Despite it likely being in the 70's this week, I like to send along a winter gear guide, so you have what you need when those chilly temps finally arrive for your explorer AND YOU! More resources are linked below for shops and other articles that go deeper into the "why" of each layer!
We want to use the 1-2-3 layer rule.
1 - base layers. This layer is the closest to your body and will wick away any moisture that will leave you or your explorer feeling cold. Consider wool, bamboo, or high-tech poly.
They're an investment but we've tried a lot of wool brands and recommend SmartWool and purchase pre-loved when possible. View Outdoor School Shops options for base layers.
2- mid-layer. This layer serves as an insulator between the base layer and outer layer. Choose wool or fleece; both sustain warmth and trap heat to make sure you stay warm. We have been wearing fleece sweatpants from Target as our bottom insulator and a fleece zip up for the top! View Outdoor School Shops options for mid-layers.
3 - outer layer. This layer keeps you dry! It can be insulated with fleece or wool in frigid temps or something as simple as a rain jacket and rain pants in mild temps. We love the Oaki Fleece Lined Rain pants for those chilly mornings at forest school! (You can use code WILLOWDALE at Oaki.com to save 25% on any order over $30.) View Outdoor School Shops options for outer layers.
Accessories
fleece or wool hat - we honestly love a homemade knitted hat for chilly dry days in winter but when it's snowy, you may want to consider a fleece layer like this cutie and a waterproof layer like this.
Recommended boots from our community, thank you!
For babies and young toddlers - Baby Bogs
These are the only snow boots that my kids could actually walk around in the snow with when they were 1 because they are so lightweight! I was skeptical about their feet being warm enough, but they always were! Just make sure you look for the ones that are lined and rated down to 14 degrees because they also make unlined rain boots.
For older toddlers through big kids:
SOREL - Youth Snow Commander Snow Boots
Pricey, but a reputable brand and very high quality. I’ve been buying these for years and they have never let us down! They hold up so well that they still look new when I hand them down to younger kids.
I’d also recommend kamik.
This sale price is great! A friend gave me these once so I’ve only used them for one season, but they were also really high quality. A big selling point is that they are super easy to take on/off.
You'll notice that I've linked Outdoor School Shop several times above! They are an incredible resource for outdoor play, learning and schools and even have a resale shop!
We also love L.L. Bean, Patagonia (pre-loved,) Columbia, Sierra (great prices on outdoor gear,)
Something else to consider is, if you have an explorer who is learning to use or uses the potty, a 2-piece set may be more convenient than a one-piece when considering rain and snow gear, but it is 100% preference!
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