When the weather gets cold, it can be a worry to ensure your little one is warm enough, but there are some great thermal vests for kids to put your mind at ease and keep your little one snug and warm. It can be hard to know how to dress children during cold weather and a warm vest is definitely a good place to start, whether they are playing in the park, tucked in the buggy, or even at school on the playground, they will appreciate the extra layer.
Thermal vests for kids, as you’d expect, are worn underneath regular clothes, providing an extra layer to keep your youngster nice and warm during the colder months. Unlike some winter clothes for kids, like baby pram suits, they are not bulky or awkward to put on, and your child will most likely forget they are wearing one. Teamed with a great winter coat for kids, your little one will be able to face the coldest months and stay warm!
If your tot loves being outside in all weather then choosing a selection of appropriate clothing to get through the winter months is a must. As well as considering warmth, also think about keeping dry, with a pair of waterproof trousers for kids, which means they can truly embrace all cold weather, even when it is rainy or snowy.
Best thermal vests for kids at a glance:
Best Merino wool thermal vest: Merino II Kids Round Neck Base Layer Top
Best long sleeve thermal vest: orbiz 2X Unisex Kids Thermal Black Vest
Best thermal vest for sport: Kids' thermal long-sleeved football top yellow
So whether you are planning a skiing adventure, or want to play in the local park, have a look at our round up of thermal vests for kids to ensure your little one stays warm while enjoying the colder months.
Best thermal vest for kids 2024
Best 2 pack of thermal vests for kids
www.marksandspencer.com
Description
This pack of two vests is made with a brushed fabric for added warmth. They will add an extra cosy layer to cold weather outfits, plus each vest is finished with a cute bow on the neckline.
Pros
- Soft, brushed fabric for added warmth
- Also available with short or long sleeves
Cons
- Only available in white
Best long sleeve thermal vest
Description
Long sleeve thermal vests will add extra warmth and this pack of two is perfect. They are soft and comfortable, made from lightweight, breathable material, plus they have four-way stretch which means your little one won't feel restricted.
One customer said: "Great item for son's skiing."
Pros
- Pack of two
- Moisture wicking fabric
Cons
- Some reviewers reported they were quite small
Best roll neck thermal vest for kids
Description
Made from DE velvet, these vests are great for heat retention. They are slim beneath clothes but soft and fluffy against your little one's skin. They are also great for moisture wicking to keep your child feeling dry and comfortable.
One reviewer said: "The young boy that these were bought for liked these. The fabric is very soft and comfortable, it reminded me of teddy fleece. The size/length is good.
They can be warm under or over many items, so are very versatile in colder months."
Pros
- Roll neck for added warmth and protection
- Dry quickly
Cons
- Some reviewers wanted a choice of brighter colours
Best knitted thermal vest for kids
www.johnlewis.com
Description
Knitted from a soft cotton blend, this pack of 2 vests will generate heat to keep your little one warm. They are also finished with a subtle rib design, and they are lightweight too so perfect under clothes on a chilly day.
A reviewer commented: "When my little one says, 'I'm cold', help is on hand . These are the best, we tried loads and within a day got 'ummm nice'. They wash well and easy to care for. Keep shape well too."
Pros
- A traditional rib design
- Lightweight
Cons
- Some reviewers said the material bobbles after washing
Best thermal vest for sports
www.decathlon.co.uk
Description
The Keepdry 500 base layer top is perfect for keeping kids warm when playing sport outside on a cold day. Plus with moisture wicking material it will also keep your little sport's player dry too.
Pros
- Moisture wicking
- Great for sport
Cons
- Only available from five years plus
Best merino wool thermal vest
www.mountainwarehouse.com
Description
This extra warm thermal base layer is lightweight and breathable with antibacterial properties. It will keep your little one warm without overheating. Made from Merino wool, it is perfect to add an extra layer during cold weather.
One reviewer, Nikki, said: "Good durable material and I am really happy with the quality for the price."
Pros
- Made from Merino wool
- Antibacterial properties
Cons
- lightly thicker under clothes
Best thermal vest set for kids
Description
This thermal vest set is flexible to ensure great comfort, plus it is also very warm. It is soft against your little one's skin and lightweight too. With a snug fit it won't bunch up around the waistline or sleeves which can cause heat loss and feel uncomfortable.
Bianca, a reviewer, commented: "Bought for my 10 year old to wear skiing and she loved them! Super comfy and soft, easy to wear and kept her nice and warm. Very happy."
Pros
- A full set for extra warmth
- Flexible for comfort
Cons
- Piling on fabric after washing
Best short sleeve thermal vest for kids
Description
This 3 pack of thermal vests has fully brushed fabric on the inside for extra warmth and softness, plus they have ribbed fabric for added stretch and comfort. With body contouring these will fit your little one without any layers being uncomfortable.
One customer said: "Excellent thermal vest. Appropriately sized. I was so impressed with the vests for my daughter that I ordered an extra set. Vests are great quality and wash well. I would highly recommend."
Pros
- Fully brushed fabric on the inside
- Body contouring
Cons
- Only available with short sleeves
What to look for in thermal vests for kids
• Antibacterial material: This will ensure your child stays fresher and odour free for longer.
• Lightweight: You want a thermal vest that is lightweight enough to wear comfortably under their usual clothes without weighing your little one down.
• Breathable: The fabric allows perspiration to pass out of the garment, keeping your youngster cool and comfortable.
• High wicking: Look for fabric that actively wicks moisture away from your child's skin, keeping them dry during activities where they might sweat.
What is the best thermal material for kids?
Merino wool is a great fabric for thermal vests for kids. Not only is it warm but it is moisture wicking too, so keeps little one dry and comfortable, as well as being lightweight. Plus wool is naturally thermo-regulating. Another great option for insulation is fleece, which will definitely keep in the heat.
Should a thermal vest be tight or loose?
Ideally thermal vests should fit snugly to provide maximum effectiveness. If they are loose then gaps between the fabric and the skin will allow the cold to creep in. Obviously, they also need to be comfortable too and not too tight, or restrict your little one's movement. However, many are made with stretchy or flexible fabric to allow easy movement and comfort.
Are thermals good for kids?
Layers are a great way to keep your little one warm and therefore in cold weather, adding a layer of thermal underwear, in particular a vest, is a great way to ensure your child stays warm. If you are planning a trip to a chilly climate then definitely consider thermal vests and there is plenty of skiwear for kids if you are planning a holiday on the slopes. However, it doesn't have to be snowy for your little one to benefit from a thermal vest, and adding one to their winter wardrobe will ensure they are cosy when playing outside.
Laura Healy is a Commercial Content Writer for Mother&Baby. She is a mum-of-two girls and loves writing about all things parenting, she is particularly interested in the toddler years and eco-friendly baby products, as well as children’s literature. She has a PhD in Creative Writing and has published short stories in the UK and Ireland, as well as previously writing freelance for her local paper.