A winter snowsuit is the key item in a child's cold-season wardrobe. It decides whether your little one stays warm and dry outdoors, moves freely, and how many seasons the suit will last. Here is what to look for, using the models we have been making in Mykolaiv, Ukraine, since 2015 as examples.
1. Age and height: convertible or all-in-one
For babies who are not walking yet, a convertible snowsuit is more practical. For example, Discovery is designed for heights of 56-74 cm: for the first 3-4 months it works as a footmuff with joined legs and closed hand cuffs, up to 6-7 months the legs separate into trouser legs, and closer to 74 cm (around 9-10 months on average) the hand and foot cuffs fold back.
Once your child starts walking and playing in the snow, choose an all-in-one snowsuit with a roomy cut that does not restrict movement. We make the Apollo winter snowsuit for heights from 74 to 98 cm.
2. Outer fabric: membrane
For active walks, choose a membrane fabric. Check two figures: waterproofness - protection from wet snow and rain - and breathability - how well the fabric lets out excess heat and moisture so your child does not sweat while moving. For Apollo these are 7,000 mm and 5,000 g/m².
3. Insulation and temperature rating
Modern synthetic insulation keeps warm, does not absorb outside moisture and recovers its shape after washing. Apollo and Discovery use Hollowsoft™ 300 g/m². Always check the manufacturer's temperature rating: Apollo and Discovery are rated from +5 to -20 °C. Remember that wind and humidity make the weather feel colder than the thermometer shows.
4. Lining
The lining affects how the suit feels and how easy it is to put on. A good option is a combined lining: soft fleece on the chest and back for warmth, and smooth satin in the sleeves and legs so the suit slides on easily over clothes. This is how the Apollo lining is made.
5. Size: go by height, not age
At DoRechi, the snowsuit size is the child's height in centimetres. Measure your child and leave 6 cm for growth during cold period. Children of the same age can differ noticeably in height, so age is only a rough guide.
Approximate height and age for DoRechi snowsuits and suits:
| Height | Age (approx.) | Models |
| 56-62 cm | 0-3 months | Discovery, Eclair, Zefir |
| 62-68 cm | 3-6 months | Discovery, Eclair, Zefir |
| 68-74 cm | 6-9 months | Discovery, Eclair, Zefir |
| 74-80 cm | 9-15 months | Apollo |
| 80-86 cm | 12-18 months | Apollo |
| 86-92 cm | 18-24 months | Apollo |
| 92-98 cm | 24-36 months | Apollo |
If your child's height does not match the age in the table, that is normal - every child grows at their own pace. Choose the size by height: for example, a 1 year old who is 82 cm tall needs 86-92 cm.
6. Details that make walks easier
- Long zipper with a windproof flap - easier to put on, and no draughts.
- Foot loops keep the legs over the boots so snow stays out.
- Reflective elements make your child visible to drivers in the dark.
- A close-fitting hood that protects the ears and neck from wind. Apollo also comes with a detachable faux fur trim.
- Elastic waist and cuffs keep the warmth in without restricting movement.
7. Care
Membrane snowsuits are washed on a delicate cycle at 30 °C with a liquid detergent for membrane fabrics, without bleach or softener, and are not dried on a radiator. This helps the membrane keep its properties longer.
8. All-in-one snowsuit or half-overalls with a jacket
An all-in-one snowsuit leaves no gap between jacket and trousers, so snow cannot get to the lower back. A jacket with winter half-overalls suits older children: the straps are length-adjustable, and the legs can be folded up in the first year and unfolded the next, so they last longer.
In short: what to choose
| If you need | Choose |
|---|---|
| A winter snowsuit for a baby, height 56-74 cm | Discovery convertible snowsuit |
| A winter snowsuit for a walking child, height 74-98 cm | Apollo snowsuit |
| A set with a jacket for an older child, height 92-104 cm | Winter half-overalls |
| A spring and autumn suit, height 56-74 cm | Eclair demi-season suit |
See all models in kids' snowsuits, and complete the set with a merino wool winter hat.
How to choose the size by height and how much room to leave: see the DoRechi size guide.
FAQ
What snowsuit size should I choose?
At DoRechi the size is your child's height in centimetres. Measure your child and leave about 6 cm room to grow for the season.
Convertible or one-piece snowsuit?
For babies who do not walk yet, the convertible Discovery for height 56-74 cm is more practical. Once your child starts walking, choose the one-piece Apollo for height 74-98 cm.
What temperatures are DoRechi winter snowsuits made for?
Apollo and Discovery are made for +5 to -20 °C. See all models in kids snowsuits.
