Summertime means days at the lake, spending time on the boat, hanging out at the beach, swimming in the pool, and being in and around WATER a lot! And anytime children are around water, safety is our number one concern. Life jackets help keep kids safe when spending time on the water. But, with so many options, brands, and types of life jackets and personal floatation devices out there, how do you know which ones are the best for kids? Today, Meghan Garriott, Illinois photographer and mom of three, is here to help you find the best life jackets for kids. She’ll go over proper life jacket fit, how to choose a life jacket based on your activity, and includes recommendations for the best life jackets for kids.
Our recommendations for the best life jackets for kids
All our analysis, safety features, and full product reviews are below, but if you’re ready for us to get to the point right NOW, here are our recommendations for the best life jackets for kids:
There are so many fun water activities that are great for your health, but no matter what you’re doing, when water is involved, safety precautions must be taken. Water wings, floaties, and other blow-up toys and floatation aids are fun (and often very affordable and easy), but they are not life-saving devices in emergency situations. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, drowning is the number one cause of unintentional death for children ages 1 to 4.
The good news is drowning is preventable with constant supervision and a reliable personal flotation device, like a life jacket. However, not every life jacket is made for every situation. Shopping for a life jacket can be overwhelming. But don’t worry; we’re here to help! We’ve got the best kids life jacket recommendations for your little swimmer.
*It’s important to note that children should still be constantly supervised when in or around water, even with life jackets on.
Life jackets are a summer staple
Life jackets are a quintessential part of our summer wardrobe. Lake days are our favorite family activity in the summer and safety is our utmost priority. I think it’s safe to say most families find themselves in or around water sometime during the summer. Water is fun for the whole family, but it can often be stressful for parents trying to find the right gear to keep kids safe AND comfortable.
Whether you are in the pool swimming, on the lake fishing, on the beach playing, or behind a boat riding a wake, life jackets for kids must be a part of the fun. But in order for it to be fun, the life jackets need to be comfortable and safe. We are here to help you find the right life jacket for kids, no matter what the age of your kids or the situation, so everyone can safely enjoy the water.
When trying to decide on a life jacket for kids, there are a lot of factors to consider. Here are a few factors that will affect the type of life jacket you need:
Where will your child be wearing a life jacket? Pool, lake, or ocean?
Will they be doing a lot of swimming or just hanging out on the boat/beach? There are different types of life jackets for different activities.
What material does your child prefer? Life jackets are made of nylon, neoprene, or vinyl. My kids prefer neoprene as it is softer and does not cause chafing after a long day of swimming, but it can be more expensive.
What is the size and body type of the child wearing it? Life jackets Are usually sized by weight, but the ranges can vary by brand. Always check the sizes and be sure that your child fits the size parameters for the life jacket at the time they’re wearing it.
Another variable to consider is the color of the life jacket. I try to look for brands of life jackets with bright neon colors that will contrast against both a pool and the lake. Neon colors help to increase supervision and safety.
When does your child need to wear a life jacket?
It is important to know when your child should be wearing a life jacket. If you are planning a trip to a lake or river, be sure to check that area’s rules and regulations. As a general rule for lakes and rivers, children should ALWAYS have their life jackets on when under 12 years old, even if your child is a capable and confident swimmer. This applies whether your child is in a canoe, kayak, or a boat under 16 feet in length.
In many places, boating laws require lifejackets to be US Coast Guard-approved (see below for more info on that). If you are renting a boat, make sure to ask if they provide baby or child-sized life jackets or if you’ll need to bring your own. Before going to a pool, check to make sure lifejackets are allowed and if they also need to be Coast Guard approved.
Coast Guard-approved life jackets
If/when the U.S. Coast Guard stops you on the water to do a safety check, they will almost always check whether you have the right life jackets onboard. Not all life vests or flotation devices are approved USCG life jacket types. If you need a USCG-approved life jacket, be sure to check the label for all pertinent information before buying a life vest. The label of all US Coast Guard-approved life jackets contains a statement that it is approved, with an approval number.
There are 5 categories of United States Coast Guard life jacket types, which will be labeled Type I through IV. Most of the life jackets we cover in this post are “USCG Type III” (flotation aids). Each type corresponds to the type of activity your child will be engaged in. Type I are offshore life jackets; Type II are near-shore vests; Type IV are throwable devices; and Type V are special-use devices. It is important to have the right life jacket for the right activity.
Life jacket sizing for kids
Life jackets for kids usually come in 3 different sizes, but that can vary by brand and purpose. Picking the right size life jacket for your kids is the most important factor when choosing a life jacket. Kids should fit properly in the life jacket they’re wearing at the moment. Do not buy a life jacket that your child will grow into. Buy one that fits their size and weight right now. Kids’ life jackets are sized according to weight, not chest size (adult life jackets are sized by chest circumference).
Infant/Toddler: 8-30 lbs
Child: 30-50 lbs
Youth: 50-90 lbs
Proper life jacket fit for kids
A life jacket must fit properly in order for it to be safe and effective. It should have a secure, snug fit. If it’s too tight, it won’t provide sufficient flotation (you’ll need to move up a size). A fastened life jacket or vest should never rise above the face when a child is in the water. It’s important to make sure the adjustable straps are secure and the crotch strap is tight enough to prevent the life jacket from riding up. If the life jacket does rise up, it’s likely too large (go down a size).
Try the life jacket on before leaving the house
Before heading out to the pool or the lake, have your child try the life jacket on at home to make sure it fits properly and familiarize yourself with how to secure it. Most life jackets have a lot of different zippers and buckles. Many have leg straps, a crotch strap, and a snug-fit that kids need to get used to. It’s helpful to know how it goes on prior to getting on an unsteady boat or when your child is already slippery with sunscreen or sand.
When you’re doing the life jacket try on, get excited and talk it up to your kids! Some kids are not always excited about having to wear a life jacket, so any enthusiasm on your part will help make it a better experience. When trying it on beforehand, talk about how cool it is, and explaining the importance can help make your day in the water a little easier. Let your child move around in it for a little while so you can see how comfortable they are in it, and if any adjustments should be made to make them more comfortable.
It is important to make sure your child understands that the lifejacket HAS to be worn, and no exceptions will be made. Try to keep your tone light and excited about all the fun you’re going to have on your adventure! Modeling a life jacket yourself is a great way to help them get excited or at least feel ok with their new gear.
Best for life jackets for babies (0-30lbs)
When buying a life jacket for a baby, make sure there is good head support and a snug secure fit. Babies come in many different shapes, sizes and body types, and there are different life jackets to match. Babies may be uncomfortable in a life jacket at first, but a flexible and soft life jacket is key to it keeping them happy for long-term wearing. Don’t worry, they will get used to it, I promise! Here are our top picks for life jackets for babies and infants.
PROS: wider neck and arm openings, bright colors, adjustable around the waist, USCG-approved
CONS: price, nylon material is not as soft or flexible as neoprene
Best overall life jacket for kids (swim/play/sports)
Ready for the best all-around life jackets for kids? This rapid dry life jacket can go from the pool to the lake on the same day (we’ve done it!). It is super comfortable and flexible, great for hours of swimming or playing. It’s also well-made and holds up over the years. We’ve had ours for 3 years now, and there are no tears or loose stitching. It’s very affordable for the quality!
Best 2-in-1 life jacket for kids that hate wearing life jackets (33 to 55 pounds)
Do you have a little escape artist? One of those kids that can wiggle out of any jacket or life jacket? My 4-year-old is notorious for this! However, we found a great solution. This two-in-one life jacket and rash guard combo will be a lifesaver (literally) for you and your kiddo. The back buckle and long sleeve rash guard make it impossible for the child to get off on their own. It’s a great toddler life jacket option as it’s also flexible and comfortable, so hopefully, after a while, they won’t be trying to take it off.
PROS: SPF 50 for arms and torso, back zipper, USCG- approved, many designs/styles
CONS: no neon color options, price
Best life jackets for fashionable kids (33 to 55 pounds)
Do you have a child who loves colors, characters, fashion, or just needs some bribing to put the thing on? Well, then the Paddle Pals life jacket might be a good option for your child. There are tons of (20+) characters, colors, designs, and even 3-D options. The shoulder straps help keep the floaties nice and secure.
PROS: shoulder straps and back buckle keep the arm and torso floaties secure, so many colors and characters, USCG-approved, affordable
CONS: arm wings can limit arm motion
Best life jackets for kids participating in water sports
If your child is going to be tubing, skiing, or wakeboarding, you are going to want a life jacket that is flexible yet lightweight. If you are out on the water often enough for water sports, you will want to invest in a high-quality life jacket that is durable enough for spins and flips, and wipeouts!
If you have a young child (ages 2 to 4) that’s just learning how to swim, you may want something different than your traditional life jacket. A swim training vest is lightweight and less bulky than most life jackets, yet still buoyant. It can be used for training at the swimming pool when working on your swimming skills, or we use it for beach play. I have one child who is more interested in playing in the sand on the beach than getting in the water, so this swim vest works well for him because it allows him to play more comfortably but keeps him safe.
Please note that swim vests are NOT USCG-approved, so it’s best for pools or the beach and under high supervision. It’s designed to help kids swim in the prone (face-down) position, so it’s definitely not the right safety device if you’re out on open water.
PROS: easy to move in, flexible, easy on and off, neon colors available, very affordable
CONS: not USCG-approved, less buoyant than traditional jackets
Best life jacket for kids when fishing
When fishing from the dock or boating to a waterfowl hunting spot, this life jacket will keep your child safe and fit in with the rest of the camouflaged gear! Plus, everyone loves pockets, right? This life vest has pockets for all your bobbers and fishing gear.
PROS: it’s got pockets, open sides for arm mobility, camouflage coloring, coast guard approved
CONS: bulky, not great for swimming
Comfort, safety, fun!
Nothing can spoil a beautiful summer day like a toddler meltdown due to an uncomfortable life jacket. We don’t want you to have that experience. We hope this post and these life jack recommendations help you be prepared with the most comfortable, most adorable, and safest life jacket for your water adventures. Wearing a life jacket may take some getting used to, but once you find the right one, everyone can have endless and safe fun! (And you can have a bit more peace of mind.)
Where will your kiddos wear their life jackets for some water fun?
About the author
Meghan is a country-living mom of 3 kids in rural central Illinois. She is a Physical Therapist Assistant by trade but spends most of her time outside with her family. At home, she has large flower, herb, and vegetable gardens to tend to and 3 large dogs to play with. As a family, they enjoy hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and helping her in-laws show and raise livestock. Photography became a hobby while in isolation after her oldest son’s bone marrow transplant. It has since become a passion for capturing her family’s daily life. Throughout her family’s journey with rare disease and transplant, the outdoors have been a safe space for the whole family to grow, learn, and thrive.
You can find more from Meghan online in the following locations:
Instagram: @meghangarriott
Meghan’s RWMC posts: Meghan Garriott
Learning to ride a bike is all about good balance and coordination. Developing these skills is the key to getting a child to learn to ride a bike safely and quickly. Balance bikes are great for young kids just starting to learn how to ride a bike. Today, we’re talking all things balance bikes – from the difference between a balance bike and a pedal bike, the benefits of balance bikes, and how to choose the right balance bike for your child. Plus, we’ve rounded up the best balance bikes out there and we’re giving you our full review of each. Let’s go balance biking!
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Learning to ride a bike
Do you remember learning to ride a bike? Maybe your parents helped you by holding on and running alongside of you. Or, maybe you rode a bike with training wheels until you were more than ready to master biking without them. Whatever the case, you probably started biking with a traditional pedal bike (and probably one with training wheels). Balance bikes weren’t really a thing back in our day, but they’re prevalent now and for a good reason. Many experts believe that balance bikes help young children develop those good balance and coordination skills needed for bike riding much better than a pedal bike with training wheels. And there are a lot of other benefits of balance bikes, as well. Let’s take a look!
Difference between a balance bike and a pedal bike
A balance bike is a bike without pedals. It has most of the essential elements of a traditional bike (frame, fork, handlebars, wheels, etc.), but it has no drivetrain and thus no need for pedals. Kids straddle the bike, just like a regular bike, but instead of pedaling, they push off the ground with their feet to move forward and place their feet down to stop. Their legs remain on the side of the bikes and their feet on the ground, so they hold the bike up – there’s no need for training wheels or stabilizers. Since they’re in control, they can develop their balance and coordination first, before progressing to a bike with pedals.
Balance bikes are also relatively low to the ground. Because kids need to reach the ground with their feet to balance the bike and move it forwards, balance bikes tend to be lower and smaller than traditional pedal bikes. The seat is low to the ground, putting their torso in an upright position so their feet can reach the ground. Being lower to the ground and the low center of gravity gives kids a much more secure feeling and helps with their balance, as they don’t feel as top-heavy or struggle as much on turns.
Kids progress differently on a balance bike than on a pedal bike. On a balance bike, kids begin by pushing off the ground and walking the bike. Once they’ve mastered that, then they progress to running with the bike, lifting their feet, and striding and gliding. Once they know how to safely pull their feet up off the ground and stay going and balanced, they’re pretty much ready for a pedal bike.
While there’s no right or wrong answer here (and every kid is different), there are some benefits of starting kids out on a balance bike over a bike with training wheels. However, this depends on a lot of factors, including your child’s age, comfort, skill level, coordination, etc.
A bike with training wheels is held upright by the two small outrigger wheels. These wheels are usually set up a little higher than the rear wheel, which means that the bike tips a bit from side to side as the child’s weight transfers from one training wheel to the other. Kids tend to learn to lean on the training wheels, creating a false sense of balance. In order to ride without the training wheels, a child must unlearn how to ride unbalanced and then learn how to ride while balanced.
Balance bikes tend to be better for younger riders. Because they’re so simple to use and there’s no learning curve, balance bikes tend to be more intuitive for smaller/younger kids to use quicker. They weigh less than normal bikes, which means they’re easier for even the smallest kids to manage and maneuver. By taking the work of pedaling out of the equation, little kids can concentrate on the more tricky skills of staying balanced and moving.
Best age to introduce kids to a balance bike
Like most things in parenting, there’s no magic number as to when you should start kids out on a balance bike. Toddlers as young as 18 months or two years old can start their balance bike journey. That being said, there are balance bikes made for all sizes of toddlers, preschoolers, and grade-schoolers, so it’s basically never too late to start.
Introducing a balance bike early will allow your toddler to learn to ride independently from the very start. Starting them young will not only allow them to happily ride their bike independently for all of their toddlers years, it will also allow them to move up to a pedal bike by age 3 or 4.
How long do kids ride balance bikes?
Kids generally ride balance bikes for 1 to 3 years, depending on the age they start, their coordination and athletic ability, and their developmental readiness.
A child that starts riding a balance bike as a young toddler may take several months to sit and run confidently on their balance bike. But, that child could then spend a few years enjoying the bike. Children who start later (2-4 years old) will pick up how to ride a balance bike more quickly. It’s totally up to you (as the parent) and your child how long they remain on the balance bike before moving onto a pedal bike.
Things to consider when buying a balance bike
If you’re convinced that a balance bike is a good fit for your child, there are quite a few things to consider before purchasing. Not all balance bikes are the same and you should pick a bike that is best suited for your child and how they’ll be using it. Here are a few things to consider:
1. Balance bikes are not one-size-fits-all
Balance bikes come in all shapes and sizes. Many brands even carry an entire line of balance bikes for toddlers of varying ages, sizes and abilities. You should make sure the bike you’re purchasing is best suited to fit your child and will be able to adjust with them as they grow. Many bikes will give an age range for quick sizing, but not all kids are the same size at any given age. The best way to ensure a proper fit is to measure your child’s inseam. Then, compare it to the seat height of the bike. Look for a bike with a minimum seat height that is equal to or slightly less than your child’s inseam.
2. Price can be a factor
There are a wide variety of balance bikes on the market, and they run the gambit of prices. Balance bikes range anywhere from $80-$300, and a lot of times, you get what you pay for in terms of quality and durability.
A more expensive bike will usually be lighter, longer-lasting, and have more safety features. These brands usually use better quality parts, have better warranties/customer service, and will often have a better resale value. Cheaper bikes can often look like their more expensive counterparts, but the quality and attention to detail suffer. They may not last as long or have many of the better features that quality brands offer. However, if you know your child won’t be using the bike for long and cost is a big deciding factor, a less expensive bike may be a good option. That being said, you can usually find good-quality balance bikes on resale websites and in bike shops for a fraction of the original retail price.
3. Air tires or foam tires?
Many tires on balance bikes are made of solid foam rather than air. This can make a big difference in how the bike rides. Higher quality/price bikes will have air tires/wheels, with alloy rims, and hubs with steel spokes. Budget balance bikes tend to have puncture-resistant solid foam tires. Pneumatic (air) tires provide more cushioning and grip, while foam tires offer little to no cushioning and less traction. Air tires with a wide tread also give better grip on rough surfaces, while those foam tires with a narrower smooth tread will roll faster and be less grippy. If your child will be riding their bike on any surface other than pavement, the air tires are a valuable upgrade.
4. Do you need handbrakes on a balance bike?
Balance bikes can come with no brakes, rear hand brake only, or both front and rear hand brakes. Without any kind of braking system, kids naturally learn to stop a balance bike with their feet. This is okay at slower speeds when your kids are really little, but as they get older (and start riding harder and faster), a handlebar brake lever could help them stop faster (and save money on buying shoes)!
Small toddlers and little riders just getting started with a balance bike (around 18 months old) do not have the coordination required to use a handbrake. At this point, the handbrake is a bit worthless because their feet will do the work for them (they’re not going fast, anyway). Therefore, if you’re buying a balance bike for a tiny toddler that won’t be riding the bike for very long, a handbrake may not be needed (it affects the price).
However, by the time your child reaches about 2 1/2 – 3 years old, they will be able to use the handbrake (and may actually need it). Plus, it is good practice for older toddlers and children getting ready to transition to a pedal bike, so they learn the proper way to brake. If your child is going to use their balance bike for a long time (several years) or you’re starting them after 2 1/2 years old, a braking system is probably a good idea.
Best balance bikes for kids
We did some serious digging into the best balance bikes on the market for kids. The brands we’ve listed below are the ones our Creative Team members tried and tested on their own kids over the years or that we received glowing feedback on from our online community. We’ve listed 13 quality brands below that all make excellent quality balance bikes for toddlers. The difference between many of these bikes comes down to a few key features (air or foam tires, presence of handbrakes) and basic size/shape/weight.
There’s no one right bike for everyone – we hope that our research helps you narrow down the hundreds of choices out there to just a few, depending on what features you’re looking for, the size/age of your kids, where you’ll be riding it, and how much you want to spend. Our favorites are as follows:
Here’s a detailed breakdown of each of the brands we chose to include in our best balance bikes for kids roundup. Many other brands were considered; however, we chose to only include the best ones to help you narrow down the field. Here’s what we liked about each of them (listed in alphabetical order).
Burley
Price: $129
Pros: We love all the Burley products we’ve tried (Minnow, Encore X), so the Burley MyKick balance bike was high on our list. It has a durable steel frame with a low stand-over height, and tool free adjustment for the kid-sized seat. Adjustable handlebars with comfortable rubber grips, quality, spoked wheels and comes fully assembled out of the box.
Cons: The bike has rubber/foam tire (not air tires) and no handbrakes.
Banana Bike
Price: $59-$69
Pros: The Banana Bike is a great budget-friendly balance bike option for kids. The Banana Bike balance bike line has two options: GT and LT (with the LT being slightly smaller with foam tires). The GT version has pneumatic (air) tires with great grippy treads that can be ridden in various terrain. They both have the classic banana-shaped step-through frame design that makes it easy for small riders to mount.
Cons: There’s no steering limiter on the bike’s handlebars, so the handlebars can overrotate while riding. No handbrakes.
Belsize
Price: $169
Pros: The Belsize 12 balance bike is somewhere in between a budget-friendly balance bike and a top-of-the-line bike. It comes with pneumatic (air) tires that offer great traction in all kinds of terrain. The weight of the bike is only 6.4 lbs, and the bike has an ultra-lightweight aluminum alloy frame with kid-specific geometry and quality parts. It’s a larger balance bike and the bike’s frame is taller than some others that are step-through, so this bike is better suited for taller toddlers and older kids.
Cons: Higher price for no handbrakes or quick-release seat post clamp.
Eastern Pusher
Price: $140
Pros: Made by BMX, the Eastern Pusher is a super light (only 4.6 lbs) and durable push bike for your little ripper. The Eastern Pusher is built up with easily adjustable quick-release clamps to grow with the rider. Sealed bearing wheels, a super lightweight alloy frame, one-piece handlebar/stem combo with quick release for easy adjustment, and soft rubber grips with larger ends to aid in handling.
Cons: Foam tires and no handbrakes. However, we’ve heard that when put to the test, the tires are non-marking and have relatively good traction.
Early Rider
Price: $169-$249
Pros: Early Rider has a few options when it comes to balance bikes for kids under 5 years old. The Early Rider Lite and Classic are both beautifully-crafted gorgeous bikes, made with an eco-friendly wooden marine-grade birch frame, with a faux leather saddle, air tires, and a 100 pound weight limit. The Early Rider Charger 12 is perfect for younger children that want to get off the beaten path. The low-slung lightweight frame with a minimum seat height of just 12 inches is great for little ones. It has a beautiful brushed finish with aluminum hubs and axles with sealed cartridge bearings. Internal cabling for an optional rear brake upgrade.
Cons: Pricey. But, well made with a high-resell value and last for years.
FirstBIKE
Price: $116
Pros: The FirstBIKE Street balance bike is a great option for kids up to 5 years old. This balance bike has a brake and comes with air tires, ideal for urban areas with concrete, stone, or packed dirt surfaces. It’s extremely safe (award-winning for safety), lightweight, and durable (weatherproof). There’s an additional/optional LowKit, that allows toddlers to ride from an earlier age (starting from 22 months old) and another optional SKISet. which can turn the bike into an upright sled!
Cons: This bike is best for young toddlers (2 to 3 years) as the flexible composite nylon frame tends to bend when maxed out. Not the best option for taller or older preschoolers (4+).
Frog Tadpole
Price: $210-260
Pros: Frog Bikes makes a line of balance bikes that come in 3 sizes, depending on the height and age of your child. The Frog Tadpole Mini is the smallest balance bike out there and one of the very few with 10-inch wheels for the teeny-tiniest of riders (1 and 2-year-olds). The classic Frog Tadpole bike is designed for 2 and 3-year-olds, with a 12-inch wheel. And the Frog Tadpole Plus is designed for 3 and 4-year-olds (14-inch wheel). All their bikes have low seat posts, air tires, rear handbrakes, and a quick-release seat post for easy height adjustment.
Cons: High price tag and hard to find online (sold out nearly everywhere).
Prevelo
Price: $199
Pros: The Prevelo Alpha Zero is another top-of-the-line quality balance bike option for toddlers. This is a lightweight balance bike with a sleek brushed aluminum frame. The bike has an easy-to-pull and easy-to-reach handbrake, with internal routing for the brake cable to keep the bike looking clean. It has quality air tires with 12-inch wheels, adjustable quick-release seat clamp post, and kid-friendly hubs to keep out the muck and mud.
Cons: Pricey. Although, these bikes tend to have a very high resell value and can be used for years and passed down from kid-to-kid.
REI Co-op
Price: $139
Pros: The REI Co-op REV 12 kids’ balance bike is a quality, no-frills, durable option for little kids. It’s made with a lightweight aluminum frame and has pneumatic (air) tires with good traction. There’s a handle of the back of the seat for a bit of extra parental assistance. It’s simple, durable, and only weighs 9 pounds. It’s a great choice for REI co-op members and usually available to purchase with your membership discount.
Cons: No handbrakes, no quick-release seat post clamp for height adjustments, no steering limiter.
Spawn Tengu
Price: $250
Pros: Spawn is a quality brand that makes fantastic mountain bikes for kids. The Spawn Tengu 12 is the rugged off-road mountain bike version of a balance bike. It’s built like a real bike and not a plastic toy, with quality bike components such as an aluminum frame, chromoly forks, sealed alloy hubs and a real Tektro v-brake with a tiny, reach-adjustable, easy-action lever. The bike has big treaded tires and a quick release seat post for easy adjusting. It’s an extraordinary bike.
Cons: Super pricey. And, unless your little shredder is tearing up the trails, this bike is probably more “bike” than most toddlers need.
Strider
Price: $89-$179
Pros: When you think of a balance bike, you may immediately think of Strider balance bikes. Strider bikes start at a super competitive price point and are durable and adorable. Their 12-inch wheel line of bikes is made for kids 18 months to 5 years old. There are three options in this line, with different features and prices. The Strider Classic is the smallest bike for kids 18 months to 3 years old. The Strider Sport and the Strider Pro options are the same size and work for kids up to 5 years old. The Sport has a steel frame, and the Pro has an aluminum frame. All the bikes are lightweight and come with an extended seat post and a quick-release clamp to make seat adjustments easy.
Cons: All the bikes in the Strider line have polymer foam tires and do not have handbrakes.
Woom
Price: $199 – $269
Pros: No matter the age or size of your kids, Woom bikes are at the top of the line for quality and our top bike for the best overall balance bike for kids. The Woom 1 balance bike is the smallest bike in their line-up and perfect for toddlers as young as 18 months. The Woom 1 Plus is for riders 3 years and older (or taller toddlers). The bikes are designed for toddlers with a lightweight aluminum frame, a low point of entry, long seat post, adjustable seat height, handbrakes, and rubber tires (air-filled) with steel spokes.
Cons: Pricey. While the excellent quality makes these balance bikes worth it, the high price tag may turn off many families.
Yedoo TooToo
Price: $199
Pros: The Yedoo Too Too balance bike is a high-quality bike that fits even the tiniest riders. This bike comes in a wide range of fun bold colors with reflective dots, making it one of the best-looking bikes on the market. The bikes come with extra-wide handlebars for optimum control and safety. pneumatic (air) tires, hand brakes, a low point of entry, and a lightweight, durable steel frame (8 pounds).
Cons: The seat post isn’t as easy to adjust as other balance bikes in this price range.
More biking resources
If you’re interested in reading more about biking with kids, here are a few posts you should check out:
We’ve all probably heard people rave about how merino wool is the best base layer for kids when playing outside in cold weather. But why is that? What’s so great about merino wool and why is it so expensive? Is it really worth it? And if so, which brands are the best? Our Creative Team member Somer Pickel, Appalachian mom of a whirlwind toddler, had the chance to test out seven brands that all make wool base layers for kids. She’s sharing her findings on how they hold up to rough and tumble outdoor toddler play, along with her review on the quality, colors, pricing, thickness, durability, and sustainability of each brand.
**This post was sponsored by the following merino wool companies: Chasing Windmills, Iksplor, Nui Organics, TK Clothing, Simply Merino, Wee Woollies, and Woolino. Product was provided as compensation for review purposes. All opinions expressed and photos herein belong to the author.
Merino wool is nature’s wonder fabric. It keeps your kids warm in the cold and cool in the heat.
Layers for the win
Here at Run Wild, we strive to be your go-to resource for all things that help get kids outside. We’re real-life parents who are keenly aware of how difficult it can be to get kids out the door. Especially when the weather isn’t ideal. And once outside, you need to keep them out for longer than a few minutes. Because let’s be real, when the crew is finally outside, you’re only going to last as long as your most uncomfortable member. The only thing worse than being cold is your child being cold or even just worried they are.
With winter on the horizon, we are here to help you avoid unnecessary stress regarding dressing your kids in all their winter layers. Layers, layers, layers. I’m sure you’ve heard over and again how important it is to layer your child when out in winter weather.
Benefits of layering
Kids will stay warmer outside in cold weather if they wear layers. Layering helps trap and warm the air between the layers of clothes, which keeps kids insulated and warm. Layering also allows them to adjust their clothing depending on the weather, activity, or situation. They can take off a layer if they’re doing something active, or put on an additional layer if they’re cold.
Typically, kids need three layers for cold-weather outdoor play: 1) a base layer to wick away moisture; 2) a mid-layer to insulate and help retain heat and maintain body temperature; and 3) a shell or outer layer to protect from water, wind, rain, and snow. Base layers are usually long-underwear/thermal type clothing that fits close to a child’s skin. The middle layer is great for fleece or other sweatshirt-type material. And the outer layer is a warm waterproof coat or shell. You can always add additional layers or thicker layers if the temperature drops. Or shed layers when there’s warmer weather or your kids are active.
A base layer makes all the difference
A thermal base layer is the very bottom layer of clothing that kids wear. They’re also called thermals or long underwear. You may have even had some as a kid – they were usually made of a waffle-weave cotton material. Cotton is a poor insulator of body heat and performs horribly if it gets wet (from snow or sweat), so it likely didn’t keep you all that warm for long. Luckily, now, most children’s base layers are either made of wool or synthetic materials.
A good quality base layer is imperative if you’re going to be spending a lot of time outside in the cold. It can help keep a child warmer than a huge thick puffy coat. But unfortunately, base layers for kids are some of the most overlooked pieces of kids’ winter gear. It’s easy to remember that kids need a coat, snow pants, and boots. However, if you are committed to spending quality time outside with your kids, you need to be prepared to invest in the best base layers for them.
You’ve probably heard everyone recommend wool layers as your base layer (even over synthetic base layers). But why? What’s so great about wool? And why does it cost so much? We’re here with the answers as to why wool is a great option for your base layer needs. We tried and tested a variety of brands of wool layers and are here to give you the scoop on each of them.
Merino Wool is insulating when it is cold and cooling when it is hot. Pictured wearing Woolino size 3t (child is ~30lbs and 38 inches).
What is merino wool?
Humans have used wool for clothing for millennia, and have been selectively breeding sheep for superior fleece for hundreds of years. Merino wool comes from breeds of sheep that produce extremely fine wool fleece. These fine fibers provide the wool more flexibility, giving it a strong yet buttery soft, and comfortable feel. Given their natural origins, merino wool fibers are biodegradable. The sheep are typically sheered once a year, which also makes wool a renewable sustainable resource.
As a mom who cares about the health and future of our planet, I find these facts quite alluring. However, it’s how well merino wool keeps my child safe and comfortable that’s truly won me over.
Merino wool is naturally breathable and can absorb large quantities of moisture. It can absorb a third of its weight before it even feels wet! As the fibers absorb moisture vapor, they move it away from the skin. That means when it’s hot out, the merino fiber evaporates the vapor outside the fabric—which will help keep your little one cool. When it’s cold out, the vapor condenses inside the fibers and puts off heat, even when wet, which helps keep your child warm. So, yes, you heard that right. Merino wool kids base layers can be worn year-round and aren’t just for cold weather conditions.
Qualities of merino wool
Other fabulous positives about merino wool are that it’s quick-drying, odor-resistant, and stain-resistant. This makes it perfect for puddle jumping and exploring creeks! The fabric is also much more durable than cotton, machine washable, hypoallergenic, and naturally UV resistant. Did you catch that last bit? Yes, merino naturally blocks UV rays—some brands listed below tout a UPF of 50! Can you say, hello, reef-friendly sun protection?!
Merino woollies are extremely functional as base layers for cold days, as pajamas, or even as stand-alone clothing for warm days, making them a triple-threat and three times as useful. The form-fitting design of merino wool base layers means that it’s an easy option for wearing under other clothing without a ton of fuss from your little ones.
Merino wool is by far the most versatile fabric for enjoying the outdoors in any weather. Pictured wearing Nui Organics sizes XS in women’s and 3t in children.
Merino wool is an investment
For many families, merino base layer/pajama sets are a bit of an investment (the brands listed in this article range from $63 to $109 USD). Although merino’s durability, versatility, and sustainability justify their cost over time, the initial price tag can be a hard pill to swallow.
It can be hard to spend a higher amount on kids’ clothes when you know your child will likely grow out of them in a season. This is especially true when buying for multiple quickly growing children. However, while investing in a wool winter layer can be pricy, they usually last a long time, making them suitable for handing down to another kid (or reselling second-hand).
Getting your money’s worth
Wool layers are also great for handing down, recycling, or reselling. If you have multiple kids, wool layers can be passed down from one kid to the next (they’re very durable). Sometimes wool layers are saved for generations and passed down to grandkids (talk about a long-lasting investment).
Lots of brands offer wool base layers for kids that are designed to last longer with cuffs that can be rolled up or down so that your child can get multiple seasons of wear out of one size.
For me, this makes merino wool the best option for sustainability and keeping clothing out of landfills.
Pro tip: To save some money on new items, you can sign up for the newsletter for many of these companies and receive info on sales, special officers, Black Friday deals, seasonal discounts, free shipping offers, off-season sales, and more. You may have to be patient and willing to purchase in the off-season, but the discounts can pay off!
Best brands for wool layers for kids
There are a lot of brands out there that sell merino wool layers. So, how do you know which one you should buy? The good news is, most of the brands in this lineup are small parent-owned and operated companies. They’re all reputable brands that make high-quality products. And because they’re parents, they also know the pricing struggle all too well. Multiple brands have designed wool sets with features for growing children in mind or affordable options for moving on to the next size.
Here are the brands of merino wool layers we tested and our top picks for the best merino wool brands for kids (alphabetical order):
In preparation for this article, I reached out to the above-mentioned brands about testing their products. Each of these brands produces merino wool base layers specifically for children. We have since been thoroughly testing the woollies since late summer. And when I say thoroughly, I mean I put the wool on my toddler and set her loose in the forests, creeks, and alpine balds of Southern Appalachia.
My child is a force of nature, so she’s given them some real wear and tear. Personally, I can’t think of a better fabric durability and kids’ baselayer tester than a toddler. So, here is our review of each brand and how they tested.
Chasing Windmills offers their base layers via a direct-to-consumer model. Pictured wearing size 4t.
1. Chasing Windmills
About the brand
Chasing Windmills is a small family owned and operated company located in Denver, CO. When browsing their website, it’s easy to see they are deeply committed to environmentally friendly and sustainable values. Chasing Windmills was born by a mother-father team (of twins) out of respect for Mother Nature’s goodness, and their commitment to minimizing their impact naturally follows.
They source traceable wool from pasture-based sheep roaming freely in mountainous New Zealand and Australian meadows. Their merino is certified by ZQ Merino, the Global Merino Quality Assurance Program, and the Responsible Wool Standard. The RWS program focuses on five cornerstones: protecting animal welfare, preserving land health, protecting social welfare, traceable chain of wool custody, creditable certification by professional third-party auditors, and stakeholder input and engagement, including animal welfare and environmental experts.
Their partners in merino meet strict animal welfare, environmental, and economic sustainability standards. Mindful of their eco-footprint, they purchase carbon offsets to ensure that renewable energy projects and greenhouse-gas-capture projects offset the environmental impact of their home office and shipping.
Chasing Windmills Merino Wool Base Layers’ knee pads are extremely functional
Why we love this brand
I love Chasing Windmills’ beautiful earth-toned colors and classic designs. The owners explain that they choose their colors consciously to avoid passing fashions—and hopefully last multiple siblings/children. My kid absolutely glowed in our local forests in the golden amber color gifted to us for this article. I love the natural hue and she loved its brightness.
The Chasing Windmills’ woollies are the only merino wool set in this lineup whose fabric is obviously ribbed. The ribs are extremely soft and seem to give the woollies a bit more flexibility. They’re of excellent quality and great for outdoor activities.
My favorite aspect of Chasing Windmills’ wool base layers is that they have reinforced knees (hallelujah!). As a toddler mom, the knee patches are a weight lifted off my shoulders. My child wears woollies year-round, day and night, over and over. Eventually, even the best quality clothes start to give under that sort of pressure. Inevitably, the first place she blows through in her wool sets is the knees. The extra protection from the get-go is hugely appreciated. I know the patches will save me the time I would’ve spent patching them. I should also point out, the knee patches are extremely well done. They blend nearly seamlessly into the pants. Even though they add an extra layer of durability, they aren’t bulky in any way.
The knee patches add extra protection without any bulk.Chasing Windmills’ golden color of glows in forest environments.
Sizing, price, and options
Chasing Windmills’ merino wool base layers for kids are made in the USA with 100% merino wool (18.5 micron, 200 GSM). They are available in a size range of 3 months to 12 years.
The company sells via a direct-to-consumer site model that allows them to offer its products at more affordable prices. The thermal long-john wool layers are sold in a set (long sleeve shirt and pants) for around $77 in a variety of different colors.
Their product line includes base layers, mid-layers (sweatshirts, hoodies, pants, skirts, etc.), neck warmers, socks, beanies, swaddle blankets and crib sheets. They also offer women’s sets in a wide size range that look delectable.
Iksplor is a children’s merino wool base layer company that designs and makes all products in the USA. Pictured wearing size 2t.
2. Iksplor
About the brand
Iksplor is a small family-owned and operated company based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Their mission is to create easy-to-use and care for clothing that helps get kids outdoors and wherever their childhood adventures take them. On their website, it’s obvious that the sisters are passionate about their commitment to sustainability.
Iksplor makes its products from 100% ZQ certified merino wool (18.9-micron, 200 G5M). ZQ wool is from New Zealand and certified to very high standards for the welfare of sheep, land, farmers, farmworkers, and of course wool quality. ZQ reports each and every fleece is hand-selected by highly skilled “wizards of wool” for fiber quality prior to certification.
Merino woollies are extremely functional as base layers or as stand-alone clothing.
Why we love this brand
Iksplor sets are offered in some really fantastic colors. My kiddo was gifted the raspberry color and let me tell you, she loves them (and so do I). The bright color drew her in immediately. She was literally clapping while jumping up and down! And I love how visible she is in fields and forests. I never have to wonder where she is when she’s wearing these woollies, which makes hide-and-seek extra comical.
Some of my favorite aspects of the Iksplor set are its 50 UPF sun protection, long-fitting limbs, and torso, thumbholes, and flatlock seams. These woollies are perfect for string bean kiddos like mine. The long features really stretch out the wear time for quickly growing children and move exceptionally well with my always rolling and wallowing toddler. This feature will let us get extended wear out of one size of wool layer.
The fabric of these merino woollies is quite soft and thin, but somehow substantial, even so. The thin close-fitting features make for perfect base layering in colder months and cool sun protection in warm environments.
All the products are high-quality and hand-me-down ready. But, if you don’t pass them on to another when your kiddos are done with them, you can send them back to the company (no matter the condition) and receive 20% off your next order. Once receiving the wool, it’s repurposed, reused, or composted.
Iksplor Merino Woollies move great with ever-bending kiddos.
Sizing, price, and options
Iksplor makes their base layers in a size range of newborns through 12 years.
The wool base layer set (long-sleeve shirt and pants) sells for around $89 (0-24 months) and $109 (2-12 years).
In addition to base layers, the company makes beanies, neck warmers, and a swaddle/adventure blanket.
Nui Organics’ merino wool base layers are heavenly soft but still durable. Pictured wearing size 3t.
3. Nui Organics
About the brand
Nui Organics makes a wide range of beautiful, functional products and wool base layers for kids. They’re a company founded on ethical, sustainable practices. The company takes special care to lessen its impact on the environment, even in the smallest details—like recently changing its product labels to biodegradable fabric and using compostable mailers.
Nui was founded in 2004 by a New Zealand mom with a small collection of organic merino wool baby blankets. The company’s guiding philosophy has always been to make something good, that causes no harm, and provides a safe, natural alternative to something that didn’t. They partner with factories in Bulgaria, India, and Lithuania that are committed to sustainable development and fair social conditions within the apparel industry.
When buying Nui, parents can rest easy knowing their children’s clothing doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals or additives.
Why we love this brand
Nui’s merino wool thermals are insanely soft to the touch, which I am guessing is due to using 17.5-micron fiber. For reference, human hair is around 100 microns. This makes it some of the softest merino wool on the market.
One of my favorite features of Nui’s kids’ wool base layers is the extra-long cuffs on the arms and legs. The long cuffs allow you to size up and get multiple years of wear out of each woolly set, even with growth spurts on the horizon! Our kiddo has been wearing the same set of Nui woollies for about 18 months and still has plenty of growing room left in them.
Nui has also added knee patches to their woollies, which I am a HUGE fan of. The knee patches aren’t only adorable; they’re extremely functional—especially for crawlers or those who wear the woollies as stand-alone garments rather than underlayers.
In the last few years, Nui has made the shift to making clothing that is simpler and more timeless. Their color palettes are beautiful and perfectly complementary. The complementary colors and high quality make Nui the place to go if you’re into building your child a functional capsule wardrobe.
Children’s merino wool base layers with knee patches will save you time and money in the long run.
Adult sizes are now available
Now, to all you fellow Mamas out there researching and buying your kids’ top-notch gear while YOU are still squeezing into the same base layers you’ve had since high school (please tell me I am not the only one)…I have great news. Nui Organics has expanded its product line into the adult realm! Now you can get gorgeous merino wool layers for the whole family!
The company quite kindly gifted me a set of their new adult merino Tencel blend base layers, in addition to the kiddo merino thermals for this article. And shoo wee, are they soft, comfortable, and breathable. They’re also extremely lightweight and temperature-regulating, making them the perfect base layer/pajama combo to take on any backpacking trip or even wear under my nursing scrubs on cooler days.
Nui now makes amazing adult merino and merino blend products! These are the merino/tencel blend base layers. Pictured wearing size xs in women’s and 3t in children.
Sizing, price, and options
Nui Organic’s merino wool base layers are available in a size range of newborn to 12 years.
The wool base layer set (long-sleeve shirt and pants) sells for around $69.
Some of their other lines, outside of merino thermals, include merino mid-layer knits, 100% organic cotton thermals, heavenly soft merino silk blends, and the newly introduced merino Tencel blends.
Other products (in addition to the wool base layers) include merino wool clothing such as tops, dresses, leggings, shirts, sweaters, socks, cardigans, and booties.
Simply Merino is small company that designs and makes all products in Vancouver, Canada. Pictured wearing size 3t.
4. Simply Merino
About the brand
Simply Merino is a lovely little family-owned and operated company out of Vancouver, Canada, that makes the cutest wool base layers for kids. The core of Simply Merino’s ethos is community and sustainability. All products produced by the company are 100% merino wool and made in Vancouver. They take special care to gather or produce all other needed materials locally—everything from elastic to packaging.
This little company is exceptionally waste-conscious. They recycle or repurpose all their fabric in creative ways. For instance, included with our woollies was a personalized and sewn card made with merino scraps. Seriously, does it get more creative than that?
All products made by Simply Merino carry the Responsible Wool Standard and OEKO- TEX Standard. These standards basically mean, the company can certify their products are produced ethically and sustainably, without potentially dangerous chemicals—from the sheep to your child’s skin.
Simply Merino’s base layers are beautiful colors and are great quality.
Why we love this brand
One of the key differences in Simply Merino woollies from the rest of the products featured in this article is that their actual fabric is a bit thicker (18.5 micron, 220 GSM). Honestly, I really like it. It’s still quite soft, just a touch thicker. If we were going out on an extremely cold day, these would be the base layers I would choose. Though it stands to reason, all the woollies in this article could handle any challenge the Appalachians could throw at them.
If you haven’t already figured it out, I am a sucker for earth tones, and Simply Merino has a beautiful color palate. They sent us a deep forest green color that’s swoon-worthy. An unexpected benefit is that the dark color resisted any staining despite some pretty intense puddle jump testing. I also love how my kiddo blends into the forest with these woollies on, it’s almost like she becomes part of the forest herself.
Another difference in Simply Merino from the rest of the pack is, you purchase base layer tops and bottoms separately to allow the option of mixing or matching. While for some this may not seem like a big deal, for the more fashion-oriented children out there, color choice matters (probably too much on some days – #toddlers, am I right?).
Simply Merino also makes some adult clothing, from beanies to women’s base layers.Simply Merino’s base layers are a bit thicker than others in this line up.
Sizing, price, and options
Simply Merino base layers have a size range of newborn to 12 years, and from XS to XXXL in women’s sizes.
Tops and bottoms are sold separately, so you can mix and match colors. Wool thermal long-sleeve tops are around $37 and the bottoms are also $37 (for a total of $74 for the set).
In addition to base layers, Simply Merino makes beanies, neck warmers, nursing pads (!!), tanks, and wool craft/mending materials. We had the opportunity to test out a couple of their merino beanies. The beanies are great, especially for kids. They don’t fit slouchy but aren’t at all constricting. My little one wore hers for hours without it falling off or her pulling it off due to discomfort. Yay for minor miracles and warm ears!
TK Clothing’s ‘Grow with Me’ style is extremely functional. Pictured wearing size 2/4t.
5. TK Clothing
TK clothing is another small Canadian family-owned and operated company that makes ingenious handmade wool base layers for kids. A major benefit of this company’s small size is that some of their pieces are still made to order and, therefore customizable! Their base layer set is probably the most unique in this lineup, and I absolutely love them!
The products are real-life actual handmade clothing. If the listing on their site says “handcrafted in North Saanich, BC,” then it’s made personally by Rebecca – a person, not a factory. When you buy from TK Clothing, you are supporting a truly Canadian handmade small business. The merino fabric is sourced from a carefully selected range of suppliers including: a mill in the USA (organic merino), a mill in Australia (one of the few left!), ZQ merino, or Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified or better.
They also have a small selection of products (like laundry soap and socks) that they do not make themselves, but are offered as part of the whole merino apparel package! – The laundry care products are all from Canadian companies, and the socks are from a small family-run business in New Zealand – they did design them all, though!
My child is on the smaller end of TK’s 2/4 but the woollies aren’t at all baggy.
Why we love this brand
First off, the woollies are made in a “grow with me” style. They have long limb cuffs and an elastic-free yoga-style waistband. All of which are easily folded up/down to fit your child through at least two years of growth. This bit of extra length is remarkable and extends the wearing season significantly. It’s ingenious! TK’s sets also look super adorable with contrasting neck, limb, and waist cuff colors.
The other most notable difference with this set is that it’s a slightly thinner weight of superfine merino wool (195 GSM). Even so, my kid has worn a pair for six months with no visible wear or tears. But if you’re looking for something thicker, the company also makes layers in mid and heavy-weight merino, too.
TK gifted us with a beautiful olive/ochre color set. The colors are rich and earthy, which y’all know I love. I think the contrasting neck and cuff colors add a touch of whimsy and fun, without taking away from the clothing’s simple and classic look. The fit of the “grow with me” style is fantastic. My child is on the smaller end of her 2/4 size and the woollies aren’t baggy. Even without an elastic waistband, the woollies stay in place through frolics and tantrums alike. Did I mention the style is ingenious? Because it is.
TK also believes in environmentally aware packaging. So when our package arrived, it was wrapped in paper and tied with 100% cotton string. The string can be composted and the packaging can be recycled. And if you’re local, they even offer pickup from their house (!!!) to save on shipping fees, packaging, and gas. How amazing is that?
TK Clothing’s earth tones blend beautifully in natural settings.
Sizing, price, and options
TK’s merino wool base layer sets are ZQ certified and have a size range of 3 months to 12 years.
The wool base layer set (long-sleeve shirt and pants) sells for around $80.
They also have some other unique product offerings. While most are kid-focused, TK clothing makes cloth diapering materials, leggings, hoodies, rompers, dungarees, undies, and some adult merino base layers and hoodies.
Wee Woollies make and design their base layers out of 100% Merino wool in Canada. Pictured wearing size 3t.
6. Wee Woollies
Wee Woollies is yet another small Canadian family-owned and operated children’s merino wool brand that makes great kids merino wool base layers. They too design and make their products in Canada from ZQ certified wool that is Bluesign, approved. This means they, too can assure their customers ethical sustainable practices (without dangerous chemicals) from the sheep to your child’s skin.
Wee Woollies is a fun kid and nature-centric company. A lot of their advertisements feature their own children in base layers running around the beaches of Vancouver Island barefoot, which is just straight-up endearing.
Is there anything more wholesome than a little kid in white long johns?!
Why we love this brand
The family also promotes mending of their products before replacement. The company has merino mending kits on their site should anyone be in need. This company likely has the most colorful and cheery woollies in this entire lineup. Each set has adorable contrasting cuff and neck hems. But Wee Woollies takes it a step further in that their gusseted bum is also a contrasting color. And can we just give a shout-out to bum gussets? I can’t think of any population who needs bum gussets more than ever squatting and bending little adventurers.
They gifted us a pair of their Polar colored woollies-which are naturally white. Before you start thinking white may not be a good idea, these woollies are beautiful and stand out. With merino’s natural UPF properties, the light color is perfect for hot days spent in alpine environments. They are also a bright pop in our typically densely green southern Appalachian forests.
There’s something incredibly classic and pure about a little kid in white long johns. I’m positive these are the pajamas my kiddo will wear to bed on Christmas Eve for Christmas morning. They’re just that wholesome. Okay, sorry for the tangent, back to the functionality of the woollies. They’re great.
The woollies are made in Canada from 100% ZQ merino wool (195 GSM, 18.9-micron). The wool feels soft and thin but is still incredibly durable. At 195 GSM, these are the woollies I grab when it’s hot and we are headed into exposed alpine environments. They have kept my kid comfortable and safe in all kinds of situations. Wet, dry, cold, hot , and of course glaring alpine sun—these woollies are a great choice.
Wee Woollies’ bum gusset is one of a kind in this line up. It allows your child to bend and squat to their heart’s content without straining the fabric.
Sizing, prices, and options
Wee Woollies have a size range from newborn to 12 years. Though I should probably note that the contrasting bum gusset is just in the smaller sizes (size 6 and down).
The wool base layer set (long-sleeve shirt and pants) sells for around $84.
The company also has merino hoodies, tees, neck warmers, and shortie jams in their product line.
Woolino specializes in safe sleep products for babies and toddlers. Pictured wearing size 3t.
7. Woolino
Woolino primarily focuses on safe sleep for infants and toddlers. This company is passionate about designing innovative, functional, and most comfortable sleeping solutions for babies using the best fibers nature has created. They love merino wool for all its naturally perfect properties – it’s the finest and softest wool on the planet, it’s exceptionally breathable, constantly renewable, versatile, and altogether unmatched by anything manmade. They make a range of merino wool products from bedding and blankets, to pajamas and their bread-and-butter wool sleep sacks. The sleep sacks are their jam and where this company truly shines!
Woolino products meet the highest quality standards. Everything they produce is made with Woolmark and Oeko-Tex 100 certified merino wool and GOTS and Oeko-Tex 100 certified organic cotton. They use nickel-free YKK snaps and zippers that are also certified to be lead and phthalates-free and carry Oeko-Tex 100 certification.
While their wool pajamas may not be their central product, they’re really great. All three of the color offerings are sweet, light colors with solid tops and striped bottoms. They are very reminiscent of classic pajama designs and just plain cute.
Woolino’s merino sleep sacks are so versatile and warm, we have taken it backpacking. Pictured wearing 18-36 month size sleep sack.
Why we love this brand
For the purposes of this article, we were gifted a lovely light blue set of wooly pajamas. The wool layers are extremely soft, which makes me think they likely have a lower micron (but the wool’s specifications aren’t listed in the product description). They’re also a similar lightweight to most others listed in this lineup.
My child quite literally spent an hour climbing up boulders to crawl around on her hands and knees in these woollies. Somehow, they survived unscathed (did I mention toddlers are the best product testers?). All in all, Woolino’s pajama sets are a very solid and adorable base layer for babies and toddlers.
But like I mentioned before, Woolino’s sleepsacks are really what the company hangs their hat on, and for good reason. Woolino’s sleep sacks are insanely breathable, durable, and functional. Some toddler models have footie holes that allow your kiddo to stand and walk in the sack safely (and may or may not make your toddler look like baby Yoda).
When I contacted them for this article, Woolino graciously wanted to gift us a sleep sack too. Given we have used one nightly for the last couple of years, I jumped. Their sleep sacks really are something special and hold up exceptionally well. These products will most definitely last you through multiple children. The one we have used for two years has no noticeable wear—and we’ve even taken that bad boy backpacking!
We have loved our Woolino sleep sack for the last 18 months now.
Sizing, prices, and options
Woolino focuses on infant and toddler safe sleep, so their product size ranges from newborn to 4t.
The wool base layer pajama set (long-sleeve shirt and pants) sells for around $65. The wool sleep sacks range from $75-$99. They usually offer free shipping on orders over a certain dollar amount.
In addition to wool pajamas and sleep sacks, the company offers a variety of products such as blankets, bedding, pillows, gowns, socks, pants, bodysuits, sleepers, and lambskins.
Merino wool is durable, but it also needs to be properly taken care of. All of the recommendations in this list can be machine washed on the gentle cycle in cold water with a wool wash like this one. While regular laundry detergent in your washing machine will get your wool clean, it’s may also shrink or damage it. Most laundry detergents have enzymes that are designed to break down biological molecules (food stains), but that also means they’ll break down the biological molecules in the wool. You should also hang dry your wool layers, instead of running them through the dryer to prevent shrinkage. Proper care of merino wool clothes is essential in helping them last!
Conclusion
As we head into the colder months and the holidays, if you’re looking for versatile clothing that your children can wear in all situations, check out merino wool. I’ve mainly spoken of wool base layers for kids throughout this article, but there are companies out there making all sorts of children’s products out of wool. From the obvious like wool socks (Nui and Woolino both make fantastic wool socks) to outer layers, and even toys—merino is nature’s best technical and ecologically friendly fabric.
What’s your favorite thing about merino wool base layers for kids?
About the author
Somer is a mama living in southern Appalachia. Somer’s motherhood journey began when her oldest daughter was born with severe congenital heart disease. Avelyn spent the majority of her 18 months of life within a pediatric ICU. Though she lived her life chronically critically ill, Avie was an incredibly loving and joyous child. After her death, Somer and her husband sought solace backpacking a section of the Appalachian Trail. Before long, they discovered their ability to cope seemed to correspond with time spent outdoors.
When it came time to add another kiddo to the mix, bringing the baby along was never a question. In an effort to celebrate the freedom provided by healthy bodies, Somer has hiked her second-born 2k+ miles. Even so, she doesn’t believe grand adventures are necessary to reap nature’s wonder. They just as often revel in mundane evenings in their backyard. The family believes it’s prioritizing time spent outdoors that’s important.
Professionally, Somer has spent the last decade caring for veterans on an acute psychiatric unit as a clinical nurse educator. Over the years she’s become a passionate advocate within the intersectional relationships of mental health, wellness, and the natural world. She truly believes there’s healing and strength to be found outdoors for those who seek it.
You can find Somer online in the following locations:
Instagram: @somerpickel
RWMC post: Somer Pickel
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