Winter Gear Deep Dive

Hey, Change-Maker.

 ... are you ready for your weekly dose of inspiration and drive to shake-up early childhood as we know it? Check out the goodies I have for you this week all about winter GEAR. 

If I had a nickel for every time someone told me they were uncomfortable in the rain, heat, cold, or snow... you know the old saying.

But really, what if I told you that it was 100% possible to be comfortable even in the most undesirable weather conditions? I have summited Mt. Washington many times in mid-January, and was roasting by the time I got at the top - why? I had the proper gear to defeat the ice, snow, wind and -40F temps. To boot, I didn't take out a small loan to get what I needed. I sought out discounted gear sites, gear rental services and read the fine print in the reviews to back up my purchase.

It took me well over 4+ years to figure out what works, which gear lasts, which companies have stellar customer service, killer sales and secrets on where to look. When I created The Ultimate Gear Guide, I collapsed time for you. 

I've put together a comprehensive guide just for you. It breaks down what gear to procure/buy for every season for both children and adults. Bottom line…Gear matters. Deals matter. 

The Ultimate Gear Guide is the perfect place to start your gear journey. If you can't find the answers there, please - message me on the 'gram. This is truly, my favorite thing to talk about! 

👌Ade's Top 5 Winter Gear Picks for Kids

For the next five weeks, I'll deep dive into each piece of gear listed below, and share links to get these go-to items on sale or divulge tips on how to score them discounted. 

1. Fleece-lined rain gear (full set)

2. Wee Woolies Base layers

3. Fleece lined rain mittens

4. Merino Wool Balaclava

5. BOGS insulated rain boots

Here's why I love fleece-lined rain gear more than snow pants... 

1. Didrickson's Fleece Lined Rain Gear - This full set (bibs and hooded jacket) beats snow pants any day of the week in my book. Its thick Galon outer layer and double sealed seams keep the melty snow out. The fleecy interior keeps those busy bodies warm and cozy all day. Bibs/pants come with a reinforced, rubber bootstraps; keeping water out of boots while keeping those toes dry and warm for far longer than the traditional snowsuit. Icy puddles? Melty snow? Long days of sledding? NO PROBLEM. Say farewell to soggy snow pants that only last half a season with your fast moving and immersive child. ✨

🛍️My Favorite Small Biz for Gear is... 

Outdoor School Shop - The ladies at ODSS saw was that gear was one of the greatest challenges for both parents and teachers alike. They realized that the success of the outdoor curriculum depended in part on students having the correct gear. Without legitimately waterproof outerwear, children would be uncomfortable and potentially blame their discomfort on the program rather than the gear. Cheers to this women-owned business who has ALL you need when it comes to outdoor gear for any season/region. 

Check out Outdoor School Shop's Layering Guide! When layers are not well-thought out, the clothing won't exactly do its job... this guide walks you through how to layer, and why it matters. 

Check out Outdoor School Shop's Regional Checklist to make sure you're covered (literally). Whether you're a fellow New Englander, or a West Coster - it's all there! 

OH! And I almost forgot to mention - they have ADULT RAIN MITTENS!?!?!?!? I've got a pair myself and love them, they are comfy, come in two sizes, and are fleece-lined! Praise the Gear Gods, the day has come! Get yourself a pair today.