Buying guide for Best kids’ earmuffs
There’s a lot of cold-weather gear you need to keep your child toasty during the winter months. In addition to a coat, gloves, a hat, and boots, earmuffs play an important role. Although their primary function is to keep little ears warm, they’re also stylish and fun to wear. That’s because earmuffs for kids come in numerous designs for children of different ages.
Just like earmuffs for adults, those designed for kids have two cushions made of warm materials that are attached to a headband. Classic earmuffs are worn with the band on the top of the head, but some modern styles are made to be worn with the band around the back of the head. Cushion materials are important for comfort and warmth. If you want a pair that will grow with your little one, you’ll find adjustable options to fit your needs.
Key considerations
Keeping your child’s ears warm is undoubtedly your top concern when purchasing earmuffs, but there are other factors to consider. The right pair will offer a comfortable, versatile fit and appearance, so your kiddo will be enthusiastic about slipping earmuffs over their little ears.
How old is your child?
Most earmuffs for kids are scaled down to fit smaller heads, and some earmuffs are designed for specific ages. Age is a concern not only when it comes to size but also when considering graphics and patterns. While little kids are likely to be excited to wear earmuffs with animal faces or fuzzy materials, older kids probably prefer a style that has more of a grown-up appeal without being overly cute.
Will your child be wearing a hat or helmet, too?
Typically, earmuffs take the place of a hat, but sometimes kids need or want to wear both. Some hats are worn for fun, and helmets are worn for playing certain sports outdoors in the winter. Additionally, it might be necessary for a child to wear a winter hat or hood in extremely cold weather. In such cases, earmuffs that fit close to the head and don’t have a bulky design are the best option.
How cold does it get where you live?
Just like coats, gloves, and boots, earmuffs are made of different materials, some of which are warmer than others. Earmuffs made of leather, shearling, or wool provide excellent warmth and comfort. Some also have linings made of materials that keep out the cold. For milder temperatures, earmuffs made of knitted cotton or acrylic are good options.
Additionally, some earmuffs provide better ear coverage than others and are more suitable for extremely cold temperatures. It’s important to select a weather-appropriate style to keep little ears warm but not hot or sweaty.
Features
Types
There are two main types of earmuffs that are most practical for children: those with the band over the head and those with the band behind the head.
Over the head: Standard earmuffs have a headband that fits over the top of the head. This style is best for younger children, however, they can be painful if the headband is too tight. It may also get in the way of some hairstyles or glasses.
Behind the head: Many modern earmuffs have a headband that fits around the back of the head. These earmuffs are typically designed for older kids and are a good choice for active lifestyles because they tend to stay put. Additionally, their low profile doesn’t interfere with hats, glasses, and most hairdos the way over-the-head styles can.
Bandless: Sometimes called ear mitts, these are less common in kids’ styles. While they have a very simple design that may appeal to older children, these earmuffs aren’t as warm. Also, they can be difficult to keep on the ears and are easy for children to misplace.
Adjustability
We all know that kids grow quickly. That’s why earmuffs with an adjustable headband are perfect for youngsters of all ages. Many can be adjusted by several inches to fit toddlers to preteens and older.
Styles and colors
Kids love exciting graphics and bold colors. Earmuffs that are made for kids come in many combinations of bright colors and patterns. Some designs have large, puffy cushions made of faux fur or adorned with characters or animals. It’s also common to find earmuffs for kids that have embellishments on the cushions and headbands. However, for older kids or those who prefer a more subdued style, you’ll also find kids’ earmuffs with simple designs and solid and/or neutral colors.
Kids’ earmuff prices
The good news when it comes to outfitting your kid in winter-weather wear is that earmuffs are likely to be one of the most affordable items you buy. Those that are designed for kids typically cost less than earmuffs for adults, ranging in price from about $5 to $30.
Inexpensive: Earmuffs that cost between $5 and $13 aren’t built for extreme warmth or durability, but they’re suitable for moderately cold temperatures and occasional use. Even at this affordable price, you will find a wide range of appealing designs.
Mid-range: You’ll find variety, warm materials, and numerous fashionable and fun looks in the $14 to $24 range. With the slightly higher price comes improved durability.
Expensive: You won’t find a lot of kids’ earmuffs in the $25 to $50 range, but pricier options by designer brands are made of long-lasting materials like leather, suede, and wool.
Tips
- Choose age-appropriate earmuffs. As you shop, look for styles that indicate they’re made for kids, and check out the recommended age range before you buy.
- Make sure your child’s ears are covered. Earmuffs have cushions of different sizes, and those that are too small to fit completely over your child’s ears won’t provide ample protection from the cold.
- Let your child have a say. Browsing the different earmuff styles is a fun activity the two of you can do together.
- Choose earmuffs that suit the weather in your area. Earmuffs with a warm lining and extra insulation are great for frigid temperatures, but they may feel hot in milder climates. Fleece, shearling, and earmuffs lined with materials like Thinsulate are the best choice if your child will wear them while playing in the snow.
- Match earmuffs to other winter accessories. Earmuffs are available in just about every color imaginable, so it’s easy to choose a pair to match coats, gloves, and boots. But if you aren’t sure which color is best, opt for a versatile neutral shade like black, tan, navy, or gray.
FAQ
Q. My son is picky about what he wears on his head. Isn’t he likely to find earmuffs just as annoying as winter hats and hoods?
A. Not necessarily. Earmuffs are less restrictive and often more comfortable to wear. If this is a concern, choose earmuffs that have an adjustable headband, so the size can be altered for optimal comfort without being too tight or too loose. In addition, earmuffs that have a headband that fits around the back of the head have a slightly less obtrusive design than classic models.
Q. Are adjustable earmuffs easy to adjust?
A. Yes! Most adjustable models have an expandable section in the headband that can be pulled and clicked into place to change the size. In fact, the mechanism is simple enough for kids to operate.
Q. What’s the best way to wash earmuffs?
A. Although some earmuffs aren’t machine washable, they aren’t difficult to clean. Simply wash them by hand using warm water and a little laundry detergent, rinse them in clean water, and hang them up to air-dry. If the pair you choose can be tossed in the washing machine, follow the instructions on the care tag.
