Tested + Compiled By Cameron Martindell
Summer + Fall 2023
For us, some adventures include a good stint in the car before we can hit the trail. For that, we have these headphones for blissful adult quiet time on the road. They’re Bluetooth equipped to avoid the cord tangle, have easy button controls for little hands to manage and the volume is limited to 85dB to be safe for little ears.
$29.99
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The sun can be brutal on long adventures where there is little opportunity for shade, and the Kids’ Ultra Adventure Hat with a full brim, adjustable sizing, breathable mesh panels and the packable brim has proven to be an ideal combination for our kiddos.
$34
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Opinel offers a few versions of the No.07Junior folding knife, but we like the outdoor variation, because it has a built-in pealess safety whistle that works when cold, hot or wet. The rounded tip eases the risk factor when being used by young adventurers and the patented Virobloc Safety Ring locks the blade closed and open to avoid any accidental movement.
$26
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New York-based Priority Bicycles is focused on keeping bicycles simple. They build light-weight, low-maintenance bikes, and one key feature is the use of a Gates Carbon Belt drive instead of a chain. No grease, no rust, noslipping, no wearing down. They use premium components yet manage to keep the prices very reasonable. The Start Series comes inthree sizes: 16-inch single-speed for 3-7 yearolds, 20-inch three-speed for 6-11 year olds and a 24-inch three-speed for 7-13 year olds.
$329-$449
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Kids love walkie-talkies, especially when they are small and colorful. This three-pack can be divided up a number of ways — including when friends come along on the adventure. The T10X3M tauts up to 20 miles of range in the most pristine of conditions and includes all the standard features across the 22 available channels, including privacy codes. Adults will also appreciate Midland Radio’s NOAA Weather Alert technology, which can sound an alarm if there is a risk of severe weather. They are also water resistant to handle play in all kinds of weather.
$50
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This headlamp is lightweight, versatile, safe and super fun. Along with the standard white LED, the fun factor is the red and blue LEDs that can flash! Maximum brightness is 40 lumens to protect curious eyes, and the adjustable headband can give way if the strap catches something. The rechargeable light turns off after 20 minutes to save battery, and the light unit can be removed from the headband and clipped onto backpacks or jackets.
$20
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Each year, millions of plastic adhesive bandages get used, go in the trash and then end up in the landfill — if we’re lucky. Microplastic litter has been found in the guts of a range of sea life, and plastic bandages are part of the problem. That’s why Woolaid was invented — an adhesive bandage made of “hyperfine” merino wool, which is breathable, naturally antimicrobial and biodegradable.
$variable
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For families pushing the limits of how far they adventure, there will come a time when the kids are done and just need a ride. The Veer All Terrain Cruiser, available in two-seat and four-seat options, is extremely versatile and is great for families with newborns onward. Accessories include an infant car seat attachment, sun shields, weather covers, snack trays, cup holders, shearling seats and more to match any weather. The unique wheel and steering system makes the Cruiser extremely nimble, and it all folds down for compact storage or travel.
$699-$799
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Yeti gear is tough, and that’s important when kids are involved. Most importantly, the lid and sip spout are made of durable plastic, so kids won’t bite through with their fresh chompers. The wide handle makes it easy for little hands to hold the bottle. Just like the adult version, the cap is leak proof and the double-wall stainless steel construction ensures drinks stay cold (hot drinks not recommended with the straw cap; use the Hotshot cap) and refreshing. Also, the cap isthe same sizing as the adult Ramblers, so it’s easy to mix and match amongst the various styles of caps.
$25
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The adult version of this iconic boot has stood the test of time amongst Alaskan fishing boat workers, and it’s only appropriate for there to be a kid’s version, as well. These 100% water-proof boots inspire confidence for playing in wet and muddy conditions. Just like the adult version, the kid’s style has the skid-resistant chevron outsole for protection on slippery surfaces.
$65
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Kids grow fast, so any piece of gear that can adjust accordingly saves the need to sacrifice appropriate sizing or buying new gear as often. This bag uses an internal drawcord system to adjust inside length and minimize dead air pockets. The synthetic insulation will be more tolerant in wet conditions, and it has a draft tube along the zipper to eliminate cold spots. Plus, the stuff sack is fleece-lined, so it works great as a pillow when stuffed with extra clothes. The bag adjusts from 66 inchesto 54 inches, for roughly 9-12 year-olds.
$100
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I know all kids are different, but mine tend to be pretty zonked after a day out hiking, splashing, playing and finally camping and don’t need much to be comfortable when they sleep. Also, these closed cell foam pads are100% fail proof; meaning, you can cut them in half and tape them back together, and they’ll still work fine. We have the short version (51×20 inches) for the kids, and it will serve them for many years.
$45
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