Alyssa Marsh is an entrepreneur, mom, outdoor enthusiast, and passionate consumer educator in the outdoor apparel world. Spending the majority of her career thus far in fashion wholesale merchandising and marketing, she had a lightbulb moment when she realized how difficult it was to find the appropriate gear for her son at forest school in Minnesota. She spent long hours combing the web for not only the right gear, but for guidance on what type of gear worked best for outdoor schools. She and some other players in the children's apparel world saw this as a need that they could address. The solution was a dedicated online source of outdoor clothing for children enrolled at outdoor schools. And so, Outdoor School Shop was born and launched in 2021.
What is your go-to item?
A: I have a few! But, keep in mind that I live in Minnesota and am basing this on what type of play and weather we have here. This is the part I enjoy the most, I get to work with schools, parents and caretakers every day to help support their needs and believe me; each scenario is different! We get to customize their gear individually to help them find the best products for their students. A few of my favorite products are the Bjornen Snowsuit from Didrikson's, Bergen Unlined Rain from Helly Hansen, Puddleflex Lined Rain from Muddy Puddles, Ote Mittens from Reima, Lifa Merino Base Layer from Helly again, Corin Technical Fleece layers also from Didrikson's, and all-weather rain to snow boots from multiple vendors, and classic hike socks also from a variety of brands. And please don't make me choose my favorite rain mittens- they all have a different function so it's best to check this out and pick for yourself! These are a must-have outdoor school item found on every checklist!
If you could only buy one item, what would you buy?
A: Oh, that is a good question..... for sure a pair of rain mittens. They are game changers. But if I was telling a parent where to start, I would look at their outer layer and advise on their climate. The outer layer is what will keep the kiddos out the longest staying happy, warm and engaged at outdoor school! Also, I can't forget, we now have rain mittens for adults - a really valuable addition to our assortment for the educators who rely on outdoor gear to keep them comfortable when teaching.
What is a hack you love?
A: Cost per wear. Investing in items that work and last, keeps them working for you longer. Cost per wear speaks to how long an item will function divided by the purchase price. An item that has a low price point but only functions a few times can actually end up costing you more than an item that you invested in but functions for years and multiple children. It also keeps merchandise out of the landfills when an item has a long functioning lifecycle and can be passed to others. I personally love the Lifa merino base layer. Most little kiddos do not need to change their base layer everyday- you can buy one set and wear it every day if you want, it's a well-made item and does not require frequent washing as wool naturally does not retain odor. I love this set because it's breathable and warm plus it has fleece reinforcements in the areas that kids generally lean on; elbows and knees, providing extra warmth, cushioning and durability.
Parting words?
A: Contact us- we'd love to work with you and are here to answer any questions you have. Gear is complex- you do not necessarily need the most expensive gear but rather the right gear for your climate and program requirements. We have done a lot of research so you don't have to! I work one-on-one with teachers and school admins. building the perfect bulk outerwear purchase for the particular program, but I am equally excited to speak with individual parents and make sure their child is outfitted for a successful outdoor school experience or family camping adventure, for that matter! It takes a village and ODSS is pleased to be part of the important and growing movement providing outdoor education opportunities to all children.
Technical Fleece:
Soft tech fleece jackets and pants are perfect for chilly mornings and continue through all months as their third layer when it's really cold. Technical Fleece options provide a comfortable breathable jacket in the summer months, a wind proof option on windy days, an easy to layer set with rain gear and a not too bulky option for their third layer on very frigid days. The Corin Technical Set is shown here.
Merino Wool:
Now this is a superior base layer! The 2-piece set ensures kiddos are warm and comfortable all day by combining the unique LIFA fiber technology next to skin to keep them dry, with a premium Merino wool exterior for superior insulating and wicking properties for breathability. And for extra attention to detail, the knees and elbows have a 100g Polartec fleece reinforcement. Tip: You do not need a new set for each day- merino wool naturally resists odors! The Lifa Merino Wool Set is shown here.
Winter Shell Gear:
A waterproof insulated jacket is for kids who spend lots of time outdoors in the cold at outdoor school. It is breathable, waterproof, durable and windproof. On sunny active winter days, wear bibs with a base or mid layer to stay dry or use as your final layer under your snowsuit on very cold winter days. This type of jacket is superior in wind which reduces the level of cold our kiddos feel and also keeps out water so they can slide away on those hills. The Rider Insulated Jacket and Bib are shown here.
Rain Gear:
Traditional PU Rain gear is an exceptional option for wet conditions! Think puddle sitting. From the summer showers where mud and puddles are just too much fun to melting snow, traditional PU rain gear will keep the water out for all day play and protection.During winter months, think about fleece lined options in more temperate climates as your go to snow gear. Or cold regions, this is a perfect set for wet melting snow. Three products shown here; Polarn O. Pyret Rain Pant, Watermans Rain Set, and the Boardman Fleece Lined Rain Set.