I know, it’s just mid-August. The temperatures are still steamy and the sun is high and hot.
Warm, waterproof, weatherproof outerwear is probably just about the last thing on your mind.
But it shouldn’t be, because in just about 60 days the 2016-17 ski season will get underway and you’ll want to be prepared.
So today, I’ve got a review and giveaway of the new Edus kid’s mono suit from Tobe Outerwear.
Introducing Tobe Outerwear
Tobe Outerwear was founded in Northern Sweden in 2001. The founder’s goal was to create a line of super-durable backcountry gear that could be used every day of the winter, if necessary.
With a sense of humor, they created a company motto.
The men and women that choose our path and follow our trails are Vikings. They are not
afraid of the cold or the wilderness.
These modern-day Vikings belong in the backcountry and thrive in the wild, be it on a
snowboard, a snowmobile or a pair of skis.
We keep them warm, dry and safe because it is what we do.
In addition to appealing to each of our inner-Vikings, I love this because what they aim to do is so fundamental: they aim to keep us warm, dry and safe. Tobe Outerwear is not about the latest style or trendiest color. It is about solid performance and function.
The Children’s Edus Mono Suit
The mono suit is a signature piece of the Tobe Outerwear line for adults. Although the company sells really good-looking jackets and highly functional bib ski pants, their unisex mono suits are what set them apart from competitors.
Crafted to be 100% windproof and 100% waterproof, the mono suits are made of 2 layer Cordura fabric with a breathable weatherproof membrane, sealed seams, multiple adjustment points for the best fit and no (as in none) insulation. The adult mono suits are for weather protection only and require smart layering underneath.
The new children’s version is different.
While it features the same high-protection breathable inner membrane as the adults suits, it has a full body, ultrasoft fleece lining. This lining was the first thing I noticed (other than how darn cute the suit is) when it arrived. It is soft and thick and totally cuddly.
Other features of the kids’ suit include sealed seams, an adjustable, removable hood, adjustable cuffs, three outside pockets, snow gaiters and a long front zipper to ease putting it on and taking it off.
For this season, the Edus is available in three colors (Dark Olive, Legion Blue and Raspberry Radiance) in sizes for 2 – 10 years. You can find the suit online beginning in mid-August or at KidSport in Vail, Colorado.
As for care, it’s super easy. Tobe Mono Suits can be washed in regular detergent and tumble dried on low.
What I Think (That is, the Review)
As I said above, when I opened up the box from Tobe, I was struck first by how darn cute this suit is. Sized to fit a 4-5 year old, it’s roomy, a little on the heavy side (thanks to ultra-durable exterior fabric) and as soft as a giant stuffed animal.
The fleece is, in a word, fantastic. I could totally imagine my sons at this age putting this on and not wanting to take it off.
Plus, it’s got style. Color blocking details on the back and legs add interest, as well as additional durability at the knees and lower legs. Coordinating zippers and the Tobe name on the right sleeve along with several strips of reflective fabric give the suit an athletic look.
Basically, this suit is an adult version, scaled down for kids, with no shortcuts. Or as a Tobe representative told me, “the goal in creating the Edus Mono Suit is to foster the next generation of winter sport enthusiasts when they are at the ideal age to start learning a new skill. Instead of focusing on being cold or wet, young children will now have the opportunity to put their full attention towards pursuing the same passions as the rest of the family, thanks to wearing gear that will not let them down.”
I couldn’t agree more.
As for the mono suit design, it’s foreign to me. I’ve never worn a one-piece ski suit. When my sons ski raced, they wore one piece speed suits and our experience with stuffing them into and pulling them out of sweaty, cold, lycra-infused fabric was less than positive (still, the suits had their function).
Obviously, the Edus mono suit is the total opposite of those race suits. It’s roomy, the long zipper makes it easy to put on and take off and if a child takes a tumble, there is no risk of snow working its way in between jacket and pants. It seems like a very warm option for children’s ski wear.
On the downside, there is less versatility. Your kids can’t wear just the pants with a hoody on spring days, or lengthen the arms or cuffs as they grow. There’s no working around the fact that when the mono suit is outgrown, it’s outgrown.
Being well-made, however, the suit should last through multiple seasons passed down to multiple kids.
All-in-all, it’s a solid choice for families that ski, ride, snowmobile and recreate in the coldest, wettest weather.
Giveaway
Today, we’re giving away a Legion Blue Edus mono suit for sizes 4-5 years of age. This suit is a brand-new product sample and is slightly different from the models that will be sold this fall. Most significantly, this model doesn’t have the leg snow gaiters, although it does have loops to keep the pant legs firmly in place.
To enter, please leave a comment about how your family prepares for winter. Or share with us your best tips for keeping kids warm.
For a second entry, please “like” Tobe Outerwear on Facebook.
Two winners will be randomly chosens on Friday, August 26, 2016 from all eligible entries. One will be a US address and one will be a Canadian address, so please let me know where you are from!
Good luck!
Other Tobe Gear
While this post focuses on the new children’s Edus mono suit, I also received some Tobe Capto Undercuff gloves to review. Another unisex model, they run slightly larger than I anticipated (I got a medium) which is okay because I almost always wear liners anyway. I like the soft leather palm and the durable fabric and membrane — the same 100% windproof and 100% waterproof construction as the mono suits. I’m looking forward to trying them when the cold north winds do blow.
Many thanks to Tobe Outerwear for providing product samples to facilitate this review and giveaway. As always, all opinions are my own and are exactly what I would tell my family and friends.
More Kids’ Winter Gear:
- Gear Review: Bollé Helmets and Goggles for Kids, March 14, 2016.
- How to Save Big on Kids’ Ski and Ride Gear, August 29, 2013.
- Teach Your Kids to Ski, January 13, 2016.
- Gifts for Skiing Kids from WinterKids.com, December 2, 2015.
- Need New Ski Gear? Tips for Knowing When It’s Time, July 27, 2015.
- Introducing Stripes Gear Baselayers for the Family, January 21, 2015.
© 2016 – 2017, braveskimom. All rights reserved. Any use or publication of content, including photos, requires express permission.
Marcie Bradley says
My 5-year-old and I stock up on hot chocolate, s’mores materials and fire wood to stay warm on the inside – on the outside we gear up with the best like TOBE! Need to look good and be functional on the slopes in Tahoe! Ski School starts in less than 100 days 🙂
braveskimom says
I hear you! Warm inside, warm outside = Happy kids! 100 days and counting! Thanks for entering!
Magnolia barra says
Snowy days are our favorite !
Lots of firewood and cocoa powder are always my way to warm my littles !
braveskimom says
There is something so magical about a snow day when you have young kids….big kids, too! Thanks!
Natasha says
This will be our first winter in CO! We need all the advice we can get; please help this Texas moma.
Leec says
Natasha
Ski passes go on sale really early in Colorado
And the sales end Sept/oct so start shopping now!
braveskimom says
Ski passes in many states are at their cheapest in April and May. If you miss those dates definitely start looking before Labor Day! And as for sales, some are starting now and they culminate on Labor Day weekend. They extend beyond that time, but those are most of the biggies (Christy Sports, Colorado Ski and Golf). Now is also the time to get season rentals if you’re interested (again, Christy Sports, etc). Other sales happening right now are at WinterWomen.com and WinterKids.com (both online retailers).
Here’s some help if you’re wondering what needs to be replaced this season: https://braveskimom.com/need-new-ski-gear-tips-for-knowing-when-its-time
Also, for ski passes in Colorado, it really depends upon where you live. In the Denver area, the biggies are the Epic Pass and the Rocky Mountain Super Pass. Good luck!
braveskimom says
Oh, you have found the right place! I love to give advice (solicited and unsolicited, so please forgive me!). If you have any specific questions, feel free to reach out to me via the Contact Me button! Thanks and good luck!
LeeC says
To get ready for ski season we start early. #1, We buy our ski passes in the summer for the upcoming year! Also keep an eye out for spring sales on kids ski gear
braveskimom says
Planning ahead is key! Thanks for sharing!
Adrienne edgar says
Loving every minute of summer but anxious for winter & lots of snow! We start just about now piecing together ski equipment and gear for the kids. Do they ever stop growing?
braveskimom says
LOL! Yes they do stop growing…then they just wear out their gear and clothing!
Lake Lili says
4-5 is a bit small for the Kiddo but I have a nephew it would be perfect for! And the gloves look great.
braveskimom says
Always good to be the doting aunt!
Lori Magelky says
We buy our winter gear in the off season. Best prices and great selection.
braveskimom says
Smart! Thank you!
savmeremic says
Well before we stock up on our gear the horses get new winter blankets (if only tobe had a line for them!) But then its time to split lots of firewood for the woodstove! We love to have movie nights out on the living room floor next to the ole woody with a bunch of my great grandmas giant quilts and lots of treats! Theres nothing like coming in from a long day of riding and play to the amazing heat of our woodstove, snuggling up to a good movie and lots of chocolate! ♡
braveskimom says
Oh, this sounds fabulous! Can I join you? Thanks!
Liz says
We live on a small hobby farm with lots of preparing before winter!! Firewood is our main chore. We love all outdoor winter sports and I’m sure my little guy could spend so much more time outside with this warm suit!!!! Wish us luck!
braveskimom says
Good luck – with the firewood and the giveaway! Thanks!
Karoline Dallager says
Vi ordner alt klart til vinteren iløpet av sommer og høst. Slik at sesongen imøtekommes med glede; og gode vinterdager. Gledes til vinter nå, da forrige sesong endte opp med graviditet og barn, iår blir det andre mål. Komme seg ut i marka slik som det alltid har vært! 🙂
braveskimom says
I’m sure these are all nice things being said about Tobe and Winter! Any Swedish speakers/readers out there? Cheers!
ian coneybeare says
Being in the Muskoka Snow Belt of Ontario Canada, we make sure winter tires are on, skates are sharpened, snowmobiles are ready to rock and roll when the white stuff hits…..and then we shop for weeks for the perfect snow suit for my son. This will be his first year on his mini sled. No worries on my suit as I already have a Tobe Privus two piece in Olive. Best suit I’ve ever owned…..and I have a lot of them!
braveskimom says
Love the personal testimony! Have a great time this winter and I hope your son enjoys the mini sled!
Erin L says
Would love to win this for my daughter! My kids love to be outside in the winter– we prepare by stocking up on super-warm clothing that holds up in the cold, wet snow. This looks perfect! Thanks so much!
braveskimom says
Thanks Erin! Sounds great!
Amelia says
We breathe deep and stock up on base layers and outer layers…and get super excited!!! There’s sometimes a chill in the air here…I can’t wait!!! 🙂 Thanks for the chance – it looks awesome!
braveskimom says
I love how autumn’s first chill comes on August mornings! Excitement builds!
Amelia says
I also like them on Facebook 🙂
braveskimom says
Another entry! Thanks!
Nicki Joseph says
Apple cider, hot chocolate, and lots of warm blankets! I like Tobe outwear on FB 🙂
braveskimom says
Excellent! 2 entries for you! Thanks!
Susan says
I put my daughter in long johns to help her keep warm in the winter when we go outside to play at the park or in the snow. I still wear them too!
braveskimom says
I ❤️ Long johns! And I have some great long john product reviews coming this fall! Thanks!
braveskimom says
Me too!
Susan says
I am a facebook fan of theirs. Thank you
braveskimom says
Fantastic – double entry! Thanks!
dianne hall says
This suit looks awesome for winter! We live about 40 minutes from the mountain so we like to go up all the time and go sledding. I am starting my kids in ski lessons this winter and this would fit my son perfectly!
braveskimom says
Hooray! Enough the skiing this winter!
dianne hall says
I also liked them on Facebook
braveskimom says
Thank you! That’s 2 entries for you!
Mandy McQuarrie says
We prep for winter by spending days putting our outdoor toys in storage to protect them from our heavy winters in Revy.
Spending cash on quality winter gear for our three kids is a priority. Gotta keep warm to enjoy winter fun! ❄️
Nice job on the new Edus Monk Suit! Looks great
braveskimom says
Gotta keep the kids warm and make sure they love winter! Thanks!
braveskimom says
Great new! We will choose 2 winners on Friday! One from the US and one from Canada! Let us know which you are entering for please!
Kenny H. says
We prepare for winter by stocking up on can foods, water bottles, etc. in case we get snowed in for a few days. I keep my kids warm by layering! I am located in the U.S.! Thank you
braveskimom says
I ❤️ Snowed in! Enjoy!
Kenny H. says
**FB fan**
braveskimom says
Awesome! 2 entries!
Emilie says
Getting ready for ski season here in CO! Going through my older kids ski gear to see if anything will fit my 3 year old…I think he is due for new snow gear, that suit looks great!
braveskimom says
And I bet he’d look great I it! Thanks!
Ian Coughlin says
As my little girl is rather young, we prep for winter season by getting her used to all the necessary gear so it’s not overwhelming on day 1. I start by showing her her boots and helmet (getting used to the goggles is the hardest part). By late fall I hope she’ll be able to gear herself up in the house and feel comfy in all her layers. This gets kiddo stoked to go do whatever it is the equipment is used for (she feels like an expert). When we take her to the mountain, it’s all about the board, as she’s familiar with all the clunky gear already.
As for warmth, we had a pair of kids mitts last season that were just the bees knees. They had cuffs above the top of the mitt that went all the way up to her armpits. Thus, the mitts never budged throughout the day and kept her arms and hands both warm. Only downfall was they had to be one of the first things put on.
I’d “like” tobe’s Facebook page for another entry, but I’ve already been following for over a year here in BC, Canada.
Stoked for my little 2yr olds second season on the snowboard. Fingers crossed we can get her off the harness by the end of the season, but no big deal if not.
Happy shredding!!
braveskimom says
Such great advice! You’ve got a double entry and I hope that you’ll post a photo of your little one snowboarding on my FB page this winter (@braveskimom). Cheers!
Jen Beaulieu says
We love in Alberta so our winters are fairly long we start preparing in the spring before the next winter by stocking up on gear. We love getting out skiing and boarding with our 6 year old girl and 4 year old boy in the mountains and even locally. This suit would be perfect for him!
braveskimom says
Keep building those fun family memories!
Tamara Ciancone says
We live on a large ranch in Canada. Everyday we are outside feeding and watering animals in some of the harshest conditions. When we aren’t working we are shredding!!!! We enjoy snowboarding and skiing and even some tubing at Sun Peaks resort in Kamloops BC. I love Tobe and can’t wait to get my hands on some kids gear!!!!!
braveskimom says
Great to hear this! I’ve always wanted to ski Sun Peaks! Enjoy the winter!
Magnolia barra says
My daughter can really use this – is going to be cold before we know it !!
We can’t wait for winter !!!
braveskimom says
Same! Same! Thanks!
Angela says
We love winter in our house our ski gear is ready, season passes in hand. Next job fire wood . My 4 year old would love a Tobe suit, it would get well used up in Canada. Thanks
braveskimom says
You’ll be well-prepared! Enjoy!
Jemma says
Winter is our favourite time of year. We prepare by working on our sleds and getting the snowboards ready for the season. Two little boys love to shred the snow in beautiful British Columbia!! Would be cool if they matched their mum and dads tobe suits!!!
Carson says
No Matter what it’s always a challenge but one piece suits and thin cozy neck gater that pulls up over ears and head definitely make the process as streamlined as possible!
braveskimom says
Good points! And keeping the cabeza warm is so
Important! Thanks!
braveskimom says
A Tobe Outerwear family! I love it!
Darcy says
Layers, lots of layers! Warm silk, wool or new technical fabric next to the skin. Wind proof fleece mid layers and fabulous outer layer like TOBE! When your done playing in the snow, peel off the outer layer, wrap up in a cuddly fleece blanket to share the photos of the day!
braveskimom says
Great tips for layering – and relaxing! Thanks!
Dave Law says
I use the same layering ideas on the kids, as I use for myself. We have actually bought them merino wool base layer, which makes a huge difference in the cold. Obviously quality boots and gloves are on the list as well!
From lacombe alberta!
braveskimom says
Have to agree on wool! I know some people don’t like it, but we do! Thanks!
Denise says
I have a US address but we prepare for winter in advance.. I like to buy the next size up for my kids in the off season when all the winter items have gone on clearance. Sure it is odd buying coats and gloves and hats in the spring/summer but it saves a ton of money! I like their facebook page as well.
braveskimom says
One of my favorite tips! Thanks and you have 2 entries!
Chelsey Russell says
Would love to win this! We spend most of our time outside in the winter. My family prepares for winter by making sure all our gear fits from the previous year. Then we head out to the snowmobiles and make sure they are all ready for a long 5ish months of riding. This would make it so easy to dress and undress my son this winter. Then he could match his daddy if he won this Tobe Edus Mono Suit!
Chelsey Russell says
We are from CANADA!!
braveskimom says
Thanks for letting me know!
braveskimom says
Love this! Like father, like son!