MomFinds.com - Archive: Explore the Great Outdoors

Explore the Great Outdoors

Explore the
Great Outdoors

Head outside with the kids and enjoy
all that Mother Nature has to offer

Ladies,

It's time to head outside with the kids! Whether you are planning a camping trip, a day hike, or just an hour or two exploring the woods, these outdoor products can help ease the pain and let your family enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer.

Enjoy,

MomFinds

.: Getting Around

Baby Jogger All Terrain Swivel Stroller

Editor’s Pick: Baby Jogger All Terrain Swivel Stroller ($299):

Whoever invented the term “a walk in the park” did not have a whining toddler and a rickety stroller. The Baby Jogger All Terrain Swivel Stroller is a really tough stroller that actually performs over roots, rocks and gullies on real trails. It has a suspension system and pneumatic tires that absorb bumps, so little tykes can nap while you cover rough ground. You can use it for strolling or lock the front wheel in place for stability while jogging and hiking. Spare yourself disappointing turnarounds because the stroller won’t make it and get your self this one.

More Must Have Hiking Gear:

ERGO Baby Carrier ($105):

Have a child who can’t decide whether he wants to hike or be carried? The ERGO saves the day. It’s easy to use and versatile—carry your child in front, back or on your hip. It’s designed with both baby’s and parent’s comfort in mind, so long hikes are an option. Comfortably carries kids up to 40 lbs.

REI Piggyback Child Carrier ($165):

This is a great backpack carrier that performs wonderfully and doesn’t break the bank. Cool features include a hydration sleeve, a rearview mirror and a labeled torso-adjust slot so you can easily adjust the pack to fit parents of different heights.

Burley d'lite Trailer ($538):

This classic bike trailer is rugged, safe and easy to attach to a bike. The d’lite holds two kids and plenty of gear, and provides cool safety features. If the biker falls down the stroller stays upright, and a mesh cover protects kids from bugs. A jogging wheel is also available, so you can use it instead of a double jogging stroller.

.: Boots Made for Walking

Hi-Tec Kids Monsoon Waterproof Trail Boots

Editor’s Pick: Hi-Tec Kids' Monsoon Waterproof Trail Boots ($49)

Hiking boots for kids are tricky. Most folks think that a good pair of sneakers is fine for younger kids who are generally doing shorter hikes and that “real” hiking boots are too stiff for little feet. But for kids who will actually hike in rocky areas, hiking boots provide more ankle support, traction and padding than most sneakers. We love the Hi-Tec Kids Monsoon Waterproof Trail Boots, which are waterproof and have rustproof hardware. Your young hiker will feel the comfort of lots of padding plus a breathable mesh fabric lining.

More Must Have Footwear:

Merrell Chameleon Z-Rap Jr. ($30):

For toddlers who want to have an outdoorsy look and do their best at hiking, we like the Merrell Kid’s Chameleon Z-Rap Jr. They are cute and easy to get on and off. The Vibram soles have good traction for walking on rocks and are non-marking.

Vasque Sundowner Classic GTX ($159.95):

For moms and dads, we can’t say enough about the Vasque Sundowner. This is a classic leather boot that will last a lifetime. If the sole gets worn, you can easily get it resoled at an approved Vasque resoler. It’s got Gore-Tex so it’ll keep your tootsies warm and dry.

SmartWool Socks ($8.99):

Cotton socks are a big no-no for outdoor activities, even when it’s warm outside. You need to wear wool or synthetics—like SmartWool, a combination of wool, nylon and spandex. The socks have an elastic arch and a flexible instep to support feet and flat seams on the toes to prevent blisters.

.: Outdoor Extras

Camelbak Mini M.U.L.E.

Editor’s Pick: CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. Hydration Daypack ($39.95)

Bigger kids can carry their own water and drink it when they want to with the CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. Hydration Daypack. Unlike some hydration packs that just hold a bladder, this has a pocket for a snack and other trail essentials. It holds 1.5 liters, which is enough water to hydrate a kid for a couple of hours. The valve is easy to drink from, and it’s replaceable in case your child chews on it.

More Must Have Extras:

Natrapel 8 Hour ($6.95):

West Nile Virus is still around. While healthy adults don’t have much to worry about, kids can get very sick if they get it. Natrapel is a DEET-free insect repellent that works—it uses Picaridin, which is among the ingredients the CDC recommends to prevent West Nile Virus.

Flap Happy Sun Hats for Babies and Toddlers ($12.25 - $16.25):

You’ve got all the outdoor gear, but don’t forget the little things—like a summer hat. Get one of these hats in cool prints and protect your child’s head and neck from the sun’s harmful rays. Choose from cotton sheeting, organic cotton, nylon or microfiber.

Mini Fox 40 Safety Whistle ($5.50):

If your kids are old enough to hike out of your sight, a whistle can be a great tool. Hook it onto their pack and teach them that the signal for distress is three whistle blows in a row. Kids can remember it by thinking “I need help” and blowing for each word.