|

Forget another day inside of board games and videos and send the kids out in the rain! Each of these jackets was tested by a handful of willing mini-models — and while our fashion show soon descended into chaos, we came away with five fabulous selections to keep any child impervious to water. If not whining. — Katie Bayless
|
|
Lands' End Solid Rain Slicker - $30
While others companies trick out their rainwear with trendy-but-impractical details, Lands' End focuses on quality and comfort. This unisex jacket had everything a parent could ask for – a flexible, waterproof shell, sealed seams, reflective piping, vented underarms and an adjustable hood. With four color options, a cotton-lined interior and sizing from 2T to 20, this one works for every rain lover in your family.
|
|
|
Rain Jackets : Runners-up
|
|
|
Girls Fortune Cutie Raincoat - $40
Boys Cargo Style Raincoat - $40
Given that my fortune cookie in last night's take-out read, "You will find big fulfillment in unexpected places," I shouldn't have been surprised when I came across this adorable pint-sized girls' rain slicker. Made by Forty Mile Creek, the Fortune Cutie raincoat offers a waterproof exterior, cozy terry-lined interior, detachable hood and kimono-style cross-body zipper that complements the Asian-inspired motif. Too girly for your splashaholic? Check out the rugged stylings of the khaki Cargo Jacket instead. Both are available at the online store Let-It-Rain.
|
|
|
Sierra Designs Hurricane Parka - $30
This Sierra Designs jacket may be lightweight, but its high-tech features pack a serious punch. Sealed seams and a waterproof/breathable shell keep your kid dry while the accompanying pouch allows the jacket to pack down to pocket-sized storage proportions. Although not too cozy on its own, the lack of an interior lining makes it perfect for layering over sweaters. Available at Outdoor Kids. |
|
|
Tea Collection Nagano Dragon Raincoat - $36
Tea Collection Nagano Flower Raincoat - $36
Keep your rain dancer dry and stylish in this lemongrass-colored slicker from Tea Collection. Machine washable and fully lined in über-soft cotton, the simple front of the Nagano Dragon Raincoat belies the wicked dragon graphic sprawled across the back. This jacket is technically made for boys, but any sassy mini-broad could rock it just as hard. Not your daughter's style? Then try out the more feminine Nagano Flower Raincoat with a cinched waist and knee-skimming length.
|
|
|
Tuffo Muddy Buddy - $30
For serious puddle stompers, try out this one-piece waterproof wonder. The Muddy Buddy is made of breathable nylon and utilizes dual front zippers for quick, Superman-esque changes. Unlike the zippers and snaps on some of the other jackets, these were easy enough that most kids over three could work them (one less thing for you to do). Tuffo advertises that the Muddy Buddy is also great for indoor art projects — but seriously, if the project requires the kid to be decked out in head-to-toe covering, maybe you shouldn't be doing it indoors in the first place. They also aren't kidding about the "generous fit." Elastic in the wrists and ankles and reinforced nylon in the knees and bum mean that this bad boy is built to last. |
|