The Dare 2b Kids’ in the Lead II Jacket is a fully waterproof, breathable shell designed for young adventurers who need proper mountain-level protection. Dare 2b sits in the value end of the outdoor market but often brings technical fabrics to more accessible price points, and this jacket follows that formula.
This jacket is best suited to active children who spend a lot of time outdoors, whether that is walking the dog, playing in the park, heading to forest school or joining the family on hillwalks. The high waterproof rating and taped seams mean it will cope with sustained rain rather than just the odd shower, so it is a sensible choice for British weather.
The standout strength of the Dare 2b Kids’ in the Lead II Jacket is its level of weather protection. ARED V02 20,000 waterproof fabric, fully taped seams and a durable water repellent finish give it serious resistance to heavy rain and wet snow, far beyond a basic school mac. The 4-way stretch Oxford polyester also means the jacket moves with the child rather than against them, making it comfortable for climbing, running and play without feeling stiff.
The main trade-off with this jacket is that, while the shell is highly waterproof and reasonably breathable, it is not insulated. In cold weather you will still need to layer it over a fleece or jumper, which may not suit parents looking for a single all-in-one winter coat.
In day-to-day use the Dare 2b Kids’ in the Lead II Jacket behaves like a proper technical shell scaled down for smaller bodies. The 4-way stretch fabric stops it feeling boxy, so kids can swing their arms freely, scramble over rocks or ride a bike without the jacket tugging at the shoulders.
On performance, the jacket’s ARED V02 20,000 waterproof and breathable fabric is a clear highlight. A 20,000 mm hydrostatic head is a serious rating usually associated with grown-up mountain shells, meaning the fabric can withstand sustained pressure from heavy rain and wet snow before leaking. Combined with fully taped seams, water is kept out not just from the fabric but also from the stitching, which is often a weak point in cheaper kids’ coats.
At its current sale price, the Dare 2b Kids’ in the Lead II Jacket represents very strong value for a fully waterproof, stretch technical shell for children. You are getting a hydrostatic head rating and seam taping more often seen on adult mountain jackets, along with practical touches like the roll-away hood and zipped pockets.
The Dare 2b Kids’ in the Lead II Jacket is a capable waterproof shell for children who spend a lot of time outdoors and need more than a token showerproof layer. Its adult-grade waterproof rating, taped seams and stretch fabric make it a genuine piece of performance kit at a very accessible price, especially when discounted.
