Kids’ winter jackets should also look good on the sledding slopes and as a cover up for a dressy occasion. A well-made coat will last through at least a couple of winters, and may even make it as a hand-me-down between a few siblings. When buying coats online, read descriptions carefully to determine the type of closure (such as zippers, toggles, or buttons) as well as washing instructions. Everyday coats should be easy to put on and take off; machine washable fabric also makes for a more presentable kid and a happier parent.
Following are some stylish and functional kids’ winter coats and jackets available online, all for less than $100.
Rugby Striped Down Jacket from The Gap
Down-filled and sporting funky colors, the Rugby Striped Warmest Jacket from Gap.com (see photo below) has a soft fleece lining and is machine washable. The removable hood features detachable faux-fur trim with a zippered front under a snap placket. Available in jelly-bean pink with navy stripes in sizes XS through XL. Price: $59.99. Shipping is $7.
Little Boy Wool Dress Coat from Macys.com
In a classic style and made from a wool/polyester blend, the Trilogi Little Boy Wool Dress Coat from Macy’s, pictured below, looks smart at any winter special occasion. The fully-lined, dry-clean-only coat has a removable hood and comes with a plaid fringed scarf. Available in charcoal and navy in sizes 2T through 4T. Price: $89.99. Shipping is $14.95.
Girls’ Weatherly Jacket from Landsend.com
Lands’ End’s exclusive thin insulation and a warm Sherpa fleece lining make the Weatherly Jacket (see photo below) a comfortable and stylish winter coat for girls. Adjustable tabs on the back create a slightly fitted waist for a more feminine look. This jacket zips closed. Available in six colors from small to extra large (at press time, some colors and sizes were sold out). Price: $39.60. Shipping is $7.95.
Unisex 3-in-1 Wildcat Parka from LLBean.com
This 3-in-1 Wildcat Parka from L.L. Bean extends beyond the winter season with two layers that can be worn separately or in three different combinations. The outer shell is water-resistant nylon with a zip-out fleece lining. The shell also has a tuck-away hood and a zippered closure. Available in little and big kids’ sizes from 4 to 18 in a variety of colors. Price: $79. Shipping is $9.95.
Down Winter Dress Coat for Girls from Littlecolonykids.com
The Rothschild Down Winter Coat for girls from Little Colony Kids is a knee-length down coat in black with faux fur on the hood and cuffs. With brown faux-leather trim, the coat is pretty enough for special occasions and warm enough for an afternoon spent building snowmen. Available in sizes 7 through 16. Price: $69.99. Shipping is $10 via UPS ground.
Good quality winter coats are expensive, but worth it. Look for adequate insulation, whether natural down or synthetic, in coats that kids will use for playing in the snow or participating in winter sports. Check and spot clean the nylon, twill, or wool outer fabrics regularly to prolong the life of the coat.