Frequently Asked Questions

What are boot straps and why do they matter for outdoor school?
Boot straps (also called stirrups or foot straps) are 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.
What is the difference between silicone and elastic boot straps?
Silicone boot straps are significantly more durable than elastic ones. Silicone stays flexible in cold and wet conditions without stretching out or degrading — making it the tougher choice for kids who are in outdoor programs daily. Elastic straps are lighter and slightly more forgiving, but silicone holds its shape longer under boots on rough terrain. If your child is in an intensive outdoor school program, silicone is worth the small price difference.
Which Didriksons pants are these compatible with?
The silicone foot strap repair kit is designed for Didriksons outerwear that uses detachable foot straps with button connectors. Each kit includes two silicone foot straps and four replacement buttons, so you can replace both the strap and the attachment point if needed. Check the inside of your Didriksons garment for the button connectors — if they're present, this kit will work.
How do I install the silicone foot straps?
Attach the button end of the silicone strap to the connector inside the pant leg, then loop the strap under the sole of your child's boot. Silicone grips better than elastic under the boot sole, which helps keep the strap in place during active movement. The kit includes spare buttons in case the original buttons on the garment need replacing too.
Is this repair kit worth it compared to buying new pants?
Absolutely. Didriksons outerwear is built for multi-season use — the foot straps are simply the highest-wear component. A $5–$8 repair kit extends the life of a $70–$120 garment considerably, making it one of the best value purchases on the site. It's also a great sustainability move: keeping functional gear in use longer is always the better choice, and well-maintained Didriksons gear can be passed along through the ODSS (Re)PLAY program when your child outgrows it.
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