Getting more kids actively outdoors has become a mission for the outdoor industry in the past couple of years, and a number of companies introduced new children's outdoor gear, footwear, and technical clothing at Outdoor Retailer in August.
For various reasons (blame it on the economy, a glut of new outdoor products, or lack of interest), quite a few of those debuts didn't make the final cut for spring/summer 2009 (a disconcerting trend on its own). However, here are some new-for-2009 items that did make the cut, and that may help your little one gear up and get out.
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Deuter Climber
A smaller version of Deuter’s adult Guide packs, the Climber is a technical alpine backpack for kids ages 7 and up. It uses Deuter’s Alpine Back carry system and features ice axe/trekking pole straps, side compression straps, mesh side pockets, gear loops, a zipped lid pocket, chest strap with emergency whistle, built-in rain cover, and hydration compatibility.
Weight: 1 lb 12 oz
Capacity: 1,350 cubic inches
Torso: 10"-17"
MSRP: $69
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Deuter Junior
A backpack for mini hikers and explorers ages 3 and up, the Junior has a padded back, S-shaped shoulder straps, chest strap with safety whistle, two zipped front pockets, safety reflectors, and child-friendly buckles.
Weight: 15 oz
Capacity: 1,100 cubic inches
Torso: one size
MSRP: $39
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Slumberjack Kids Composite Mat
The Kids Composite Mat is made from multi-density, layered composite foam and has a nylon exterior with a DWR coating for added durability and water resistance. A removable cover can be tossed in the washing machine for cleanup, and roll straps and a carry handle allow for easy transport.
Weight: 1 lb 12 oz
Dimensions: 20" x 50"
Thickness: 1.25"
R-value: 4.5
MSRP: $44.99
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Roonwear “Mountain to C” and Roonbug Collections
For its third year, Roonwear added two new collections of technical children’s clothing: the “Mountain to C” line of activewear made from wicking Dri-Release fabric and the Roonbug collection, which features Buzz Off Insect Shield bonded to Dri-Release fabric. The odorless and invisible repellent repels mosquitoes, ticks, ants, flies, chiggers, and midges (no-see-ums) and lasts through 70 washings.
No See Em ActiviT
Sizes: 12 months-5T
MSRP: $31
No See Em Haulin Cargo Pants
Sizes: 12 months-5T
MSRP: $43
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Sierra Designs Boulder and River Rock Pants
For 2009, Sierra Designs added the Boulder (girls) and River Rock (boys, at left) performance trail pants to its offerings of kids clothing and sleeping bags. Made from a quick-drying fabric with a DWR finish, the Boulder and River Rock Pants have elastic waistbands with a drawcord and are also available in shorts versions.
MSRP: $45
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Merrell Chameleon Strap Mid
Merrell is no newbie to the kids footwear market. It's Chameleon Strap Mid is a kid-specific boot with reflective heel webbing, water resistant uppers for wet treks, and Aegis antimicrobial footbeds to control stinky feet.
Weight: 14 oz
Sizes: Kids - 3.5-7 half sizes; Youth - 10-3 full sizes
MSRP: $60
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Merrell Chameleon Leather Mid Waterproof
Merrell's Chameleon Leather Mid Waterproof is a more rugged boot for boys with waterproof uppers for wet treks, reflective heel webbing, and Aegis antimicrobial footbeds.
MSRP: $70
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For more kids outdoor gear available now from these and other brands, visit Trailspace's reviews and information on kids backpacks, sleeping bags, clothing and outerwear, and footwear.
And remember, even more important than the gear, is getting out there in the first place.
by Alicia MacLeay
