How to Keep Kids Warm on Winter Walks
Winter might seem like the season to stay indoors, but it actually opens up some of the best family adventures of the year. In fact, cold weather walks have become one of our absolute favourite weekend activities to enjoy.
And before you roll your eyes and think, "Really, James?", hear me out!
I know it sounds counterintuitive. The idea of bundling up cranky kids and heading out into the cold doesn't exactly scream "fun family time." But winter walks can be absolutely brilliant with children, as long as you've figured out the one crucial element that makes or breaks the whole experience.
And what's that tricky element? How to keep kids warm when it’s cold outside.
It sounds simple, but we all know it can be anything but! So we’ve rounded up a few of our tried-and-tested layering techniques, children's winter clothing choices, and solutions to some of the most common winter walking challenges that every parent knows all too well.
Choosing the Right Winter Clothing for Your Family Walk
Every winter walk has its own challenges, and what works for a muddy trudge around the local park won't necessarily be right for a proper hike up Mam Tor. So before you start layering everyone up, it's worth taking a moment to think about what you're heading out to do.
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The weather. Is it snowy and you're expecting to be crunching through icy paths? Or is it one of those mild but drizzly days where the main challenge is staying dry rather than warm? Heavy rain calls for specific gear, while bright, cold sunshine needs another approach entirely. And that biting wind we get up in the Peaks can make a relatively mild day feel much colder.
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Your children's ages. Generally, children over 12 months need about the same number of layers as adults, but babies under a year usually need one extra layer since they can't move around to generate their own heat. Toddlers who'll be walking most of the way have different needs compared to older kids who might be charging ahead or a baby who'll be sitting still in a pushchair the whole time.
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The activity itself. A 20-minute dog walk where you'll mostly be standing around while the dog sniffs everything contrasts sharply with an hour-long hike where everyone will be moving and working up a bit of warmth. Are you planning stops for snacks or will you be moving the whole time? Will there be climbing, scrambling, or just gentle walking on flat paths?
Once you've got a clear picture of your day and what it involves, then you can start layering everyone up properly.
Why Children Have Different Winter Clothing Needs
Why do all these factors play such a big role? Because children face unique challenges when it comes to staying warm outdoors.
Kids aren't just smaller versions of adults when it comes to staying warm. While you might notice a chill creeping in and zip up your jacket, a child will more likely just suddenly announce they're freezing - usually when you're furthest from the car.
Here's what makes keeping kids warm a bit more challenging:
- They move like kids, not hikers: One minute they're charging up a hill and getting warm, the next they're crouched down poking at something in a puddle and cooling down rapidly. That stop-start movement means their body temperature fluctuates more than ours.
- Little extremities, big heat loss: Small hands, feet, and heads lose heat quickly. A cold head can make a child feel freezing all over, even if their body is perfectly warm.
- Communication can vary: Younger children often can't articulate that they're getting chilly until they're quite cold. Older ones might complain about being hot or cold when they just need a small adjustment - like unzipping their coat or pulling their hat down properly.
Understanding these differences is the first step to getting winter clothing right. Instead of fighting against how kids naturally behave, you can work with it.
The Three-Layer System to Keep Kids Warm in Winter
So how do you work with all these challenges? The answer is flexibility, and that means layers.
It can be tempting to put on one big, thick coat to keep kids warm in winter, and that can be the best option for non-active times, like if you're just walking to school or wandering around town. But when you're heading out for a hike or dog walk, three distinct layers that work together give you options to adjust their temperature as needed.
Just like we recommend in our what to wear hiking guide, layering is the golden rule. But with kids, you also need to think about practicality - layers they can manage themselves (if they're old enough) and that won't cause a meltdown when it's time to add or remove something.
Here's how the three-layer system breaks down:
- Base layer
- Mid layer
- Outer layer
Please note: This is guidance only. Always consider the temperature, conditions, and what your child specifically needs. Trust your own judgement when taking children, especially very young babies, outdoors in cold weather. If you're in doubt and think it's too cold, even with proper layers, it's better to stay inside.
Layer 1: The Base Layer
This is what goes on first, right next to their skin. Think of it as the foundation layer that everything else builds on.
Usually you’d go for:
- A thermal long-sleeved top made from merino wool or synthetic materials
- Thermal leggings or long johns under their trousers
A few key features to look for in your baselayer:
- Moisture-wicking: Pulls sweat away from their skin so they don't feel clammy when they get warm from running about
- Stretch fabric: Lets them move freely without feeling restricted
- Naturally insulating material: Something like merino wool that keeps them warm but breathes well
You might need to try a few different options before you find what works best for your child. Some kids run hot and need something lighter, others feel the cold more and prefer a thicker thermal layer. Don't be surprised if what works for one child doesn't suit their sibling.
Layer 2: The Insulating Mid-Layer
Once you've got that foundation sorted, it's time to think about adding warmth. The most popular mid-layer for kids is a fleece. They fit nicely over any baselayer and under any outer layer, which is exactly what a decent mid-layer should do!
We love something like the Regatta Professional Kids Micro Half Zip Fleece, but any kids fleece that's made with soft, comfy, insulating material will usually do the trick.
Tip: Their favourite hoodie or sweatshirt might seem like a good choice here, but we'd usually recommend against it. That slightly heavier cotton can feel quite clammy in wet or damp conditions, which can make kids feel colder, particularly if they're sweating from an active walk.
Layer 3: The Protective Outer Layer
Now for the final piece of the puzzle. This is where it gets interesting with children, because their outer layer needs to be practical for how kids move and play.
Ideally, you don't want something bulky and restrictive, as it takes away their fun and chance to explore. On the other hand, it needs to be protective and insulated enough to serve its purpose as a good winter coat.
So, what are some good options?
- For little ones (up to around 6 years old): The easiest outer layer to choose is a waterproof puddlesuit that covers their body, arms, legs, and head. Even if it's not raining heavily, it brings peace of mind for any unexpected weather changes, plus you don't have to worry about damp or generally wet conditions.
- For older children: You can move to a waterproof jacket and something like the Regatta Kids Stormbreak Waterproof Overtrousers.
The outer layer is what keeps the wind and rain out while letting the other layers do their job. Make sure there's enough room for the base layer and fleece underneath without it feeling too tight, but not so loose that cold air can get in around the edges.
The Best Kids Accessories and Footwear to Keep Warm
Once you've got their clothing layers sorted, it's time to focus on accessories and footwear. Warm hands, dry feet, and a cosy head complete the picture for comfortable winter walks.
Head and Neck
Kids lose most of their heat through their heads and necks, so this is where you get the biggest impact.
A proper winter hat like a beanie or trapper hat is what you want to aim for here. Something that is thick and insulating, that covers their ears, and if it’s waterproof, even better.
Tip: If your child is one of those hat-refusers, a Buff neck gaiter can serve as a good alternative. They can wear it as a headband, neck warmer, or pull it up over their head when it gets windy.
Hands
Mittens keep fingers warmer than gloves because fingers can share warmth. But older kids who want to pick things up or climb on things might prefer waterproof gloves.
Either way, we always recommend packing a spare pair in case the first pair gets dropped or too muddy.
Feet
Cold, wet feet will end your adventure faster than anything else! So it’s worth getting the choice of footwear spot on.
You’ve got a few options to pick from:
- Waterproof walking boots are brilliant for proper walks where you'll be trampling through mud, crossing streams, or tackling uneven ground.
- Wellies are the obvious choice for puddle-filled adventures and shorter walks where you know it'll be wet and muddy.
- Snow boots are for when it's properly cold and snowy - they'll keep feet warm in freezing temperatures.
| Footwear Type | Best For | When to Choose |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof Walking Boots | Longer walks, uneven terrain, muddy trails | When you're hiking for more than 30 minutes or tackling hills and rough paths |
| Wellies | Short walks, puddle-jumping, very wet conditions | Quick dog walks, beach trips, or when you know it'll be properly muddy |
| Snow Boots | Cold, snowy conditions, winter play | When temperatures are below freezing or there's snow on the ground |
Solving Common Winter Walking Problems
Even when you've got all the right gear and layers sorted, a few common situations still crop up on winter walks with kids. The good news is they're easy to handle once you know what to expect.
The "Too Hot, Too Cold" Dilemma
This happens to every parent! Your child complains they're boiling hot while you're getting them dressed, then five minutes into the walk they're shivering.
The solution is patience and preparation. Expect them to feel warm indoors while you're layering up - that's normal! Have a plan for where you can stop and adjust layers once you're outside and moving.
Wet Feet Disasters
Even with good waterproof footwear, children seem to find every deep puddle and stream. If their feet get soaked, the walk often needs to end early.
Prevention is better than cure here. Make sure their boots fit properly - too loose and water can get in, too tight and their feet will get cold quickly. Check the waterproof rating if you're buying new boots, and consider gaiters for particularly muddy or snowy conditions.
If you're planning a walk where you know there might be stream crossings or very wet ground, pack a spare pair of socks. Dry socks can transform a miserable child into a happy one.
Keeping Outdoor Clothing On Reluctant Kids
Some children have strong opinions about wearing hats, gloves, or certain items of clothing. Rather than battling every time, try involving them in choosing their gear, or let them carry spare items in a small backpack so they feel in control.
Fun patterns and colours can help too. Regatta's Peppa Pig range might help persuade little ones who are usually resistant to outdoor gear.
A few tips:
- For very young children, mittens that attach to their coat sleeves can prevent the inevitable loss halfway round your walk.
- If they’re wearing wellies for any short walk, get long welly socks that won’t slip down.
- Experiment with a few options for their layers. For example, a full zip or a half zip fleece for their mid-layer. They might prefer having something that feels more like a sweatshirt, or they might want the freedom of the full zip.
With a bit of preparation and the right approach, these common hiccups become much more manageable. Most of the time, small adjustments along the way are all it takes to keep everyone comfortable and happy.
Planning Your Winter Walk Success
The best part of winter walks is sharing them as a family. Once you've got everyone kitted out in the right layers, there are a few other things that can help make your day out a success:
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Go early if you can: Children are generally at their best in the morning, and winter walks will always take longer than you think. Head out earlier rather than later so you can be back before everyone’s energy (and daylight) runs out.
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Pick routes with interest: Kids walk better when they’re distracted. Choose trails with little challenges – gates, stiles, boulders, streams, or animal-spotting opportunities. Straight, flat paths with no variety are harder for them to enjoy.
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Plan for stops: If you’re pausing for snacks, lunch, or a view, think about warmth. Pack an extra fleece, bring a sit mat so they’re not on the cold ground, or keep breaks shorter than you would in summer.
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Pack the essentials: A small first aid kit (plasters, antiseptic wipes, child-safe pain relief) is worth carrying. Cold fingers make even small cuts feel worse.
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Adjust for little passengers: If you’ve got a toddler in a pushchair, remember they’re sitting still. Layer them up more than walking children and bring a blanket or two.
- Think about the finish line: A changing robe or dry clothes in the car means no one’s sitting in damp, muddy layers for the journey home.
And finally, never underestimate the power of snacks! A thermos of hot chocolate or some well-timed biscuits can turn around even the frostiest moods.
Final Thoughts
When kids (and parents!) realise they can stay warm and comfortable outside even in the cold, it changes everything. Winter stops being the hibernation season and becomes a whole world of adventures waiting to happen.
So whether you're heading out for a dog walk around the block, tackling one of our favourite Peak District family walks, or just letting them burn off energy at the local park, you'll have everything you need to make it work.
A bit of planning, the right layers, and maybe a thermos of hot chocolate for good measure - that's really all it takes to turn winter into your family's new favourite season for getting outdoors.
So, ready to enjoy your family winter walks? We've got everything you need to kit out your kids and make the most of those chilly days.
About the Author
A dad to two energetic boys, James spends his weekends juggling football matches, skate parks, and Sunday afternoons at Disley’s very own Lyme Park. While he might not get to hit the golf course as often as he used to, he’s all in for family adventures in the great outdoors - coffee in hand and his favourite Ecco walking shoes on his feet. On the Avenue 85 blog, James loves to help other families make the most of their time outside by sharing his tried and tested tips, whether it’s finding the best waterproof jacket for a rainy day or discovering the best local walks that are perfect for little legs to explore!