Kids' Fashion / 9 October, 2025 / Ellie Thompson

The Scandinavian Layering Guide For Little Adventurers ft. PO.P Outerwear

When the forecast can’t make up its mind, Scandinavian parents don’t cancel play; they layer. Scandinavian layering for babies and children starts with a moisture-wicking merino base (a snug fit wicks best), a cosy fleece mid-layer, then a waterproof, windproof, breathable shell.

PO.P is Sweden’s go-to for durable, sustainable kids’ outerwear, and this simple system keeps little ones warm, dry and happy. From buggy naps to puddle jumps, we’ve got the lowdown.

What each layer does (and how to choose)

Base

Choose Merino for next-to-the-skin wear. It will move moisture away from the skin and help regulate temperature so babies don’t overheat. Choose a snug fit: bodysuits and sleep suits for babies, as well as long-sleeve bodysuits and leggings for children.

Mid

Pick a fleece for warmth. A lightweight fleece onesie (for babies) or fleece jacket/dungarees (for toddlers & children) traps warm air without bulk. It’s the layer you’ll take on and off as activity changes.

Outer

Waterproof and windproof shell. A breathable shell blocks rain and wind while letting excess heat escape. Stormy is your everyday wet-weather hero, while Hazy is the lighter, packable option. For head-to-toe coverage, reach for P.OP’s shell puddlesuit.

Babies: how to layer by stage

Start with a merino bodysuit and leggings/sleepsuit to keep skin dry and comfy. Add a windproof fleece all-in-one if it’s chilly. Top with a baby pramsuit for cold, dry days, or choose the puddlesuit when it’s wet so they can explore without getting soaked. Merino socks, booties and a beanie make a big difference, as tiny extremities can lose heat fast. Mittens with long cuffs help seal out drafts.

Baby comfort check: neck and upper back should feel warm and dry. If they’re sweaty, remove the mid-layer, and if it’s cool to the touch, add it back.

How to layer toddlers & children

For nursery runs, playground trips and forest school, think merino, fleece, shell. Start dressed for the car, then unzip/pack the fleece as they warm up. Shell overalls/dungarees are brilliant for sand, slides and wet benches; the puddlesuit wins for downpour days.

Layers should move easily without bunching. Cuffs to wrists/ankles keep drafts out, and hems should cover the lower back, even when arms are raised. Air out merino between wears with a cool wash and line dry. Brush off dried mud from shells and close zips/velcro before washing to protect the fabric.

This guide was created with PO.P’s outerwear range in mind to help modern parents mix and match layers for year-round outdoor play.

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Sponsored content in collaboration with P.OP.