When children are outside playing in rain, wind or snow, it is important that the clothes they wear provide proper protection. While still allowing movement and play. That is why at Lindberg we have developed shell clothing that can withstand tough conditions, and that keeps children dry, warm and comfortable regardless of the weather.

But what does “waterproof” or “breathable” really mean? And why is taped seams or an environmentally friendly impregnation so important? In this guide, we explain how our shell clothing works – and what you as a parent can look for when choosing garments that will last all season.

What does waterproof mean – really?

When we say our garments are waterproof, we mean it. All our garments are tested according to European standards (ISO/EN), which gives a clear and reliable picture of how well a garment actually resists rain and moisture in real-world conditions.

There are different ways to measure waterproofness. For example, there are European, Japanese or American standards. These can give different results even if it is the same fabric that is tested. For example, some methods use smaller fabric samples or a slower test process, which can result in higher numbers for waterproofness than what you as a customer actually experience.

To provide a fair picture of the garment's function and to enable you as a customer to compare our products reliably, we have chosen to use the European standard.

What does all that mean?

Here is a little guide to the technical details – explained in a simple way:

• Waterproofness shows how much water the garment can withstand before it starts to leak through. The higher the number, the more rain it can withstand. Our garments are suitable for both pouring rain and wet games in the forest.
  
• Breathability tells you how well the garment releases body moisture, so the child doesn't get sweaty and cold from the inside. Important during activity!
  
• It's not enough to have a waterproof fabric – the seams also need to be protected. Taped seams prevent water from penetrating where the fabric is sewn together.
  
• We use an environmentally friendly water-repellent treatment that is kind to both nature and the skin – without harmful chemicals.
  

In the guide below, we go through four of our favorite jackets – Lingbo , Drammen , Explorer and Melbourne Softshell – and help you find the right piece for the right occasion.

Further down you will also find a guide for the shell pants.