10 Things You Need to Know
At Clément, we know that choosing the right snowsuit or jacket isn’t always easy. Parents want the very best for their children, especially when it comes to facing Canada's tough seasons. With so many options available, it’s normal to feel a little lost.
With over 50 years of experience, we’ve put together a practical guide to help you understand the main technical terms before making your choice. Because at the end of the day, what we all want is for your kids to stay warm, comfortable… and ready for adventure!
1. Waterproof Rating (in MM): A Key Factor
A snowsuit or jacket’s first job is to protect against moisture. Waterproofing is measured in millimeters (MM) and shows how well the fabric resists water pressure.
- 3 to 5,000 MM : Low resistance, fine for light rain
- 6,000 to 10,000 MM : Good for regular snow or rain
- 10,000 to 20,000 MM : Excellent protection, perfect for our winters and severe weathers
- 20,000 MM and up : Maximum performance (like Gore-Tex®)
Our tip : For Québec winters, go with 10,000 MM or more. It’ll save you lots of trouble during storms or wet snow days.
2. Gore-Tex®: Cutting-Edge Technology
When people talk about truly waterproof clothing, Gore-Tex® often comes up. In short, it’s a membrane with tiny pores (20,000 times smaller than a water droplet!) that blocks water from getting in, while letting internal moisture escape.
- 100% waterproof against rain and snow
- Allows sweat and moisture to escape
- Waterproof rating of more than 20,000 MM
It’s the perfect technology for active kids who love playing in wet snow (hello, snowmen!) or in the rain. Fun fact : you’ll often find it in children’s mittens.
3. Sealed Seams: The Invisible Barrier
Even the best waterproof fabric won’t work if water seeps through the seams. Sealed seams are covered with a thin heat-bonded tape that blocks moisture at these weak points.
In practice, it means your child stays dry longer, especially if they like sitting in the snow or playing outside in the rain.
4. Insulation (in g/m²): Finding the Right Balance
Insulation is measured in grams per square meter (g/m²): the higher the number, the warmer the coat.
- Example: A classical Clement's snowsuit (example Deux par Deux, Nanö, Buki) contains approximately 270 g/m² in the body and 200 g/m² in the sleeves, perfect for kids who don’t move much.
- On the other hand, very active children don’t need as much insulation since they generate more heat.
In short : match the insulation level to your child’s activity to avoid being too cold… or too hot!
5. Primaloft® and Other Technical Insulators
Some coats use thin yet high-performance insulation. Their advantage? They’re just as warm as traditional fillers but lighter, softer, and easier to wear. Thanks to these technologies, the thickness is often reduced by almost half, while maintaining the same level of heat.
Primaloft®, for example, offers warmth without bulk. You’ll find it in brands like Helly Hansen, Birdz, Deux par Deux, and Nanö (and many others!) : great for active kids who need to stay warm while moving freely.
6. Down: Understanding the Numbers
Down is a natural and very warm insulator, rated by its loft (its ability to fluff up). The higher the number, the better the insulation.
- If a feather sticks out, simply push it back in and rub the fabric to close the hole.
- Keep in mind: most down jackets aren’t waterproof. Down needs to breathe to work properly.
Did you know? Only a few companies, like Reima, manage to combine down with a waterproof membrane.
7. Durable Fabrics like Cordura®
Let’s face it: kids put their snowsuits to the test! That’s why some brands reinforce high-wear areas (knees, seat, cuffs) with Cordura® or other tough fabrics.
- Excellent protection against abrasion
- Extends the garment’s lifespan, even with heavy use
Bonus : some pants even come with adjustable hems, super handy for unexpected growth spurts!
8. Water-Repellent Finish (DWR)
A good coat isn’t just about its inner membrane. Most models also have a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating on the outside (like Teflon EcoLite®). This makes water bead up and helps prevent dirt from sticking. The result? The coat dries faster and stays looking new longer.
Good to know : over time, with rain and washing, the water-repellent coating naturally thins. However, simply reapplying it with specialized products will revive the fabric's performance and extend the coat's lifespan, a simple and effective way to keep the garment performing as well as it did when it was new. See our selection here.
9. Growth-Friendly Adjustments
Quality snowsuits are designed to last more than one season. Many models feature extendable sleeves and/or legs: just undo a seam or hem to gain a few extra centimeters. Some snowsuits even offer a snap-button adjustment system, like those from Birdz, for an even simpler and more precise fit.
Results : Extended life of the snowsuit, keeps up with mid-season growth spurt and a practical, budget-friendly way to make the most of your purchase.
Important reminder : Choosing the right size is crucial. The sleeve should reach the end of the hand, and the pant hem should be able to be folded up a maximum of two times. A snowsuit that's too big isn't a better investment: it's likely to wear out prematurely if the child steps on it or if the sleeves drag in the snow.
Need a hand? Don't hesitate to visit us in store: our team will be happy to advise you and help you choose the perfect size for your child.
10. Matching Your Child’s Activity Level
Every child is different: some are calmer and more sensitive to the cold, while others spend hours running around outside! That’s why the perfect coat isn’t the same for everyone.
- A calm or chilly child needs a warmer, well-insulated coat.
- A very active child will be happier in something lighter, breathable, and flexible.
Clément: Your Winter Ally
We know every family experiences winter differently. That’s why our selection always strikes the right balance between warmth, protection, comfort, and durability. Our experts carefully choose models adapted to Québec’s unique climate, so your kids can enjoy the cold season safely, warmly… and with a big smile!
Share Your Tips With Us
What kind of coat works best for your child? Do you have any tricks or advice for making the right choice? Share your comments below and help other parents!