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Best school coats for kids in 2026 that are easy to clean, carry and will last

Tough enough to handle rain, mud and playground wear and tear, here are the best school coats to keep your child warm and dry on the school run.

By Lucy Cotterill | Last updated Aug 6, 2026

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A collage of school coats from Nike, North Face and more

As the new school year approaches, you’re likely on the hunt for good quality school uniform that will last from term to term, not just the next few months. With the colder weather not too far away, you’ll need to consider what coat will keep your child dry, warm and comfortable throughout the year.

As the new school year approaches, you’re likely to be working through your back-to-school shopping list and looking for the best school uniform, with pieces that will last from term to term, not just the next few months. With colder weather not too far away, you’ll also need a coat that keeps your child dry, warm and comfortable throughout the year.

Picking a coat for primary school involves carefully weighing up cosiness against bulk, as you’ll inevitably end up carrying it home on warmer days. The British weather is also unpredictable, so a washable, waterproof coat with a hood is a practical choice. For secondary school, stylish and socially acceptable designs are crucial. You’ll want a jacket that’s warm enough to keep your child comfortable, but not so bulky that they’ll struggle to fit it on their coat hook.

But remember: not all school coats are created equal. If you’re sick of your child rejecting a bulky padded coat, zips that are impossible to secure or so-called ‘showerproof’ coats that leave them soaked through after a single downpour, we’ve got you covered. 

We’ve scoured the Mumsnet forums for the brands and styles parents recommend, from insulated waterproof coats for Reception children to padded jackets for juniors and puffers that older children will actually wear to secondary school.

Still working through the rest of the kit list? Our guides to the best lunch boxes, best bento boxes, best kids’ water bottles and best school bags can help with the bits that have to survive being shoved into a locker or abandoned under a desk.

Best school coats at a glance

The North Face Reversible Perrito Jacket is our best overall school coat for primary and secondary school, but we’ve also found good budget, waterproof and lightweight options to keep children warm and dry on the school run.

How we chose the best school coats

We combined real recommendations from Mumsnet users with desk research. We also checked buyer reviews to identify warm, weatherproof school coats that are stylish, durable and available at a range of prices.

Recommendations from real Mumsnet users

We started on the Mumsnet forums, scanning recent threads about keeping children warm and dry on rainy school runs and finding coats that fashion-conscious children will accept. The coats and brands that Mumsnet users consistently praised made our longlist for further research.

Product research

We compared each school coat on features including warmth, waterproof or water-resistant fabrics, hoods, pockets, durability and ease of cleaning. We checked specifications and care instructions against the brands’ product listings.

Buyer feedback

We read reviews from buyers across major UK retailers, including Sports Direct, M&S and John Lewis, looking for feedback on durability, warmth and, most importantly, whether children were actually willing to wear the coats.

💙 Why you can trust us

While we haven’t yet tested every school coat in this guide ourselves, we’ve only chosen recommendations from parents on our Talk boards. Where we’ve run hands-on tests, we clearly say so in the review. For more details on how we choose and test products on Mumsnet, see our how we test page. 

How Mumsnet content works

What are the best school coats in 2026?

1

Best overall school coat

What we like
  • Reversible design

  • Warm without too much bulk

  • Water-repellent finish

  • Durable and hardwearing

What we don't like
  • Expensive

  • Not fully waterproof

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £100 | Size range: XS (6), S (7/8), M (10), L (12), XL (14/16), XXL (18/20) | Material: Recycled polyester | Waterproof?: No, water-repellent | Machine washable?: Yes

What Mumsnet users say

dbeuowlxb173939 · Recommended brand
North Face black puffa jacket or nothing at DD's school (unfortunately).
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TheaBrandt1 · Recommended brand
North Face is your friend. Where we live it is the only acceptable coat for a teen. Thankfully it is also warm and dry. Both ours wore theirs through the early teen years.
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Our verdict

Mumsnet users consistently praise The North Face jackets for being warm, comfortable and lightweight. The brand also earns a thumbs-up from fashion-conscious children, making the Reversible Perrito a strong choice for both primary and secondary school.

You effectively get two coats for the price of one. It can be turned inside out for a different look at the weekend, while its recycled synthetic insulation provides warmth without the bulk of a heavy winter coat.

It’s still light enough to carry if the weather does a 180 by the afternoon. Although it isn’t fully waterproof, the durable water-repellent (DWR) finish offers protection from drizzle, light rain and snow.

2

Best budget school coat

What we like
  • Adjustable, zip-off hood

  • School-friendly colours

  • Waterproof to 2,000mm and windproof

  • Affordable

What we don't like
  • Designed and marketed as a boys’ jacket

  • Some reviewers report generous sizing

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £24 | Size range: Check retailer | Material: Polyester | Waterproof?: Yes, to 2,000mm | Machine washable?: Yes, at 40°C

What Mumsnet users say

Azuresky68 · Recommended brand
A good waterproof make will be labelled inside to show how waterproof and windproof they are. Trespass are very nice and look smart.
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Galaxyinmypocket · Recommended brand
Trespass. Really good quality and fit, good value for money.
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Our verdict

If the rest of the school uniform has left your budget feeling stretched, the Trespass Tuff costs less than £25. Its classic padded design, subtle branding and school-friendly colour options should also pass muster with pickier children.

It’s windproof and has a 2,000mm waterproof rating, giving children useful protection during wet and blustery school runs. The adjustable zip-off hood, elasticated cuffs and drawcord hem help keep the weather out, while three zipped pockets provide somewhere secure for essentials.

Some reviewers say Trespass sizing can be generous, so check the size guide before ordering. It may not last as long as the more expensive coats on our list, but that’s less painful when children seem to grow by the week.

3

Best reversible coat for school

M&S Stormwear™ Lightweight Padded Coat

What we like
  • Good value

  • Lightweight padded design

  • Broad size range

  • Machine washable

What we don't like
  • Not fully waterproof

  • Better suited to milder weather or layering than very cold days

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £25 | Size range: 2-3 years to 15-16 years | Material: Polyamide shell and lining, polyester wadding | Waterproof?: No, water-repellent | Machine washable?: Yes, at 40°C on a delicate cycle


What Mumsnet users say

TellerTuesday · Recommended product range
The M&S Stormwear ones are fantastic quality for the price.
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Our verdict

Finding a coat that’s warm without being bulky can be tricky, especially for active children. This M&S coat has light padding for chilly school mornings but is still easy to carry when the temperature rises. It’s also handy if you’re buying the rest of their M&S school uniform at the same time.

The short puffer style and neutral black colour make it a smart option for older children as well as younger ones. Its hood and elasticated cuffs help hold in warmth, while two side pockets provide somewhere to warm cold hands.

The Stormwear™ finish is water-repellent and designed to protect against light rain showers. It won’t keep a child dry through a heavy downpour, though, and it’s a lighter layer rather than a heavyweight winter coat.

4

Best sporty school coat

Nike Sportswear All Day Play Older Kids’ Therma-FIT Loose-Fit Puffer Jacket

What we like
  • On-trend choice for older children and teens

  • Lightweight synthetic insulation

  • Therma-FIT technology

  • Roomy enough for layers

What we don't like
  • Not fully waterproof

  • Loose fit can run large

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £70 | Size range: XS to XL | Material: Polyester | Waterproof?: No, water-repellent | Machine washable?: Yes


What Mumsnet users say

mydogisanidiott · Recommended brand
Sports Direct - any plain sport brand -Nike, Nike Air Jordan, Under Armour, Adidas (Puma at a push).
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Comedycook · Recommended brand
I'd say any black puffer type coat from Sports Direct would be fine. My DS had a non-branded one for years with no issues. He now has a Nike one, which I got on Vinted for £30. Was over £100 new.
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billandtedsexcellentadventure · Recommended brand
Nike puffer. They’re £57 in Sports Direct.
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Our verdict

If you have a battle getting your child to even consider a coat, this Nike puffer could help you claim victory. The brand is popular with both primary and secondary school children, so you’re likely to see plenty of Swoosh logos on the school run.

It’s a traditional black puffer with simple branding, suitable for wearing over a blazer on the school commute or with casual clothes at the weekend. The loose fit leaves room for layers, although it’s worth checking Nike’s size guide carefully as some buyers find it generous.

Nike’s Therma-FIT technology helps retain body heat and lightweight synthetic fill adds insulation. The fabric is water-repellent rather than waterproof, so it’s intended for showers rather than a prolonged downpour. There are also side and interior pockets for essentials.

5

Best waterproof school coat

Mountain Warehouse Noah Kids Borg Lined Waterproof Jacket

What we like
  • Two-year warranty

  • Waterproof to 2,000mm, with taped seams

  • Warm sherpa lining and synthetic insulation

  • Durable ripstop fabric

What we don't like
  • Bulkier and heavier than some of our picks

  • Limited size range

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £40 | Size range: 7-8 years to 13 years | Material: Polyester | Waterproof?: Yes, to 2,000mm | Machine washable?: Not stated online


What Mumsnet users say

Invinsibubblality · Recommended brand
I've done many rainy school runs! The best thing you need for you and kids is a proper hardshell coat. Outdoor brand ideal, but even some of the more high street ones like Trespass or Mountain Warehouse are good for more budget reasons (particularly the kids who will grow out of it so fast!)
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SquadGoals75 · Recommended product range
My boy is Year 6, and I’ve just got him this which he likes and is super cosy.
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Our verdict

If you’re looking for a practical, weatherproof coat that can cope with daily school life, the Mountain Warehouse Noah is well equipped for the job. It may not have the same playground status as Nike or The North Face, but it has simple styling and comes in black.

The durable ripstop fabric resists tears and snags, useful if your child is forever throwing their bag and coat down on the astroturf. A two-year warranty adds some reassurance, too.

The sherpa lining and microfibre insulation provide warmth, while the 2,000mm waterproof fabric, generous hood, taped seams and adjustable cuffs help keep rain out on wet school runs and during outdoor playtimes.

6

Best warm school coat for winter

Polarn O. Pyret Lightweight Padded Jacket

What we like
  • Detachable hood

  • Windproof and water-repellent

  • Medium-warm padding without too much bulk

  • Reflective details

What we don't like
  • Not fully waterproof

  • Current listing is an outlet line with limited stock

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £60 | Size range: 9-12 months to 9-10 years, subject to availability | Material: Recycled polyester | Waterproof?: No, water-repellent | Machine washable?: Yes, at 40°C


What Mumsnet users say

rzb · Recommended brand
We had an amazing Polarn O Pyret one, now sadly outgrown by multiple kids, well worn but always looked amazing and performed brilliantly for years.
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Our verdict

Mumsnet users rate Polarn O. Pyret for high-quality, versatile outerwear, and this Lightweight Padded Jacket has plenty of thoughtful details.

It’s a good option for younger children who walk or cycle to school. The medium-warm padding adds insulation on chilly mornings without feeling too bulky over a school jumper. Reflective details improve visibility and the hood detaches on dry days.

It isn’t fully waterproof, but the windproof recycled polyester fabric has a PFAS-free water-repellent treatment for short periods of light rain. This particular jacket is now in the brand’s outlet section and many sizes were unavailable when we checked, so stock is the main catch.

7

Best premium school coat

What we like
  • Warm 700-fill down insulation

  • Stylish boxy shape

  • Durable ripstop fabric

  • Packs into its own pocket

What we don't like
  • Very expensive at full price

  • No hood

  • Current availability is limited

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £250 | Size range: XS (6), S (7/8), M (10), L (12), XL (14/16), XXL (18/20) | Material: Recycled nylon shell, recycled polyester lining and goose-down insulation | Waterproof?: No, water-repellent | Machine washable?: Follow the care label


What Mumsnet users say

PeanutButter55 · Recommended product
North Face black puffer (Nuptse 1996 version to be precise..) seems to be the go-to choice. Not cheap but DD is now wearing hers for the 3rd winter in a row and it still looks as good as new. Brilliant quality and very warm.
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OzCalling · Recommended product
North Face puffer! Specifically the Nuptse 1966 style in black. I agree with PP that they seem to be the uniform coat for teens these days. I resisted getting DD one for ages because of the price tag, but honestly, it was 100% worth it. She got it last Christmas, and even after a year of almost daily use, it still looks as good as new. Very warm, fantastic quality & (most importantly at that age..!) trendy.
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MeandEmLover · Recommended product
North Face puffa here too. After YEARS of coat resistance we finally got teen dd into one when she was about 16.5 / 17. I have to say, despite the steep price tag, it's been brilliant! And she's worn it to death. Also agree that the only one dd would consider was the Nuptse 1966 style in black.
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Our verdict

Tweens and teens are notoriously particular about coats. Mumsnet users often struggle to get them to wear one at all, unless it happens to be the coat everyone else is wearing.

The North Face Teens’ 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket is a premium pick with a price tag to match, but several Mumsnet users say theirs have stood up to years of regular wear. Its boxy silhouette and embroidered logo appeal to style-conscious teens, while 700-fill responsibly sourced goose down provides plenty of warmth without excessive weight.

The recycled nylon shell includes ripstop sections and a water-repellent DWR finish for light rain and snow, but the jacket isn’t waterproof and it doesn’t have a hood. It packs into its own pocket, which is useful when your teen inevitably decides they’re too warm to wear it.

What is the best school coat for most children?

We think The North Face Reversible Perrito Jacket is the best school coat for most children. Available in sizes that span primary and secondary school, it’s reversible, water-repellent, warm and light enough to carry.

What type of coat is best for primary school?

Durability is crucial for primary school, so look for sturdy zips, taped seams and ripstop fabrics. If your child walks or cycles to school, choose waterproof or water-repellent fabric and a hood to help keep them warm and dry on the journey.

Machine-washable fabrics are useful, too. Mud has a knack for finding a new coat within its first week.

What type of coat is best for secondary school?

Gaining the style seal of approval from teens is crucial. You don’t have to buy a premium brand, but black, lightly padded coats with simple styling are likely to face the least resistance. The best secondary-school coats are warm yet light enough to carry between lessons if there’s no locker.

Should a school coat be waterproof or water-resistant?

At a minimum, a school coat should be water-resistant, keeping your child dry during a light shower. If they walk or cycle a long way to school, a fully waterproof design with taped seams is a better bet. Waterproof coats can be heavier and less packable, so there’s a trade-off.

What is the warmest type of school coat?

Padded puffer jackets offer a good balance of warmth and bulk for school. Down generally gives an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, while synthetic insulation is often easier to wash and still insulates when damp. Hoods, elasticated cuffs and adjustable hems also help keep out cold wind.

How can I tell whether a school coat will fit over a blazer?

Check the brand’s measurements rather than automatically sizing up. Your child should be able to move their arms freely with the coat zipped, without restriction across the shoulders. A relaxed or loose-fitting coat, such as the Nike puffer, is more likely to accommodate a blazer.

How often should you wash a child’s school coat?

Follow the care label and wash the coat when it’s dirty, rather than sticking to a rigid schedule. Spot-cleaning light marks can reduce unnecessary washing. Technical waterproof and water-repellent garments may need a suitable detergent and occasional reproofing to maintain their performance.

How can I make a school coat last longer?

To help your child’s school coat last longer:

  • Encourage them not to drag it on the floor, granted, this is easier said than done

  • Don’t leave it crumpled in a school bag, especially when wet

  • Hang it up to dry as soon as possible

  • Follow the care instructions carefully

  • Empty the pockets before washing, as tissues are your absolute enemy

  • Fasten zips and hook-and-loop tabs before washing to prevent snags

  • Reproof waterproof or water-repellent fabric when the manufacturer recommends it

How much should I spend on a school coat?

You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a good-quality school coat. Think about how often your child will wear it, how they travel to school and whether it’s likely to be passed down to a younger sibling. The coats in this guide range from around £24 to £260 at full price, with several good everyday options costing £25 to £70.

About the author

Lucy Cotterill is a mum of two and a content writer at Mumsnet, specialising in baby, child and home product reviews and round-ups. She has written reviews on her own blog, Real Mum Reviews, since 2012 and enjoys weighing up product pros and cons, expert opinion and consumer feedback to help parents make confident purchases.

Lucy has faced her own school-coat battles with her daughters, both of whom had strong opinions on brand, style and the exact amount of ‘puffiness’. She’s written several back-to-school Mumsnet guides, including the best school shoes and best school bags.

Read also: Shop the best school bags