Winter Gear Deep Dive 3

I see you, future weather warrior. 

It's time for your weekly dose of inspiration and incentive to shake-up early childhood as we know it. Join me in re-writing the narrative on what early-childhood looks, feels and sounds like.

This week we are diving into the third installment on my top picks for winter GEAR. Are you experiencing those chilling below 0 temps? No problem. I've got the deets on what it takes to keep your kiddo warm, dry, comfortable and ready to take on winter weather.

One of the OG greats of Early Childhood, Magda Gerber had it right. We must let children be the makers of their own play destinies. As a Great Observer, I have spent countless hours standing in the rain, ice, snow and wind witnessing the power of imagination. Taking note on the incredible invention that takes place before me. Getting the proper gear is the gateway to unlimited opportunities for imaginative play and deep, rich learning (for all of us).

You may wonder, "Cool... but, Ade- you go out there even with its FREEZING and WET outside?!" Yup. Even when it's one of those days we'd all rather be inside we're out there, doing the thing! I'll tell you this, being outdoors on those days is always a far richer experience than any indoor activity I could have dreamt up. To boot- it's never as bad as we think it will be because we are dressed for it!

I know... Gearing up can be super intimidating and at times overwhelming. I felt this when I started my outdoor journey and want to alleviate that for you.

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. Making your investment last- comes first.

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!

Now, let's spill the tea on gear!

👌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

Never buy another pair of gloves or cheap snow mittens again. This is going to be the best $20 bucks you've ever spent.

1. Didrickson's Fleece Lined Rain Mittens - Y'all. These are A MUST HAVE. I truly believe this will be the best $20 you'll ever spend on gear for your kiddo. These are great for all seasons. They outlast your run of the mill snow mitten and can completely replace them. For children who are curious but have sensory sensitivities these mittens will help support an immersive and comfortable experience in nature. They are truly waterproof and have a long, over-the-arm design to go keep rain, snow and mud out of sleeves. Their fleece lining is cozy, warm, and easy to dry when they do get wet. (Just turn them inside out and let air dry or pop them on the boot dryer!) Didricksons aren't the only brand I recommend. Brands such as KULING, Polarn O. Pyret, Reima, and CelaVi all have excellent options. For colder months, pair these with a set of wool blend mitten liners for added warmth. Rain mittens also come unlined for the warmer weather. I always recommend families get at least one pair of each because they will be worn nearly every day! If you are looking for pattern variety, check out this site. If you're wishing you had a pair for yourself, you're in luck. My pals at Outdoor School Shop offer up fleece-lined rain mittens for adults! ✨

🛍️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.