OK- it looks like winter is here early this year. Cold winds and snow seem to be appearing in all the usual and in quite a few unlikely places.  No matter where you live, in the Unites States with the possible exception of Hawaii, you’re going to need a winter jacket.

It may not have to be particularly heavy, but it must be warm. That’s why I like this fleece jacket from North Face. Tough and durable, it’s just right for boys who have a tendency to drop their jackets wherever they happen to be- never mind, the mud puddles and slush.

Since it integrates with various North Face shells, it’s the perfect jacket to take a child from winter into spring. I like the nylon reinforcement which makes it windproof and the fleece chin guard for all those days that scarves get lost or left behind.

Warm zipper pockets hold gloves or hands when the gloves too are left behind and the reflective element is great for when they just can’t seem to get home before dark. Since this is made by North Face, it gives me an extra dose of comfort too. They stand behind their products and their products last!