something durable, comfortable, and weather-proof without sacrificing their sense of style (or yours, for that matter!).

We’re here to help you pick the perfect jacket for your energetic little explorers. We'll help you find jackets that can handle the rough and tumble of the playground while keeping your kids cozy without slowing them down.

What Should You Look for in a Jacket for Active Kids?

Let's start with the basics: choosing the perfect jacket for active kids is more than just grabbing something warm and calling it a day. Here’s what to focus on when picking their next jacket:

• Water Resistance or Waterproof: Kids don't stop when it rains, so their jackets shouldn’t either. A waterproof jacket is essential for keeping them dry without making them feel like they’re bundled in plastic.
• Easy to Wash: Kids' jackets can get dirty fast. Mud, food stains, grass, and mystery marks... it all ends up on their outerwear. Make sure to pick something that's easy to clean and won’t fall apart after a few washes.
• Comfort and Flexibility: Think of all the bending, jumping, and tumbling your kids do. If their jacket is too stiff, they’ll be yanking it off faster than you can say “playtime.” Look for flexible fabrics that allow for movement while still keeping them warm.
• Good Pockets: Kids love pockets for storing their little treasures—whether it’s snacks, toys, or random outdoor finds. Make sure their jacket has enough pockets that are functional and secure.

When choosing a jacket, keep these key features in mind to ensure your kids stay comfortable and protected during all their activities. A well-chosen jacket will make both playtime and your life much easier!

Lightweight vs. Heavyweight - Which is Better for Your Active Kid?

Now, we all know that kids have their own internal thermostats—they’ll either claim they’re freezing or sweating buckets within minutes. So, what’s the sweet spot for kids’ outerwear? Should you go for a lighter jacket that’s easy to move in or a heavy one that keeps them extra toasty?

When to Choose Lightweight Jackets for Kids

Lightweight options are perfect for those in-between seasons when it’s not quite cold enough for a puffer but still too chilly for just a hoodie. These jackets are great for layering, which means you can adapt to your child’s needs as the temperature changes. For example:

• Fuzzy Hearts Jacket: This fleece jacket is the perfect in-between for mild weather days. It’s cozy without being bulky, making it ideal for kids who like to run around without feeling weighed down.
• Rainbow Denim Jacket: Need something stylish that still has enough coverage for brisk mornings? The Rainbow Denim Jacket is fun, colorful, and versatile for those transitional days when it's neither too hot nor too cold. Plus, denim is always a classic!

When to Choose Heavyweight Kids’ Jackets

When winter hits, a more heavyweight jacket is your best bet to keep your little one warm. Look for something well-insulated but not too bulky to restrict movement. Puffer jackets and insulated parkas are fantastic for colder climates, especially if they’re water-resistant or waterproof.

• Metallic Puffer Jacket: This eye-catching jacket offers the perfect combination of style and function. With its cozy insulation and water-resistant exterior, your child will stay warm and dry, all while looking super cool in rainbow metallic.
• Rainbow Sequin Bomber Jacket: For those colder days when your little fashionista still wants to stand out, this jacket delivers. Its cozy fleece lining keeps the cold at bay but remains light enough for comfort and easy movement. Plus, the sequin design adds extra flair!

When it comes to choosing the right jacket, striking a balance between warmth and comfort is essential. With options like lightweight jackets for transitional weather or heavyweight jackets for those chilly winter days, you can ensure your active kid stays cozy and stylish no matter the season.

Layering Tips for All-Season Comfort

Let’s talk layers. Instead of hunting for that elusive “one perfect jacket,” sometimes it’s smarter to think in layers. This approach makes sure your child stays comfortable no matter how much the temperature fluctuates during the day. Here’s how layering can work for active kids:

1. Base Layer: Start with a light, breathable shirt or long-sleeve top. This will wick away moisture if they start to sweat.
2. Mid Layer: Add something like a fleece or lightweight hoodie to provide warmth without too much bulk. This could be the Rainbow Sequin Bomber Jacket for girls or any similar lightweight jacket from the boys' section.
3. Outer Layer: This is where your weather-proof jacket comes in. When choosing kids’ outerwear, look for something that can block the wind or rain, like the Silver Metallic Puffer for colder days.

With layers, you can always adjust based on the weather or how active your kid is that day. They can peel off a layer if they get too warm or add one if the temperature drops.

How to Pick the Right Size for Growing Kids

Kids grow faster than we can keep up! One season, that jacket fits like a glove, and the next, it's suddenly two sizes too small. So, how do you pick a jacket for active kids that lasts a little longer while still fitting well?

1. Go a Size Up (But Not Too Big)

One trick is to size up, but only by one size. You want to ensure your child has room to grow without being swallowed by the jacket. If it’s too big, it can hinder their movements, which is no fun for a kid on the go. Look for jackets with adjustable features like elastic cuffs, drawstrings, or even extendable sleeves to make the jacket last through multiple growth spurts.

2. Check the Length

Make sure the jacket is long enough to cover their waist when they’re running, jumping, or bending over. A jacket that’s too short can leave them exposed to the cold, especially when they’re moving around so much. A good length helps keep them warm while they’re on the go.

3. Choose a Roomy Fit for Layering

If you plan on layering underneath the jacket, make sure there’s enough room to comfortably fit a sweater or hoodie. This extra space allows your child to stay warm without feeling restricted, giving them the flexibility they need for all their activities.

4. Prioritize Arm and Shoulder Mobility

Kids need to move freely, so make sure the jacket allows full arm and shoulder mobility. Test it out by having them reach and stretch their arms to ensure the fit doesn’t restrict movement during playtime.

When sizing for kids, think ahead for comfort and flexibility as they grow. The right fit ensures they stay active and warm while giving them room to move freely.

Style That Kids Will Actually Wear

We all know the drill: the jacket’s super warm, fits well, and is functional—but your kid won’t wear it because it’s “not cool enough.” The secret? Get them involved in the selection process. Find out what colors, patterns, or characters they like, and choose something they’ll be excited to wear. Trust us, it’ll make your life much easier. To help you get started, here are some suggestions:

• Fun and Fashionable Jackets for Active Girls

For active girls, fashion and function can totally mix! Jackets for active girls like the Rainbow Denim Jacket are a must-have. It’s trendy, easy to layer, and durable enough for all the rough-and-tumble activities your little one will be getting into.

Another option is the Pink Faux Fur Coat for those days when your little fashionista wants to look fabulous while staying cozy.

• Cool and Comfortable Jackets for Active Boys

For the boys, a little flash goes a long way. Jackets for Active Boys like the Camo Moto Jacket not only stand out but are also comfortable enough for running, climbing, and exploring. If you want something a bit more understated but still cool, the Patch Varsity Bomber is a surefire hit. Both of these options ensure your active little guy stays stylish while being ready for adventure.

Choosing the Right Jacket for Active Kids Has Never Been Easier!

We know that picking the right jacket for active kids can feel like a tall order, but with a little know-how, you can find a jacket that combines style, comfort, and functionality. Remember to focus on breathability, layering options, proper sizing, and, most importantly, styles that your kids will love to wear.

Shop now at Lola and the Boys to grab those must-have pieces that will keep your little ones happy and active!