Waterproofs, wetsuits, crocs and robes: The best summer outdoor gear for kids

Investing in a couple of key pieces such as lightweight waterproofs, comfy wetsuits and beach shoes will ensure your kids are warm, dry and comfortable all summer long

Coucon Changing Robe

RRP: €115.20, couconrobe.com

Hailing from Northern Ireland, the Coucon Changing Robe is arguably the softest offering out there and will keep you little ones cosy no matter what the weather. You may balk at the price tag but it is a high-quality product which is fully waterproof, windproof and breathable. In addition to that, it is built to last and aims to give your child a solid three years out of each robe.

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Subea Aqua Shoes

RRP: €13, decathlon.ie

An easy to slip on pair of water-shoes is an essential piece of kit of anyone hoping to spend the summer at the beach. Not only will they keep your kids’ feet warm, they will protect them from the dreaded Weaver fish which lurk in shallow waters on warm sunny days delivering one hell of a sting should you be unfortunate enough to stand on them.

Puddle Ducks Waterproof Sets

RRP: €45.99, puddleducks.ie

Made of 100 per cent recycled materials, this windproof and waterproof set has a very high level of waterproof protection so it can be worn on even the wettest days and in the muddiest places. This set is particularly good for the warmer months as it is unlined. This also gives you the flexibility to use the set year-round as you can layer up when temperatures drop. It is worth noting that the sizing is pretty generous and that the smaller sizes come with dungarees (80cm/90cm/100cm) and the larger sizes (110cm/120cm) come with waist trousers.

RRP: €39.99, crocs.eu

Crocs are the most versatile shoe on the market. My son lives in them almost year-round. Once the weather is mild enough, these love-them-or-hate-them classics will take your kids from the beach to the mountains and everywhere in between. Offering superb grip on wet rocky surfaces, lots of protection around the toes and a really comfortable fit, Crocs even proved the perfect choice on a recent hike up the Sugar Loaf for my three year old.

O’Neill Reactor Wetsuit

RRP: €43.99, surfdock.com

A wetsuit will be the difference of happy kids on the beach and kids who are moaning to go home shortly after you arrive. Available in age one to six, this shorty wetsuit is made from super soft neoprene giving it a really comfortable stretch and fit, even for the youngest ones. In addition to that, it is very easy to slip on and off.

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Kambukka Lagoon Kids Water Bottle

RRP: €16.90, kambukka.ie

A good water bottle is a great investment and you’ll struggle to find anything more robust than the Kambukka bottle for kids. This hard-wearing bottle is dishwasher safe, BPA free, 100 per cent leak proof and does not stain or retain odours. In addition to that, it features an angled straw which means you don’t need to tilt your head into a funny angle as you near the end of your drink. The lid of the Kambukka bottle has been designed to fit the thermal bottles in the same range so you can mix and match depending on your need for cooler water on those hot summer days.

This hard-wearing bottle is dishwasher safe, BPA free, 100 per cent leak proof and does not stain or retain odours

Little Life Mini First Aid Kit

RRP: €27.99, jojomamanbebe.ie

This compact first aid kit is an essential addition to any backpack this summer. Equipped with scissors, tweezers, thermometer, micropore tape, antiseptic cream, antiseptic wipes, medium dressing, low adherent dressing, gauze swabs, plasters, safety pins, burn gel, eye wash and “little star” stickers, this kit will cover most mishaps that could occur on your adventures.

Mahana 10″ Stand Up Paddleboard

RRP: €445, 53degreesnorth.ie

The Mahana is a go anywhere, do anything inflatable paddle-board that is super hard wearing. This board will be perfect for the entire family from multiple kids splashing around in the shallows to parents who want to while away an hour or two in peace. The paddle-board comes with a paddle, pump, repair kit and carry bag.

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Sola Wetsuit

RRP: €59.99, puddleducks.ie

This 3mm/2mm full length wetsuit is made of a super-soft, four-way stretch neoprene, making it extra comfy to wear and move in. The back and chest panels help protect from windchill and the superior stretch gives additional warmth for all-day use on the beach and in the water. This is a great purchase if you intend to hit the water from spring right through the autumn. Available for ages two to 13.

This is a great purchase if you intend to hit the water from spring right through the autumn

Typhoon Filey Buoyancy Aid

RRP: €33, surfdock.com

If you plan on spending time on and in the water this summer, a good buoyancy aid is a worthwhile addition to your kit box. While you might be tempted to slot an adult-sized life jacket on your child, it’s not a good idea as it will not do the job should they find themselves in trouble. The Typhoon Filey Buoyancy Aid has been designed specifically for each weight category and is equipped with a foam collar to ensure optimum comfort in and out of the water. In addition to that, it is super durable and comes with a lifting handle.

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Osprey Poco Child Carrier

RRP: €360, greatoutdoors.ie

I like to describe the Poco as the Rolls-Royce of child carriers. And once you slot your little one into this, you will see why. The Poco offers your child a really comfortable ride while simultaneously giving you the back support that you need when transporting your precious load. The Poco LT is also lighter and more compact than the majority of other carriers out there making it a great option for travel. A UPF 50+ sunshade and rain cover also ensure you are ready no matter what the weather throws at you.