It’s time to start gearing up for back to school season! The best school gear does double duty, keeping kids comfortable in the classroom while holding up during recess, after school activities, and weekend adventures.
Our team of mamas has rounded up our favorite high-quality back to school gear for outdoorsy kids that is perfect for both school and outdoor adventures. From clothing for active kids to durable backpacks, water bottles, and lunch bags, below are some of our favorite picks for the upcoming school year.
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Table of Contents
Clothing for Outdoorsy Kids
When outfitting outdoorsy kids, we love Reima’s high-quality apparel. Designed with active little ones in mind, their clothes are durable and functional. Plus, they’re made with non-toxic materials and come in a variety of fun colors and prints that kids love.
We’ve put together a list of favorites from Reima and other trusted brands. These clothing options are perfect for the classroom, playground, trail and everywhere in between.
Kids Pants for Everyday Adventures
Pants for active kids need to be sturdy, comfortable, and allow freedom of movement. Here are some of our favorite pants that blend function and comfort, making them great options for both school days and weekend adventures. Looking for more pants? Check out our Best Hiking Pants for Kids.
Reima Joggari Organic French Terry Joggers
A comfy pair of sweatpants is a wardrobe staple for every active kid. These Reima joggers are made from a soft organic cotton blend and are extra durable, breathable, and quick-drying. They’re perfect for school, recess, and weekend outings.
Reima Misam Merino Wool Pants
Misam pants are made of soft, breathable, moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating merino wool to help keep kids dry and comfortable. These versatile pants can be worn on their own in milder weather and over base layers for extra warmth when temperatures drop.
REI Co-op Mountainmaker Pants
These pants have a durable, water-repellent finish and UPF 50+ protection, making them a great for recess or field trips. With multiple pockets to hold small treasures and a handy utility loop, these pants are practical and comfy for both school days and outdoor play.
Reima Vaeltaa Waterproof Pants
These soft waterproof pants can be worn on their own or over another layer. They’re not too heavy, very soft, and are comfortable with a drawstring waist. They are perfect for playing, hiking, and adventuring in wet weather, making them a great option for rainy day recess or forest school outings.
Tops for Active Kids
Our favorite fall tops for outdoorsy kids are easy to layer. Fall weather can swing from chilly to warm in the matter of a few hours, so layering is key to keeping kids comfortable throughout the day. Here’s a few options we love.
REI Co-op Sahara Shade Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
This soft knit longsleeve tee is a versatile and comfy addition to your kid’s wardrobe. It is made with moisture wicking fabric that has UPF 50 sun protection making it great for sunny fall days on the playground or trails.
Nui Organics Trailhead Merino Hoodie
Made from soft merino wool, this hoodie is perfect for keeping kids cozy and comfortable in both the classroom and outdoors. It can be worn on its own or layered under a jacket on cold days.
Reima Laskien Moisture-Wicking Fleece Sweater
This soft zip-up sweater is a perfect fall staple. Wear it on its own, or pair it with a waterproof jacket for full weather protection on wet, chilly days.
Kids Fall Jackets & Outerwear
Jackets and outerwear are must-haves for any outdoorsy kid’s fall wardrobe. Our favorites are comfortable and cozy, keeping kids dry and warm from the playground to the nature trails. Here’s a few we love.
Mountain Warehouse Softshell Jacket
These jackets come at a great price and hold up well to lots of outdoor and playground use. They are water resistant and do well with keeping kids warm on cooler fall days. Check out all of our favorite Softshells for the Whole Family here.
Reima Turbo Fleece Jacket
Perfect for layering on extra cold days or wearing on its own, this versatile fall jacket is made with warm, fluffy fleece and lined with soft jersey. A cozy hood and elastic at the sleeves and hemline help keep warmth in, while two zip pockets are perfect for stashing small treasures.
Reima Mukana Water-Repellent Hybrid Jacket
This cozy jacket is water repellent and lined with fleece to keep kids warm and comfortable on cold, wet autumn days. It also features a zipped chest pocket, side pockets, and a detachable hood.
Reima Kuorista Waterproof Jacket
Built for all-weather adventures, this jacket is waterproof, breathable, and made with eco-friendly Seawool for a softer feel. Lightweight and versatile, it’s perfect for keeping kids dry and warm as the seasons transition.
Reima Nurmes Softshell Water-Repellent Outdoor Jumpsuit
This jumpsuit is soft and flexible, yet durable enough for adventures of all kinds. It’s water-resistant and windproof material makes it a great outer layer for autumn that kids can wear over their clothes to help keep them dry and comfortable when the weather is damp and chilly.
Kids Gear for Rainy Days
Wet days don’t have to keep kids indoors. With the right rain gear, splashing in puddles and playing in the rain can be just as fun as sunny days. These are some of our team’s favorites and check out more rain gear here: Best Rain Gear for Kids
Reima Vesi Waterproof Rubber Rain Jacket
The Vesi Rain Jacket is a team favorite for keeping active little ones dry in wet weather. Made from flexible, PVC-free and PFAs free material, this jacket is durable yet flexible. It also comes in several different bright colors and cute prints that kids love.
Reima Lammikko Waterproof Rain Pants
Comfortable and super durable, these rain pants are perfect for rainy day play. Their high waist provides extra coverage to keep little ones dry while splashing and playing in wet conditions. Their roomy fit and durability means you may just get several seasons out of these pants before having to size up.
Reima Rapakko Lightly Insulated Rain Suit
Built for cold, wet adventures, the Rapakko rain suit keeps kids warm and dry. With light insulation, it’s suitable for temperatures from 40 to 15°F. Easy to slip on and off, this all-in-one suit is perfect for puddle-jumping, muddy trails, and wet, chilly outdoor play.
Reima Puro Waterproof Lined Rain Mittens
Keep little one’s hands warm and dry during rainy day play with these mittens made from waterproof material. They also feature a soft brushed knit lining for extra comfort.
Read more about our favorite waterproof Reima gear for outdoorsy kids in this review.
Kids Hats for Outdoor Play
These hats help keep heads protected from the sun, rain or just keep the head warm. Check out some more of our favorite sun hats and warm hats!
Sunday Afternoons Play Hat
These are my favorite sun hat for kids! Water-resistant and stain-resistant, they feature a break-away chin strap and a generous brim. They’re also super breathable so they don’t get too hot, and comfortable enough that even my hat-hating boys will tolerate them.
Patagonia Trucker Hat
This trucker hat features a large, flexible bill that is perfect for keeping the sun out of kids’ eyes during outdoor adventures. The COOLMAX® moisture-wicking headband keeps little heads from getting too sweaty, and the mesh back allows air flow to keep them cool.
Reima Villaisa Merino Wool Beanie
This soft merino wool beanie is perfect for keeping little heads cozy on chilly fall mornings and outdoor adventures. It’s breathable, naturally moisture-wicking to keep kids comfortable. Plus, it comes in a variety of fun colors!
Fall Accessories for Active Kids
The little things count! A good pair of socks, hair ties for keeping long locks back during play, and warm gloves can keep kids comfortable whether they’re heading to school, playing on the playground, or exploring on a fall hike. Here are a few great options to keep them ready for anything.
Goody Sport Forever Glow in the Dark Elastic Hair Ties
I love these sturdy hair elastics for both me and my daughter’s hair. They don’t get tangled or break as easily since they’re nice and thick. And kids love that they glow in the dark!
REI Co-op COOLMAX EcoMade Active Quarter Socks
Breathable, comfy socks are a must-have for active kids. These feature smooth seams to help prevent blisters and reinforced heel and toe areas to help them stand up to wear.
Smartwool Classic Hike Full Cushion Margarita Crew Socks
My family loves Smartwool socks! Made with soft, odor-resistant, and breathable Merino wool they’re super comfy and great for hiking. And I find that they’re so durable, they last through several kids.
Reima Sormin Merino Wool Blend Knit Gloves
Keep hands and fingers warm with these merino wool knit gloves. Kids can wear them on their own in the fall, and then layer them under weatherproof gloves or mittens for extra protection from the elements when winter rolls around.
Waterproof Shoes for Outdoorsy Kids
Shoes are important for keeping little feet protected and comfortable during the school day, at recess, and on weekend adventures. The best shoes for outdoorsy kids support feet, offer excellent grip to prevent slips, and feel good enough to wear all day long. These are a few of our top picks.
Reima Tallustelu Waterproof Barefoot Shoes
Tallustelu waterproof barefoot shoes have a comfortable, minimalist design including elastic laces that make them easy to get off and on. Approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association, they feature a wide toe box and thin sole to support kids’ foot development, as well as their natural stance and gait.
Reima Enkka Waterproof Sneakers
These light-weight, waterproof sneakers are a great all-purpose shoe for outdoor play. They’re durable, comfy, and great for multi-season wear. Their elastic laces make it easy for kids to pull them on and off quickly and easily.
Reima Ankka Barefoot Rain Boots
Ankka barefoot rain boots are perfect for getting outside on wet, rainy fall days. They’re easy to pull on and feature a cotton lining for extra comfort. They’re designed with plenty of room for kid’s growing feet, zero heel drop, and a flexible rubber outsole to support natural stance and foot development.
Backpacks for School & Weekend Adventures
A good backpack is a must-have for back to school that can do double duty on weekend adventures, carrying everything from school books to outdoor essentials. Here are a few of our team’s favorites. Check out all of our Backpack Reviews here.
REI Co-op Tarn 18 Pack
The Tarn is a great multipurpose pack for kids 6-12 years old that can be used for school or hitting the trail. It’s made with durable, water repellent material. It features a breathable mesh back panel, adjustable chest strap cinches, and padded straps for extra comfort. It also has plenty of pockets and an internal sleeve for a 2-liter hydration reservoir, school binders, or a small laptop.
Jan & Jul Kids Backpack
Perfect for preschool and elementary school kids, this water-resistant backpack comes with a built-in waterproof rain cover that stows away in a hidden pocket (and can be detached for cleaning!). It features wide shoulder straps, adjustable chest support straps, and internal mesh pockets with an organizer panel.
Land’s End Kids ClassMate Medium Backpack
This durable backpack is built to handle both school and weekend adventures. Padded straps and a chest strap help distribute weight so kids can carry their gear comfortably. Mesh water bottle pockets, multiple compartments, and a spacious interior helps keep everything organized. It’s also available in lots of fun colors and prints that kids love.
Pottery Barn Kids Backpack
Made from polyester from recycled bottles, this backpack is an eco-friendly option for the back to school season. It’s durable, and water resistant with padded, contoured straps and a cushioned back panel, making it extra comfy for kids to carry their gear. It features roomy compartments and side water-bottle pockets and it comes in lots of fun color and print options.
Water Bottles for Outdoorsy Kids
Staying hydrated is especially important for active kids. A good water bottle makes it easy for them to drink enough throughout the day. These are a few our team loves. And here are some more of the Team’s favorite water bottles.
Owala FreeSip Water Bottle
This stainless steel bottle is BPA, lead, and phthalate-free. It’s leak-proof, and features a wide opening for easier cleaning and a convenient carry loop.
Nalgene Water Bottle
Leak-proof, easy-to-clean, and dishwasher-safe, Nalgene water bottles are a classic for good reason. The wide mouth makes it easy to fill with ice and clean, but If your little one finds it a bit too sloshy when drinking, you can easily add a splash guard to keep spills in check.
Yeti Rambler Water Bottle with Straw Cap
This stainless steel water bottle is a team favorite. Its double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks cold longer and it features a sturdy handle and leak-proof cap.
Lunch Boxes & Food Containers for School
Durable lunch boxes and bags keep food fresh and make lunchtime easier, whether at school or out on a family outing. Here are some of our favorite picks and for even more ideas, check out Lunchboxes For Outdoorsy Kids.
Lone Cone Insulated Lunch Box
Made from 100% food safe materials, this durable lunch box has an adjustable buckle handle, making it easy to clip the bag onto your child’s backpack. It also features thick insulation and is machine-washable and easy-wipe clean.
Bentgo Lunch Box
Bentgo lunch box containers are designed to help keep food fresh on the go. They’re food-safe, BPA-free and leak-proof and feature different compartments to keep foods separate. They also are safe for the dishwasher, microwave, and freezer.
Jan & Jul Lunch Bag
These kids lunch bags are perfect for school and weekend adventures. They’re water-resistant, easy to clean, and made with safe, eco-friendly materials. Designed by moms, they fit most bento-style lunch boxes and keep food fresh longer with insulated layers. Amelia uses these and actually prefers them to the beloved LL Bean ones (linked below) since they are just slightly larger and fit containers better.
L.L. Bean Lunch Box
Made from the same durable material as their backpacks, these lunch boxes last forever! Each lunchbox features an easy-to-clean BPA- and PVC-free lining and a handy extra zipper pocket on the front. Plus, it comes in a variety of fun prints and colors.
Helpful Accessories
Here are a few handy items that make packed lunches easier to enjoy. They also help reduce waste by replacing single-use plastics like disposable bags and silverware.
humangear GoBites Bio Uno Spork
These BPA-free sporks are a great eco-friendly silverware option. Their smaller size and soft fork edges makes them perfect for kids.
Reusable Food Storage Bags
Reusable food bags are perfect for packing lunches and snacks on the go. Made from durable, BPA-free food-safe material, they’re sturdy and reusable, helping you ditch single-use plastic. They’re also easy to clean by hand or toss in the dishwasher (top-rack only).
Reuseable Ice Buddies
These ice packs come in bright colors and fun designs. They freeze fast and keep food and drinks cold for up to 4 hours, making them perfect for school lunches or picnics. Plus, they’re made from 100% safe, non-toxic, food-grade plastic.
Other Back-to-School Gear for Outdoorsy Kids
Here are a few little extras that make school and outdoor time easier and more fun.
Inchbug Labels
Help keep track of your little one’s things with these waterproof, washable stickers. No ironing or sewing required, just peel and stick on clothing, water bottles, lunch boxes, and more.
NoSo Gear & Apparel Patches
NoSo Gear patches are fun, durable fabric patches designed to personalize and repair clothing and gear. Made from high-quality materials, they don’t require sewing or ironing and are built to hold up through washing and wear. They’re perfect for covering holes or stains or just adding a unique touch to jackets, backpacks, hats, pants, and more.
Carabiners
Carabiners are great for both school and outdoor adventures. They come in handy for clipping a water bottle or lunch bag to a backpack, or securing keys and other small essentials.
Mom’s Back-to-School Survival Kit
Back-to-school season is a big transition for moms too! Here’s a few things to make the shift from summer vacation a little smoother.
Skylight Calendar
Stay organized this back to school season with Skylight Calendar. It features a touchscreen display that shows all your events, chores, dinner plans, and tasks. You can also create, edit, and color code grocery lists and connect calendars from multiple personal devices to keep your schedule streamlined.
Feeding Littles Lunches Book
If you could use a little extra inspiration for packing school lunches this recipe book has you covered! It includes 75+ lunch ideas that are quick and easy to make for kids of all ages. Each recipe includes tips for picky eaters, kids with food allergies, and vegetarian swaps. And it’s co-authored by a dietician, ensuring the recipes are healthy for kids.
YETI Rambler Travel Mug
A travel mug is a must-have for busy moms. This one is cup-holder-friendly and has a leak-resistant lid, making it perfect for your commute. It has double-wall vacuum insulation to keep your drink cold or hot and it’s BPA-free and dishwasher safe.
Four Sigmatic Balance Instant Organic Coffee Packets
Mornings can be a whirlwind when you’re trying to get lunches packed and get everyone off to school. These instant coffee packets are the perfect pick-me-up for stressful mornings when you’re short on time. Just add hot water, mix, and sip!
They contain organic coffee and a blend of herbs and mushrooms (ashwagandha, chaga, eleuthero & tulsi) for immune support and stress relief. And they’d also be perfect for tossing in a backpack for a quick coffee when you’re out camping.
REI Co-Op Stuff Travel Waist Pack
This waist pack lets you carry your phone, wallet, and more while keeping your hands free. It’s perfect keeping essentials on hand while dropping the kids off at school or hitting the trails.
Kavu Rope Bag
This is the perfect bag for busy mamas! With its comfy rope strap, roomy main pocket, and smaller compartments for snacks, keys, or kid treasures, it keeps everything organized and handy, whether you’re running errands or out on a weekend adventure.
KeepGoing Travel First Aid Kit for Kids
Compact and lightweight, this first aid kit is perfect for stashing in your car, purse, or backpack. It comes with essential first aid supplies in a cute stain and water resistant case.
Swiss Army Spartan Knife
This compact Swiss Army Knife keeps you ready for whatever life throws your way! It features large blade, a small blade, a can opener with small screwdriver, a bottle opener with large screwdriver, a wire stripper, tweezers, a reamer with sewing eye, a corkscrew, and a toothpick.
Gear Up for an Amazing School Year
Choosing durable, versatile gear keeps kids ready for all the playing, exploring, and learning this school year has in store for them. We hope these back-to-school picks help your family gear up for amazing adventures both in and out of the classroom.
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Back to School Gear for Outdoorsy Kids
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