What to Wear in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi can feel magical in winter, yet the cold is real. Dress in layers so children stay warm, dry and happy. This guide explains the system to use, how to protect feet and faces, what to pack, and where to rent proper outerwear in town. Most families manage well with their own base and mid layers, then rent Arctic overalls and boots on arrival. Keep outings short, build in warm hut breaks and carry dry spares.
At a glance
Use three layers: base, mid and outer.
Base and mid come from home. Outer can be rented in Rovaniemi.
Protect feet with insulated boots and wool socks.
Cover head, neck and face, especially below −20°C.
Take dry gloves and socks for swaps.
Keep sessions 45 to 90 minutes with warm hut breaks.
The three-layer system
Base layer
Wear thermal underwear or merino next to the skin. It should wick moisture and feel snug, not tight. Avoid cotton. It holds sweat and makes you cold.
Mid layer
Add insulation with a fleece, a wool jumper or a light down jacket. For toddlers who move less, use two thin mid layers rather than one bulky piece. Thin layers trap more warm air.
Outer layer
Finish with windproof, waterproof trousers and a jacket, or a proper snowsuit. Hoods and adjustable cuffs keep cold air out. For long outdoor sessions or husky and reindeer rides, ask for an Arctic suit. It is the thick insulated overall that local guides use.
Boots and socks
Feet chill first. Choose insulated winter boots with grippy soles. Sizes should allow room for thick socks and wiggling toes. Wool socks are best. Use one pair for active play, two pairs for low-movement moments. Swap to dry socks at lunchtime. If you rent boots, bring your own wool socks for comfort and hygiene.
Hands, head and face
Small hands need mittens more than gloves. Two layers work well: a thin liner plus a waterproof mitten. Pack a spare pair for each child. Cover ears with a warm hat that fits under the hood. In deeper cold add a balaclava or a face mask. A neck warmer is safer and easier than a long scarf. For bright days use sunglasses and sunscreen. Snow reflects light strongly.
Dressing children
Plan for short windows outdoors, then reset in a warm hut. Add one extra mid layer for toddlers and children who sit in a sleigh. Use hand and foot warmers for older children on longer sessions. Clothing must not be tight. Trapped air is what keeps you warm. Pack spare gloves, socks and a thin hat in a small backpack. Wet kit means cold children. Swap quickly and carry on.
Renting and buying winter gear in Rovaniemi
You do not need to fly with bulky outerwear. Rovaniemi has rental shops that fit families on arrival. Typical packages include Arctic overalls, winter boots, mittens and hats in children’s sizes. Fitting is quick and you can usually swap sizes after the first day. Many activity providers and hotels also offer rental services that you can pre-book.
If you prefer to buy, outdoor stores in town stock thermal layers, fleeces, socks and boots. You will find well known Nordic brands and a good range for children. Example rental providers include Lapland Safaris, SnowFun Safarisand Wild Nordic. Example retailers include Intersport Rovaniemi, Halti Store and XXL. Check opening hours and stock in peak weeks.
What to pack from home
Bring thermal base layers, mid-layer fleeces, wool socks and a warm hat that covers ears. Add thin glove liners and a neck warmer for each child. Carry lip balm and a rich moisturiser to protect skin. For toddlers bring a carrier or a pram footmuff. Pack a few favourite snacks for quick energy during breaks.
Signs a child is too cold and what to do
Watch for quiet behaviour, clumsy steps, pale cheeks or complaints about fingers and toes. Move to the warm hut at once. Swap to dry gloves or socks. Give a hot drink and a snack. Add a mid layer if needed. Shorten the next outdoor window. Comfort first, photos later.
Sample kit list for a day out
Thermal top and leggings
Fleece or wool jumper
Waterproof trousers and jacket, or a snowsuit
Insulated winter boots
Wool socks plus a spare pair
Liner gloves and waterproof mittens plus a spare pair
Warm hat, neck warmer, balaclava for colder days
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Small backpack with snacks, tissues and handwarmers
FAQs
Can we rent proper outerwear in Rovaniemi?
Yes. Families often rent Arctic overalls, boots and mittens in town, then use their own base and mid layers from home.
Is cotton really a problem?
Yes. Cotton holds moisture and makes you cold. Choose merino or synthetic materials for base layers.
What boots work best for children?
Insulated boots with room for wool socks. Toes must move. Tight boots cause cold feet.
Do we need face protection?
Below about −20°C add a balaclava or face mask. It helps on windy days and when children sit still.
How long should outdoor sessions be?
Aim for 45 to 90 minutes, then warm hut time. Short windows keep the day happy.