Top Jacket Materials That Keep Kids Comfy in the Rain

Editor: Diksha Yadav on May 06,2025

When the skies are dark and the rain falls, kids still want to play, explore, and do it all day. However, keeping them dry and comfortable in the rainy season isn't just about buying them the cutest umbrella or their favorite color of boots. Knowing the premium kids' jacket materials for the rainy season, all-day comfort could be the difference between an amazing adventure splashing in puddles or an uncomfortable, wet mess.

As a parent, you want a jacket that provides the best protection, breathability, and freedom of movement while being tough enough to withstand your kids' adventures. This detailed guide will cover the best kids' jacket materials, what matters, and how to find a good children's raincoat.

Why Material Matters for Children’s Raincoats

Regarding kids' outerwear, the fabric of kids' raincoats is also crucial because it determines comfort and performance. Unlike women's and men's rain gear, jackets for kids have to accommodate

  • Constant movement (running, jumping, climbing)
  • Temperature change throughout the day
  • Sensitivity to scratchy or heavy materials
  • An inclination towards fun, playful styles and colors

A good rainy season jacket, or just winter-through-spring jacket, not only repels moisture but also behaves well (to manage internal moisture, such as sweat), retains warmth (without overheating), and survives multiple washes and wears. Accordingly, the right kids' jacket materials are so important.

1. Polyurethane-Coated (PU) Fabric

Best for: Best waterproof protection in heavy rain

Regarding waterproof fabrics for kids, PU-coated or polyurethane-coated materials are usually the first choice. Polyurethane is applied as a coating to the inside of the material (usually polyester or nylon), resulting in a durable, waterproof, partial thermal barrier.

Pros:

  • 100% waterproof outer surface
  • Windproof
  • Lightweight and flexible
  • Easily cleaned (wipe or rinse away dirt).

Cons:

  • Not breathable by nature.
  • You may need to add ventilation panels or mesh lining.
  • Less eco-friendly than some alternatives.

Tips:

If you are considering PU-coated jackets, look for jackets with mesh linings or back vents for better breathability. They are great for all-day comfort in humid climates!

2. Nylon with Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Finish

kid laughing and enjoying rain while holding umbrella

Best for: Lightweight everyday wear and light rain

Nylon is naturally water-resistant and can repel water effectively when treated with a DWR finish. It’s commonly used in stylish, breathable rain jackets for kids.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to pack
  • Dries quickly
  • Soft feel with flexible movement
  • Affordable and widely available

Cons:

  • Not fully waterproof in heavy rain unless layered
  • DWR coatings can wear off with repeated washing

Tips:

After several washes, refresh the DWR finish with reproofing sprays—pair nylon shells with inner fleece linings for added warmth on chilly, rainy days.

3. Polyester with TPU Laminate

Best for: Durable, breathable protection in moderate to heavy rain

TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) laminate is bonded to the inside of polyester fabric to enhance waterproofing while maintaining breathability. This material is a favorite in high-quality children’s raincoat fabrics.

Pros:

  • Waterproof and breathable
  • Softer and more flexible than PU-coated fabrics
  • Odor-resistant and eco-friendlier
  • Durable in active conditions

Cons:

  • Can be slightly more expensive
  • May feel warm in tropical climates without ventilation

Tips:

TPU-laminated jackets offer an excellent balance between rainy season protection and all-day comfort for kids who get sweaty easily or are active in all weather.

4. Softshell Fabric

Best for: Active kids in light to moderate rain

Softshell jackets are typically made from a polyester and elastane blend and have a water-resistant coating. While not fully waterproof, they offer superb flexibility and breathability, making them great for mild rainy days or drizzly afternoons.

Pros:

  • Highly breathable and stretchy
  • Comfortable for layering
  • Excellent for playtime and sports
  • Wind-resistant and quick-drying

Cons:

  • Not suitable for heavy downpours
  • Needs frequent recoating to stay water-resistant

Tips:

Use softshell jackets for transitional seasons or light rain, and pair with waterproof outer layers when the forecast looks grim.

5. Recycled or Eco-Friendly Waterproof Fabrics

Best for: Eco-conscious parents and everyday wet weather

As sustainability becomes more important, many brands now offer rain jackets made from recycled materials (like PET bottles) with non-toxic waterproof coatings.

Pros:

  • Environmentally responsible
  • Comparable performance to PU or polyester
  • Gentle on sensitive skin
  • Unique styles and limited-edition designs

Cons:

  • May come at a higher price point
  • Availability may vary depending on the brand

Tips:

Check certifications like OEKO-TEX or bluesign® to ensure the eco-friendliness and safety of the materials used.

Breathability vs. Waterproofing: Why Both Matter

Waterproof and breathable are two terms that often conflict in kids’ rainwear. A jacket can be waterproof but trap sweat inside, making your child feel clammy and uncomfortable. Conversely, a breathable fabric might let water seep through during a downpour.

Key Features That Support Both:

  • Mesh Linings: Improve airflow without compromising waterproofing.
  • Pit Zips or Back Vents: Allow heat to escape.
  • Adjustable Cuffs and Hems: Prevent rain from entering while letting skin breathe.

For the best rainy season kids' jacket materials for all-day comfort, always look for a balance, especially if your child will wear it for extended periods during play or school.

Inner Linings: Comfort Counts

What’s inside a jacket matters just as much as the outer material. Here are some common inner linings:

  • Cotton: Soft and breathable but not moisture-wicking
  • Mesh: Lightweight and quick-drying
  • Fleece: Adds warmth but may be bulky
  • Taffeta: Smooth, slippery feel that makes jackets easier to put on

Mesh and light fleece linings offer the best warmth and moisture control combination for all-day comfort.

Innovative Features That Boost Comfort

Regardless of fabric, the best rain jackets have thoughtful features that enhance usability and comfort.

Must-Have Additions:

  • Hood with Brim: Keeps rain off the face without obstructing vision
  • Reflective Strips: Improves visibility in low-light, rainy conditions
  • Elastic Cuffs: Prevents water from dripping into sleeves
  • Snap Closures: Easy for little hands to manage
  • Name Tags or Labels: Help prevent mix-ups at school

These small touches can dramatically improve the overall functionality of your child’s rain gear.

Choosing the Right Jacket by Climate

For Humid and Warm Climates:

  • Focus on breathable rain jackets made from lightweight nylon or polyester
  • Prioritize ventilation panels and mesh linings
  • Avoid heavy linings like fleece

For Cold and Wet Regions:

  • Use PU- or TPU-coated fabrics layered with inner fleece
  • Consider 3-in-1 jackets with removable liners
  • Add waterproof pants and boots for full coverage

For Transitional Seasons:

  • Opt for softshell or hybrid materials
  • Choose jackets with adjustable components for layering flexibility

Matching the material to your climate ensures your child stays dry and comfortable, regardless of the weather.

Jacket Maintenance: How to Keep It Working Like New

Even the best jacket materials lose their effectiveness over time without proper care.

Washing Tips:

  • Use cold water and mild detergent
  • Avoid fabric softeners (they break down water-resistant coatings)
  • Close zippers and Velcro straps before washing
  • Hang dry whenever possible

Reproofing:

After multiple washes, DWR coatings can fade. Use a spray-on or wash-in waterproofing treatment to restore water repellency and prolong the jacket’s life.

Top Brands That Use High-Quality Kids' Jacket Materials

  1. Columbia—Uses Omni-Tech waterproof breathable fabric
  2. The North Face—Known for DryVent and eco-friendly options
  3. Reima—Offers high-performance gear for extreme weather
  4. Oakiwear—Durable and playful designs for toddlers and preschoolers
  5. Patagonia—Combines sustainability with top-tier fabric tech

While prices vary, all these brands prioritize high-quality rainy season outerwear and safe children’s raincoat fabrics.

Worth A Look: Waterproof Kids' Jackets: Best Materials & Buying Guide

Final Thoughts: Build a Rain-Ready Wardrobe

Picking the best materials for your rainy season kids' jacket will ensure optimum comfort all day, which means your child enjoys being dry and happy in any weather. Some are waterproof fabrics for kids (Gore-Tex), while others are affordable polyester. The goal remains as consistent as the weather: achieve a good balance between breathability, durability, and freedom of movement.

Remember these tips the next time you're shopping for children's raincoat fabric, and your little adventure seeker will be grateful!


This content was created by AI