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The end of summer is marked by hurricanes and shifting weather. But it doesn't have to mean the end of outdoor exploration. In fact, fall can be the perfect time to get out there; the bugs are less prevalent, the leaves begin to turn, and the heat dissipates.
Of course, having the proper gear is essential for making the most out of shoulder seasons. With cooler temps and sodden days the proper footwear and apparel assures that kids will be comfortable and motivated regardless of the conditions.
In order to keep us adventuring—whether it’s a local playground trip, a day hike, or a weekend camping—I utilize a carefully curated selection of gear that can withstand a variety of conditions. And never underestimate the power of layering. After all, we can often see our breath when we bike to school in the morning and by midday are baking in the sun. The following gear and apparel is reliable, adaptable, and ready for the best—and worst—of fall weather.
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FOOTWEAR
When it comes to keeping feet warm and dry the three types of footwear we rely on are toasty slip-ons, waterproof trail runners, and rain boots.
Puffy, quilted uppers with rugged soles that are easy to slip on are a win for casual fall outings.
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The lugs on these waterproof runners make them ideal for hikes or slippery leaves coating the ground. And they also keep feet dry when walking through grass that is still wet from the morning dew.
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Rounding out the footwear category are lightweight, waterproof rain boots. If these are strong enough for Alaskan fisherman, you know they’ll withstand the dodgiest fall weather. My kids love the fun colors and the fact that unlike many taller rain boots, they are not cumbersome and are super easy to slip on. And they are just as functional for adults.
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When it comes to keeping little feet dry and comfortable, Darn Tough’s lightweight wool is our go-to. It dries quickly and since wool is naturally temperature regulating, meaning the same pair of socks feels great when it’s chilly and when it heats up.
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The monster faces and monstrous warmth of Le Bent’s party monster socks is the ultimate solution to cold toes.
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BOTTOMS
Durability and versatility are the key with fall bottoms. They should be able to withstand a little precipitation and a wide range of motion.
Stretchy joggers with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish and 40+ UPF rating. These are do-it-all adventure pants that also happen to be from 96% recycled nylon.
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When the fall air gets a bite to it the Quilted Puff Joggers provide just enough insulation and freedom of movement for little legs.
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TOPS
When it comes to tops, lightweight baselayers with soft midlayers and weatherproof shells is the optimal system. Breathable + cozy + protective = ready for anything.
A lightweight, sun protective long sleeve works wonders as a baselayer. It keeps the bugs and harmful rays at bay on sunny days and provides a little extra protection against the cold on cloudy days.
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There may be no softer hoodie out there. I gift these to friends, I buy them for myself, and come fall I shroud my kids in them.
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For a midlayer, fleece is a breathable, warm, and quick-drying fabric. Our kids have put their Patagonia fleeces through the wringer, and though they display the grime of mud, spilled snacks, and other unidentifiable detritus, they remain an essential part of the fall wardrobe.
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Who says a rain layer has to be expensive? This packable poncho is great for drizzly commutes, or as something to stash in our backpack on cloudy days. Plus what kid doesn’t look extra adorable in a poncho?
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When we’re facing serious precipitation in the fall, a little insulation goes a long way towards keeping intrepid explorers dry and warm. The Anotra provides all the protection of a waterproof shell with enough synthetic fill to keep little ones cozy.
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ACCESSORIES
Lastly, unlike winter accessories which require heavy insulation, fall accessories excel when they are not too thin and not too thick. We prefer ours with a fleece lining.
We lose gloves at a frighteningly rapid pace. We’ll go from having an abundance in our mud room accessories bin to suddenly having only left handed ones. Which is why we appreciate the price point and functionality of HEAD’s four-way stretch fleece gloves. The weight is perfect for cool but not frigid days and the grip helps hold on to found treasures.
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A perfectly stretchy and soft option for little domes, Skida Alpine hats feature delightful patterns. You can even get the same ones in adult sizes to “match your mini.”
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The great thing about gear that lasts is that it can go on from my eldest to my youngest to our friends. And so we’ve invested in quality weatherproof apparel in part so we can pay it forward and get the most out of our gear. Each fall these layers get new stories and occasional new stains but that only adds to their status as reliable and worthy seasonal apparel. Enjoying brisk air, hot cider, and the crunch of leaves underfoot all begins with the apparel that makes any condition not only tolerable but terrific.
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