Recommend a warm winter coat for my 1-year-old in Chicago

[Anonymous]

I grew up in a very cold climate, have traveled regularly for work to Chicago (including in the winters), and I don't think that the Patagonia Down Sweater (which we love for winters here in DC) will be enough for winter in Chicago. That will get you through maybe mid-November. The winter coats that have been the best for our family when we visit our relatives up north have been from Polarn O Pyret and Hanna Andersson. Unfortunately those winter coats are too bulky to be safely worn by a child in a car seat.

Also look into merino wool undershirts/leggings for your kids -- those Scandinavians know what they're doing.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I grew up in a very cold climate, have traveled regularly for work to Chicago (including in the winters), and I don't think that the Patagonia Down Sweater (which we love for winters here in DC) will be enough for winter in Chicago. That will get you through maybe mid-November. The winter coats that have been the best for our family when we visit our relatives up north have been from Polarn O Pyret and Hanna Andersson. Unfortunately those winter coats are too bulky to be safely worn by a child in a car seat.

Also look into merino wool undershirts/leggings for your kids -- those Scandinavians know what they're doing.

I'm the Chicago mom of the one-year old DD who just bought the Patagonia Down Sweater. The thing is -- myself and OP have ONE YEAR OLDS. They will not be playing in the snow or anything. When it's really cold, they will presumably only be making quick trips from the car to the front door of wherever you are headed. Or, if you will be taking walks outside, they can get extra warmth from a bunting bag (like the BundleMe) on their stroller (which are very warm and something the OP should absolutely purchase) or, if you wear baby in a carrier, from body heat plus mom's jacket. But, I guess, OP, think about your lifestyle when deciding.