Why I Don’t Buy Rain Boots in the Fall
I wouldn’t invest in rain boots mid-September. If I’m going to buy them, I’ll do it earlier in the year. Like in the spring or summer, because when you're this far north that's when puddle season actually is - this applies to much of your kids rain gear purchasing.
Right now? My money goes toward warm, waterproof boots. Whether that’s an insulated neoprene boot, a solid waterproof ankle boot, or even a waterproof shoe (for the kid who absolutely hates boots - I still can't believe they now have waterproof shoes), that’s what’s going to carry us through the next six months.
At my house, one kid has a waterproof shoe. The other wears an ankle boot. And honestly, it works perfectly for the season we’re stepping into. A choose the waterproof barefoot shoe from Reima, while my other kid is going into mens sizing.
Why Rain Boots Don’t Make Sense in Prince George This Time of Year
🍂 Fall is dry. Here in Prince George, we only get about one-third of the rain Vancouver does. If you look at the numbers we average less than 10cm of rain per month through the fall - actually more like 5-6cm
🌨 Snow is always around the corner. It can snow any day now. That means I’m thinking about slush and warmth, not wet leaves and rain puddles. Seriously, sometimes it snows in September
💧 Our winters are changing. They’re warmer, slushier, and wetter. Good waterproofing matters more than ever and I think a lot of us can have a better winter experience with what I'm calling a mid season boot because it's usually rated to -10C, and can get you through most of the witner without the chunk of a snow boot.
Many family's find that their ankle boot is their go to for the next six months; with the traditional winter boot being reserved for the deep snow cold days. Because sometimes being able to move is the most important part of getting around and winter boots cna be a beast.
When Rain Boots Do Make Sense
Rain boots have their place. In fact, half the pictures on my camera roll show my kids wearing them during September and August. But that’s because I usually buy them in May to August. They get worn through those warmer, rainier months when feet don’t need as much insulation, and then we carry them through into the fall.
But if you're shopping for a boot in September, I don't think it's worth the investment and I would stick to low cost second hand boots if you're insistent on rain boots.
By September, I’ve shifted gears. It’s not that I’ll never buy rain boots in Prince George, they’re just not my go-to this late in the year.
Best Kids’ Boots for Fall and Winter in Prince George
If you’re shopping now and only want to invest in one pair of shoes for your kids, make it a warm, waterproof boot. This way, you get more wear through the fall, winter, and even into spring slush season.
| Boot Style | Warmth Level | Waterproofing | Best For | Sizes Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Lightly insulated with sherpa, (to -10C) | Water-resistant | Mid-season wear, school days, dry slush | Toddler 4 to Little Kid 11 | Flexible sole, good everyday option if winters are mild. |
Jan & Jul Thermal Boot  |
Insulated (to -10C) | Waterproof (up to ankle) | Colder, wetter days; slushy commutes | Toddler 6 to Big Kid 13 | Pull-on style, lightweight alternative to big snow boots. |
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Insulated | Fully waterproof (membrane) | Active kids outdoors, snow + slush | Toddler 4.5 to Little Kid 11 | Durable, Happy Fit insole for sizing; barefoot design |
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ReimaTec Patter
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Light insulation (mid-season) | Waterproof (membrane) | Fall & spring wet weather; daycare/school | Kid 7.5 to big kid 4 | Shorter boot; great for in-between seasons. |
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Light insulation | Waterproof (membrane) | Slushy falls, lighter winter use | Toddler 6 to Little Kid 13/ | Sporty sneaker-boot hybrid; barefoot deisgns |
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Heavier insulation (to –20 °C) | Fully waterproof sole (galosh style boot) | Long outdoor play in snow + slush | Kid 4.5 to Youth 3.5 | Sturdy sole, higher shaft; designed for winter conditions. |
If you're shopping for a mid season boot in Northern BC, we recommend that you save the rain boot purchase for spring. Kids feet are cosntantly growing so you need a shoe they'll actually need and use during the next six months. Not just the next six days.
This fall, think waterproof + warm, and you’ll be ready for whatever Prince George weather throws our way.
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