We were gifted XTRATUF TUFS toddler boots to test out and review on the blog. As always, all opinions expressed are our own.
🎶 It’s that time of year 🎶… when I start to think about how I’m going to fit six sets of snow gear on our coat rack, and I think that I should reallyyy buy a washable rug for the entryway.
Living in Minnesota, we get to experience all the seasons in their natural beauty–and we also need all the gear to do that. I’ve tried out quite a few brands of kids’ gear through the years. Some have lasted and some haven’t worked well/have needed replacing after a kid or two. I’ve tried different price points (both purchased by myself and via hand-me-downs) and found where we can economize versus where it pays off to pay more.
This post is a roundup of my and my kids’ favorite cold weather gear–the stuff that’s warm, comfortable, and has lasted our family through the years.
The Best Kids Outdoor Gear: Outerwear
Let’s start with the obvious: winter coats, snowpants, and accessories!
For winter coats and snowpants, we love the jacket and pants sets from Columbia. We have been gifted some Marmot and North Face gear by family and neighbors, which is similar quality but more expensive–and also some outerwear from Target brands, which hasn’t held up as well over time. I find Columbia sets are a great combination of quality and reasonable price. I like to shop their summer sale (usually held in July) and have gotten most pieces 40-50% off that way.
For rain pants, we’ve tried a few brands and my favorite is Oaki. They are a bit thicker and warmer than the other pairs we have and are truly waterproof in pouring rain.
For winter gloves/mittens, I usually purchase a few pairs from Columbia during their summer sale. Again, I don’t find more expensive brands to be particularly higher quality, but cheaper brands definitely aren’t as warm.
A great small business for winter hats is I’m In The Loop on Etsy! My oldest has had the same wool blend winter hat from here for several years, and I’ve bought baby gifts from here, too. Warm, cute, durable, and a small business–this brand checks all my boxes.
The Best Kids Outdoor Gear: Footwear (& a Review of XTRATUF Toddler Boots)
Footwear has always been difficult for us because I have wide-footed kids. Their feet simply don’t fit into some shoe brands. Here’s what’s worked for us so far:
For snow boots, we like Columbia or–when I can find them secondhand–Sorel boots with the velcro closures.
For cold weather rain boots, we recently discovered a new-to-us brand, XTRATUF, which makes deck boots and other footwear for men, women and kids. They’re based in Alaska, and their boots and shoes are truly built for the rugged weather–for outdoor work, fishing, boating and hiking in all seasons.
XTRATUF recently introduced a new kids’ collection, TUFS boots. They’re ankle-height deck boots made from BioLite, an eco-friendlier synthetic that is lightweight and waterproof. My second and thirdborn, who wear the same shoe size, were able to test out a pair during our outdoor adventures over the past month. And boy did they put them to the test–it’s been cold and mucky, and my kids don’t play carefully outside!
TUFS boots are a great fit for slim and wide-footed kids alike. They’re easy for toddlers to put on/take off themselves (as a mom of many, I love that). The boots feel so light when you pick them up that you wonder if they’ll hold up to rough and tumble play–and, they absolutely do. The material is quite flexible and the boots are perfect for running, jumping, climbing, and more.
Would I purchase another pair? Yes, definitely. Probably two pairs though so my middle kids stop fighting over them 😛 My husband wants a pair of their men’s deck boots for himself now, too!
The Best Kids Outdoor Gear: Base Layers
My oldest skis, so a good base layer is a must when it gets down to subzero temperatures here.
I do like shopping small when possible, especially when it comes to animal-based products. Last year I discovered Wee Woolies, an ethically sourced wool clothing brand based in Vancouver, and gave them a shot for a kids base layer. They’re a bit more expensive but excellent quality. Also, their customer service immediately replaced my order after it got lost in the mail. Highly recommend! Their clothes are soft, warm and durable–I’ll be buying another one this year.
For socks, I shop SmartWool sales as full-cushion ski socks can get pricey and they wear out fast.
And that’s a wrap on our favorite winter outdoor gear (and a review of XTRATUF toddler boots)! Do you think I missed a great brand? Let me know in the comments 🙂
xx Claire
