Frequently Asked Questions

What are boot straps and why do they matter for outdoor school?
Boot straps (also called stirrups or foot straps) are elastic loops that attach to the inside of rain pants and snow pants and run under the sole of your child's boot. They keep pant legs from riding up, which is critical for keeping rain and snow from sneaking in at the ankle. Without them, even the best rain bibs lose their effectiveness during active play — especially when kids are running, climbing, or sitting on wet ground.
How do I know when it's time to replace the boot straps?
Boot straps wear out faster than the pants themselves — that's by design. If the elastic has stretched out, snapped, or the button attachment has broken, it's time to replace them. The good news: a fresh set at $3.95 is far cheaper than replacing the whole garment. Outdoor school kids may go through a set or two per season depending on how active they are.
Which pants are these compatible with?
The elastic boot strap set uses a button attachment and is compatible with rain pants and snow pants that have button-style boot strap connectors. For Muddy Puddles garments, check the inside of the garment to confirm whether you need metal or plastic attachments — the Muddy Puddles spare set uses hard-wearing metal poppers. For Polarn O. Pyret pants, the elastic set works with their button-style bib and rain pant styles.
How do I install replacement boot straps?
Simply snap the button end of the strap onto the button connector sewn inside the pant leg, then loop the elastic under the sole of your child's boot or shoe. The strap should sit snugly — not tight — under the foot. If it's too loose, the pants will ride up; if it's too tight, it can be uncomfortable to wear.
Is replacing boot straps worth it, or should I just buy new pants?
Almost always worth it. Rain pants and bibs from brands like Muddy Puddles and Polarn O. Pyret are built to outlast several seasons — the boot straps are simply the first part to wear out. A $3.95 replacement set extends the life of a $60–$100 garment significantly, which is exactly the kind of longevity play that makes premium outdoor school gear such a good investment. It also makes these garments great candidates for the ODSS (Re)PLAY program — pass them on in great condition once your child outgrows them.
Woman holding a child in a snowy setting with 'Outdoor School Shop' logo.

FOUNDED BY WOMEN. BUILT FOR ADVENTURE.

ODSS was started by mothers who saw firsthand how time outside builds resilient, confident kids. What began as helping outdoor schools equip students for all-weather learning grew into a bigger mission: Help families raise resilient, confident kids by making it easier for children to stay outside longer.

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Testimonials

For us, the right gear from ODSS supports what we believe most about childhood. When children are able to be outside every day, in all seasons, they become tenacious, confident, and develop an authentic relationship with the land.
— RAIN OR SHINE SCHOOL 
Working with Outdoor School Shop has transformed our outdoor school community. Parents love knowing their children are consistently and reliably equipped—and that nothing is forgotten or comes home covered in mud. 
— RANDOLPH SCHOOL 
Our students get outside in all temperatures and having the right gear makes a world of difference. @outdoorschoolshop has gear appropriate for all seasons, has a directory to search for nature schools, and layering guides to help families know how to dress children for the weather
— HEMLOCK HILL 
At The Thistle and Root, I always recommend ODSS gear for anyone who believes that children grow best through nature—so dress for it.
— THISTLE & ROOT 
Ordering bulk with Outdoor School Shop was just as easy and seamless as I had hoped! As we open up a new program, preparing our first group of kiddos for any weather was at the top of our priority list, and ODSS came through with insight, expertise, and the coolest, most dependable gear around! Thank you ODSS!
— SIDNEY RIDGE