How to Dress Your Little Explorer for Outdoor Adventures

How to Dress Your Little Explorer for Outdoor Adventures

How to Dress Your Little Explorer for Outdoor Adventures

Childhood and adventure go hand in hand. Whether it’s a family hike, a camping trip, or just an afternoon exploring the backyard, kids are wired to climb, run, dig, and discover. And the right clothing makes all the difference between a kid who’s ready to explore and one who’s distracted by an itchy tag or overheating in the wrong fabric.
We designed our Adventure collection with one philosophy: clothing should never get in the way of a good adventure.
Child wearing a black sweatshirt with 'Born to Be Wild' text and tree graphic, standing in front of a blurred natural background.

The Layering Principle

The number one rule for dressing kids for outdoor activities is layering. Kids’ body temperatures fluctuate wildly- they’re running hot one minute and chilly the next. A layering system gives you flexibility.

• Base layer: Something soft and moisture-wicking against the skin. Our bamboo fabrics
are perfect for this — they keep skin dry and comfortable.

• Mid layer: A cozy sweatshirt or fleece for warmth. Our organic cotton sweatshirts are
soft, warm, and tough enough for trail life.

• Outer layer: A wind/rain layer for protection. This can be any lightweight jacket your
family already owns.


What Makes Good Adventure Clothing for Kids

Not all kids’ clothing is built for actual outdoor play. Here’s what to look for:

• Easy on and off: Toddlers are not known for patience. Simple designs that they can help
pull on themselves build independence.

• Fun designs: A kid in a “Born to Be Wild” sweatshirt FEELS like an adventurer. Never
underestimate the power of a design that sparks imagination.

• Durability: It needs to survive dirt, grass stains, tree climbing, and frequent washing. Our organic cotton is pre-shrunk and holds up wash after wash.

• Comfort: If it’s not comfortable, they won’t wear it. Period. Soft fabrics, no scratchy
seams, good stretch for movement.


Adventure Ideas by Season

Spring: Nature walks, puddle jumping, planting a garden. Dress them in layers they can peel off as the day warms up.

Summer: Creek stomping, camping, beach days, backyard bug hunts.Keep it lightweight and sun-protective.

Fall: Leaf collecting, apple picking, early morning hikes.
This is peak sweatshirt weather- and peak family photo season.

Winter: Snowman building, indoor forts, holiday adventures. Layer our bamboo base layers under warm outerwear.

Go outside.- Children's short sleeve tee and infant bodysuit - Summit and Nest
The best outdoor clothing is the clothing they actually want to wear. When your kid reaches for their Summit and Nest “Trail Crew” sweatshirt before heading outside, you know you’ve found the right gear.

Shop the Adventure Collection → summitandnest.com/collections/adventure-outdoors

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.