Rain Boots
When it comes to keeping little toes warm and dry, there is really only one name in the game - BOGS! These boots have taken the industry by storm. They have rubber bottoms and neoprene uppers. They keep you dry and warm to -30 degrees F. They also have handy handles that make it easy for kids to put them on by themselves. So, what's the catch, right? Well, they run about $80 not including tax.
Moneysaving Tips
- Nordstrom usually has one or two styles of BOGS available at a reduced price for their Anniversary Sale in Late July.
- Check craigslist.com frequently for the next size or two your child will need.
- Check the local thrift and consignment shops.
- Check Sierra Trading Post and other discount/overstock websites.
- Google BOGS and looks for better deals.
- If forced to pay full price, buy from somewhere with a good return policy (Nordstrom, REI, amazon.com) and make sure you buy a color that any younger siblings can use as these will last 2-3 seasons minimum. You can also resell used boots you no longer need on craigslist for $20-30.
Other Boots
If for whatever reason you cannot deign to buy BOGS, here are some other boots that have worked well for me in the past.
LL Bean makes a great all-purpose rain boot. It will not keep your little one's toes warm...but they will be dry, they are durable, they have nice pull-on handles and have a reflective triangle on the heel. They also come in a large range of fun colors and sizes from toddler 5 up to big kid 3.
Land's End makes my favorite snow boot. The large Velcro opening makes it easy for kids to get them on and off by themselves. They are warm, high quality and will last for several seasons.
Rain Gear
If your child is spending hours a day outside in all kinds of weather it is imperative to provide the right rain gear. The light-weight gear sold by LL Bean, Land's End, REI and Columbia are fine for a walk in the mist, but none of them will keep your little one dry in a downpour, especially if sliding down a muddy hill is involved. Here are some brands that are proven performers in all weather.
Abeko
Puddlegear by Abeko is a great option for rain gear. Their gear is almost exclusively made in Europe, extremely durable, PVC and Phthalate free. Some of their pants come with large patches on the bum and on the knees that greatly increase the life of the pants. They also make great fleece-lined waterproof mittens that are favorites of kids.
Grundens
Grundens is a fishing company and their gear is made to work and last. It is spendy but worth the extra money spent. They sell rain pants and jackets in bold, bright colors. Like the Abeko, the pants have shoulder straps and elastic straps at the bottom of the legs to fit over boots. The jackets have hoods, but they are not removable. They do not offer mittens or hats for kids.
Polarn O. Pyret
Polarn O. Pyret is a Swedish company that offers great rain gear, other outerwear, a ton of merino items and also cute clothes. Their color options are limited (especially if you have a pink-loving girl) but they do have frequent sales and their gear is very high quality. They have awesome waterproof hats and their waterproof mittens are the longest I have seen with great elastic snaps that keep them secure.
I think that about covers rain gear. Next topic will be base layer! I can hardly wait!
Happy Fall and get out there and splash in some puddles with your kids!
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