As summer winds down and the school year approaches, ensuring your children are well-prepared is essential. Finding the right mix of style they want and the function you want can be a challenge. As a small business owner myself and mom to two school-aged children, I try to shop locally as much as possible.
One of our favorite back-to-school shopping locations, Alabama Outdoors, offers a lot of the kid’s favorite and on-trend brands including Hoka, Vuori, Gold Hinge and Owala. I enjoy the ability to check off multiple items from my shopping list under one roof. We spent time looking through everything from backpacks to shoes and didn’t come out empty-handed.
Check out seven must-haves for back-to-school at Alabama Outdoors!
1. Women’s Hoka Clifton 9
Comfort is key for long school days and after-school sports, and the Women’s Hoka Clifton 9 delivers just that. These shoes are incredibly comfortable and trendy, available in fun, vibrant colors. Whether your child is running between classes or heading to practice, these shoes provide the support and style they need.
My daughter decided on a pair of these popular tennis shoes last fall and wore them out. We ended up buying a second pair because the style is her favorite. So lightweight and she wanted a new color combination. I highly recommend visiting the helpful staff at Alabama Outdoors and try on these shoes to ensure the right fit before you buy.
2. The North Face Women’s Borealis Backpack
A reliable backpack is a school essential, and The North Face Women’s Borealis Backpack fits the bill perfectly. This backpack offers maximum storage and comfort, making it ideal for carrying books, supplies, and more. Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association for its ergonomic design, it ensures your child’s comfort and posture are well-supported.
We purchased one last year and have been so impressed with the durability and quality. It’s been well-used and will be transitioning from middle school to high school with our freshman.
3. The North Face Men’s Recon Backpack
Similar to its women’s counterpart, The North Face Men’s Recon Backpack is a top pick for school and beyond. With ample storage and ergonomic support, this backpack is designed to carry everything needed for a busy school day. It’s perfect for both school use and day trips, ensuring your child’s comfort and convenience.
The mesh front is a nice addition to the style for this season. Plus the two durable water bottle pockets can easily double as multi-use pockets with smartphone access on one side.
4. Men’s Vuori Kore Short
For boys, the Men’s Vuori Kore Short is a versatile piece that transitions seamlessly from school to hangouts with friends to the gym. The Kore is built with a lightweight 4-way stretch fabric and includes an incredibly soft boxer brief style liner with embedded COOLMAX technology, designed with a supportive, but not overly compressive boxer brief style fit. The Kore is sure to keep you cool, dry, and confident during any sweaty workout.
Known for its comfort and style, it’s easy to see why this lined short is a favorite among back-to-school shoppers. Please note that Vuori is an in-store exclusive brand, available only at Alabama Outdoors physical locations.
5. Men’s Vuori Strato Tech Tee
The Men’s Vuori Strato Tech Tee is another in-store exclusive that’s perfect for any activity. This super-soft, classic everyday tee is ideal for school and beyond. Its versatility and comfort make it a wardrobe staple for active boys.
The heathered color tees are moisture-wicking, anti-odor, and quick-drying making them a favorite for every day of the week.
6. Women’s Gold Hinge Pleated Skirt
For girls, the Women’s Gold Hinge Pleated Skirt is the ‘it’ item of the season. Stylish and versatile, this skirt is set to remain a popular choice for the upcoming school year. Its trendy design ensures your child stays fashionable and comfortable.
The extra small adult size works well for my tween daughter. I love the shorts underneath and the full coverage style. She loves that they come in her school colors so she talked me into three to wear this year.
7. Owala Free-Sip Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial, and the Owala Free-Sip Water Bottle makes it easy and fun. This water bottle is leak-free and features a built-in straw for easy sipping. Available in bright, fun colors, it’s lead-free and has a covered straw to keep it germ-free, making it a perfect addition to your child’s school gear. It’s also dishwasher-safe!
These top items from Alabama Outdoors ensure your child is ready for the new school year with comfort, style, and practicality.
With three locations in the Birmingham area, explore these must-have items and more to make this back-to-school season the best one yet!
