Baby snowsuit: what it's for, from what age, how to choose

The snowsuit (or pramsuit) is a regular on winter baby registries — but what is it really for, from what age should you use it, and should you choose a footmuff instead? Here is a jargon-free rundown.

What is a snowsuit?

A snowsuit is an all-in-one padded suit that wraps your baby completely, from head to toe, hood included. Often fitted with built-in mittens and booties, it is designed for extreme cold — snow, the mountains, harsh winters.

What is a snowsuit for?

Its purpose: to insulate your baby from the cold when they are being carried or on the move, out of the pushchair. It is the ideal outfit for playing in the snow, or for outings where your baby will not stay seated. It is less practical, however, for frequent in-and-out trips (putting it on and taking it off takes time).

From what age?

You can find snowsuits from birth, but they only really come into their own once your baby is moving about and sitting up (from around 6 months). For a newborn who spends most outings in the pushchair, a footmuff is often better suited.

Snowsuits, infant carriers and car seats: the safety rule

An important point: it is not advisable to put your baby in an infant carrier or car seat wearing a thick snowsuit. Bulky clothing compresses in a collision, and the harness can then no longer do its job properly. Opt for thin layers under the harness, then a blanket or a footmuff over the harness once your baby is strapped in.

Snowsuit or footmuff: which should you choose?

It all depends on how you will use it. For everyday pushchair outings, the footmuff is more practical: you can settle your baby in and lift them out in one movement, it stays attached to the pushchair, and it can be used from birth to age 3. The snowsuit keeps the edge for very cold weather and for moments when your baby is active on the ground. Many parents have both. For the full details, read our comparison of the footmuff versus the snowsuit.

Frequently asked questions

When should you put your baby in a snowsuit?

When it is genuinely cold and your baby is being carried or is active outside the pushchair. In the pushchair, a footmuff is generally enough and stays more practical.

Can you put a snowsuit in an infant carrier?

No, not a thick one: it compromises how well the harness works. Dress your baby in thin layers, fasten the harness, then add a warm cover over the top.

Snowsuit or baby nest for a newborn?

For the very first months and for the pushchair, a baby nest or a footmuff is better suited. A snowsuit really comes into its own once your baby is moving about more.

Discover the Crocrobō Paris footmuffs — wild chic, warm whatever the weather.