Mittens for Muddy Little Kittens (Playshoes Waterproof Fleece-Lined Mitts)

Member Name: noodlesandwich

Product:	Playshoes Waterproof Fleece-Lined Mitts
Date:	04/03/09 (212 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Keep toddlers hands clean, warm and dry

Disadvantages: The length can make it a bit awkard to get thumbs into place

Parenthood throws up many a varied challenge which often result in purchases you never thought you'd need. One thing I never thought of when planning parenthood was the neccessity for waterproof mitts. Wellies I knew would be handy and I got some in as soon as my daughter was able to splash in puddles. A Waterproof jacket is also a fairly predictable sensible buy and when you realise the propensity for toddlers to stumble around like drunken monkeys or to suddenly lie down on the floor you may also buy waterproof trousers or overalls. So, out you go, thinking yourself well equipped, when the little one decides puddles are for splashing in not just with feet but with hands. I got through four pairs of woollen gloves and mittens on one short walk with my daughter, down a country lane after rainfall and so decided upon buying some waterproof gloves. I would have thought this would be a common problem so was surprised to discover that these are not easy items to find for little fingers. Therefore I was very pleased to find Waterproof World and their selection of childrens gloves and mittens.

These mittens are made from a waterproof outer glove with a fleece lining. The waterproof material is described as being eco-friendly PU material, very popular in Scandinavia apparently. They are long length with an elasticated cuff and a thin wrist strap to keep them securely fastened on. The length can make it a bit awkard to get thumbs into place. They come in two sizes: Height 86/104cm or 116/140cm. For the average sized child the smaller size roughly translates as about age 2 to 4 and a half, which is a good length of time for any childrens garment. My daughter has been wearing these from about 17 months old, she is somewhat taller than average. They are a long narrow shape but surprisingly soft and stretchy, there is plenty of room in them and I fully expect to get wear out of them both next Winter and the following one. The colours available are pink, blue and the one I opted for - red. They have the 'playshoes' logo on them in silver. There are no washing instructions with these, but I imagine they'll be fine in the washing machine. I have had only them in one 40 degree wash so far as I usually only wash the outsides down with a cloth as this removes dirt and mud easily enough.

They cost £11.99 inclusive of p&p which seemed a bit steep to me at first but I think it works out at reasonable value, provided they don't get lost! (Maybe I should get some cord to attach and thread through her coat). I have seen them cheaper on another website but only with pricey postage which actually made for a more expensive purchase. I prefer the upfront pricing at Waterproof World. They were delivered promptly; within a day or two of the order, I can't remember exactly.

Now when I take my little girl out in the harsh cold wet North East weather she is completely protected: wellies with waterproof trousers tucked in, hooded waterproof top over her hat and jacket and her playshoes mittens to keep her hands dry - sorted. Although when she decides to do a belly dive and slide across the ice and mud on her belly I still have to clean her face! I swear she was trying to swim in the mud the other day. Alternatively of course I could stay away from all mud, and keep her harnessed or in her pram in pretty designer clothes, but where's the fun in that? I like to let her have as much freedom as possible and run as wild as she can while she's still free from all the constraints society will place on her as she gets older, and I also like to free myself from the extra loads of washing with the help of waterproof products like these sensible yet snazzy little mittens.

Summary: Practical, sensible accessory for Winter