Hiking in the snow is a peaceful experience, whether you are padding through softly falling snow and evergreens or crunching through sunny trails with sparkling powder. Hiking in the snow with a baby is fun and opens their eyes to new views, but requires a little extra planning!
Ryan was born in March 2022, so this is my first winter getting outside with him. I've been careful to to plan his outfits for our outdoor activities. Not only do I want him to be safe and protected, but I also don't want him to get upset mid way through a hike because he is uncomfortable. The first time Mike and I took him on a winter hike, we stopped at Target on the way to the trailhead and panic bought a lot of extra layers and accessories...just in case. Now that it has been a few months, I've gotten a routine down for his outfits. Just like you, you have to dress your baby in layers and anticipate inclement weather to make sure they are always the right temperature for the day!
Here is my kit for a comfortable snow baby:
#1. Base layer. A merino onesie is a great foundation for a warm winter baby kit. A base layer can make or break a winter kit - it's the layer next to the skin that has to both retain heat and wick away moisture. Merino is a natural fiber that wicks away moisture, traps warmth, and wears again and again (even without a wash). I wear merino base layers and wanted Ryan to have that same warmth. The base layer was the most expensive item I bought, but I never worry that he is cold, so it's worth it to me. I chose to try out the Wee Woolies merino sleeper and love it - we sized up so it would fit him all winter. A synthetic base layer (like polyester) also offers reliable warmth and moisture wicking.
#2. Midlayer. A fleece onesie offers additional warmth and is a thin layer to add in for especially cold days. These are easy to find at consignment stores or through less expensive brands like Carter's. These onesies often have footies as well, eliminating the need for too many layers of socks depending on your setup!
#3. Insulated layer. The outermost layer should be insulated and protect from wind and weather. There are two types of setups - you could have a jacket and pair of bib-pants, or a one-piece insulated layer called a bunting. I chose to get Ryan and jacket and bibs combination for several reasons:
- Ryan can wear the bibs in his car seat**, so when we get to the trailhead he is already wearing a layer while I finish dressing him in the trunk
- The bibs unzip at the bottom for easier diaper changes
- Bibs are waterproof, a feature I looked for so Ryan can sit in the snow when we're taking breaks from the carrier
I got a pair of bibs from a nearby Columbia outlet and a thick Gap jacket from Marshalls.
**Babies cannot wear a puffy insulated jacket or bunting in a car seat, as there is a risk of the car seat failing in an accident if the straps are not tightly fitted to the baby's body.
#4. Accessories. The hat, gloves, and boots round out the outfit to make sure all Ryan's extremities stay warm.
- I have two hat options - one normal ski hat and a fleece hat with ear flaps that protect his cheeks (it looks like an Elmer Fudd hat).
- Gloves were easy to find, and I opted for velcro-closing, Thinsulate-filled gloves for toddlers so he can grow into them.
- Boots were harder to find, but I am obsessed with the ones I just got him. Stonz makes water- and wind-resistant baby booties that are fleece lined and use bungee-cord closures. They are so easy to get on and keep his feet warm and dry.
Ryan's entire kit for this winter ran about $180 in total - with investment pieces focused on the merino base layer ($60), water resistant insulated layers ($45), and and water resistant booties ($28 on sale). We try to find consignment clothes, outlet deals, and sales wherever we can, and size up so that we get a longer life out of each piece.
Drop a comment below with layers you use for your baby and any great brands or products for kids!