Kids are attracted to puddles like a moth to the light.
It’s inevitable that your child will go straight for the water, no matter how deep, and as a parent, I love that! It’s important for children to explore, be free, and have fun. And when we’re walking home from somewhere, or we’re playing near the house, I have no problem with letting my daughter get as wet as possible. But, when it’s at daycare or when we’re on our way to town and it’s not ideal for her to be absolutely soaked, I secretly hope she doesn’t notice the large pools gathering at the side of the road…

But we can always be more prepared, and I’ve always said that having the right gear can open up opportunities in the outdoors. One such product comes from KidORCA: rain boots with built-in gaiters. The KIDORCA Kids’ Rain Boots ($60 CAD) are every kid and parent’s dream come true, with waterproof/breathable gaiters that cinch and come over the knee, a polar fleece lining that can take you through a number of seasons, and a non-slip sole (among many other features).

Not only have we used them to splash through puddles, but also on hikes and playing outside during the spring, summer and fall, even when it isn’t wet out (winters in Banff require really warm footwear!). Here are some things we love about the KidORCA boots.
Gold Stars
- The gaiters are what set these apart. No more water pouring in over the top of the boot.
- They are easy for my daughter to put on by herself (she is 4). Winning!
- Paired with rain pants, with the gaiters pulled over the knee, these boots are double waterproof.
- I love how the gaiters fold down when you don’t need or want to use them. So smart!
- A four-year-old will tell you if they don’t like something, or if it’s uncomfortable. My daughter excitedly puts on her KidORCA boots, so I know she loves them!
- The orcas on the top of the foot are a fun feature.
- They are warm enough for the cold days we experience in the fall and spring (and sometimes summer) here in the Rockies.
- I love to support other small, family-owned Canadian businesses.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind
- Occasionally, I have felt inside my daughter’s KidORCA boots after extended time outside and they are a touch damp. I suspect it’s more sweaty feet from play than anything! But be sure to check to give you time to dry them out. My trick is to stuff them with newspaper and they are perfectly dry the next morning.
- If you can, size up and get your child to wear thicker socks to help the boots last them through a full year (or maybe two!). Kids’ feet grow quickly, so it can be difficult trying to justify spending money on boots when you probably have access to dozens of hand-me-downs. But boots like the KidORCAs are worth the investment.
Interested in finding a pair? Check out KIDORCA Kids’ Rain Boots:
Note: KidORCA provided the Kids’ Rain Boots for review. They did not review or influence this review prior to publication.