Guest Author: Cassie Markham (Peak Experiences Blog)
Adventuring with kids is equal parts magic, chaos, and memories you’ll talk about for years. The right gear makes all the difference—keeping little explorers comfortable so you can stay focused on the fun instead of worrying about cold fingers, wet socks, or missing boots (we’ve all been there).
Whether we’re hiking in our backyard mountains or traveling further afield, these are the pieces I reach for every single time. Durable, cozy, hand-me-down friendly, and parent-approved—here are my Top 5 Gear Picks for Adventures With Kids.
1. Deuter Kid Comfort Active Carrier
The carrier that has truly carried us through countless adventures.
I love how adjustable the Kid Comfort Active is—my husband and I can switch back and forth easily, and it fits a wide range of parent heights and kid sizes. It’s incredibly intuitive to get little ones in and out, which means fewer wrestling matches at the trailhead and no more lost boots every time they climb out.
My daughter’s favourite part? Climbing into it all by herself—a small independence win that makes every outing smoother.
2. Patagonia Micro D Snap-T Jacket – Kids
If there’s one jacket my kids wear more than any other, this is it.
The Micro D Snap-T is the perfect mid layer for every season—from chilly shoulder-season mornings to year-round adventures. It’s lightweight, warm, easy for kids to move in, and built with Patagonia’s signature durability. Plus, the fun colours don’t hurt.
It’s our go-to for school days, travel days, camp days… pretty much all the days.
3. Smartwool Kids Baselayers + Socks
Warm, breathable, cute, and absolutely essential.
We use the Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino 250 baselayer top and bottom, plus their kids’ socks, and I can’t recommend them enough. The merino is soft (no itch), temperature-regulating, moisture-wicking, and tough enough to survive the day-to-day realities of kid life.
Honestly, I get so much peace of mind knowing my kids are warm without overheating—whether we’re hiking, playing, or just spending the day outside.
4. Ambler Kids Toques & Hats
A staple for every season—and designed right here in Nelson, BC!
My daughter is obsessed with the designs, especially her beloved Yeti toque. Ambler’s kids collection strikes the perfect balance of fun and functional, and I love supporting a local brand rooted in the Valhalla Kingdom.
These pieces are durable, cozy, and kid-approved for all kinds of mischief.
5. KEEN Kids Boots (and Watershoes!)
Built for tiny adventurers taking big steps.
One of my favourite things about KEEN is how practical their footwear is for kids—even in the smallest sizes. From supportive hikers to waterproof everyday options, KEEN boots are durable and grippy, helping little explorers feel confident on mixed terrain.
They also make fantastic watershoes with toe caps, which means fewer stubbed toes and more carefree creek hopping. These shoes have been part of so many milestones: first hikes, first scrambles, first puddle-stomps.
Why We Choose Durable, Kid-Friendly Gear
For our family, gear that grows with our kids—and can be passed down—is a must. When we’re prepared for the elements, our kids enjoy being outside so much more. That means fewer meltdowns, less stress, and more time soaking in the moments we’ll remember forever.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the gear itself—it’s about the adventures it makes possible.
About the Author
Cassie is our Social Media Manager here at Valhalla Pure Outfitters and the founder of the Peak Experiences Blog. An avid hiker, adventure photographer and mother of two who loves sharing mountain moments and everything in between. From epic travel destinations, to off the beaten path adventures and all her favourite gear picks.
Cassie and her family prioritize travel and adventure as often as they can; checking off over 300 hikes and 15 national parks across 2 continents in the last couple years! They want to inspire families to get outdoors and explore while showcasing that adventure doesn’t have to end with young kids!
Read more about her experiences on the Peak Experiences Blog