How to dress your baby for rain
In the rain, add a raincoat and rain boots over the usual layers for the temperature; in cold rain choose a waterproof warm jacket.
Rain at different temperatures
40°F
long-sleeve top, pants, fleece, raincoat, winter hat, mittens, winter boots
More: 40°F50°F
long-sleeve top, pants, cardigan, raincoat, winter hat, rain boots
More: 50°F60°F
long-sleeve top, pants, cardigan, raincoat, thin hat, rain boots
More: 60°F
Weather adjustments
How the outfit changes for a toddler (1–3 years).
Rain: raincoat and rain boots
Add: raincoat, rain boots
Take off: light jacket, sneakers
Wind: scarf and a wind-blocking jacket
Add: scarf
Strong sun: sun hat and sunglasses
Add: sunglasses
Apply kids’ sunscreen to exposed skin
Active play: one layer lighter
Take off: cardigan
More details
In the rain two layers matter most: a waterproof top and shoes that handle puddles. The rest follows the temperature.
Rain at 40°F: long-sleeve top, pants, fleece, raincoat, winter hat, mittens, winter boots. At 50°F in the rain a toddler can wear long-sleeve top, pants, cardigan, raincoat, winter hat, rain boots. Rain at 60°F: long-sleeve top, pants, cardigan, raincoat, thin hat, rain boots. If it rains near freezing, choose a warm waterproof jacket and warm boots.
A cotton base layer breathes well, while fleece keeps warm and stays light. Several thin layers work better than one thick piece: they are easier to take off indoors or in the car. If your child gets sweaty, change into dry clothes as soon as you are somewhere warm. Pack a spare layer: the weather and your plans can change. Dress for the feels-like temperature: wind and humidity make the air feel colder.
After the walk, change out of wet clothes right away. This is a guide, not medical advice.
Questions and answers
What if the rain is cold?
Pick a waterproof outer layer and warm shoes.
Should I bring an umbrella?
A hooded raincoat is easier for little kids.
Is this medical advice?
No. It is a clothing guide; watch how your child feels and follow your pediatrician’s advice.
Where can I get advice for my weather?
In the Layer app: it reads temperature, wind, humidity and UV and suggests layers by age.
What should my kid wear today?
Layer suggests layers from the forecast for your city.
iPhone and Android
Not medical advice
