Get Outside: How To Layer Clothing For Colder Weather

It’s so important for kids (and grown-ups) to enjoy some time outdoors. Fresh air, natural light, movement, and saying hi to the trees, birds and little animals are all good for our bodies and our minds. This is true all year, even on days when the weather is colder out. 

No matter what it’s like outside, it’s a plus to head to the playground or the local park, go on a light hike or just wander around your neighborhood. But when the day is cold, foggy, or cloudy, getting kids dressed to head out can feel complex. How do you get your kid ready for a day outside?

We think of getting dressed in three layers: base layer, mid layer and outer layer. They can all be adjusted depending on the temperature and conditions outside. The fun here is in mixing and matching to customize the warmth level as well as the look (we've got some examples below).

First, here are the layers:

The Base Layer

The base layer is closest to the skin, so it should be relatively thin and light for comfort and easy movement. Cotton or cotton-blends are comfortable for casual outdoor wear, but if you know they’re gonna go hard on the jungle gym, opt for an active performance fabric that’s moisture-wicking. 

Shop activewear for boys and girls

There are many options for tops, from a classic t-shirt to a pique polo to a button-up oxford shirt. If the temp is low enough, kids might actually want to wear two base layers (think a t-shirt under a long sleeved polo).   

Shop polos for boys and girls

You may not need a base layer for bottoms. However, if it’s really cold, a pair of close-fitting knit leggings easily layer underneath pants, a polo dress or a skirt to provide extra warmth and coziness (and kids can always take them off if it starts to warm up later in the day). 

The Mid Layer

The mid layer is all about adding warmth and coziness. We’re talking knits, fleeces and other fuzzy, feel-good fabrics. If the day warms up, it’s easy to pop this layer off and cool down.  For the top half, grab a fleece or a hoodie. Quarter- or full-zip fronts offers more options for styling; zip them down to show the collar of an oxford shirt. 

Shop fleeces and hoodies for boys and girls

The same versatility goes with sweaters: zip-fronts or cardigans are most versatile because they can be worn closed, open or somewhere in between. A sweater vest can keep their core toasty without adding bulk under a jacket.  

Shop sweaters for boys and girls

The Outer Layer

The outer layer is typically a jacket, windbreaker, blazer, etc. It seals out blustery breezes and can also shed a bit of light rain. French Toast has jackets with polar fleece lining and removable hoods to keep things nice and snug. 

Shop outerwear and blazers for boys and girls 

Putting It All Together

Break out your calculator, because it’s time to do some wardrobe math! Now that we know our layers, let’s practice the formula and see how different combinations can work for different outings. Here are a few different possibilities:

• Outfit #1: Short Sleeve Crewneck Tee + V-Neck Sweater Vest + Removable Hood Jacket
  Pairing a sweater vest with a t-shirt makes it a little more casual and still adds warmth. With the removable hood jacket, this one is perfect for taking the dog out to walk on a foggy, chilly day.
• Outfit #2: Long Sleeve Oxford Shirt + Full Zip Fleece Hoodie + Classic School Blazer 
  They can wear their school blazer over a zipped-up hoodie, then take either off if needed. The long sleeve oxford base layer is great for weekend adventures. We’d choose this semi-dressy outfit for a daytime outing that leads into an evening event or dinner. 
• Outfit #3: Short Sleeve Performance Tee + Long Sleeve Pique Polo + Cardigan Sweater
  Two mid-layers can also work great together as you build combos. Start with a performance tee, add a long sleeve polo, then stack up the coziness with a cardigan sweater; both can be opened up or taken off if she starts to overheat. On a cooler day, this is a picture-perfect option to visit the ducks at the pond.
  
• Outfit #4: Short Sleeve Interlock Polo + Quarter-Zip Performance Pullover + Removable Hood Jacket
  This combo pairs a school day polo with a laid-back performance mid layer. The ripstop jacket blocks out the wind and features a removable hood for extra protection if it starts to sprinkle.  Great for exploring the neighborhood on a cool, cloudy day that might rain.

Now you can mix and match your own combos with your kids and see what works best for wherever it takes them! Happy outdoor-ing! 

For more layering ideas, check out our Bundles, like our Cozy Active Fleece Bundle and Sweater Weather Bundles for boys and girls.