Each December, Two Coyotes brings children aged 5-12 into the forest over the holiday break, providing each child the gear they need to feel comfortable and spend their days playing in the outdoors. This is the third year that ODSS has worked with Two Coyotes in these efforts, supplying the gear that ensures that the children's time outdoors will be happy, warm and engaged. ODSS works extremely hard to be responsive to the budget which Two Coyotes has available. Using a variety of different sourcing techniques, we can ensure that Two Coyotes gets the gear they need at a price that fits their budget.
This year we modified their outerwear kit choices to include a winter snow pant but continued with the fleece lined Puddleflex jacket they have loved the past three years. Looking at the weather ahead, ODSS was not sure if snow would be on the ground or if it would be raining, so opting for both warm and waterproof gear was essential. Below you will find the outerwear kit choices that Two Coyotes opted for based on ODSS advice and experience with other programs:
- Puddleflex Rain Jacket - warm fleece lined and 100% waterproof. Rainy days looked to be the weather forecast over the holiday break, so we knew we wanted something super waterproof with a layer of extra warmth- just what this Muddy Puddles jacket provides.
- Loikka Snowpant - This year we opted for snow pants instead of a rain pant. The Reima Loikka snow pant was a perfect option to bring waterproofing and insulation together for this year's event.
- Tartu Gloves - All the kids' hands were warm using the Reima Tartu glove. They were able to easily climb and pick things up with the dexterity and grip these gloves provide. ODSS continues to recommend this glove as it is warm, waterproof and has sizing from 4-14 available.
- Fleece Jackets- We used the Didriksons Monte for the younger kiddos and the Helly Hansen Daybreaker Fleece for the older children. Both are lightweight when layering under jackets but add the prefect amount of warmth without causing overheating. They also look great, so these jackets will be a perfect option for these kiddos to wear on a daily basis all year round. More functional alternative to a hoodie!
- Smartwool Socks - A key feature to all day play- wool socks. All kids were outfitted using a Smartwool boot sock, which contains a cozy Merino wool blend.
- Bogs boots - We wanted a versatile boot that was warm but also mud and waterproof – all requirements that Bogs lives up to! Super waterproof, warm, long lasting and easy to wipe clean in muddy conditions.
Photo Credit Daniel Recinos