Getting kids into the outdoors can be incredibly rewarding but can be a little intimidating at first…

Witnessing kids seeing new things in the outdoors for the first time is inspiring and allows us to see through their eyes again and makes the experience extra special. However, anyone with kids knows that it can be tricky to take that first step into outdoor adventure. What will we need, what gear is right for them, how much is too much? Whether you want to go climbing, hiking, skiing, or kayaking, we have narrowed down the best gear to take your little adventurer on their next trip in the outdoors.

1. Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier 
 

Before the little one can even start walking, the Osprey Poco Plus Child Carrier is the perfect first intro for any young child into nature. With the front-facing harness, it allows your plus one to see everything you can and the built-in sunshade will keep them safe while on the trail. The Osprey Poco Plus has a carrying capacity of 10-22kg and has storage compartments for toys, spare nappies and snacks. For a limited time, all Osprey Poco Child Carriers come with a free rain cover, so you can get outside in rain or shine.

2. Crocs Classic Kids Clogs

 

With the weather warming up, it may be time to get some new sandals. It seems like Crocs are the new go-to shoe for casual and outdoor wear for adults, so why not kids? Not only are they super comfortable but they are also enclosed which means no stubbed toes (or tears to follow). They’re also lightweight for travelling or popping in a backpack as an extra set and they are waterproof for any adventures by the water. You can also get shoe charms to customise the look for whatever your child likes! 

 

3. Petzl Macchu Kids Climbing Harness

 

Does your kid want to hit the crag? Time to level up their climbing from the gym to outdoor climbing with the Petzl Macchu Kids Climbing Harness. Made for kids under 40kg, the Petzl Macchu harness has a wide range of adjustability in the legs and waist to accommodate a growing child. It comes with the same features as an adult harness so they can be just like the grown-ups. 

 

4. Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Kids Waterproof Jacket

 

The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Waterproof Jacket is a favourite amongst adventuring adults and now they make one for kids! With a range of sizes from Small to XL, there are options to suit kids as they continue to grow. The Torrentshell has a 3-layer construction throughout, a waterproof zipper and a generous-sized hood so your little explorer will stay dry throughout their adventures. 

 

5. Osprey Ace 50 Kids Backpack

 

For when the kids want to take on bigger hikes, the Osprey Ace 50 Kids Pack is the ideal choice. It has an adjustable harness to suit as they grow and a load range of 7-12kg which will fit all of their clothes, shoes, toiletries and more. There is an internal sleeve for a water bladder to stay hydrated on the trails and an integrated rain cover in case of gloomy skies. 

 

6. Mad Rock Mad Monkey 2.0 Kids Climbing Shoes

 

Made with kids in mind, the Mad Rock Mad Monkey 2.0 Kids Climbing Shoes are our pick for when it is time to upgrade from gym rentals. The Mad Monkey climbing shoes come in sizes from Kids 1 to Kids 13 and there is also a rear heel strap which allows for an extra half size bigger for growing feet. The dual closure system ensures a customised fit and the Science Friction 3.0 rubber sole is super grippy for taking on new projects.

 

7. Rad Gloves Junior 2 Insulated Kids Mittens 

 

Time to hit the slopes? The Rad Gloves Junior 2 Insulated Kids Mittens will keep your little shredder toasty warm while on the ski hill or walking around the resort village. They are 15k waterproof and 15k breathability so they won’t soak through but allow for ventilation. Want to hear the best part? There are built-in wrist leaches so no dropped mittens on the chairlift! 

 

8. Merrell Moab 3 Low Lace Kids Waterproof Hiking Shoes

 

The Merrell Moab 3 Low Lace Kids Waterproof Hiking Shoes are made for hiking in all conditions. The sole is grippy to take on a variety of terrain and the waterproof membrane allows for endless jumping in puddles. Offering sizes from Kids 1 to Kids 6, these are a great option for little ones getting outdoors from a young age. 

9. Sea To Summit Solution Gear Multi-Fit Youth PFD

 

Summer will be here before we know it, so it’s time to get ready to hit the water. Whether it’s your little one’s first trip in a kayak, canoe, paddleboard or even jetski, you want to make sure they are safe while doing so. The Sea To Summit Solution Gear Multi-Fit Youth PFD is great for growing water lovers with its 6 adjustment points to endure the correct fit and the durable 600D polyester will endure adventures for years to come.

10. Burley Bee Single Kids Bike Trailer

 

When family bike trips are on the cards but the little one is not yet ready for their own set of wheels, look no further than the Burley Bee Single Kids Bike Trailer. It is easy to hitch to the back of your hike and is perfect for kids from 12 months old and up to 18kg. There is a built-in harness to keep your child strapped in safely and the UPF 50+ windows and weather-resistant cover will ensure they stay protected in all weather conditions. 

 

Are you ready to get the kids outdoors? Visit us in-store to chat with our experts or shoot us a message online if you have any questions! Don’t forget to share your adventures with us on Instagram by tagging @wildearthaustralia and #mywildearth in your next post.

 

 

About the contributor: 

   Jess Fiske is the Marketing Coordinator at Wild Earth. When she isn’t rollerblading in the streets of Coolangatta, you will find her either hiking in SEQ or strapping on her snowboard somewhere cold. Always planning her next adventure, Jess loves to get outdoors and travel off the beaten path. Follow her adventures on Instagram.