What is the difference between rainwear & shell clothing?

Vad är skillnaden mellan regnkläder & skalkläder?

Rainwear or shell clothing - what should I choose?

Rainwear or shell clothing – what should I choose? This guide compares rainwear for children and shell clothing for children, and also covers galon clothing (PU) which is widely used in preschools. In Sweden and the rest of the Nordic countries, it often rains on and off. It is important to dress children in practical and functional garments. Some children love jumping in puddles, while others prefer to sit and play in the damp sand. This is where the choice between shell clothing and galon rain suits comes in – what determines which suits your child best? Here we guide you to the right choice!

Quick summary

  • The biggest difference between shell clothing and galon is breathability.

  • Shell clothing is breathable and transports heat and moisture away – perfect for play and activity in varied weather.

  • Galon (PU) is not breathable but completely waterproof and very resistant to wetness and dirt.

  • For many, the best option is to invest in a set of each, as the features complement each other.

 

Shell clothing for children

What is shell clothing?

Shell clothing are thin, durable outer garments that protect against wind and water while breathing. They are perfect for active children during spring, autumn, and milder winter days – especially with layering.

Key specifications

  • Water column: 15,000 mm for very good protection against rain and moisture.
  • Breathability: 800 g/m²/24h for effective moisture transport from inside out.
  • Seams: Taped for extra tightness.

Practical details

  • Detachable hood, adjustable suspenders, reflective details, and taped seams make them practical, safe, and comfortable for everyday play.

Care instructions

  • Wash according to the garment's care instructions, preferably with liquid detergent without fabric softener.
  • Re-impregnate after a few washes to maintain water resistance.

Rainwear in galon/PU for children

What is galon clothing?

Rainwear in PU (galon) is completely waterproof and very durable against wetness and dirt. It is especially suitable for heavy rain, slush, and play in puddles or damp sand.

Key specifications

  • Water column: 8,000 mm with taped seams for effective protection against rain, slush, and puddles.
  • Breathability: Traditional PU rainwear is not breathable, but it is designed to withstand moisture during play without letting moisture in from outside.

Practical details

  • Detachable hood, adjustable suspenders, reflective details, and taped seams for safe and comfortable play in rainy weather.

Care instructions

  • Rinse or wipe off with water and mild soap.
  • Avoid tumble drying and high heat as PU material can be damaged.

Warmth and layering

  • On cold days: complement with a warming mid-layer, such as fleece or wool, to keep the child warm.

When should you choose what?

Choose shell clothing when …

  • The weather is variable, overcast, or light rain.
  • The child will run and play actively.
  • You want a flexible solution that breathes and works in layers.

Choose rainwear in galon/PU when …

  • It is really wet: heavy rain, slush, puddles, or play in damp sand.
  • The child will be outside all day in persistent rain.
  • You want a garment that is easy to rinse off and very durable.

Do you need both?

  • For many, it is smart to invest in a set of each. Shell clothing provides flexibility and breathability for everyday play, while galon offers maximum protection in persistent rain and very wet environments.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cases and Rainwear

  • Shell garments are thin, durable outerwear that protect against wind and water while still being breathable. They are perfect for active children during spring, autumn, and milder winter days – especially when dressing in layers..

  • Our shell garments have a water column rating of 15,000 mm, providing excellent protection against rain and moisture. All models feature taped seams for extra waterproofing.

  • Yes, our shell garments have a breathability of 800 g/m²/24h, which means moisture is transported out and the child stays dry even during play and activity.

  • All our shell garments have a detachable hood, adjustable suspenders, reflective details, and taped seams. This makes them practical, safe, and comfortable for everyday play.

  • Wash according to the care instructions on the garment, preferably with liquid detergent without fabric softener. To maintain water resistance, treat the garment with a water repellent after a few washes.

    • Shell clothing: follow the washing instructions, use liquid detergent without fabric softener, and reproof after a couple of washes to maintain water resistance.
    • Rainwear in PU: rinse or wipe with water and mild soap; avoid tumble drying and high heat as PU can be damaged.
    • Both types: have practical features such as a detachable hood, adjustable suspenders, reflectors, and taped seams.