When Do We Start Using Snowsuits?

If you’re new to Canada, or just new to parenting through Canadian winters, you’ve probably asked yourself this at least once already: “When do we start using snowsuits?”

It’s a great question and one that doesn’t have a single right answer. But there are a few signs to watch for that can help you decide when it’s time to swap your rain gear for winter wear. Note - because of our changing climate in Prince George, I've become a huge advocate for midseason gear and correctly layering it for the weather we actually get. Snowsuits can be a bit overdone if you're not a winter activity family. 

Snowsuits Are Made for Cold, Dry Conditions

Snowsuits are built for freezing weather and snow, not rain or slush. The insulation and waterproofing are designed to perform best below 0°C, when the air is cold and dry.

If your mornings are still sitting around +5°C to +10°C, or you’re seeing puddles instead of snowbanks, it’s probably too early for a snowsuit. At those temperatures, your child will likely overheat and if they’re coming home wet, that’s a clear sign their body is sweating underneath all that insulation.

Sweating in your winter gear is a underrated conversation that we really need to be having more. Not every kid needs to be bundled head to toe. 

Watch for These Signs It’s Time for the Snowsuit

Here’s what I tell families shopping in-store: don’t look at the calendar, look at the weather and your child.

You’re probably ready for a snowsuit when:

• Temperatures are consistently at or below freezing (0°C or colder).
  

• You’re seeing snow that sticks to the ground instead of melting.
  

• Outdoor playtime lasts longer than 30–45 minutes in cold air.
  

• Layers alone aren’t keeping your child dry or warm anymore.
  

If your child’s hands or toes are getting cold even with mitts and boots, or they start coming inside early from being chilly and that’s the body saying it’s time for more insulation.

Why Snowsuits Are Too Hot Too Soon

It’s tempting to bring them out early (especially when mornings feel frosty), but snowsuits trap body heat efficiently because that’s their job! We spend half our day working with parents to find a snowsuit rated for the deep cold - only to remind you that the deep cold snowsuit isn't suitable for warm days. 

When the ground isn’t frozen yet, or the air is damp and mild, that heat has nowhere to go. The result? Kids come home sweaty, sticky, and damp on the inside. That moisture can make them colder once the suit cools down, and it’s often mistaken for the suit not working when really, it’s just too warm for the conditions.

Scrolling through my own kids photos, I noticed that I transitioned my kids into two piece suits earlier than many Northern Families. I think that's because a full snow get up was too warm for my oldest. Pairing his snowpants with a lighter weight coat gave us a better experience in the temperature we were actually playing in. 

The Role of Rain Gear in the Shoulder Season

That’s where rain gear shines. For much of fall and even early winter, rain suits and waterproof layers can handle what Northern BC (and much of Canada) throws our way. We have many customers who live in their lined rain gear all season long because they prefer to play in the shoulder tempneratures and avoid the deep cold.

When layered properly,  think wool base layers or cozy fleece underneath.  rain gear can be incredibly versatile. It’s durable enough for cement, rocks, and playgrounds, and breathable enough to prevent overheating during active play.

For families who don’t spend hours outside in deep snow or extreme cold, rain gear might actually be the best snow gear you own until real winter hits.

The Bottom Line

There’s no magic date to start using a snowsuit — it’s all about temperature, activity, and comfort.

• If your child is wet from the outside, they need something waterproof.
  

• If they’re wet from the inside, they’re too warm.
  

• If you’re bundling up every day and still hearing “I’m cold,” it’s time for the snowsuit.
  

Until then, let your rain gear and smart layers do the heavy lifting. Save the snowsuit for when it really feels like winter,  your child (and their comfort) will thank you. Need some help figuring out what gear is for you? Consider answering these questions before your next outwear purchase.