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Welcome to ODSS Magazine - your guide to raising kids who stay outside longer. From practical gear advice and layering tips to seasonal how-tos and outdoor inspiration, we help families make the most of every kind of weather. Because when kids are comfortable outdoors, they play longer, explore more, and grow stronger.

Featured Guides

How to Dress Kids in Changing Weather Without Overthinking It

Simple layering strategies that keep kids comfortable from chilly mornings to muddy afternoons - no second-guessing required.

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Popular Guides

Make Kids’ Outerwear Last Longer

Simple care tips to protect waterproofing, prevent wear, & keep gear working season after season.

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Waterproof Ratings Explained

What numbers like 5,000 mm really mean - and how to choose gear that keeps kids dry outside.

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Choosing the Right Raincoat

What to look for in materials, fit, and features so kids stay comfortable in wet weather.

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Seasonal Right Now

Children playing with mud and leaves on a wet day

The Magic of Mud: Why Getting Dirty Is Good for Kids

How messy outdoor play builds resilience, confidence, and creativity and why it matters more than you think.

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Published February 27, 2026

Swimwear Color Safety- Bright Colors Work

Bright colors can make kids easier to see in pools and lakes. Learn which shades improve visibility and safety.

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Tick Checks Made Simple for Parents

A simple step-by-step guide to finding ticks quickly and protecting kids after outdoor adventures.

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ODSS Magazine

(Re)PLAY - Trade in & Shop Pre-adventured Gear

(Re)PLAY - Trade in & Shop Pre-adventured Gear

Kids outgrow their outerwear fast, but that doesn’t mean the adventure has to end. With Outdoor School Shop (Re)PLAY Pre-Adventured Gear, it’s easy to keep high-quality kids outdoor gear in play and out of the landfill.

A simple, sustainable solution for growing kids:

  • Trade in kids’ outerwear they’ve outgrown
  • Shop high-quality used kids outdoor gear
  • Keep durable jackets, rain gear, and snow pants in use longer

Because well-made gear deserves more than one season of muddy trails, rainy recess, and snowy school days.

Every piece is ready for real outdoor play:

  • Cleaned and inspected for quality
  • Fully functional and adventure-ready
  • Sustainably recirculated to reduce waste
  • Hassle-free returns for parent peace of mind

It’s an easy way to save money, reduce waste, and make outdoor school prep feel simple — while giving great gear a second and third season of adventure.

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FOR KIDS OUTSIDE IN STEADY RAIN

FOR KIDS OUTSIDE IN STEADY RAIN

Wet, cool, and unpredictable weather in Washington, Oregon, and Northern California means kids need reliable gear that can handle long days outside. In the Pacific Northwest, one high-quality waterproof set often covers most school days, but depending on how wet things get, some families choose to add a backup. From durable rain jackets and pants to waterproof mittens, hats, and smart layering, the right setup keeps kids dry, warm, and ready to explore. Here’s what parents should know about choosing rain gear that actually works in constant wet weather.

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FOR SNOW, SLUSH, FREEZING RAIN, AND MESSY WINTERS

FOR SNOW, SLUSH, FREEZING RAIN, AND MESSY WINTERS

In the Great Lakes, Northeast, and mountain regions, winter weather is rarely simple. Temperatures often hover around freezing, bringing a mix of wet snow, slush, and constant freeze–thaw cycles. Instead of separate gear for each season, most families rely on a flexible layering system that works year-round. Insulated outerwear handles colder days, while waterproof shells are often added on top during especially wet or windy conditions. Rain gear stays in rotation through fall, spring, and winter thaws, and layers are adjusted as temperatures shift throughout the day. This mix-and-match approach keeps kids warm, dry, and comfortable in unpredictable conditions, without needing to buy a whole new kit each season.

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GEAR FOR WARM WEATHER & SUN PROTECTION

GEAR FOR WARM WEATHER & SUN PROTECTION

This kit is designed for dry, mild, and warm outdoor school days, when staying cool, comfortable, and protected is key. Most families rely on lightweight, breathable clothing that allows kids to move freely during long hours outside. In warmer conditions, sun protection becomes just as important as comfort, so UV-protective tops, lightweight long sleeves, and sun hats help provide coverage without trapping heat. Breathable bottoms and quick-drying fabrics support active play, while a light layer can still come in handy for cooler mornings or shaded areas. Even in colder climates, this warm-weather setup plays an important role during summer months, helping kids stay safe, comfortable, and ready to explore in the heat.

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GEAR FOR BREATHABLE RAIN PROTECTION

GEAR FOR BREATHABLE RAIN PROTECTION

This kit includes either waterproof, breathable separates—a rain or shell jacket paired with rain pants or bibs—or a lightweight, waterproof one-piece suit. The right choice depends on your child’s comfort and your school’s recommendations. Separates offer more flexibility for layering, while a one-piece can be a simple, secure option for younger kids.

When rain is the main challenge and temperatures aren’t cold, breathability matters just as much as waterproofing. Lightweight shells help keep kids dry while allowing heat and moisture to escape, so they stay comfortable during long days outside. On cooler (but not snowy) days, adding smart base layers and light mid-layers can make a big difference. Moisture-wicking base layers, like wool or high-performance synthetics, help regulate temperature, while lightweight fleece or insulated layers add warmth without bulk and can be easily adjusted throughout the day.

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FOR LONG, COLD WINTER DAYS OUTDOORS

FOR LONG, COLD WINTER DAYS OUTDOORS

Regions it serves: Upper Midwest, Northern Plains, Canada-adjacent In the Upper Midwest, Northern Plains, and Canada-adjacent regions, outdoor school gear works as three systems used throughout the year, rather than one kit per season. Cold weather gear is used for...

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GEAR FOR UNPREDICTABLE DAYS

GEAR FOR UNPREDICTABLE DAYS

In mountain and high-desert regions, outdoor school outerwear works best as a flexible system rather than a fixed outfit for each season. Most families rely on one primary set of waterproof outerwear, typically a shell or rain jacket paired with shell pants or bibs, layered over adaptable clothing to handle cold mornings, warm afternoons, wind, and sudden weather changes. Some families choose to add a second outer layer for convenience, especially if their child attends school multiple days a week, but it’s not necessary to get started.

In these climates, layers do most of the work. Base layers and insulating mid-layers can be added or removed throughout the day as conditions shift, and on dry days, a mid-layer jacket may even serve as the outer layer. This approach allows the same core gear to perform across a wide range of conditions, keeping kids comfortable while helping families avoid overbuying or constantly switching between seasonal kits.

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Find My Mitten™ is Here

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How to Keep Summer Simple for Kids

How to Keep Summer Simple for Kids

This summer, give your kids the freedom to play, explore, read, and create. With the right mix of tools and toys, every day can be its own little adventure. The sun is shining, and your little adventurers are ready to explore, create, and play! If you're looking for ways to keep kids busy this summer, [...]

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The Best Free Earth Day Activities for Kids!

The Best Free Earth Day Activities for Kids!

With Earth Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect opportunity to engage kids in activities that foster environmental awareness and responsibility. Whether you're at home or in the classroom, there are countless creative ways to make Earth Day both fun and educational. Our comprehensive Earth Day activity guide and free printable resources offer easy, [...]

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Summer Camp Packing List

Summer Camp Packing List

Rounding up all the items your kiddos need for summer camp can be time-consuming & stressful, to be honest! So, stress no more! The team here at ODSS has prepared: Free Summer Camp Checklist Free Printable Summer Camp Planning ToolChecklist: Rain pants/bib (consider Shell pants as an alternative - waterproof, durable, and breathable) Rain Jacket (consider a Shell jacket [...]

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Essential Gear for Your Child's Ski Adventure: A Complete Checklist

Essential Gear for Your Child's Ski Adventure: A Complete Checklist

Heading to the mountains? Make sure you’re fully prepared with our Ski Checklist! From good-to-have essentials to layers, we’ve put together everything you need to stay dry, warm, and ready for adventure. Don’t forget a thing—whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, our list has you covered so you can focus on the fun. [...]

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Base Layer 101

Base Layer 101

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Choosing the Right Swimwear Colors for Pools and Lakes

Choosing the Right Swimwear Colors for Pools and Lakes

When it comes to water safety, most parents think about life jackets, sunscreen, and swim lessons—but what about swimwear color? It might seem like a small detail, but the color of your child’s swimsuit can play a big role in visibility, especially in crowded pools or natural lake settings. In an emergency, every second counts—and being [...]

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The Magic of Mud: Why Getting Dirty Is Good for Kids

The Magic of Mud: Why Getting Dirty Is Good for Kids

In a world filled with screens, schedules, and sanitized spaces, there’s one timeless, squishy, earthy substance that invites kids to slow down, explore, and connect: mud. While it may seem messy on the surface (and under fingernails, and in hair...), playing in dirt is far more than just fun—it’s a rich, sensory experience that nurtures both [...]

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Tick Season is Here – Stay Safe with Tick Protection

Tick Season is Here – Stay Safe with Tick Protection

Spring and summer are the perfect times to get outside and explore nature, but with warmer weather comes the return of tick season. These tiny creatures may be small, but they can cause big problems, transmitting diseases like Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis. That's why it's crucial to take precautions to protect yourself and your [...]

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Tips to Pick the Best Raincoat for Your Child

How to Pick the Best Raincoat for Your Child

Qualities Parents Should Look for in a Rain Jacket Use Case: The first question we like to ask at ODSS is what is your end use; how do you use your gear and what do you need your gear to do for you? Parents will need a different raincoat in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) then [...]

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How to Dress Kids for Changing Weather Without Overthinking It

How to Dress Kids for Changing Weather Without Overthinking It

Outdoor days rarely stay the same from morning to afternoon, especially across different regions of the U.S. The goal is not one perfect jacket. It is smart layering!

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