Family Snow Trips: How to Choose the Right Gear for Mums and Kids

Ah, the family snow trip. Where winter dreams are made of hot cocoa, snowball fights, and the occasional boot crisis in the lodge parking lot. Whether you’re a seasoned snow queen or this is your first time venturing into the frozen unknown with kids in tow, one thing’s for sure: gear makes or breaks the trip.

So let’s dig into the must-haves that will keep your family warm, dry, stylish, and—most importantly—sane.

Layer Up or Melt Down: The Base Layer Basics

Before the puffy jackets and statement snow boots come out, it’s all about what’s underneath. A good base layer keeps sweat away from the body and seals in warmth, without turning you into a walking furnace.

For moms: Go for thermal leggings and long-sleeved tops made of merino wool or technical synthetics. Bonus points for pieces that look good enough to wear straight into the après-ski scene.

For kids: Prioritize comfort and stretch. Because the only thing worse than a cold toddler is a cold toddler in itchy thermals.

Outerwear that Holds Up to Sled Races and Meltdowns

Your jacket isn’t just a jacket. It’s your armor against snow squalls, spilled juice boxes, and the occasional tackle hug from a snow-hyped six-year-old.

For moms: Look for waterproof-breathable fabrics, taped seams, zippered vents (trust us), and a few strategically placed pockets. You’ll need a place for snacks, tissues, lip balm, and your phone—which you’ll be using to document all the cuteness.

For kids: Bright colors are not only fun but functional—you’ll thank yourself when trying to spot them mid-snowstorm. Reinforced knees and sleeves are a smart move too, especially if your child tends to dive headfirst into snowbanks.

Gloves, Hats, and All the Things You Will Inevitably Lose

Let’s just get one thing out of the way: Bring extras. Lots of extras.

• Gloves and mittens: Waterproof, insulated, and easy to put on (and keep on). Mittens are warmer, but gloves offer more dexterity for older kids and snowball artists.
• Hats and helmets: Layer a thin beanie under a helmet, or go with a helmet that’s fleece-lined. Safety doesn’t have to be unstylish.
• Neck warmers over scarves: Safer, snugger, and less likely to unravel mid-sled run.
• Socks: Wool or performance blends only. Cotton is a no-go unless you enjoy soggy feet.

The Slope Stuff: Snowboards and Serious Fun

If your trip involves more than backyard sledding, it’s time to talk snowboards. Whether you’re a mom ready to shred or your kiddo is stepping onto a board for the first time, having the right gear can take your trip from “just okay” to “epic.”

This is where Tactics snowboards come in. They’ve got high-quality boards for all skill levels—moms included—and plenty of kid-friendly options too. Bonus: You can browse and buy online without having to wrangle the kids in a store. Trust us, shopping for gear in your pajamas beats battling a cranky toddler in the snowboard aisle.

Should You Rent or Buy? The Eternal Gear Question

If you’re new to snow trips, renting can be a smart way to test the waters (or the powder). But if winter getaways are becoming a regular thing for your crew, investing in gear—especially during offseason sales—can be more budget-friendly long-term.

And yes, online stores like Tactics make it incredibly easy to snag everything you need without leaving your couch. From boards to boots to those oddly specific accessories you didn’t even know existed, they’ve got it covered.

Mom Hacks to Keep Your Sanity on the Slopes

• Label everything. Seriously, everything. Gloves disappear faster than socks in a dryer.
• Pack two pairs of gloves per person. One for wearing. One for when the first pair ends up mysteriously soaked.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and lip balm. Snow glare is real.
• Keep snacks in every pocket. A hangry child on skis is a safety hazard.
• Embrace imperfection. Not every snow day will be Instagram-worthy—and that’s okay.

The Wrap-Up

Family snow trips can feel like planning a mini expedition to the Arctic—but with the right gear, they’re the kind of memories your kids will talk about for years. Gear up wisely, prep like the pro parent you are, and don’t forget to enjoy the ride (even if it includes a few snowball ambushes).