For parents, the tenet that “there’s no bad weather, only bad clothing” can feel like a smug and thinly veiled critique. In moments of vulnerability, I’ve found myself wondering, “Am I a bad mother because my 6- and 8-year old daughters would rather be cozy inside than make mud pies in the freezing rain?”I usually aspire to free myself from unhelpful self-criticism. At the same time, I can admit that there’s truth to the saying: My kids are much happier playing outside when they’re properly suited up.Different scenarios call for different levels of coverage. So for this guide, I considered a wide variety of fun and functional apparel and gear. Then I recruited a small crew of kids — ranging in age from toddler to tween — to help me test six umbrellas, 20 rain jackets, seven pairs of rain pants and bibs, and six rain suits and sets. The result: eight great options that’ll keep kids comfy and dry, so they’ll be ready to make those mud pies, if and when inspiration strikes.