Finding the perfect pair of boots for your kids can be a challenge. You want something durable, comfortable, stylish and weatherproof, but also at an affordable price point. That’s why Cat and Jack boots have become such a popular choice for parents.

As Target’s exclusive kids clothing brand, Cat and Jack offer a wide selection of boot styles, sizes and colors for toddlers, kids and big kids. I’ve purchased numerous pairs for my own children over the years and have found them to hold up extremely well.

If you’re thinking about buying Cat and Jack boots for your little ones this season, here is my complete guide to help you make the perfect choice!

Where to Buy Cat and Jack Boots

The obvious place to purchase Cat and Jack footwear is at any Target store location or online at target.com. The selection is largest during back-to-school shopping season in late summer and early fall.

Once winter hits, stores begin stocking options suitable for snow and cold weather, like waterproof styles and boot liners. Supply tends to be more limited at this time of year, so shop early for the best selection.

Target frequently runs sales on Cat and Jack items, so always check for discounts or coupons before buying at full price. The brand is exclusively sold at Target, so you won’t find these boots anywhere else new.

However, you can sometimes score them secondhand on websites like Poshmark, Mercari or Facebook Marketplace, especially for discontinued styles. Lots of parents re-sell gently used Cat and Jack clothing and shoes.

Waterproof Options

One of the top questions about Cat and Jack boots is whether they are waterproof. The simple answer is that some styles are waterproof, while others are water-resistant or have no waterproofing at all.

If you’re looking for a 100% waterproof boot, be sure to carefully read the product details. Key terms to look for are “waterproof” or “sealed seams”. Some of the most popular waterproof styles include:

• Kids’ Mud Tek Boots – Completely waterproof with sealed seams to keep feet dry. Great for playing in rain/snow.
• Kids’ Lace Up Winter Boots – Waterproof construction with faux fur lining to keep them warm.
• Toddlers’ Snow Boots – Waterproof with adjustable hook & loop closure for easy on/off.
• Big Kids’ Radar Rain Boots – Glossy finish rain boots to splash through puddles. Run large.

Boots described as “water-resistant” or without any waterproof language will repel some moisture but are not fully sealed. Choose these for cool dry weather rather than heavy rain or snow.

Sizing and Fit

One of the most useful tips for buying Cat and Jack boots is to know how they fit. In my experience, most styles do run true to size, but some varieties tend to fit small while others run large.

For the most accurate fit, always measure your child’s foot and refer to the size chart for that particular boot before ordering. Here are my general sizing guidelines:

• Toddler boots – Order 1/2 size up from usual shoe size for best fit. Toddler feet grow rapidly.
• Big kid boots – Order true to size for most styles. But size up for growing room in rigid styles like cowboy boots.
• Winter snow boots – Wear thick socks and size up by 1/2 or full size to allow room for circulation.
• Rain boots – Often run large, especially with roomy calf circumference. Size down if between sizes.

If possible, try boots on in stores for fit. Lace up and adjustable closure styles have more flexibility for width and calf size. Proper insulation from cold with thick sock is also key.

Top Winter Snow Boots

For parents looking for the warmest Cat and Jack boots for winter weather, focus your search on insulated, waterproof styles made with faux fur lining. Some top picks include:

• Kids’ Snow Boot with Faux Fur – Thick faux fur lining keeps feet toasty without overheating. Full waterproof protection.
• Big Kids’ Sorel Chelsea Boots – Classic Chelsea boot with elastic gores, fuzzy lining, and lug sole for snow/ice traction.
• Toddlers’ Calf Height Snow Boot – Taller height helps seal out snow. Anti-slip sole. Fleece lining and hook & loop closure for adjustable fit.
• Kids’ Arctic Winter Snow Boot – Extreme cold rated to -25F. Removable felt liner. The warmest snow boot they offer.
• Big Kids’ Hybrid Snow Boot – Modern lace-up styling with plush faux fur lining and rigid outsole. Waterproof protection.

No matter which style you choose, always opt for a lug or traction outsole with deep grooves to prevent slipping on icy surfaces. The warmest linings are usually faux fur or fleece.

Snow and Winter Wear Tips

To properly insulate little feet in cold temps, follow these tips when shopping for Cat and Jack snow boots:

• Buy boots 1/2 to 1 full size larger to accommodate thick wool socks.
• Choose tall boots that rise up the calf rather than ankle height styles.
• Look for fully waterproofed material with sealed seams to block moisture.
• Opt for adjustable closures like bungee, hook & loop or cinch laces for flexibility with layering.
• Remove boot liners to dry fully between wearings to maximize warmth.
• Spray leather or suede styles with waterproofing to prevent salt stains.
• Let boots fully dry out overnight after snow play to prevent mildew smells.

With the right winter boots, kids can enjoy playing outside in the snow without getting cold or wet. Investing in quality waterproof styles ensures their feet stay nice and toasty.

Cat and Jack Boot Sizing

One of the most useful tips for buying Cat and Jack boots is to know how they fit. In my experience, most styles do run true to size, but some varieties tend to fit small while others run large.

For the most accurate fit, always measure your child’s foot and refer to the size chart for that particular boot before ordering. Here are the general size guidelines:

• Toddler boots – Order 1/2 size up from usual shoe size for best fit. Toddler feet grow rapidly. Boots available in sizes 4-10 toddler.
• Little kid boots – Order true to size for most styles. Available in sizes 10.5 kid – 3 kid, fitting most preschool-grade school age kids.
• Big kid boots – Order true to size or size up for growing room in rigid styles like cowboy boots. Available in sizes 3.5 kid – 7 kid.
• Youth boots – Scale matches adult sizes, 4 – 7 youth. Order true to size.

If possible, try boots on in stores for fit. Adjustable closure styles have more flexibility for width and calf size. Properly insulating feet with socks is also key.

How to Clean Cat and Jack Boots

To extend the life of kids’ boots, it’s important to clean them properly and regularly. Here are my top tips for keeping Cat and Jack shoes fresh:

• Leather boots – Wipe down with gentle leather cleaner then condition with mink oil. Use water repellent spray to prevent stains.
• Suede boots – Brush gently with suede brush then spray with waterproofer. Avoid excessive moisture.
• Fabric boots – Spot clean stains with mild detergent and rinse cloth. Allow to fully air dry.
• Rubber rain boots – Wash with warm soapy water using rag or soft brush. Rinse thoroughly. Stuff with newspaper to hold shape while drying.
• Winter snow boots – Fully air out liner and footbed to prevent mildew odors. Disinfect with rubbing alcohol to kill bacteria.
• Mud stained boots – Let mud fully dry then brush off residue before wiping boots down with damp rag.
• Salt stained boots – Mix equal parts water and white vinegar and wipe boots down to cut through salt stains.
• Smelly boots – Sprinkle baking soda inside boots and leave for 12-24 hours to absorb odors before vacuuming out.

Following these care tips will maintain your Cat and Jack boots’ appearance and performance. Always check the product label for material specific cleaning guidance.

Hiking in Cat and Jack Boots

If you’re looking for kid-sized hiking boots, Cat and Jack offers a few options that can work well on short day hikes. Look for these features in a boot suitable for light trail use:

• Traction outsole – Lugged rubber outsole helps grip uneven terrain. Avoid smooth, minimal tread.
• Ankle support – Choose a boot that rises above the ankle bone for stability on uneven ground.
• Waterproofing – Durable waterproof material prevents wet feet from creek crossings or rain.
• Toe protection – Reinforced toe box protects against stubbing toes on rocks and roots.

Some top picks for hiking include:

• Kids’ Ridge Hiking Ankle Boot – Lightweight and breathable with rugged traction outsole perfect for the trail.
• Big Kids’ Mid Volume Hiking Boot – Waterproof leather and textile upper with padded ankle support. Great day hike boot.
• Boys’ Kinetic Speed Hiking Shoe – Athletic-inspired hiker with breathable mesh upper and durable traction outsole.

While serious hiking requires more heavy-duty boots, Cat and Jack styles work nicely for neighborhood walks and very casual day hikes. Just be sure to break them in fully at home first!

Cat and Jack Boot Materials

Cat and Jack boots are constructed from a range of high quality materials to balance durability, comfort and cost. Some of the most common include:

• Leather – Provides a supple, durable upper that conforms to the foot. Requires proper cleaning and conditioning.
• Synthetic Leather – Vegan alternative has leather-like look but is easier to care for. Less breathable.
• Suede – Soft napped finish adds texture but requires waterproofing spray treatment to prevent stains.
• Textile Fabric – Durable woven fabrics like canvas breathe well but are less protective from abrasion or moisture.
• Rubber – Flexible and waterproof material perfect for rain boots. Can be hot for warm weather.
• EVA Foam – Lightweight cushioned material often used in sole for flexibility and shock absorption.
• Faux Fur – Soft, fluffy polyester lining adds warmth without being itchy. Should be spot cleaned.
• Fleece – Moisture wicking lining helps insulate feet from cold temperatures.

Knowing material properties helps pick the right boots for your kids’ needs. Leather, suede and rubber provide the most protection and durability.

Cat and Jack Boot Prices

One of the biggest appeals of Cat and Jack footwear is the affordable pricing. Their kids’ boots range from $15-$60, with most styles under $40.

Here are the typical price ranges by category:

• Rain boots – $15-25
• Winter snow boots – $25-45
• Hiking boots – $25-40
• Fashion boots – $20-60
• Toddler boots – $15-30
• Booties – $15-25
• Western boots – $40-60

The pricing fluctuates based on materials used and boot complexity. Leather or heavily lined winter boots sit at the higher end while basic rubber rain boots or booties are the most budget friendly.

Frequently check for sales, especially during seasonal transitions when demand is lower. Sign up for Target’s free loyalty program RedCard to get an additional 5% discount.

Overall, Cat and Jack boots offer tremendous value for the quality and durability. The affordable prices make it possible to get multiple pairs.

Toddler Cat and Jack Boots

Toddler feet grow incredibly fast, so durability and adjustability are key when selecting the perfect Cat and Jack boots for this age.

Some top toddler styles include:

• Waterproof Winter Snow Boots – Full cold weather protection with bungee closure for easy on/off.
• Dinosaur Stomp Rain Boots – Fun dinosaur graphics with handle on back for stability when learning to walk.
• Hook & Loop Closure Ankle Boots – Adjustable closure ensures perfect fit as feet grow.
• Suede Booties – Soft suede is flexible for developing feet learning to walk. Elastic gores make it easy to take on and off.
• Furry Animal Slippers – Cute animal designs help keep little toes cozy indoors. Non-slip bottoms.

When shopping for a toddler under 18 months, seek out soft flexible materials and avoid rigid non-slip outsoles which can hinder development. Prioritize easy on/off and adjustable closures for their limited dexterity.

Cat and Jack Boot Style and Quality

What I love about Cat and Jack footwear is that they offer on-trend styles made from quality materials without the expensive price tag.

Some of their cutest boot styles include:

• Western cowboy boots with intricate stitching details
• Sleek Chelsea boots with elastic gore sides
• Classic lace-up hiking boots with rugged soles
• Calf-height riding boots with buckle accents
• Glittery unicorn boots sure to delight kids
• Retro-inspired patterns on rain boots

Construction is very durable, with reinforced stitching and outsoles that can handle active kids. Premium materials like leather and suede appear in high-end styles parents can feel good about.

While not top-of-the-line, the quality far exceeds the price you pay. And you can feel good knowing Cat and Jack adheres to Target’s industry leading product testing standards for safety and durability.

Are Cat and Jack Boots Comfortable?

Based on my kids’ experiences, Cat and Jack boots rate very high for comfort!

They’ve found even the stiffest leather styles require minimal break-in period before molding to their feet. The inner linings are smooth and non-irritating.

I’ve been impressed by the cushioning and support too. Many styles use memory foam insoles to provide soft shock absorption and arch support right out of the box. Some of the most comfortable features include:

• Flexible rubber outsoles that encourage natural foot motion
• Padded foam ankle collars to prevent blisters and hot spots
• Breathable cotton canvas lining to reduce sweatiness
• Plush faux fur linings that keep feet cozy but not overheated

For kids who spend hours running and playing outside, these thoughtful comfort features go a long way. Trying on boots first for a test walk around the store is the best way to assess comfort before purchasing.

Cat and Jack Boots Color Selection

No matter what colors your child loves, you’re sure to find Cat and Jack boots to match their style. Their color palette spans basic black or brown to bright pops of color.

Some top picks include:

• Classic tan suede cowboy boots
• Shiny hot pink rain boots
• Trendy rose gold glitter booties
• Rich wine-colored hiking boots
• Playful blue and green dinosaur boots
• Bold red and black buffalo plaid prints
• Neutral black or white snow boots

New seasonal color collections are released twice a year. I’ve found their colors to use rich tones with excellent saturation for a high-end look.

Even neutral boots feature complementary contrast stitching or accents to add visual interest. With so many options, you can easily find colors that delight both boy and girl boot shoppers.

Where Are Cat and Jack Boots Manufactured?

Target is committed to responsible manufacturing and transparency in their global supply chain. While country of origin can vary by item, the majority of Cat and Jack boots are produced in the following regions:

• Asia – Countries like China, Vietnam and Indonesia are common sourcing locales for footwear manufacturing. Labor costs are lower here to meet retailer pricing needs.
• Americas – A smaller percentage of Cat and Jack boots are assembled in the US, Mexico and South America. Proximity to US stores makes logistics faster.
• Europe – Some premium materials like Italian leather may be sourced from this region. However, little final assembly occurs in Western Europe.

Target audits all factories abroad for fair labor conditions and restricts chemicals used in production to meet safety protocols. They work to be transparent about the complex web of manufacturing and are committed to responsibly sourced materials.

While cost dictates most Cat and Jack boots are made throughout Asia, parents can feel assured they are held to rigorous standards.

Are Cat and Jack Boots Vegan?

As consumer interest grows, Target does offer some vegan footwear options under the Cat and Jack brand. When shopping, look for these telltale vegan features:

• Synthetic leather materials
• Manmade textile fabric uppers
• Glue construction without stitching
• Non-suede bottoms

Some vegan-friendly Cat and Jack boots include:

• Kids’ Vegan Chelsea Boot
• Big Kids’ Vegan Lace Up Combat Boot
• Toddlers’ Geo Print Rain Boot
• Big Kids’ Quilted Waterproof Bootie
• Little Kids’ High Top Sneaker Boot

You can also filter the boots selection online to only shop vegan styles. However, non-vegan leather, wool and suede still feature heavily throughout the line, so choices are somewhat limited. With “vegan” being a trending search though, I expect vegan options to expand in coming years.

How to Return Cat and Jack Boots

One of the conveniences of shopping at Target is their generous return policy. New, unopened Cat and Jack boots can be returned to any Target store within 90 days of purchase. You’ll get a full refund in the original form of payment.

For worn boots, the return window shrinks to 90 days. To get money back on used pairs, boots should have minimal wear with no damage or defects. Bring all original packaging too. You’ll either get an exchange or refund based on the boots’ condition.

To return without a receipt, you’ll receive a merchandise refund card with the lowest recently advertised price. Proof of purchase helps get full original payment back.

Before taking boots home, have your child try them on in store to inspect fit and quality. This minimizes the need for returns later. But if issues arise down the line, Target makes the process consumer friendly.

Finding Cat and Jack Boots on Sale

The affordable Cat and Jack pricing gets even better when you can snag boots on sale. Here are tips to score discounts:

• Shop end of season – Boots go on clearance around March/April and September/October.
• Check weekly ad circulars – Target advertises apparel sales each week.
• Look for holiday sales – Boots go on sale around back-to-school, Black Friday and Christmas.
• Join loyalty program – RedCard debit/credit gives 5% off each purchase.
• Use promo codes – Check online and influencer codes for additional savings.
• Buy discounted gift cards – Save up to 10% buying discounted gift cards to use on boots.
• Shop resale sites – Goodwill, thredUP and Kidizen often have used pairs at 50-80% off retail.
• Ask for price match – Get stores to match competitors’ advertised lower prices.

With a range of savings strategies, you can outfit your kids in quality Cat and Jack boots without breaking the bank!

Styling Cat and Jack Boots

The versatile styling of Cat and Jack footwear makes them easy to incorporate into all sorts of cute kids’ outfits. Here are my favorite ways to style them:

• Cowboy boots with jeans, floral top and denim jacket
• Sneaker boots with leggings and twirly dress for a playful combo
• Chelsea boots with skinny jeans, beanie and plaid button-up
• Glitter boots paired with unicorn tees and tutus
• Rain boots with polka dot raincoat and floppy hat
• Snow boots with puffer coat, scarf and warm sweater dress
• Riding boots with colorful patterned tights and corduroy overall dress
• Hiking boots with cargo pants, graphic tee and puffer vest

Have fun pairing whimsical patterns and textures together, like florals with buffalo check. Play up the boots’ colors by adding complementary accent pieces.

Let your child’s unique personality shine through in the outfit styling. With endless cute combinations, boots go with anything!

In Summary

I hope this comprehensive guide provided helpful insights and tips for selecting the perfect Cat and Jack boots this season. Their outstanding quality, stylish designs and affordable pricing make them a go-to footwear brand for growing kids.

Use the size chart, read boot details closely and try them on in stores prior to purchasing. And take advantage of sales throughout the year for the best value.

With proper care and storage, Cat and Jack boots can withstand endless outdoor adventures, puddle stomping and snow fort building. Most importantly, they’ll keep those little toes nice and toasty!