Cosy up with the ultimate guide to stylish and practical designs that will last
Misty autumn mornings and dark evenings call for dependable, high-quality kids coats that are stylish yet joy-filled. With Girls’ jackets in jewel tones and eye-catching prints, high-performing yet playful boys’ jackets, and designs by brands including The North Face, Wheat, Columbia and our exclusive Lazy Oaf collaboration, John Lewis has got you – and the kids – covered.
Best coats for wet weather
Properly waterproof raincoats in bold brights or fun prints, with thoughtful finishing touches – such as fleece-lined designs for added warmth for forest school – that kids love and parents appreciate.
Best coats for school
When it has to be a uniform-compliant black or navy school coat, look to parkas (hoods are helpful) with features such as internal pockets and water-resistance. Don’t forget to write their name in it.
Best coats for cold weather
When winter bites, it has to be a heavyweight padded puffer. Performance meets style in designs that combine warmth, durability and weather protection, such as Columbia’s kids range.
Best coats for everyday play
For weekends and milder days, a zip-up denim or wool-blend jacket shows off their personality. Try Cozmo brand or our exclusive Oafy by Lazy Oaf range, which you won’t find anywhere else.
Best-value coats
There are great coats at every price tier to choose from, but if you’re shopping on a budget these versatile and dependable designs will see you through to spring.
Littlest ones
Prioritise function above all else for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. An all-in-one weatherproof designs offer peace of mind, and Toastie’s fleece-lined range keep them snug for long stretches in the buggy.
Children’s coats FAQs
How do I know if a kids’ coat is waterproof rather than just water-resistant?
Check for taped or sealed seams, and a waterproof membrane or coating, rather than just relying on a water-repellent surface spray. Truly waterproof coats have waterproof tape glued or heat-sealed over every single inside seam.
Should you size up when buying a child’s winter coat?
Yes, you should size up by one size, maximum, to allow for growth spurts and layers underneath. Coats keep children warm by trapping a thin layer of warm air close to the body, so buying two or three sizes too big lets the cold in and fails to insulate properly.
What are the safest coat features for children walking to school in winter?
Coats that are light or brightly coloured, or that feature high-visibility reflective strips on the front and back, help traffic to see your child in the dark mornings and afternoons.
Why buy kids’ coats from John Lewis?
Our own-brand girls’ jackets and boys’ jackets are of the highest technical specs and undergo rigorous safety and durability testing. They’re machine-washable, plus John Lewis offers free click and collect and easy returns, as well as in-store expert advice from our Partners.
