As the leaves start to fall and the temperatures tumble, it’s time to break out the winter jackets and warm layers to keep the cold at bay. We’ve tried and tested a few options for mums and tots that will keep them toasty through to spring.
Uddesya ¼ Zip Jacket by Sherpa
From £45
Sherpa has plenty of fleeces to keep Janes, and Joes, warm and cosy this winter. We tried out the women’s Uddesya ¼ zip jacket, made from 100% recycled polyester and available in three different colour ways. A men’s version is available in the same fleece material but in different colours and in a hoodie rather than a jacket style.
It makes for a great autumn layer, either over a t-shirt or under a gilet, but it’s a little chunky to fit under a coat unless it’s fairly roomy. The fleece is designed to wick away moisture to help you regulate your core temperature, and the stretchy hem and cuffs will help keep cool air out as winter takes hold.
The men’s and women’s Uddesya Eco fleeces come with a kangaroo pocket for storage or just to keep your hands warm – which it is pretty good at.
Sherpa describes the women’s fleece as having “plenty of room for base layers,” but in our experience, it was a little snug in the body, due to the slightly boxy shape. Getting the fleece on over the layers was no problem, but getting it off again was a bit more challenging. If you are slightly broader across the shoulders or chest, perhaps try a size up for a little extra wiggle room.
Women’s Welsey II Trench Coat by Helly Hansen
£180
The ever-popular Welsey II trench coat is an excellent choice for a classic trench coat look with added functionality. It’s perfect for breezy autumn days and wet winter walks. It is constructed using Helly Hansen’s waterproof and windproof fabric.
The front has a sturdy zip beneath a double-breasted, popper-fastened front flap, giving plenty of protection and creating that classically chic trench coat look. It’s finished with a tie belt to give more definition when tied to the front or a design detail if tied at the back.
The high collar conceals a foldable hood to keep you dry in the worst of the wet winter weather, which is quick and easy to unfold if you need it in a hurry. The Welsey II Trench Coat is fully lined, which finishes the coat nicely. There’s room for more layers as the weather turns, or an insulated version is also available for extra warmth if it’s winter jackets you’re looking for.
We love the fusion of style and function, which makes it a great lightweight all-around jacket for cooler seasons.
Elender Baffled Jacket by Regatta
£130, currently on offer at £65
If you really feel the cold and want a coat that feels more akin to a duvet than a jacket, the Elender Baffled Jacket from Regatta will do the job perfectly. This longline, well-padded option is wonderfully cosy, thanks to the feather-free recycled synthetic down insulation.
The lycra cuffs ensure a snug fit to keep out cold draughts, and the padded high-line collar and elasticated hood will keep you snug. It’s water-repellant, too, so light showers and morning mists will be no problem, but in a major downpour, it might not fare quite so well.
The zipper can open from the bottom to allow freedom of movement when walking, and there are two outer and one inner pocket, all sealed with zips, so belongings stay securely stowed.
This fully machine-washable option is comfortable and stylish, making it the perfect winter jacket for many seasons to come.
Kid’s waterproof winter jackets Character Nautical Blue Shark
£55, currently on offer at £16.45
The winter weather does little to deter the most determined toddler, so this characterful waterproof jacket, with its fluffy Thermoguard insulating lining, will keep them dry and warm.
The 100% polyester Hydrafort outer is waterproof and windproof with taped seams for added protection, so your Mini Joe or Jane will remain dry and draught-free. The synthetic lining is designed to trap air close to the body, keeping the warmth in without the need for too many bulky layers.
The delightful animal designs also a welcome dash of colour and character into the dull winter days. During our testing, Mini Joe was snug and warm and seemed very comfortable wearing the Nautical Blue Shark. Thankfully, it wasn’t raining, but looking at the quality of the jacket, we do not doubt that he would have stayed dry. These jackets are fully machine washable, keeping them spick and span to pass on to the next little adventurer.
Kid’s Shelter Outdoor Jacket 2.0
£90
The Shelter Outdoor Jacket does just what it suggests, creating shelter to keep kids warm and dry throughout the winter season. It comes in a range of great colours, with sizes from toddler to teen.
Mini Joe looked fabulous in navy with a splash of bright orange and was snug all day, thanks to the waterproof, windproof and breathable material that makes up the Shelter Jacket 2.0. The lining is soft and comfortable with no harsh edges to chaff exposed skin, and the cuffs are adjustable to keep wrists warm and gloves tucked in during the coldest weather of the season.
The removable lined hood has a neon strip at the front, and the stripes on the sleeves and logo on the front and back are reflective, making Mini Joe more visible on dark winter evenings.
The Kid’s Shelter Outdoor Jacket 2.0 is well-designed with some nice details and made from quality materials that will last several occupants. It will make Mini Joe and his siblings the envy of the winter playground.
