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As the leaves start to turn and the first signs of winter arrive, I get all my winter clothes out for our kids to see what fits and where we need to fill in the gaps in winter clothing. Whether it’s your baby’s first winter or you’re a seasoned parent looking for an upgrade, having the right winter clothes for your baby is essential. With a focus on warmth, durability, and ease of movement, we have found the best winter gear that will keep your baby comfortable and warm, from the sledding hill to the ski slopes.
Embracing the Cold with the Right Gear
Keeping babies warm can be stressful but it doesn’t have to be with the right winter clothes. Always start with a base layer, ideally merino wool. The first layer of clothing is often overlooked when dressing babies for the cold. A good base layer will wick away moisture and help regulate their body temperature. Next is a great mid-layer. A mid layer should be made of breathable fabric, such as merino wool or fleece, that will insulate and trap in heat to keep them warm. Then finally a good outer layer should be waterproof and made of durable fabric. Make sure to also have your baby wear warm socks, gloves, hats, and boots to keep all the warmth inside.
Base Layers: The Foundation of Warmth
Iksplor Base Layer
Iksplor makes some of the softest 100% merino wool base layers out there and the Iksplor Baby Set is amazing. The Baby Set is so soft and smooth against my baby’s sensitive skin. The merino wool doesn’t cause any chafing or irritation in any of my kids. The hands fold over to help them stay warm. I love how the top has a lap shoulder for easy changing. Merino wool ensures your baby stays warm without overheating. This is my favorite base layer for babies.
Ella’s Wool
Ella’s Wool is another great option for a base layer. It is more budget-friendly than Iksplor. The base layer sets are also made from 100% merino wool. I really love how the baby set comes with a onesie and the bottom has fold-over feet. The onsie helps keep the base layer in place. They aren’t quite as soft as Iksplor but are slightly thicker than the Iksplor set. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, that is still amazing quality, this is the one for you.
Mid Layers: The Insulating Layer
Iksplor Mid-Layer
For added insulation, Iksplor’s mid-layer goes really well with the baby base layer set with its equally soft and breathable merino wool fabric. This piece is all about retaining body heat while remaining lightweight enough to prevent bulkiness. The sizing does run large which is perfect for layering. I got my baby her regular size and the Zippy should fit her for a long time. One of my favorite features is the double zipper. It makes changing diapers so easy. She stays so much warmer with the two zippers during diaper changes. One of my favorite parts of Ikplor’s base layers and mid layers are that they are machine washable. Since they are antibacterial they don’t need to be washed very often, which is perfect when they are using them multiple times a week. When I do want to wash them, I get all of our Iksplor sets and wash them on cold and then hang them dry or dry on low
Columbia Baby Sherpa Bunting
Made from polyester, the Columbia Sherpa Bunting is a great option for a mid-layer. It is thick enough that it will help with insulation to keep all the heat from the base layer inside. The hands and feet both fold over to help keep those little hands warm.
Outer Layer: The Essential Layer
Reima Baby Down Snowsuit/Sleeping Bag – Tilkkanen
The Reima down snowsuit is the best outer layer for babies. It is made with windproof and waterproof materials. A lot of the baby snowsuits available aren’t made with such a great waterproof rating as this snowsuit. The two zippers make diaper changes so easy. It does run large so make sure to check the sizing chart before buying. All Reima clothes are made to fit for a long time so they tend to run a little large. It can also be converted into a sleeping bag for cold-weather camping. This snowsuit sizing is from 0 months to 12 months.
Waterproof Reimatec Snowsuit – Lappi
When it comes to full-body protection, a Reima snowsuit is the exact outer layer your baby needs against the elements. The Reima Lappi snowsuit is made with insulated waterproof materials, it is perfect for playing in the snow or a family ski trip. Its thoughtful design includes reflective details for visibility and safety, and it’s made with freedom of movement in mind—critical for babies exploring their snowy surroundings. Reima has such amazing quality and this snowsuit is very hard to beat. The only con is that the sizing starts at 12 months. If you have a baby 12 months and older this is definitely the snowsuit to buy.
Other Essential Warm Winter Clothes
Smartwool Socks
Complete your baby’s winter outfit with Smartwool baby socks. These socks are also made with merino wool, offering warmth and natural odor resistance. These socks are designed with a hint of stretch for easy on-and-off, and the cushioned soles provide comfort for those baby feet, whether they’re in booties or crawling around the ground.
Stonz Baby Snow Mitts
Your baby’s hands are vulnerable to the cold, making mittens an indispensable part of their winter wardrobe. Stonz mittens are designed with a water and wind-resistant exterior, ensuring little fingers stay warm and dry. These are the warmest baby mittens that we have found. The extra-long wrists are a game-changer; they can be worn over a coat sleeve, providing a barrier against snow. The worst part of mittens are putting them back on constantly, and I don’t have that problem with the Stonz Mitts. They have two adjustable toggles to tighten to help them stay on longer. With a variety of sizes, these mittens are not just warm; they’re built for winter play.
Stonz Booties
Don’t let the cold hinder your baby’s first steps into the winter wonderland. Stonz booties are renowned for their ability to keep your little one’s feet warm. These booties are made with water-resistant fabric and their wide opening is so nice to get them on and off. You can fit the booties right over snowsuits and cinch down with the two adjustable toggles. Whether it’s for a stroll in the park or an after-ski crawl, these booties are a must-have. For extra cold days you can pair them with the fleece liners.
Importance of Choosing the Right Winter Clothes
Winter brings with it a wonderland of new textures, sounds, and sights for babies to discover. The key to enjoying these new experiences is staying warm and comfortable, and the right winter clothes make all the difference. Winter gear is not just about warmth; it’s about making memories without the worry of the cold.
Warmth and Weatherproofing
Babies are more sensitive to the cold than adults, so winter clothes for babies need to provide ample warmth. But warmth shouldn’t mean bulkiness; mobility is essential for development and exploration. That’s why selecting gear like the Reima snowsuit, with its balance of insulation and ease of movement. If you need to waterproof your winter clothes we wrote an article telling you exactly how to waterproof outerwear.
Materials Matter
Winter clothes should be made from materials that offer warmth even when wet, like wool and fleece. Synthetics like polyester are excellent for water resistance. Brands like Iksplor and Ella’s Wool leverage the natural properties of merino wool to ensure that your baby remains warm, even if they break a sweat or encounter snowy conditions.
Safety and Comfort
Safety is a non-negotiable aspect when it comes to baby gear. Features such as reflective strips on a snowsuit and secure fastenings on booties and mittens are as vital as the clothes being warm and cozy. Comfort, too, cannot be compromised. If a baby is uncomfortable, they’re likely to be less cooperative and happy during winter outings.
Gearing Up for Winter Adventures
Preparing for winter requires careful planning. Here are a few tips to ensure your baby is ready for the chilly months. Preparing for winter adventures with your baby involves more than just having the right gear—it’s about using that gear effectively for a stress-free and joy-filled experience. Here’s how you can make the most out of your baby’s winter wardrobe:
Layer Up Strategically
Layering is the most important part of keeping warm in winter, but it’s the order and material of the layers that count. Begin with the Iksplor base layer, which sits comfortably against the skin and manages moisture. Add the Iksplor mid-layer for extra warmth, and remember, merino wool is perfect as it is insulating yet breathable. Top it off with the Reima snowsuit for robust protection against the elements.
Ensure Proper Fit
Make sure each piece of winter clothing fits your baby correctly. Ill-fitting gear can lead to exposure to cold or restricted movement. For instance, Stonz booties are designed with adjustable features to ensure a snug fit, while also allowing room for those inevitable growth spurts.
Check for Comfort and Mobility
Your baby should be able to move freely. Test out the mobility in the store or at home before venturing out. The Reima snowsuit should offer enough flexibility for your baby to crawl, walk, or even roll around in the snow without any problems.
Pay Attention to the Extremities
Babies lose heat quickly through their extremities. Stonz mittens and Smartwool socks are essential for keeping tiny fingers and toes toasty. Always check that mittens and socks stay dry and warm throughout your outdoor adventure and have extras on hand for a quick change if needed.
Mind the Weather Conditions
Always be aware of the day’s forecast. Extreme conditions require extra precautions, like additional layers or a shorter time outside. Even the best winter gear has its limits, so be ready to head in when the weather takes a turn.
Ease of Diaper Changes
Consider how easily you can change your baby’s diaper while they’re bundled up. The Reima snowsuit, for example, has convenient zippers and openings to facilitate quick changes, so your baby can return to playing in the snow as soon as possible.
Hydration and Nutrition
Just like adults, babies need to stay hydrated and energized, especially in the cold when the body works harder to stay warm. Plan breaks for feeding and check frequently to ensure your baby is hydrated. If you are breastfeeding your baby make sure to check out the Iksplor Nursing Top.
Final Thoughts on Winter Clothing for Babies
The magic of the first snowfall, the silence of a winter forest, or the laughter that comes from a day of sledding—these are moments that matter. Taking your baby on outdoor winter adventures encourages a love for nature, instills an active lifestyle from a young age, and creates lasting family memories.
Winter activities stimulate your baby’s senses in a way that indoor play simply can’t. The textures of snow, the cool air, the bright landscape—these experiences contribute to sensory development. And while babies might not remember these adventures, the bonds they form with you and nature are foundational.
Choosing the right winter clothes for your baby ensures they stay warm, safe, and ready to explore the wintery world with gusto. Remember, quality gear like Stonz mittens and booties, Reima snowsuits, Iksplor layers, Ella’s Wool, and Smartwool socks are investments in your baby’s comfort and safety.
Winter is a season of wonder, especially through the eyes of your child. With the right gear, every snowy day becomes an opportunity for adventure. So bundle up, embrace the cold, and create warm memories with your little one that will last a lifetime.
