Best Children's Activewear Collection 2017 | Junior Design Awards

Junior Design Awards 2017 for Best Children's Activewear Collection

Adventures require special clothing that will withstand the rough and tumble, protect against the elements and hopefully make the whole experience even more enjoyable!

We stretched, poked, pulled and rolled in all the clothing in this category to make sure it could withstand the most intrepid expeditions - well sort of!

THE PLATINUM AWARD FOR BEST CHILDREN'S ACTIVEWEAR COLLECTION...SMALLS

British luxe merino wool activewear range Smalls has scooped the top spot thanks to its simple, clean lines, gorgeous colour palette and endless practical benefits.

Founded in 2014 by friends and both mothers of 3 Catriona Pharo, an art director and marketing consultant, and stylist Emma-Jane Adam who both fell in love with merino baby wear.

Smalls clothing - from tanks, camps and 24hr trousers - can also be worn all year round as it keeps youngsters cool when it's hot and vice versa.

With an emphasis on quality that lasts, this label is designed to be handed down. The 100% superfine merino wool used is also moisture wicking, naturally flame retardant, anti-bacterial, stretchy and anti-allergy so it's perfect for school, sports, ski, play & sleep.

What's more it's machine washable, breathable, and perfect for wearing on its own or layered up for extra toastiness without the bulk. Yep - Smalls ticks all the boxes for seriously active kids.

Junior Design Awards Judges Sarah Clarke of Little Spree and Lisa Mehydene of Edit 58 are both huge fans of the brand.

Lisa commented: "Gorgeous quality, colours and design. Such a clever brand."

And Sarah could not have been more complimentary writing: "Love, love, love Smalls!! We're huge fans in my family!!" in her judge's notes. A stylish seal of approval right there.

THE GOLD AWARD FOR BEST CHILDREN'S ACTIVEWEAR COLLECTION... MUDDY PUDDLES

Stomping about in the mud is part and parcel of childhood and Muddy Puddles have been providing all the kit you could possibly need for indulging in this much loved pastime for 20 years.

Their current collection was inspired by Michael Morpurgo's book Where My Wellies Take Me and features abstract hoofs, stubble fields, frogspawn and interstellar prints.

The fresh designs and quality waterproof clothing were a hit with our judges who loved the playful feel as well as the reassuring practicality of the range.

Junior Editor Bonita: "They supply over 1,000 schools and nurseries with their clothing and their amazing expertise shows - and proves - that well-designed practical and protective clothing means that rain never has to stop play!

"I'm also on-board with their Muddy Manifesto and commitment to getting kids to play outside more."

THE SILVER AWARD FOR BEST CHILDREN'S ACTIVEWEAR COLLECTION... REIMA

Activewear label Reima have been kitting out active kids since 1944 and continue to be pioneers in developing clothing that encourage freedom of movement whatever the weather and wherever the adventure.

Their latest innovation really got our judges talking.

Their new activity sensor ReimaGO™ can be worn in the specially designed pockets of their clothing and tracks duration and intensity of movement on land and even under water.

The sensor then sends the data onto an app designed specifically for kids. Parents can monitor how active their kids are on the app and set goals and rewards bespoke to their child.

We were extremely impressed by the thoughtful design and feel of the Reima Fiji Swim Top and matching Board Shorts from their SunProof range which again comes with a hidden pocket for their new sensor.

Apart from being technically and technologically brilliant, we felt that the graphics and cuts were extremely wearable and would suit the coolest customers.