Overtrousers for kids

What kids demand

Children sit in puddles, slide down wet grass, kneel in mud and roll around in leaves. Many nurseries, primary schools and forest schools spend time outside whatever the weather and ask parents to send in waterproof trousers or all-in-one suits. Kids' overtrousers need to be tough at the seat and knees, easy for small hands (or busy staff) to put on, and able to cope with being washed a lot.

Trousers or dungarees?

• Dungarees (bib-and-brace): best for younger children. They cover the lower back when bending and sitting, and can't slip down. The trade-off is slower toilet trips, which matters for toddlers and those newly out of nappies.
• Overtrousers: quicker on and off, and more independent for older children. Better for school bags and the walk to school.
• All-in-one puddle suits: the most waterproof option for very young children and forest school sessions, but warmer, and hard to take off quickly.

Features that matter

• Elastic foot loops (stirrups) under the boot stop the legs riding up when children climb or sit, and keep water out of wellies.
• Reinforced seat and knees: this is where kids' waterproofs wear through.
• Adjustable waist or braces to allow for growth and different layers.
• Reflective details for dark afternoons on the walk home in winter.
• Easy-clean outer fabric that can be wiped or rinsed between washes.
• A name label area. Every class has at least five identical pairs.

Sizing for growing children

Buy for height rather than age where the maker gives a height guide. It's tempting to buy a size or two up to get more wear, and a little room for growth and warm layers is sensible. But very long legs are a trip hazard, and too-big trousers sag and let water in. Choose a size with a small amount of growing room, and use adjustable braces or waist to fine-tune. See sizing & fit for more.

Care and hand-me-downs

Kids' waterproofs get washed far more than adult ones. Use a technical cleaner or mild non-bio detergent without fabric softener, rinse well, and reproof now and again to keep water beading off. Well-cared-for waterproofs make excellent hand-me-downs: check the seat and knees for wear, and the seam tape for lifting, before passing them on. See care & reproofing.