How this gear performs

Each piece is rated for protection from water, wind and performance during play

Waterproofness N/A
Not waterproof.
Windproofness N/A
Not designed to block wind.
Insulation Mid
Comfortable warmth for chilly days and everyday outdoor use.
Breathability Mid
Balances warmth and airflow for active outdoor play.
Durability High
Built to handle daily wear, rough play, sitting, crawling, and sliding.
Fit Fits Small

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Helly Hansen Chill Fleece Jacket a jacket or a mid layer?
It can be both, which is what makes this fleece so useful. Helly Hansen designed it to work on its own on brisk, dry days or underneath a heavier jacket when kids need more warmth. For Outdoor School, we especially like it as the insulating middle of a layering system: base layer first, Chill Fleece for warmth, then weather-protective outerwear.
How warm is the Chill Fleece, and when should my child wear it?
Think of the Chill Fleece as an extra layer of cozy warmth rather than winter outerwear. It's a great option for cool fall mornings, chilly classrooms, playground time, and transitional weather on its own. Once temperatures drop, layer it underneath a rain shell, winter jacket, or other outerwear appropriate for the conditions. Helly Hansen describes it as a cozy layer for brisk days and specifically recommends layering it under a heavier jacket.
Is fleece a good mid layer for active kids?
Yes. Fleece is one of our favorite practical mid-layer options because it can add warmth without the bulk of another heavy jacket. The Chill Fleece is made from 100% polyester fleece, and Helly Hansen rates it 4/6 for lightness. That makes it an easy layer for kids who still need to run, climb, bend, and play once all their winter gear goes on.
Is the Chill Fleece waterproof or windproof?
No waterproof or windproof performance is listed for this jacket, so we wouldn't ask the fleece to do the job of an outer shell. Think of it as the warmth layer. When it's raining, snowing, or windy, add the appropriate weather-protective outer layer over it. Separating those jobs—base layer for moisture management, fleece for warmth, outer layer for weather—is what makes a layering system so versatile.
What makes this a good everyday fleece for school and Outdoor School?
It's simple and functional: soft fleece, elastic cuffs, an elastic bottom hem, a YKK® zipper, and a front kangaroo pocket. Kids can wear it to school, pull it on for a cool morning outside, or use it as their mid layer when winter arrives. We like pieces like this because they aren't limited to one activity or one season—they can become part of the everyday layering rotation
Woman holding a child in a snowy setting with 'Outdoor School Shop' logo.

FOUNDED BY WOMEN. BUILT FOR ADVENTURE.

ODSS was started by mothers who saw firsthand how time outside builds resilient, confident kids. What began as helping outdoor schools equip students for all-weather learning grew into a bigger mission: Help families raise resilient, confident kids by making it easier for children to stay outside longer.

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Testimonials

For us, the right gear from ODSS supports what we believe most about childhood. When children are able to be outside every day, in all seasons, they become tenacious, confident, and develop an authentic relationship with the land.
— RAIN OR SHINE SCHOOL 
Working with Outdoor School Shop has transformed our outdoor school community. Parents love knowing their children are consistently and reliably equipped—and that nothing is forgotten or comes home covered in mud. 
— RANDOLPH SCHOOL 
Our students get outside in all temperatures and having the right gear makes a world of difference. @outdoorschoolshop has gear appropriate for all seasons, has a directory to search for nature schools, and layering guides to help families know how to dress children for the weather
— HEMLOCK HILL 
At The Thistle and Root, I always recommend ODSS gear for anyone who believes that children grow best through nature—so dress for it.
— THISTLE & ROOT 
Ordering bulk with Outdoor School Shop was just as easy and seamless as I had hoped! As we open up a new program, preparing our first group of kiddos for any weather was at the top of our priority list, and ODSS came through with insight, expertise, and the coolest, most dependable gear around! Thank you ODSS!
— SIDNEY RIDGE 

Outfitting the Programs That Keep Kids Outside

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