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Hike It Baby

Tuff Kids Outdoors

October 26th, 2015

If you're interested in getting outdoors with your children, but aren't sure where to start, Hike It Baby might be right up your alley!

This nationwide group has started to blossom, with new local groups popping up everywhere. Hike It Baby brings new parents together, encouraging outdoor recreation and offering fabulous tips and treks.

A year ago the first Hike it Baby 30 challenge was launched. The organizers never imagined that Hike it Baby would grow to be such a huge and fun national group. And yet, here it is!

Little ones love being outdoors, running, jumping and exploring. If you don't show them the way, who will?

As we go into this winter I want to remind everyone that even though Hike it Baby families love to get out in crazy weather (so amazing!), fun outdoor days always start with preparations!

It's crazy, but true - the weather always looks worse from inside looking out, but go for it. You won't be disappointed! Bundle up and step out the door. It's really that first step that's the most difficult. Fresh air has an amazingly positive effect on mood and overall attitude.

If you notice that you are getting cold, remember that your little one is probably colder. You are hiking and moving, but if your little one is on your back, they are not.

Below are a few layering tips provided by Hike It Baby - Anchorage.

Wicking materials: If your baby is up against you and you are sweating a lot, they are getting sweaty too. Think about dressing them up in fleece PJs as a first layer.
Itty bitty toes: Little toes get cold fast. Splurge or look for used wool socks to go on your little ones feet underneath your fleece footed PJs.
Don't delay: H&M, second hand stores, GAP often have a lot of down options in jackets, booties and gloves. Go seek them out now before the really cold days arrive because once the cold hits everyone will be in the stores.
Re-purpose your gear: A large jacket can be the perfect way to keep both you and a little one warm. Use a pair of adult wool socks to add an extra layer of warmth for your baby's legs and feet. Simply pull up them over their socks and booties. Get creative.
Tea: Tea in a thermos is the perfect way to warm up after a hike. Mint tea is my favorite! Have something warm ready so you can warm up. If your baby is drinking water, consider mixing some hot tea with cooler water (to bring the temp down a little). And if they are old enough for you to add honey, double yum!
Hot water & a container: If you are bottle feeding parent, a warm thermos of hot water in a wide mouthed container can warm up a cold bottle of milk fast! Carry it in your pack during the hike or have it ready at car for when you get back.

Getting out in late fall and winter is an adventure. It might take a little extra preparation but once you are out on the trail, putting one foot in front of the other, you will quickly forget about that extra work. A combination of the Hike it Baby 30 challenge and new friends can make it possible. You can do it together.

Set a goal for yourself this November and get out there! We know you can do it!

If this sounds like something you might be interested in, feel free to check out www.hikeitbaby.com for more information. The Hike It Baby 30 challenge is almost here. Shoot for either 30 miles in 30 days OR 30 minutes 3 times a week!

If you need some ideas on great products to keep your little ones warm during these outdoor adventures, check out our Toddler and Infant section!

Whether you're looking for great little wool socks, extra full body fleece insulation, full down bunting suits, or great fitting baby booties, we have your little one covered!

Don't forget we carry some of the highest rated Child Carriers and Youth Backpacks on the market from Deuter and Onya Baby as well. Ergonomic full support provides you the flexibility and comfort you need to tote your little around all day.