Dressing Your Toddler for a Snow Day in Northern BC

When the snow starts to fall in Prince George, parents know the challenge of keeping little ones warm, dry, and comfortable long enough to actually enjoy it. Snow might look soft and magical, but it’s also wet, and staying dry is the key to staying warm.

For many of you - the challenge might be ensuring that they are too warm; many kids get sweaty in all the layers and thus wet and cold. If it's still pretty warm outside, consider the guide to dressing your toddler in the fall. 

Whether you’re heading to the playground, sledding hill, or just the backyard, here’s a practical guide for dressing your toddler for winter adventures in Northern BC, with a mix of layering tips, local brand suggestions, and real-world flexibility.

Step 1: Start with a Warm Base Layer

A good day in the snow starts with the right foundation.
Base layers help regulate body temperature and wick away sweat. This will keep your toddler warm without overheating.

🐑 Wool is your best friend

Wool naturally wicks moisture and insulates even when wet. Look for soft, washable merino options like our collection from Reima, and very rarely availablee in our second hand collection. These base layers for kids are a must-have for families who spend longer periods of time outside in the winter. 

• Merino is itch-free, breathable, and odor-resistant.
  

👕 No wool? No problem

Synthetic blends work too! Choose moisture-wicking polyester or bamboo base layers from brands like Jan & Jul.

If all else fails, even a pair of leggings and a long-sleeve shirt can help. Just skip heavy cotton for wetter days.

💬 Remember: the goal is layering, not perfection. Use what you have, and adjust for your child’s comfort and activity level.

Step 2: Don’t Forget the Socks

Little toes lose heat fast, so warm socks matter.

• Choose breathable wool or wool-blend socks
  

• Make sure socks fit comfortably in their boots and too tight the circulation drops, too loose and they bunch up. This is truly key part of finding the right size winter boot.

• In a pinch, you can double up on regular socks, but always check that their boots still fit properly. If the boot becomes small, this can be a recipe for a cold foot.
  
  

🧦 Pro tip: Keep a dry backup pair in the car or diaper bag

Step 3: Add a Mid Layer (a.k.a. Regular Clothes)

Once the base layer is on, add a cozy middle layer for warmth.

For most families, that’s:

• Fleece joggers and a hoodie
  

• Or fleece-lined pants and a sweatshirt
  

• For kids who dislike multiple layers, choose fleece-lined leggings or joggers to simplify
  

This layer helps trap warmth while allowing freedom of movement.

Step 4: Add a Fleece Layer (Optional but Useful)

If your child runs cold, or their snowsuit isn’t built for deep cold, add a light fleece jacket or onesie between their clothes and outerwear.
This layer:

• Adds insulation without bulk
  

• Can be removed easily for car rides (check fit with the car seat and do the pinch test)
  

• Works great under rain gear for shoulder-season play
  

We love a nice thin  base layer such as the sets from Souris Mini, but this really doesn't have to be as finicky as you tink. 

Step 5: Choose the Right Snowsuit

For toddlers, a one-piece snowsuit is your best friend.
It eliminates snow sneaking in between coat and pants and keeps backs and tummies covered during all the bending, crawling, and rolling that comes with play. You can also do a solid two piece set.

You’ve got two main options:

🧊 Full Winter Snowsuit

• Ideal for deep cold and snow
  

• Choose insulated suits like Reima Puhuri, Therm Snowrider, or Wheat Kids snowsuits
  

• Look for waterproofing (10,000mm+) and reinforced knees/seats
  

🌦️ Rain Suit with Fleece Layers

• Perfect for wetter, milder days
  

• Use fleece or wool base layers underneath for warmth
  

• Try Jan & Jul Cozy-Dry or Reima suits for layering flexibility
  

💬 In Prince George, many families rotate between a rain suit and a snowsuit depending on the day’s weather. Layering gives you more versatility and more bang for your buck.

If you find your kid runs warm, consider a pair of snow pants with a lighter weight jacket. Going though my photos from my kids, I noticed that was a trend. We used layered tops and avoided bulky winter jackets during our younger days. While not typically eh advice given to families, it mgiht be a hack to consider.

Step 6: Top It Off with Accessories

🧤 Mittens

Waterproof mittens are a must for snow play.
Check out Reima Ote Mittens (our current top performer for waterproofing and warmth) or Jan & Jul Stay-On Mittens for everyday wear.

🧢 Hats & Neckwear

• Wool or fleece-lined hats keep little heads toasty.
  

• Try a balaclava for full-face coverage on colder mornings.
  

• Avoid scarves for toddlers; opt for neck warmers or snoods instead.
  

👢 Boots

Keep toes dry with insulated, water-resistant winter boots like the Jan & Jul Toasty-Dry Tall Puffy Boots or Reima Nefar galosh boots.
Fit is key: make sure there’s room for socks and wiggle space for circulation.

Step 7: Check the Weather and Adjust

Not all layers will be needed every day.

• For wet snow or mild days, rain gear over fleece layers is perfect.
  

• For deep cold, stick to insulated snowsuits and wool base layers.
  

• For quick outings, sometimes a fleece bunting and boots are enough.
  

The key is to adapt to the day’s temperature, wind, and your child’s comfort level.

💬 Think of dressing for winter like packing for a trip. It’s all about knowing what the day brings and being flexible with layers.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple, Keep It Fun

Dressing toddlers for winter in Northern BC isn’t about perfection. It’s about comfort and creativity.

Use what you have, invest where it matters (base layers, mittens, and boots), and give yourself grace on the days the socks don’t match.

With a few smart layers and a sense of humour, your child can stay warm, dry, and happy through months of snow play.