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How to dress your child when hiking
When on a hike, very young kids and pre-teens run around a lot, splash water everywhere with their water bottles and jump into pools…
To avoid getting a chill when on a break (and the doctor when you get back), here are a few tips from the” Backpack tribe”!
Hi, we're the “Backpack Tribe”: Adrien & Amandine have been Decathlon employees for 14 and 4 years, and have 5 children who follow us everywhere on hikes.
For this first article, we give you our advice to equip them well!
Adrien & Amandine, parents of Anne, Lucie & Camille 11 years, Milane 9 years and Benjamin 10 years - Quechua Ambassadeurs.
What not to do when dressing your child for a hike
When hiking, to avoid getting a chill when on a break (and the doctor when you get back), here are a few tips from the” Backpack tribe” to dress your children well!
First and foremost, a breathable t-shirt
THE key to staying dress and avoiding a chill when you take a break!
We often neglect the first layer of clothing, but it's essential. It ensures the transfer of perspiration from the skin to the other layers. A breathable fabric that dries fast unlike a classic 100% cotton t-shirt that stores moisture, is therefore preferable.
Tip: in summer a t-shirt that covers the neck and shoulders, will avoid having to put sunscreen on these areas!
Give them their own backpack
Children do not anticipate the peaks of effort. They will put their fleece back on just before attacking the climb to the pass, then realise after a few metres they are too hot, and stop to take it off.
We recommend letting them carry their own bag (the little ones will be happy to imitate the adults). This way they will always have it to hand to put on or take off warm layers and drink a little.
A bag specially designed for children is preferable, it will be more suited to their back length and therefore more comfortable.
Layers 2 and 3 always in the rucksack!
In the mountains, as the weather changes quickly, both in summer and in winter, you need to have a warm layer to protect your child from the cold; and a waterproof layer in case of rain. Instead wear lightweight, packable clothes that are easier to carry!
Today, the technology of the components makes it possible to have hybrid clothing that is both warm and water-repellent such as down jackets and softshells.
In summer, don't forget to add the cap-glasses pairing; and in winter, hat and gloves.
Smart trousers
To avoid your child getting too cold in shorts or too hot in trousers, you can go for modular pants. They convert into shorts in 2 strokes of a zip, to adapt to the weather and you will avoid having to carry a second bottom half.
In winter, the trick is to complete it with tights for extra warmth ; or to equip your child with windproof, water-repellent softshell trousers (like the MH 550 trouser).
Grip and cushioning are essential for boots
When hiking, boots are essential pieces of equipment for comfort and safety on the trails! So,we recommend choosing boots specifically designed for this activity. They provide grip and cushioning, but also support and protect the foot against external factors: rocks, branches...
What do you think? What’s your opinion on practicing this discipline? What benefits did you get from it? We’re waiting for your comments !
