Adults have a wide-selection of insect-shield and protectant clothing, so why shouldn’t kids? If anyone is going to neglect to put on insect repellant (or if there’s anyone who is most likely to be sensitive to the chemicals) it’s children. Craghoppers, who happens to make a puffy jacket my teens love, offers a cute-looking, lightweight hoody treated with an insect-shield barrier.
The Adanya Hoody is a soft jersey long-sleeved zip-up fitted specifically for girls. The material is slightly stretchy, which appeals to kids, and there’s a full hood with drawcord. Kids get two pockets, plus a kangaroo pouch in front. The built-in protectants include the aforementioned insect-shield, which is proven to provide up to 90% protection from mosquitoes and other biting insects (that can cause life threatening diseases such as Malaria), plus SolarShield, which blocks UPF Index: 40+ and UVR of 97.5%+. SolarShield’s effectiveness (in any Craghoppers garment) is determined by three factors: the density of the fabric construction, the type of yarns used, and its color. Even with these double shields built in, the Adanya is machine washable, crucial for me!
Speaking of which, the Adanya comes in two pretty neutral colors, which is unusual in children’s outerwear offerings, but admittedly a breath of fresh air. It’s nice to have a simple charcoal gray or tan to choose from, because I know I can pack the hoody for a trip and it will go with just about anything. Both versions do have nice yet subtle patterned lining in the hood.
I especially appreciate how light the Adanya feels when it’s on, because when do you need insect protection anyway? In hot, often humid climates! It’s nice to tell my kids to cover up and not meet with resistance. It’s designed to be breathable, too, which is essential. The Adanya can easily be worn in tropical climates in all but the most intense of heat. It’s also been nice as a fall layer here in the mountains during tick season.
For the boys, there’s the Kemiah Jacket, which is essentially the same hoody used for the same purpose, with a boy’s boxier cut and different color selection. It’s the same price as the Adanya. There’s also adult versions, called Adanya Jacket instead of hoody.
Pick up either for $50 on Craghoppers, or on Moosejaw for the same price. Shoppers can also find the adult version on Amazon.