686 Kids' Clothing

Frequently Asked Questions

• How does 686 youth sizing work and what is the i‑Grow/Youth Evolution system?

  686 uses alpha youth sizing (XS–XL) mapped to age, height and chest measurements so you can pick sizes based on your child’s dimensions; Modern Fit provides room for layering and mobility. Many 686 kids’ jackets and pants include the Youth Evolution/i‑Grow sleeve and cuff adjusters for extra length so garments grow with the child and extend useful wear.
• What waterproofing, breathability, and insulation technologies are used in 686 kids’ outerwear?

  686 kids’ pieces commonly use infiDRY® 10K (10,000 mm waterproof / 10,000 g/m² breathability) with DWR finishes and taped seams for wet-snow protection, while insulated styles use infiLOFT™ synthetic fill for moisture‑resistant warmth. Some higher-end kids’ shells are offered in GORE‑TEX (2.5L PACLITE® or 3L PRO) laminates for increased waterproof/breathable performance, and fabrics like Everywear® provide stretch, UPF 40+ and abrasion resistance.
• How does the Boys' Hydra™ Insulated Jacket compare to a 686 GORE‑TEX kids' shell?

  The Boys' Hydra™ Insulated Jacket pairs infiLOFT™ insulation with an infiDRY® 10K shell to deliver built‑in warmth and reliable waterproofing for cold, wet days, making it a quicker choice for all‑day slope sessions without heavy layering. A 686 GORE‑TEX kids' shell (2.5L PACLITE® or 3L PRO) is uninsulated, lighter and more packable, and is best for layering systems or highly aerobic kids who need maximum breathability and long‑term waterproof performance.
• Are 686 kids' pants and bibs suitable for skiing and snowboarding, and which features should I look for?

  Yes, 686 kids' pants and bibs are designed for snow sports and typically include powder skirts, ankle gaiters, reinforced cuffs, taped seams and articulation for mobility, plus options with suspenders and side zips for easy on/off. Choose insulated pants for full‑day cold conditions and shell pants or bibs when you prefer layering flexibility or higher breathability for active skiing and snowboarding.
• How should I care for 686 kids' outerwear to maintain waterproofing and insulation performance?

  Most 686 outerwear is machine‑washable; follow the garment care label and use a technical wash or mild detergent, avoid fabric softeners, and rinse thoroughly. When DWR starts to wet out, restore water repellency with a warm tumble or low‑heat reproofing treatment per the care instructions and reapply DWR spray if needed to maintain breathability and water beading.