Tested + Compiled By Cameron Martindell
Winter + Spring 2024-25Originals thermal base layer is a long-time favorite with a cotton-like hand feel that does not hold moisture. Spun polyester yarns give it a soft hand feel and spandex gives it four-way stretch so the body fit shape will move easily with you. The close body fit reduces bulk and supports kids in performance sports as well as casual use. The youth originals feature “moisture transfer fibers” to keep kids dry, body fit design for next-to-skin performance fit, UPF 30+ and come in both solid colors and prints.
$45-$60
SHOP HEREThe Shift snowshoe is engineered for adventurous preteens, providing them with the same performance and features of MSR’s adult snow shoes. We’ve used these for friends who don’t ski but wanted to join us on a winter hut trip. Easy-to-use bindings adjust to fit shoes sizes 1-7 US (Men’s), 32-41 EU.
$120
SHOP HEREThis insulated, water-resistant and packable kids’ poncho and blanket was an instant hit on our camping trips. It’s easy to keep handy as the day cools into the evening or throw on in the morning to preserve that sleeping bag coziness. The under arm snaps allow the poncho to be come and is filled with compressible water-re sistant eraLoft insulation. The one-size-fits-most 5- to 10-year-olds.
$60
SHOP HEREAfter the Women’s Adore Puffy Parka became a best seller, they made it available in a juniors’ version. The longer length and recycled PrimaLoft Black polyester insulation are great for the coldest days walking to school or playing in the woods. For short winter days, the reflective details are a nice touch along with a zippered chest pocket, hand pockets with snap buttons and a high protective collar to block the wind. The ripstop fabric proved to be durable. This parka is a certified bluesign product. See com position for details on recycled content.
$230
SHOP HEREReady for urban or backcountry adventure, this colorful little pack has an interior sleeve that doubles as a tablet holder or hydration reservoir, multiple accessory pockets, and ergonomic shoulder straps. The multiple exterior attachment points offer expandable flexibility and the backpack made from 100% deadstock nylon and polyester.
$60
SHOP HEREDesigned to support active outdoor play, the Bijou Build is a modular play structure built for playing, climbing, swinging, or just resting under the shade of the canopy. The kit just ships with the patented connecting pieces and instructions saving the buyer the cost of shipping the needed 10-foot 2×4 boards which can easily be picked up at the local lumber yard.
Starting at $509
SHOP HEREBig Angus brings a solution to the question: How is it my kid’s sleeping bag is usually 3x the size of mine? No wonder they can’t fit anything in their pack. This mini-me version of the the adult-size Torchlight has solved this problem and finally brought a nice 20ºF 650 Downtek PFC-free down sleeping bag to the market (available spring 2025). The adjustable length and girth system means the bag is warmer (less dead air space to warm) and will last a few seasons. The bag packs down nice and small (especially with a compression sack). Also, the integrated pad sleeve that doubles as a storage sack is brilliant.
$240
SHOP HERERaining or not, puddles are always for stomping and a rubber boot is the best way to go. These easy slip on waterproof rubber boots shed it all. The heel-tab proved to be pretty easy for my kids to put these on themselves and the non-marking gum rubber sole has
proven to be very grippy even in very wet conditions.
$50
SHOP HEREHelen Olsson writes about camping from a parent’s point of view and lays out a clear plan and plenty of encouragement. Each chapter features helpful checklists, including “Little Tykes” lists dedicated to items for babies and toddlers. The book focuses on car camping but nods to alternate ways to camp: backpacking, pull-behind campers, canoe/kayak trips, hut camping and trips with pack animals.
$25
SHOP HEREPushing for cleaner ingredients and full transparency, Melan was started to help prevent Melanoma — a cancer of the skin — and choses to support Melanoma prevention research. The product applies easily, doesn’t leave a greasy residue and has a fun punny vibe. Perfect for kiddos.
$24/6oz
SHOP HEREThe Cloud All in One Kids Snowsuit is remarkably economical and a great waterproof and
breathable winter outfit. The soft-touch fleece lining is super cozy and the elasticated cuffs, ankles and waist makes this a very practical weatherproof garment, ideal for fun in the snow.
$100
SHOP HEREYou may know Gregory for backpacks, but here’s another way to haul all that kids’ gear! With 140 liters of capacity, oversized 8-inch all-terrain wheels, and the reinforced collapsible frame provides a portable and reliable way to get that gear where you need it. Plus, there’s a rain and sun cover and a few pockets for organization. 250-pound weight carry limit (with floor installed).
$250
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