As temperatures in Hungary have recently dropped to unusually low levels, many parents are unsure how to dress their children for school and outdoor play. The goal is simple: to keep children warm, dry and comfortable throughout the day, without overheating indoors.
Overdressing can be just as problematic as insufficient protection. The most effective and widely recommended solution is the three-layer dressing system, used across Nordic countries and trusted by schools and outdoor professionals worldwide.
The Three-Layer Principle
Instead of one thick garment, several thinner layers work together to protect your child from cold, wind and moisture. This system allows children to remain warm outdoors while staying comfortable inside school buildings.
The three essential layers are:
- Base layer
- Mid layer
- Outer layer
1. Base Layer - Keeping the Skin Dry
The base layer is worn directly on the skin. Its primary function is to transport moisture away from the body, helping to prevent chilling during outdoor activity and temperature drops.
Recommended options:
- Technical thermal underwear – ideal for active children; lightweight, quick-drying and comfortable throughout the school day.
- Merino wool – naturally warm, soft and breathable; retains warmth even when slightly damp and is well suited for children who feel cold easily.
2. Mid Layer - Providing Warmth
The mid layer provides insulation by trapping warm air close to the body. This layer plays a key role in maintaining a stable body temperature throughout the day.
Suitable choices:
- Fleece – lightweight, breathable and warm; an excellent option for daily school use.
- Merino wool mid layers – thin but highly insulating; ideal for particularly cold days.
This layer can easily be adjusted depending on outdoor temperatures and the child’s individual needs.
3. Outer Layer – Protection from Wind, Snow and Rain
The outer layer shields the child from external weather conditions and is essential for outdoor breaks and activities.
Key features to look for:
- waterproof material,
- windproof construction,
- breathable fabric,
- durability and freedom of movement.
Reima outerwear is designed for Nordic winters and performs reliably in the cold, windy and wet conditions currently experienced in Hungary.
School-Appropriate Winter Clothing Solutions
Many international schools in Budapest follow specific uniform guidelines regarding colours, practicality and comfort during colder months. To support families, ReiCo Hungary, the official Reima partner, offers a curated selection of Reima products specifically suited for private and international school use.
Parents who would like to see the ReiCo products in person are welcome to visit the showroom by appointment:
ReiCo Showroom
1012 Budapest, Kosciuszkó Tádé utca 6
Phone: +36 20 400 6305 (Anastasia)
Email: reicohungary@gmail.com
