Supporting readiness for all-weather adventures across all ages

Gear for Thriving Outdoors

At Mycelium Cooperative, we believe that being well-prepared creates space for wonder and discovery. Like mycelial networks that adapt to changing conditions, the right gear helps learners of all ages stay comfortable and engaged whether we're exploring in sunshine, snow, or spring rain.

Below you'll find our recommendations for supporting success in our fully outdoor, weather-responsive programs. We're here to help you navigate gear choices, explore sharing options, and understand what works best for different seasons and situations - whether you're 3 or 53.

Questions about gear? We're here to problem-solve together. Need support finding affordable options or exploring sharing arrangements? We're here to help every participant prepare for outdoor success, regardless of age or budget. Reach out - we believe in both practical preparation and accessible participation for our entire learning community. Community Thrift stores and places like ARC and Goodwill are our recommended places to start BEFORE spending lots of money on new equipment. We also have a gear library to share and check out items that you may not have yet.

Always pack:

Daily Essentials

What travels with us every day, in every season. Whether we're harvesting autumn's lessons, rooting in winter's shelter and survival or cultivating spring's possibilities, these essentials travel with us through every season of discovery:

• A comfortable backpack that fits your body (children and adults alike)

• Water in a spill-proof bottle (guides/teachers carry extra water for the community)

• Nourishing, energy-rich snacks to fuel exploration and learning

• Balanced Lunch with what we call short energy (carbohydrates and fruits) and long energy (fats and proteins)

• Hand sanitizer for community care

• Sunscreen - YES even in the winter

• Complete change of clothes - shirt, pants, and underwear - ability to change if wet or extra muddy hepls us thrive.

• Extra wool socks (wool keeps feet warm even when damp)

• Gloves year-round (thin liner gloves even summer mornings can be chilly for all of us and is a good practice/routine for "survival skills" ready for all situations)

• Warm hat year-round (essential for temperature regulation at any age)

• SUN hat year-round (essential for sun protection at any age)

• Nature journal - we recommend a hardcover sketch journal for durability

• Drawing materials - markers, crayons, colored pencils, or whatever sparks creativity

Dressing For Cold Weather infographic, explains how to layer your children for outdoor play in cold and winter weather

Wet & Snowy Weather

Layering for comfort and adaptability across all ages. Winter teaches us about shelter and resilience - let your layers be your portable refuge:

Base Layer: 100% polyester or natural fabrics like wool or silk that wick moisture and breathe with active bodies
Insulating Layer: Wool or fleece for warmth that works even when damp
Outer Shell: Waterproof, windproof snow jacket and pants
- Jacket that moves with active bodies of all sizes
- Pants that move with active bodies of all sizes
For Feet: SNOW BOOTS like Neoprene Bogs or Sorel boots work beautifully for everyone. Alternatively, waterproof boots one size larger with two pairs of socks (wool is excellent). Proper fit is crucial - boots that are too small restrict circulation and create cold feet, regardless of age.
Head & Hands:
- Warm hat (or 2) covering ears,
- Gloves or Mittens that allow for play and exploration as well as warmth while seated

Extra Cold Weather Additions

Extra warmth for winter adventures. Deep winter calls for extra care as we explore themes of reflection and endurance:

• Warm, waterproof mittens that work well for your hands and activities

• Long underwear as a base layer (sometimes 2-3 layers of long underwear plus snow pants

• Backup gloves and warm socks tucked in backpacks

• All the layering principles above - base, insulating, and shell layers working together

Multiple inner layers of 100% polyester or natural fabrics such as wool or silk. The fabric should wick moisture away from the skin and provide a warm, breathable layer.

Warm Weather

Protection and comfort for sunny explorations. Summer's lessons of adaptation and reciprocity ask us to work thoughtfully with sun and heat:

• Long-sleeved shirt in light cotton, silk, or hemp for sun protection

• Durable pants that can handle creek play and active exploration
• Wide-brimmed sun hat protecting face and neck

• Sturdy shoes - running or hiking shoes work well (expect mud and water play!)

• Sun protection appropriate for your needs (HAT AND SUNSCREEN required and sun glasses recommended)

What Guides/Teacher Carry

Our "Community Care Kit" travels with us everywhere. Through every seasonal transition - from honorable harvest to summer's reciprocity - our shared care kit supports the whole community:

Each lead guide/teacher carries a bag containing everything needed for group safety and comfort across all ages:

• Complete first-aid supplies

• Emergency blanket and mat

• Portable shelter

• Extra snacks for the community

• Backup clothing items in various sizes

• Biohazard materials and waste management

• All skin products - sunscreens, lotions, insect repellents

This kit stays consistently packed and accompanies us on every adventure, ensuring we're prepared for whatever the day brings our mixed-age learning community.