Summer Loving

Summer has always been my favorite season…not just for sunny days and relaxed schedules, but because it means the kids are home more! We make it a point to eat together most nights year-round, but Summer nights get to go on a little longer and are usually followed by games or a neighborhood walk.

We’re fortunate to live on a greenbelt with a creek, and a private nature preserve, so often times our walks turn into more of an exploration. Our kids have always been adventurous, especially if hiking and water are involved. So what starts as a casual walk, usually ends up being a mud fest!

They both ruined quite a few shoes before I wised up and got them Chacos, and now they practically live in them all Summer. They’re perfect for water activities, and offer support and protection, while washing off completely. Definitely a great shoe for camp, too!

They’re headed out in a few weeks for Summer Camp (Little Miss as a camper and the teen as a counselor!), and Backcountry was my first stop for their gear. I’ve got them stocked-up with lightweight tees and tanks, water shoes, HydraFlasks, Camelbacks, and even ENO hammocks!

On Her: Tank | Shorts | Water Shoes | Water Bottle
On Him: Tee | Hurley Shorts/Swim Trunks | Water Shoes | Camelback

Hydration is essential, especially during Texas Summers, so they both always have a water bottle or Camelback nearby. Little Miss and her friends love decorating their HydroFlasks with fun stickers.

Her Water Shoes | His Water Shoes

Goat Cap | ‘Live Simply’ Tank | Mesh Cap | Backcountry Tee

This ‘Live Simply’ tank is made of pure organic cotton, and so soft and lightweight. I’ve had these Adidas Hikers for years, and love how they not only provide great support for rugged hikes, but wash clean no matter how much mud and dirt! I’ve hiked everything from the Grand Canyon to our neighborhood creek in them. They’re surprisingly lightweight for their durability, and really comfortable.

Goat Cap | ‘Live Simply’ Tank | Similar Shorts | Shoes

The teen is a huge fan of Patagonia tees, and has these Hurley shorts/swim trunks in several colors. They dry quickly and have deep pockets, plus an adjustable drawstring waist.

Little Miss loves Adidas tees and shorts for everything from camp to volleyball. The material is super soft and lightweight, and dries quickly.

On Him: Tee | Shorts | Water Shoes | Camelback
On Her: Tank | Shorts | Water Shoes | Water Bottle

His Water Shoes | Her Water Shoes

Goat Cap | ‘Live Simply’ Tank | Similar Shorts

I’m holding tight to these Summer days, before long our walks will be as a family of three! See more of our family outdoor adventures here, like Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, Big Bend and more!

If you’ve got a family adventure planned this Summer, I can’t recommend Backcountry enough! Their gear is top-notch and prices always fair. Plus, their experienced Gearheads are incredibly helpful in determining the right gear for whatever your activity, from camping to skiing to hiking.

And exclusive for Hi Sugarplum readers, code SUGARPLUM15 gets you 15% off your first order (some exclusions apply).

*Photos by the darling Audrie Dollins. This post is sponsored in collaboration with Backcountry and ShopStyle, but all product selections, opinions, and family adventures are my own. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum sponsors!*