Winter is where the right gear matters most. Children who come dressed well have some of their best sessions in cold and snow. Children who don't are miserable within twenty minutes. This list is the difference.
Camouflage clothing — makes children hard to spot in the forest
Cotton clothing and hats — does not insulate when wet
Clothing or shoes that are too big — loose gear is a safety hazard
Your child will need to wear
01
Base layer — top and bottom
Wool, silk, or dense polyester. This is NOT a moisture-wicking layer. This is for WARMTH. The fluffier and warmer the better in winter.
Good options: Stripes, Mountain Warehouse, MEC, Patagonia Capilene
02
Fleece layer — top and bottom
Any fleece works great. Look for one that is long enough to stay tucked in. This is a non-negotiable layer in winter.
03
Winter boots — no gumboots
Gumboots fill with snow and the velcro fills with mud. A proper winter boot with insulation is essential. Lace-up or side-zip styles stay on better than velcro in deep snow.
Favorite: Muck boots from the Horse Barn
04
Backpack with a chest clip
No wider or taller than your child's torso. Look for 10 to 18 litre capacity.
05
Snow pants and coat — separate pieces preferred
Less bulk is better. Look for good loft (fluffiness) rather than a thick heavy shell. Rain pants worn OVER a snowsuit works great on wet snow days.
06
Socks — wool or wool blend
Think ski socks. Wool socks are worth the investment in winter. Send a spare pair in the bag.
Smartwool and Kombi available at SportChek and Atmosphere
07
Mittens — 2 pairs
MUST have an elastic cuff that goes OVER the coat sleeve. This single feature makes more difference than the brand. Mittens make or break a child's winter experience. Send two pairs — the first will get soaked.
Good brands: MEC, The North Face, Columbia, Mountain Warehouse
08
Warm hat — must cover the ears and stay in place
Fleece hats are ideal. Wool ones are even better. Most hats in stores are cotton — check the label before you buy. It should not fall over their eyes.
09
Snack mittens or gloves
A cheap, thin pair of gloves kept separate from the outdoor mittens, worn only while eating. This keeps the real mittens dry. Dollar stores carry children's sizes from mid-fall.
