Gear For Lil’ Rippers

Sun safety is key for outdoor kiddos and this hat can take the heat with UPF 50+ protection. We love the full brim, deep bucket and soft headband that makes the hat comfortable so kids will keep it on (always the biggest challenge). I’m drawn to the blue, but the pink and yellow are great for crowded situations so it’s easy to spot your kiddo.

$32

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These 100% rayon shirts are going to put some swagger in the step of whoever wears it. Sized for ages 1 to 6, the Kid’s Cabana comes in four groovy patterns. Not gonna lie … nothing technical here — just a cool shirt for the kiddos. Also available in adult sizes in case you want to match or are just feeling left out.

$40

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Knives are essential for outdoor adventure but they can be a touchy subject relating to kids. Our family recognizes that safety comes with proper education and experience and we’re deeply invested in the Scouting America program where knife safety is a key part of the curriculum. This knife caught our eye thanks to the Norwegian scouting connection. The smaller handle diameter is easier for kids to hold and the large guard between the handle and the blade provides some extra protection. The snap-button sheath keeps the knife securely stored when not in use.

$59

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Bike and be seen. These bike lights are small enough to keep in the bike bag for the rare occasion when the kids are biking in the dusk or dark. I like the easy mounting system because the kids’ bikes don’t need to have lights all of the time and they could be pretty easy to be stolen while the bike is locked up at school. They’re bright, weather resistant and have USB-C rechargeable batteries with long run times. Plus, they feature a battery level indicator, so you know when it’s time to recharge before it’s too late. The front light offers 40 lumens, while the rear provides 20 lumens.

$55

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Wet-wipes have been incredibly convenient and helpful, but they’re not designed for the outdoors and are pretty eco-unfriendly. PACT Wipes are made entirely of plant-based materials and are free of the chemicals that are often found in traditional wipes. Also, since they come dry, they are lighter, more compact and can’t expire. Just add water to expand them into a soft and tough 12-inch towel for a quick cleanse in the field.

$15/25 wipes

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This is our go-to for all the clothes and gear we’re sending with our kids to summer camp. They go to camps here in Colorado and in Maine — both locations can expose them to ticks or mosquitoes. The treatment is odorless after drying and can be used to treat a variety of fabrics like clothing, gear and tents. A successful application of this insect repellent treatment is effective against the pests for six weeks or six washes.

$14/12oz

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My kids love bags and they have really been drawn to this handy sling. It’s small enough to not be bulky on their little bodies but carries enough for them to be satisfied (mostly … they always want to bring more stuffies). The biggest benefit so far has been the durability of the 210-denier ripstop recycled nylon exterior. Kids are rough on gear and cheaper slings or hip bags just don’t last. Plus, I get to use it now and then and it’s got all the right pockets. It’s Fair Trade Certified and fully carbon neutral.

$60

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Hydration is key here in the dry mountain air of Colorado and the Wee Sip was designed to fit a wide variety of bottles — meaning adults could use them, too! The wide opening at the top will accommodate a standard bicycle water bottle or something wider like a Hydroflask with a rubber bottom. The Wee Sip also adjusts for bottles with different heights using the strap on the bottom. The bright red shock cord will hold bottles tight whether riding on bumpy trails or going off sick jumps. The Wee Sip is made from super tough 100% recycled EcoPak material and includes three fun interchangeable patches (great for telling them apart from siblings).

$28

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We leave this shelter in the car because it’s just as perfect for impromptu park visits as it is road-trip picnics and a visit to the beach. It pops up very quickly and the mesh windows and covers make it easy to customize the amount of sun, shade or breeze to be comfortable. It’s high enough (60 inches) to comfortably sit two adults in standard camp chairs plus kiddos playing on the ground mat. It all folds down into a 48×8-inch carry bag and is compatible with other Veer products.

$299

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These super-soft rayon-from-bamboo base layers are crafted to the same exacting standards as Le Bent’s adult range, featuring 260gsm Signature Blend fabric with merino wool. The layers offer four-way stretch, breathability and thermoregulation. Plus, they are Okeo-Tek 100 certified (the most eco-friendly types of fabrics). The low-profile flatlock seams avoid hot spots in tight fits, and my kids love the colors (black or pink)!

$80

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Sadly, even kids’ bikes can be subject to theft in our town. This lightweight but burly U-lock has proven to be a sufficient deterrent. The silicone coating is easy to grip and doesn’t scratch paint. It’s still a little clunky to carry on handlebars while riding, but it is easy to stash in a bag. For kids, I’m not super stoked about it being keyed instead of a combo lock, but with some pre-determined key management instructions for the kids, it’s worked out okay. Plus, it comes with three keys so there’s some room to learn.

$39

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Designed for cooler to frigid days, Bogs Boots are excellent. Yes, they are waterproof, warm and slip-resistant — all of which is important for sustained outside play in the cold and wet. But as parents we love the big handles so even the youngest of kids can get these on themselves! These boots are 30% lighter than the Classic II Bogs Boots which will help keep fatigue at bay.

$100

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