Winter Gear Deep Dive 4

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. 

Here in Maine, it's chilly ... we just had record breaking low temperatures sweep the state. News of the negative temps created a wide-spread panic. There were even roadside signs on the interstate that read: Stay indoors!

While we did take shelter indoors for a bit longer than usual, we headed out into our outdoor space just as we would have on any other day in February. Hand and toe warmers for all, balaclavas snug to our noses and cheeks, we were ready to roll. 

And you know what? We all had a BLAST. The cold temps made for incredible sledding conditions, and we stayed warm by climbing that hill, and laughing all the way back down. The vernal pool was frozen and safe for ice skating, boot skating and grain sack sledding! This was a day we had been waiting for, for MONTHS!

The truth is it took me a while to get here. After well over 4+ years, I've cracked the code on 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

I wish I had one of these when I was a sledding expert 30 years ago... 

1. Marino Wool Balaclava - I know... it sounds like that tasty Middle Eastern flakey pastry nut-filled dessert. However, balaclavas are something totally different and are equally as delightful. There are TONS of options on the internet but there are a few boxes you want to make sure your balaclava of choice checks. First, make sure it is made of either merino wool or a poly/silk blend. This will keep the heat in and wick moisture away from the head. Second, the neck portion is long enough to fully cover your child's neck and be tucked into their mid layer/outer layer. The neck warmer should also be able to be pulled up to cover the mouth and nose of the child. This is essential when keeping ice, snow and cold air from reaching the bare skin on the neck. These kiddos are movin' and shakin' and ice and snow will find a way to get in there! Wheat, Kuling, Polarn O. Pyret, Reima and Turtle Fur all have excellent options. If your child prefers things to be more tight fitting and does not mind that sensation, opt for the Shellaclava from TurtleFur. Wear balaclavas WITH a hat over top for those chillier mornings/outings. This will become a staple in your winter gear routine. If you can, get two ... they can get soggy from being near the mouths of babes, and having a dry back up is super helpful. ✨

🛍️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.