How to Dress Kids in Spring? Layer Functional Clothing That Grows with Them!

You know how it goes—spring is here. One moment the sun is shining, the next it’s pouring rain… or even snowing! It’s cold in the morning and almost hot in the afternoon. So how do you manage all this and keep your kids dry and warm—without them being too cold or too hot?

Simple: layer up! Use functional layers and forget compromises. Choose high-quality clothing made with membrane fabrics or merino wool.

In this article, we’ll explain why a high waterproof rating and breathability are key to comfort—whether in a forest kindergarten or up in the mountains—and how grow-with-you designs mean you won’t have to replace everything again next year.

FAQs: 

Membrane or softshell?
A membrane (for example, from brands like Didriksons) offers uncompromising waterproofing with a high water column rating, while also providing excellent breathability. Unlike softshell, it keeps children dry even in heavy rain and prevents overheating during active movement. It’s an ideal choice not only for the mountains but also for everyday outdoor play, like in a forest kindergarten.

What does “grow-with-you” clothing mean?
The brand Didriksons uses an “Extend Size” system. By unpicking a special red seam inside the sleeves or pant legs, the garment can be extended by one size. This means the jacket grows with your little adventurer and can last for two or more seasons, helping save the family budget.

Is it worth investing in a more expensive membrane jacket?
Definitely yes. The higher initial investment pays off in durability and longevity. High-quality membrane clothing is nearly indestructible, so after one child outgrows it, younger siblings can still use it in great condition. Plus, with sizes now available up to 170 cm, even older kids can be properly equipped.

What is the “onion principle”?
Just like an onion has multiple layers, both children and adults should dress in layers. The foundation is three functional layers:

• the first layer wicks away moisture,
• the second layer insulates heat
• the third layer (membrane) protects against wind and rain.

Because you’re wearing multiple layers, you can easily adapt to changing weather by simply removing or adding a layer.

Why shouldn’t cotton be worn under a membrane?
Cotton absorbs moisture and feels cold. For membrane clothing to “breathe” and wick sweat away, the base layers need to be made of functional materials like merino wool or synthetics (e.g., merino, Outlast, Lifa), which transfer moisture away from the body.

Find out how—and what—to layer properly!

 

Learn to Layer!

Remember the onion! It has lots of thin layers—and that’s exactly how we should dress. It’s always better to have several lighter layers that you can take off when it gets warm than one thick layer that’s either too hot or, without it, too cold.

For our needs, three layers are enough:

• Base layer: thermal underwear that wicks moisture away from the body
• Mid layer: a functional fleece or sweatshirt that keeps you warm while continuing to move moisture outward
• Outer layer: the “shield” that protects against wind and rain

Let’s take a closer look!

1. FIRST LAYER – Thermal underwear that wicks moisture away from the body

The base layer is the most important for keeping kids dry. Its only job is to move moisture away from the skin. When a child sweats, functional underwear doesn’t absorb the moisture—it passes it on to the next layer.

Not just for spring, the best material is merino wool, which keeps you warm even when wet, or Outlast, a fabric that actively regulates body temperature and prevents overheating.

Lightweight thermal underwear is also perfect for use in a car seat or baby carrier, where sweaty backs are no longer a concern.

 

2. SECOND LAYER – A fleece jacket that keeps you warm

This layer helps retain body heat while continuing to move moisture outward. That’s why it should be breathable and quick-drying. A great choice is a high-quality fleece jacket or functional sweater. Fleece is lightweight and provides excellent insulation. In warmer weather, a thinner functional sweatshirt is enough. Hoodies with thumb holes are especially practical.

When dressing functionally, avoid cotton. It absorbs moisture and then feels cold, which disrupts the whole layering system.

 

3. THIRD LAYER – Waterproof, windproof, breathable, and warm

The third layer protects against external elements—wind, cold, and rain. Think of it as a protective shield. It should be waterproof, windproof, breathable, and, especially in this season, also provide some warmth. At the same time, it must allow the inner layers to function properly and maintain their performance.

 

MEMBRANE CLOTHING

Withstands wind and rain!

For real adventures and long hours outdoors, membrane clothing is the clear winner. You might think it’s only meant for the mountains and too much for everyday wear—but the opposite is true. It’s perfect for both forest and traditional kindergartens, where children spend lots of time outside regardless of the weather. And if you choose a high-quality piece, thanks to the grow-with-you system, it can last for several seasons and still be in great condition for younger siblings.

Key benefits of membrane clothing:

• High waterproof rating: Keeps moisture out even when a child kneels in wet grass or plays in puddles.

• Breathability: While water can’t get in from the outside, the membrane allows vapor to escape, so children don’t overheat during active play.

• Durability: High-quality materials can withstand rough use, mud, and frequent washing (as long as you use the right care products).

• Grow-with-you system: Clothing from the Swedish brand Didriksons features an extendable design—simply unpick a special red seam inside the sleeves or pant legs to lengthen the garment. This allows kids to wear it for more than just one season. Plus, Didriksons now offers children’s sizes up to 170 cm.

 

RUBBERIZED (WATERPROOF) CLOTHING

Do your kids love mud and playing in the rain? Rubberized clothing is perfect for jumping in puddles, sitting—or even lying—on wet, muddy ground. It keeps children completely dry! And maintenance? Just spray it down with a hose and you’re done.

However, this type of clothing is not suitable for trips. It isn’t breathable, so children can easily get sweaty underneath.

SOFTSHELL CLOTHING

Softshell is a versatile material for spring weather. It’s a great middle-ground option for the playground or quick trips around town, when you’re not expecting major adventures or heavy rain.

However, if you’re planning longer or more demanding trips, especially in the mountains, or if your little adventurer will be very active, we recommend choosing membrane clothing with a high waterproof rating, as described above.