So it's cold and wet outside (and will probably continue to be wet for a few more months). If you only take the kids hiking in "prime" conditions, you're both missing out on the beauty of winter hiking. You read that right, the beauty of winter hiking. January and February are the prime months for the mosses, lichens, and ferns of the Pacific Northwest. If you gear up properly, staying warm and dry won't be an issue. It's particularly important to make sure the kids are prepared to face the elements. With that in mind, here is some of the gear that has kept my own daughter well protected this winter.
The Mondo Zip from Icebreaker is a great base/mid layer option. The wicking wool top doesn't itch, and works well for all winter and spring outdoor activities (boy's, girl's).
The Sierra Designs Toaster Jacket is now what both my daughter and I wear anytime we leave the house. I raved about this jacket in a review a few weeks ago, and I like the kid version just as much. The Toaster can function as a stand-alone jacket for the walk to school, or can act as a completely weatherproof shell for weekend adventures into the Gorge (boy's, girl's).
Shoes and boots in the Portland area need to be waterproof for winter and spring hiking. KEEN makes two really great options for the kids. The sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof Skyline WP is perfect for hiking; while the Bridger WP is all the youngsters will need for any and all fun in the snow. (Disclaimer: I co-host a radio show for KEEN, but I only auditioned for the show because I love the product. Plus, if I recommended shoddy gear to you and your kids I wouldn't sleep very well).
A great winter hat for junior is the Expidition Cap from Outdoor Research. It is plush and warm on the inside, and rain resistant 30D Pertex tough on the outside. The hat features earflaps that stay up via magnets, and is pretty darn good looking as well.
For more of Adam's writing, reviews, and photography, visit AdamSawyer.com
Comments
Oh my son loves being in the outdoors in any season! I'll definitely have to take a look at these suggestions for him to keep warm in the winter season :)
Great stuff. Don't leave the kids out!
The Mondo Zip sounds like a good one for my boys.
sounds like a real adventure for the kiddos!
the kids get everything cool
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