When the snow falls, the kids are READY to go sledding and build a snowman. Make it fun for both parents AND the kids by preparing ahead with some of the coolest gear ever that will make you want to stay out all day!
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Playing in the snow is something that every child deserves to do. A good snowfall is a special occasion that happens only a few times a year (if you're lucky). So when the opportunity presents—get out there! You never know how quickly it's going to melt away.
Prepare ahead before the snow arrives by stocking up on hats, gloves, scarfs, snow suits, winter boots, sleds, and more winter snow gear.
Here's a roundup of some winter snow gear to add to your snow-day treasure stores in the back of the coat closet:
Sled Options for all Ages
Boot Dryers & Foot Essentials
Snow Toys & Launchers
Boot Trays & Covers
Jump to our checklist to make sure you don't forget anything on your snow day adventure!
1. Snow Racer Sled
I only wish I had a sled this cool growing up. This bad-boy Snow Racer Sled is for ages 3+ (all the way up to a full-size adult).
Here are some of it's features:
â–¶ Functional Steering Wheel
â–¶ Tether Pull for Parents/Toddlers
â–¶ Working Breaks
This heavy-duty sled keeps kids (and parents if you want to give it a shot) up and out of the snow so they stay warm and dry.
Here's another version of a toboggan sled with similar bells and whistles but closer to the ground, featuring a sturdy handle for kids 3+ to hold onto.
If you're taking baby out to experience their first snowfall, check out this baby snow sled with 3-point safety harness for ages 6 months up to 55 lbs.
2. Boot Dryer
A boot dryer is something that seems so unnecessary—until you use one. A boot dryer is an incredible device that dries and warms your boots.
Stock up on warm and fuzzy socks for post-sledding. (You deserve it!). While our tootsies are warming back up, we take turns putting our boots on our boot dryer.
After playing in the snow, this thing dries shoes, gloves, and socks quickly. When they come off they are warm, toasty, and totally dry and ready for the next adventure. We love this foldable boot dryer version that runs on a timer.
If you need some new kids waterproof boots, these ArcticShields are easy-on, with a zipper close. They and are available in both blue and pink options.
3. Snow Bibs & Mittens
Snow bibs are a must for playing in the snow. They keep your kids dry, warm and toasty. Find a set that fits and matches your style here.
Did you know they make these things for adults too? Check out women's and men's snow bibs—they are surprisingly stylish!
While you're at it, prepare ahead by grabbing a quality pair of gloves that will stay on little hands. SnowStoppers long-cuffed mittens work great to keep the chilly snow off your child's skin and they won't fall off!
4. SnowBall Maker
As fun as it can be, making snowballs is a messy job. Your hands get cold and your gloves end up soaking wet! That's why the professional snowball fighters need a snowball maker. Make perfect snowballs in a breeze without freezing your digits off.
Take it a step further and make a fort to defend yourself in an epic snowball fight battle. This snow brick maker will do the trick.
Too little for snowball fights? Get creative with your kids and make snow penguins, little birdies, soccer balls, hearts, and miniature snowmen out of real snow! Your little ones will love playing in the snow with this 25 piece winter snow ball shapes set.
Another fun way to still do a snowball fight without any hurt feelings is by investing in a set of soft artificial snow balls! We have accumulated quite a few over the years and keep them on hand for some quick fun. Grab a set of 100 snowballs for endless fun!
5. Mudroom Boot Tray
Cleaning up is the last thing you want to do after playing in the snow. Get straight to the hot cocoa and minimize the post-sledding snow mess by designating a spot for your wet boots. Use a stylish boot tray like this one so that when the snow melts, it doesn't create a puddle on your floor.
Another way to prevent a mess in your car from the snow: grab one of these waterproof backseat covers and install it before you head to the hills.
Sledding or Snow Day Checklist
Here's a list of things to take with you before you head out to go sledding!
Snow Bibs
Gloves or mittens
Beanie Cap / Hat / Earmuffs
Snow Boots
Sled or tube
Warm Socks
Towel (for Car & Snow Boots)
Winter Coat
Scarf
Snowman Supplies
Snow toys (snowball launcher, block maker, molds)
Sunglasses or goggles
Extra socks
Dry Blanket
Helmet
Long underwear
Trash bag or laundry bag to collect wet gloves & hats
Directions to your favorite snow hill
More Tips for a Successful Day of Snow Play
With a little bit of thoughtful preparation, you can create some amazing memories with your kids playing in the snow. Here are some tips from our family to yours:
Check the forecast and make sure you're not going out in a snow storm, blowing snow, or dangerous windchills! Ideally, you want to go on a clear day when the sun is shining brightly and the temperature is around 30 degrees.
Don't wait too long or the snow will melt! Go as soon as the dust settles.
Plan on spending 30 minutes or less outside at a time.
Prepare ahead by getting your car and home ready to handle the snow mess before you depart (towels, boot trays, backseat covers, boot dryer).
Bundle up. It's better to pack too many layers, hats, and gloves than to not have enough!
Make a special trip to a big hill, it's worth it! Many public parks are popular destinations for sledding.
Bring a thermos with hot cocoa to warm up while you sled.
Dry your things while you warm up: Put your boots on the dryer and your hats and gloves in the dryer when you get home.
Have fun out there and stay warm! Share your own tips and favorite gear below.