Finding quality activewear nearby is one thing, but finding it for kids is an entirely new hassle. Here is a list of the best local places to find your kids climbing shoes, fishing shirts, swim gear and outdoor wear. Getting to support local businesses and also investing in quality gear for young athletes is a combination that shouldn’t be passed up.
Howler Brothers is an outdoor wear brand based out of Austin. Their clothing is inspired by your favorite outdoor activities, like fishing and paddling. They have apparel like drawstring water shorts and their specialized chill shorts designed for every activity from basketball to movie nights. While their selection may not be vast, their quality is impeccable and their reviews are top-notch. Their fishing shirts, vests, polos, jackets and flannels are all durably made and sport their western-inspired logo. They even have mountain- or tropical-themed stickers, patches and towels. They offer sizes for boys ages 7 to 15. You can shop online or at the physical locations listed on their website. Their Howler Hacienda, located in downtown Austin, sells their outdoor wear apparel, surfboards, stickers and more.
Why sacrifice aesthetics for functionality? Sweet Honey is an adorable boutique by an Austin mom. But don’t let their whimsical name fool you; this online shop has a large selection of activewear for both girls and boys. Their activewear for kids perfectly combines functionality and cuteness with aesthetic designs that are also durable for outdoor play. Their selection consists of both the preppy and sporty with printed tennis dresses, matching active shorts and shirt sets, jump rope skorts, crops, tanks, rash guards and leotards for any active little girl. They even have matching adult sets for mother-daughter hikes, as well as a boys’ section. Their swimwear is designed for sun protection and their activewear is designed for movement with built-in shorts and soft, cool fabric blends. Their activewear items come in more prints and patterns than you could want and a variety of sizes (2T to 14Y).
Rocket Science Sports is a high-tech, athletic-focused company based out of Austin. They specialize in custom swim gear for teams and individuals of any age, including kids. From wetsuits, soccer uniforms, swimsuits, bags and triathlon suits, Rocket Science Sports focuses on the real physics of fitness. Made for serious athletes, this company works to make their gear the best quality with durability and comfort.
Crux Climbing Center is one of the most popular indoor rock climbing locations in Austin with climbing walls, a workout area and a yoga studio. Their extensive gear shop sports a variety of quality climbing shoes for kids with multiple brands and colors. Besides youth shoes, they also hold extensive climbing gear such as crash pads, rope, belays and other gear.
Whole Earth Provision originated in the 1970s by two University of Texas students for the sake of ecological awareness. This nature-focused and environmentally conscious company provides outdoor wear and gear. Providing environment-positive brands such as Keen, Native, Chaco, Birkenstock, Hey Dude, North Face and others, they offer a wide variety of apparel and gear, with their selection for kids being extensive. Their kid gear includes hats, goggles, jackets, socks, yoga mats, backpacks and more. All of their merchandise is sold in an effort to encourage customers to explore the world around them. From hiking a trail, swimming or any other outdoor activity, this family-owned company is dedicated to providing quality adventure gear.
D&J Sports is a sports store focused on water athletics. With both physical locations and an extensive online store, D&J Sports offers countless styles, colors and sizes for all their apparel and gear. They offer everything from cold-weather gear like warm-up jackets, sweats and parkas to warm-weather gear like water bottles, hats, goggles, swimsuits, wetsuits and swim gear. Their sizes are extensive for all youth sizes with reasonable prices. This Texas local store offers only the best of the best swim brands such as Tyr, Phelps, Nike, Speedo, Dolfin and more.
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While both in-person and online shopping has their perks and often depends on preference, both quality design and durability are universal fitness apparel needs. These stores and brands are a great place to start when trying to prepare for the rough and tumble that active kids are destined for.