Welcome to the new ODSS! Better experience. Same mission.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Mimikai different from other insect repellents?
For over 50 years, repellent protection has relied on conventional actives. At the same time, essential-oil formulas have focused more on scent and feel. Mimikai is different — powered by a botanically derived proven active ingredient found in wild tomatoes and backed by years of research. Mimikai is EPA-registered for proven mosquito and tick protection and formulated for a light, clean-feel experience you’ll want to wear every day. Non-toxic and not an irritant when used as directed.
How does Mimikai work?
Mimikai’s active ingredient, Undecanone, disrupts the way mosquitoes and ticks detect human scent, making you practically invisible to them. Inspired by nature and backed by science, this patented technology mimics the natural defenses of certain plants. So you can enjoy the outdoors without becoming a mosquito’s next meal. It’s been tested both in the lab and out in the elements, through real-world field studies in some of the buggiest places on earth, to ensure long-lasting protection. Expect up to 8 hours of defense against mosquitoes and 4 hours against ticks. If you're sweating, swimming, or spending extra time in high-bug zones, reapplying sooner will help you stay fully protected.
Is Mimikai greasy, sticky, or smelly?
Nope, not even close! We created our formula to feel more like skincare than bug spray. It goes on light, smooth, and non-greasy - with a clean-feel spray you’ll actually want to wear. And unlike the strong scents you might expect from repellents, Mimikai has a fresh, nature-inspired fragrance. Protection that feels and smells good.
Is Mimikai safe for the environment?
Yes! Mimikai is made with nature’s own active ingredient, Undecanone, found in wild plants like tomatoes. Made with a botanically derived active ingredient - not a traditional synthetic repellent active. We believe in thoughtfully designing products from start to finish. Our PET pump bottles include recycled plastic (PCR), our spray mists are packaged in aluminum, and all packaging is designed to be recyclable where facilities exist. We’re committed to making thoughtful choices - for people and the planet.
What are the active ingredients?
Mimikai’s magic comes from our powerhouse active ingredient. Our patented active, Methyl Nonyl Ketone (2-undecanone), a naturally occurring compound found in wild tomato plants, bananas, cloves, ginger, and guava. This little hero works by protecting plants from pests, and we’ve harnessed its power to keep you bug-free.
Woman holding a child in a snowy setting with 'Outdoor School Shop' logo.

FOUNDED BY WOMEN. BUILT FOR ADVENTURE.

ODSS was started by mothers who saw firsthand how time outside builds resilient, confident kids. What began as helping outdoor schools equip students for all-weather learning grew into a bigger mission: Help families raise resilient, confident kids by making it easier for children to stay outside longer.

Learn More

Testimonials

For us, the right gear from ODSS supports what we believe most about childhood. When children are able to be outside every day, in all seasons, they become tenacious, confident, and develop an authentic relationship with the land.
— RAIN OR SHINE SCHOOL 
Working with Outdoor School Shop has transformed our outdoor school community. Parents love knowing their children are consistently and reliably equipped—and that nothing is forgotten or comes home covered in mud. 
— RANDOLPH SCHOOL 
Our students get outside in all temperatures and having the right gear makes a world of difference. @outdoorschoolshop has gear appropriate for all seasons, has a directory to search for nature schools, and layering guides to help families know how to dress children for the weather
— HEMLOCK HILL 

At The Thistle and Root, I always recommend ODSS gear for anyone who believes that children grow best through nature—so dress for it.

— THISTLE & ROOT 
Ordering bulk with Outdoor School Shop was just as easy and seamless as I had hoped! As we open up a new program, preparing our first group of kiddos for any weather was at the top of our priority list, and ODSS came through with insight, expertise, and the coolest, most dependable gear around! Thank you ODSS!
— SIDNEY RIDGE