What the **** to Listen to...?

What the **** to Listen to...?

All parents make sacrifices. You would lay down life and limb for your kids, but maybe Kidzbop or “We Don’t Talk about Bruno” on repeat is where you draw the line--but what if...

 

In an age of being able to stream almost any song, you can create your own kid-friendly playlist that will keep you and your kids happy. Many (or even most!) songs, artists, and genres may not be *for kids* but they can still be clean, family-friendly bops.

Want to create or add to your own carpool playlist? Here’s some ideas suggested by genre. Rock on, mom and dad. 🤘

Rap & Hip Hop

Rock

  • Our Last Night is a post-hardcore rock band known for their metal-ish covers of popular songs. They even have an album of Disney covers called “Disney Goes Heavy.”

  • Imagine Dragons is the uber-popular alternative pop rock band with hits like “Believer” and “Radioactive.” Most of their songs come without that little E tag for explicit.
  • A lot of rock from The Beatles to Weezer to some of your favorite Warped Tour emo and punk rock bands can be kid-friendly. For example, Yellowcard’s newer albums are great for the whole family. (Not just Ocean Avenue!)

Acoustic & Reggae

  • Acoustic music is a perfect go-to for when you need something chill for you and the kids. Jack Johnson has contributed to children’s movies soundtracks over the years and his own catalog has tons of kid-friendly jams.

  • Reggae is another genre that is prime listening for the whole family. Bring the chaos down a notch (or ten) and throw on Bob Marley to get everyone in a good mood.

Dance, Electronic & Pop

  • Bring the club to your nightly family dance party and turn on your favorite electronic and dance beats. DJ Kaskade offers clean versions of almost every song.

  • Carly Rae Jepson, Robyn, Daft Punk, and M83 are some of our gen’s favorite dance and pop artists with songs that stand the test of time (without having to yell EARMUFFS! at your kids).
  • For current pop hits that are clean, look for radio edits of almost any song. Harry’s House can be on in your house too!

Want more suggestions of family-friendly content for the car? Check out our blog with ideas of podcasts and audiobooks to listen to with your kids.
February 28, 2023 — Matthew Fisler
Coming Full Circle

Coming Full Circle

The heart behind the BinkyBro brand is family. Our founders, Matt and Rachel, tried for years to have children. Eventually, they were able to go through the IVF process successfully and their first son was born.

After working so hard to get him here, Matt and Rachel had to find the right name for their little dude. They chose to name him Jordy-James after Jordy Smith, a pro surfer they followed and admired (and Matt's all-time favorite).

From the beginning of expanding their family, surfing culture was at the center of what Matt and Rachel were building. When they tried to find clothing and gear for baby Jordy that fit their vibe and lifestyle, they couldn’t find what they were looking for . . . so they created a brand themselves.

BinkyBro was born out of trying to find clothes and gear that fit their family. They wanted to embody SURF, SNOW, SKATE into their family by dressing Jordy (and their three other kids who followed) so they could GO BIG and BE EPIC.

Here’s where it comes full circle.

Five years after Jordy-James and BinkyBro were born, Jordy-James’s namesake, Jordy Smith, welcomed a new addition of his own—baby Zig was born to Jordy and Lyndall Smith in 2020. And now Zig wears BinkyBro.

Matt and Rachel had a dream to have kids, to create a brand that fit their lifestyle that others could share, and to see Jordy’s and Lyndall’s son wearing BinkyBro is a dream come true. What’s more epic than that?

Follow Jordy and Lyndall on Instagram to see their latest adventures in surfing and parenting.

Be sure to also follow @NickChristyFilm for a sneak peak into the surfing world and the Smiths.

(Photo Credit - @NickChristyFilm)

And don’t forget to tag @BinkyBro on Instagram to show us how your kiddos rock BinkyBro for all their own BIG, EPIC adventures.

February 13, 2023 — Matthew Fisler
Layering for Cold Weather

Layering for Cold Weather

The adage, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing,” is all too true. The biggest hurdle to getting outside with kids can be getting them bundled up without everyone crying, swearing, and sweating.

By keeping kids’ winter gear simple, warm, and easy to put on, you can get them outside faster with less fuss and more fun. Thankfully, layering for cold-weather fun can be as easy as 1-2-3!

  1. Start with a base layer

Under all the layers, start with a breathable base layer next to their skin. Polyester or merino wool are the most common fabrics for base layers because they wick away moisture. Avoid cotton because it retains moisture.

You can find base layers at any price point. Costco sells a set for kids from 32 Degrees for just $10. Look to other outdoor clothing companies like Patagonia and SmartWool for more luxe options.

  1. Add a midlayer

A midlayer is added on top of the base layer for insulation. This is something like a fleece pullover, sweatshirt, or insulated jacket or vest.

Once again, the question here is about fabric choice. Fleece is a polyester synthetic option—it’s warm, comfortable, breathes well, and dries quickly. If your kid is going to get wet, fleece makes a great midlayer.

Another option is a synthetic insulated vest or jacket that mimics the light, warm qualities of down while staying warm when wet. Natural down is not a good choice for cold, wet weather because when it gets wet, it’s no longer warm.

Once again, there are a plethora of options at practically any price point. This boys’ fleece from Target is under $20 and this lightweight puffer jacket from Primary is on sale under $50. Buying a midlayer secondhand is another smart, sustainable option because they often hold up well.

  1. Finish with a tough outer layer

The outer layer is a waterproof or water-resistant shell that keeps all the warmth inside and the elements, like cold and wind, out. This layer is made of a synthetic material that can move with your child and is as breathable as possible.

For the snow, an outer layer is either a one-piece option like a snowsuit, or two pieces like a coat on top and snow pants or bibs on bottom. For younger children especially, a snowsuit is a fantastic choice because the snow can’t get inside and it’s so easy to put on and take off.

BinkyBro’s own snowsuit is one of the best in the game and it comes in sizes 18 months to 6T. They’re insulated, breathable, and waterproof, and come in three colorways that will make your tike stand out on the slopes (or in the backyard).

Throw on a hat, gloves or mittens, and wool socks and they’re ready for an outdoor adventure! Tag us on Instagram @BinkyBro to show us how you get outside with your family.

January 31, 2023 — Matthew Fisler
Valentine’s Day Fits

Valentine’s Day Fits

After you put your holiday decorations away and endure a never-ending January (🙃), you deserve something to celebrate. Add a pop of color to your February and celebrate Valentine’s Day with your little love bug.

BinkyBro has allll the pink and red for the perfect Valentine’s Day fit. Color is what’s trending for 2023—dress your cupid in Valentine’s pink and red hues to celebrate in style.

Snapbacks

Check out our snapback guide for more details on snapback styles!

Mondos Snapback

The pink Mondos Snapback is non-structured with a mid-fit.

Malibu Snapback

This faded, light red Malibu Snapback has a standard fit.

Imperial Snapback

This bold Imperial Snapback in cherry red is in our newest 5-panel snapback style that fits more shallow.

Sunset Cliffs Snapbacks

Our Sunset Cliffs standard-fit snapback is made from a pinky mauve twill fabric.

Beanies

Pink Brighton Block Beanie

The Brighton Block beanie in pink and tan is giving trendy color and neutral tones. Sizes available for infants up to youth.

Jackson Hole Beanie

Our Jackson Hole beanie in primary red with a simple BinkyBro tag is available in infant to adult sizes.

Park City Beanie

Our Park City beanie in a sangria-toned mauve is also available in dark-red currant.

Tahoe Beanie

Our Tahoe beanie in neutral light pink is a fan favorite and available in toddler sizing.

Clothing

Alta Crewneck

The Alta Crewneck sweatshirt is available in crimson. It’s made from a cotton-poly blend in sizes from six months to adult extra large. It’s the perfect combination of comfort, quality, and durability.

Canyons Crewneck

Our Canyons Crewneck sweatshirt is available in neutral mauve and blush colors made from a cozy cotton-poly blend with an embroidered BinkyBro patch. It’s available in children’s sizes from six months to 6T.

Playa Pavones Swimmies

Dream of spring and give a swimmie for Valentine’s Day! Our Playa Pavones Euro-fit swim trunks are available in a neutral-pink and maroon colorway. Sizing is available from six months to adult extra large.

Playa Flamingo Swimmies

These bright and bold Euro-fit swim trunks come in a Caribbean-inspired flamingo colorway with neon and light pinks. Sizing is fully stocked in six months to adult extra large.

Accessories

3-Pack Socks in Currant Colorway

Our three-pack of quarter-length socks are thick, soft, and stretchy and just the right Valentine’s Day gift. The currant colorway mixes and matches mauve pink, white, maroon. Sizes are available for infants to youth; infant sizes have non-skid soles for little walkers.

Akala Bucket Hat

This perfectly pink Akala Bucket sun hat from our BinkyBabe line is too sweet to pass up. It’s printed with daisies and embroidered with a simple white BinkyBabe logo.

The Hayden Sunglasses

Our Hayden Sunglasses have pink, round frames that fit babies and toddlers ages 9 months to 5 years. They offer 400 UV protection and look adorable while doing it.

Tag us on Instagram @BinkyBro and show us how your BinkyBros and BinkyBabes are rocking red and pink this Valentine’s Day!

January 26, 2023 — Matthew Fisler
Surf Vacations for Families

Surf Vacations for Families

BinkyBro’s motto is more of a call to action: SURF, SNOW, SKATE. You can do all the things now, even while your little dudes are in diapers. And trust me, you really can, because we have been doing that with our own kids—traveling near and far to instill a love for sun, sand, and surf (in no particular order) in our four kids.

Surf vacations provide activities for the young and old(er) in some of the world’s most beautiful locales. Rachel and I would love to share with you our five favorite surf vacation spots for the family. When taking kids, conditions matter. For example, you probably want sand over reef, warmer water temps, good visibility, easy access, food nearby, and the removal of any sketchy potential situations. So take it from us...here are a few great locations.

Playa Grande, Costa Rica

Playa Grande is on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica just north of Tamarindo and just over an hour from the Liberia airport. If you’re looking for that surf bum vibe—you’ll find it in Playa Grande. Playa Grande is a quiet beach community that’s renowned for its surfing because of the different areas for varying levels of surfers. 

Because Playa Grande is smaller and quieter than other beach towns in Costa Rica, it can be perfect for families to stretch out and explore without the stress of more crowded destinations. And its affordability is also a huge plus for families big and small.

Waikiki Oahu, Hawaii

There may not be a more iconic paradise than Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu. But it’s not just a surfing mecca for pros—it’s also one of the best places to learn because of its long stretch of beach and gentle waves ideal for beginners.

The accessibility of Waikiki is part of what makes it a great surfing destination for families with young kids—it’s often ranked as the most family friendly Hawaiian island. There’s resorts galore that offer programs for kids and surf lessons for beginners. And the cultural activities all over Oahu will keep your kids endlessly entertained.

La Jolla, California

Just north of San Diego, La Jolla, California is known for its rocky coastline and world-famous golfing at Torrey Pines Golf Course. But it’s also a fantastic surf vacation for the whole family because of the easy access to beaches with breach breaks for all levels of surfers.

Part of what makes La Jolla a great surfing vacation for families is how much there is to do in La Jolla and the surrounding San Diego area like Legoland and the San Diego Zoo. And because of Southern California’s famous surfing, there are surf camps and surf schools more than readily available.

If you check out La Jolla be sure to eat at the Taco Stand and Puesto Tacos. Both are our family favorites!

Hanalei Pier, Kauai

The Hanalei Pier is a perfect spot for teaching the little kids to surf. The location itself is stunning as the bay sits in between large mountains. The break right off the pier is in shallow water with calm waves as the bay is relatively protected by the outside reefs despite being on the North Shore. 

And the best part...Hanalei Bay offers a great reef break outside for Mom/Dad--if they get a moment of freedom from the kids. Truly a perfect spot for a family day at the beach.  

Waco Surf, Texas

Waco, Texas? Not exactly what you were expecting in a list of top surf vacations, but here’s your official BinkyBro rec, folks. Waco Surf park is just 90 minutes south of Dallas or 90 minutes north of Austin and it attracts surfers from all over the world because of its state of the art waves.

There’s private session waves and public session waves, along with lessons for every level of surfing ability. The park also has water slides, a lazy river, and its own accommodations so you can stay and surf on site. Waco Surf is the perfect spot for you and your kids to hone your skills and check the SURF off of SURF, SNOW, SKATE.


Before you hit the waves, check out our toddler swimmies, rash guards, and sun hats to keep your BinkyBros stylish and sun protected.

January 17, 2023 — Matthew Fisler
Slopes for New Skiers

Slopes for New Skiers

If you’re tired of Chuck E. Cheese and trampoline parks all winter with your kids, turn your sights to the slopes. With a little research and gear rentals, setting your kids up with a newfound winter activity like skiing could be just the thing to cure winter blues and boredom, as well as giving them a love for a lifelong sport.

(You may be thinking...this is too much work! But TRUST me, the kids will love it. It is core activities like these that create lasting experiences for a lifetime.)

(Sundance Utah, December 17, 2022 - Jordy, 7yrs old, Full Send) 

You don’t need a mountain in your backyard or the budget for some après-ski to make skiing a reality for your family. In many places in the United States, you could be within just a few hours’ drive of skiing. Here’s some of the best ski areas for beginners by region, no matter where you live or vacation.

New England: Cochran’s Ski Area, Vermont

Cochran’s Ski Area in Richmond, Vermont is the first non-profit ski area in the United States with the purpose of allowing all children to learn how to ski, regardless of income or ability. The ski area is small and no-fuss, but season passes, lift tickets, and private lessons are more affordable than just about anywhere. Cochran’s Ski Area was made for beginner skiers.

Southeast: Timberline Mountain, West Virginia

In the Allegheny Mountains, Timberline Mountain in Davis, West Virginia is accessible in the Southeastern and mid-Atlantic United States. In fact, it’s only three and a half hours from Washington D.C. An introductory group lesson is only $25 per person, and there are many lesson offerings for children as young as four years old.

Midwest: Crystal Mountain, Michigan

Crystal Mountain near Traverse City, Michigan is consistently rated one of the top ski resorts for families. There are 15 runs for beginners and two magic carpets for getting your littles up the bunny hill. There is even an ingenious “Nanny McSki” program that is part-private lesson, part-childcare for up to three children.

Intermountain West: Deer Valley Resort, Utah

It can be hard to narrow down the many, many ski world-class resorts in Utah, Colorado and Idaho. Deer Valley Resort in Park City, Utah may be one of the boujiest, but it’s also one of the most beginner-friendly. Deer Valley’s plush amenities are catered to beginners in many ways. Ski school lessons never exceed four people, and 27 percent of its runs are rated for beginners.

(We personally ride Sundance and Woodward PC with our kids a few times per week. Sundance is a smaller resort but more cost friendly compared to Deer Valley, Brighton, PC, Alta, Snowbird, etc if the budget isn't there.)

Pacific: June Mountain, California

Located near Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, June Mountain calls itself “California's Family Mountain.” June Mountain dedicates itself to families and beginner skiers—kids 12 and under ski free! There are lesson options for children as young as three and an easygoing, intimate vibe so your little skiers can gain confidence and have a (snow)ball.

Stay warm in the lodge or the slopes with a BinkyBro signature beanie—sizes are available for infants to adults. What’s cuter than a baby in ski gear? Matching your baby in twinning beanies.

(Rachel enjoying a quick ride in PC - December 2022)


Perfect to wear under a snowsuit, your toddler will be cozy and stay cozy in a Canyons crew neck sweatshirt. Layer it over a base layer Timberline thermal tee for ultimate cute and comfort.

 

January 04, 2023 — Matthew Fisler
Snowsuits DEETS!

Snowsuits DEETS!

New BinkyBro snowsuits put the snow in “Surf, Snow, Skate.” Since 2015 we’ve perfected gear for little BinkyBros with our snapbacks, sun hats, and beanies. New for the slopes in 2023 are our newest edition—toddler snowsuits.

Our signature Ninety-Nine 90 Snowsuit is a full-piece snowsuit intentionally designed to keep snow out and warmth in so your little one can have a comfortable experience on the mountain. Getting our kids outside is why we do what we do. The better they feel, the more excited they’ll be for adventures ahead.

Outerwear material is 15,000 mm rain proof and waterproof, perfect for shredding on powder day. To keep your child’s temperature regulated, the breathability rating is 10,000 g/m2. This means, even for the highest energy of BinkyBros, sweat can get out while keeping warmth in for a full day of fun.

The inner lining is four layers of nylon, micro polar fleece, and polyester tricot. This combination of cozy and durable provides the most comfortable and sturdy outerwear experience for your child. For insulation and padding there is 100GSM polyfill for a softer landing when “full send” doesn’t end so well.

Our baby and toddler snowsuits were designed and tested in the world-famous mountains of Park City, Utah. We want mountains everywhere to be more accessible for our little ones. Remember, whether you’re riding green, blue, or black, always check your surroundings and wear a helmet. Go big. Wear BinkyBro.

Oh, and lets not forget...we made some bad ass goggles as well!

January 04, 2023 — Matthew Fisler
Your Toddler Snapback Guide

Your Toddler Snapback Guide

Snapbacks are what started it all at BinkyBro. What makes BinkyBro snapbacks our signature product? Here’s why each of our three toddler snapback styles is one of a kind.

The Standard Fit

Our infant Standard Fit snapback hat is what got us in the game. The Standard Fit is our OG design.

What makes it fit so well on little heads is a specially designed bulb-shaped bill. This special design feature makes the snapback fit just right on infant and toddler heads. The bulb-shaped bill is present in infant and toddler sizes, but the bill goes straight out starting in youth sizes for the right fit and look on older kids.

We call the Standard Fit snapback a classic for a reason—there are six vertical panels with eyelets on top and a standard snap in the back. With more than 50 styles available, find the Standard Fit snapback that’s just right for you and yours.

The Non-Structured

For a trendy twist on a classic, we have our Non-Structured snapback. In this style, the bill goes straight back instead of in a bulb shape because of the more shallow fit.

This low profile is a newer look in skate headwear. What makes this possible is a small mesh panel in the front that allows for flexibility and all the wear and tear your little guy (and your diaper bag) will put it through.

Most styles are available in infant to adult sizes, and some come with a vintage “grandpa rope” where the bill meets the base. Like the Standard Fit, there is vertical paneling, eyelets on top, and snaps in the back. With our Non-Structured snapback, your BinkyBro will be ready for the skatepark. And hopefully a nap.

The 5-Panel

The 5-Panel toddler snapback is BinkyBro’s newest addition. It has a more shallow profile and a straight bill similar to the Non-Structured, but with a throwback cycling-cap vibe. Is it possible to be both classic and edgy? The 5-Panel snapback says duh.

What makes the 5-Panel unique is the paneling. Three of the panels are horizontal with eyelets on the side, and there are two vertical panels. This trendy silhouette is the perfect cap for any season, any fit. Sizing is available for infants, toddlers, and youth. And of course, it wouldn’t be a snapback without the standard snap in the back.

Share your favorite snapback styles with us on Instagram @BinkyBro to be featured on our feed!

November 02, 2022 — Matthew Fisler
Styling A Toddler Beanie

Styling A Toddler Beanie

Pumpkin-spiced everything, changing leaves, and beanie weather. Cooler temps and the insatiable need to watch Gilmore Girls are your signals to transition your and your binkybro's wardrobes for fall and winter.

Your kid’s closet likely already has transition pieces that will work for fall weather—all you need is a sweatshirt for the brisk mornings and evenings and a beanie to keep their cute little noggins warm. Here’s a few ways for your little one to wear a toddler beanie this fall and winter.

Transition to Fall

We’ve all been there—sweating in our sweaters on a “fall” day in the 70s or 80s just because it’s September or October. While the days are getting darker and temps are falling, early fall still enjoys amazing transitional weather.

Use toddler beanies to transition your kiddo’s wardrobe from summer to fall. A beanie isn’t just a winter weather accessory. Pair it with a long-sleeve tee and sandals or channel Princess Di and pair it with a sweatshirt and shorts.

Down with Brown

Deep chocolate and mocha brown hues are in. (Vogue says so.) This rich brown beanie is hitting all the right notes for fall. The fashion-forward color can be dressed up for an adorable accessory for your annual fall family photos. The neutral will look great with practically any color palette.

Be Bold

A bright, bold beanie like this tangerine or pink color block is an on-trend look that will add a California-casual nod to any outfit. In a world (and Instagram feed) full of neutrals, your little can be—and can wear—the rainbow.

Pair with Patterns

A solid beanie paired with a patterned top, or vice versa—a patterned beanie paired with something solid, is a great way to add visual interest, match with almost anything, and make a statement.

Shake Your Pom Poms

Toddler beanies with a pom pom on top are giving all things winter and ski lodgy coziness. As the weather continues to cool off, lean into the snowed in vibe with a festive pom pom beanie. There’s nothing cuter than a baby in a beanie with a pom as big as their adorable cheeks.

How do you style your littles in a beanie? Show us and show off your style tips and tag us on Instagram.

October 25, 2022 — Matthew Fisler
Halloween Made Simple

Halloween Made Simple

Coming up with a toddler Halloween costume idea for your own little BinkyBro or BinkyBabe can be cute and easy with a few of our favorite products. Instead of spending for a costume they’ll wear just once, use it as an excuse to buy some cool-weather basics they’ll wear over and over again.

Here’s a few ideas of how to inexpensively transform BinkyBro basics into simple, adorable, and functional todderl Halloween costumes both you and your little one will be thrilled to show off on Halloween night.

Pig

Like their favorite nursery rhyme, they can be your little piggy with our Brighton Block beanie in pink and tan color blocking. Our Canyons crewneck sweatshirt in pinky Mauve will keep them cozy all night. Use face paint or lipstick to draw on a pink, round pig nose. Safety pin a curly pink pipe cleaner onto the lower back of the sweatshirt for a tail. For a little girl, style their hair in pigtails that will look oh so cute under the beanie.

Bat

Our black thermal top and black beanie can be made into a bat costume by safety pinning some felt or construction paper triangles on the hat. For wings, there are tons of inexpensive elastic options available on Amazon. You can use an eye pencil to draw on vampire teeth below their mouth. Pair with simple black leggings on bottom—you probably already have a pair in their closet, but if not, check out Target’s selection.

Cat

Similar to a bat, pin or tape two black triangles onto our black beanie. Instead of wings over a black thermal top, buy a costume cat tail online. Use an eye pencil to make cat eyes and whiskers. Pair with black leggings and they’re ready to go haunt the neighborhood!

Spider

Using the same basics—a black thermal top and black beanie—you can make a simple and spooky spider costume. Stick two big googly eyes onto the black beanie and add a few smaller ones below them. Buy a big costume spider like this one with elastic to wear like a backpack, or a decorative one and pin on two pieces of elastic yourself.

Jack-o’-lantern

Our Brighton Block beanie in orange and yellow is a perfect topping for a fresh take on a classic costume. Pair it with the Canyons crewneck sweatshirt in burnt orange. Cut out simple Jack-o’-lantern shapes like triangles for eyes, a square for a nose, and a toothy smile and safety pin them onto the sweatshirt. Voila! You’ve never seen a more stylish pumpkin.


Tag us on Instagram @BinkyBro to show us how your family is using BinkyBro favorites this Halloween!

Also, check out our #skatinwithaskelly competition on our IG page to enter this Halloween season.

October 10, 2022 — Matthew Fisler
Skate Inspired Toddler Shoes

Skate Inspired Toddler Shoes

Whether you were a skatepark punk back in the day or not, skater style has influenced fashion since the 90s. You’ve probably riffed on it in your favorite Chuck Taylor All-Stars or Vans—and so can your kids.

Skater-inspired toddler shoes make great kicks for kids because of generally flat soles and a variety of widths depending on the shoe. What’s key in a kid’s shoe is that they’re durable and easy to put on. Thankfully, many shoe companies make versions of your favorite shoes for adults in kid sizes that use elastic or velcro.

Converse has a whole page on their website dedicated to Easy-On styles. From velcro to slip-ons, they’ve got ‘em all. For sneakers, there is nothing that dresses up or down better than a pair of classic black All Stars, and they’re gender neutral so they work for little guys or gals. That’s a homerun for parents and kids.

Vans are a forever-cool look that parents and kids love. The elastic slip-on style is great for elementary-aged kids who can put their own shoes on but still struggle with laces. The velcro closure is perfect for smaller kids who still need help getting their piggies into shoes. These work especially well for small kids with wider feet.

Converse and Vans do fun brand collabs and are always releasing new patterns and colorways that will get even the most stubborn dudes and dudettes to try a new pair of shoes. And even better—you can subtly match your little without screaming it from the rooftops (or your Instagram story).


Adidas has also gotten into the toddler skateboarding shoe game. They blend an on-brand athletic vibe with a throwback, relaxed skater aesthetic. Their skateboarding shoes for kids all use two velcro straps. Whether you go with a character print or a subtle solid in black or ballet pink, your family will be ready to hit the skatepark . . . or just the park park.


Don’t forget to pair any skater-inspired shoe with crew-length skater-inspired toddler socks from BinkyBro. This three-pack in adorable (ahem, I mean, ~sick~) black-and-white checkers will complete a classic, relaxed look. The three-pack in Currant is a rusty pink that will add a softer touch for your BinkyBro or BinkyBabe. The three-pack in Indigo is a blue tone-on-tone for a classic back-to-school feel.

Complete a head-to-toe mini-skater look with a toddler beanie for Fall’s cooling temps. BinkyBro has a lineup of vintage-looking tees that pair perfectly with a pair of skater shoes. I mean, what’s more scene than this faded black Locals Only t-shirt for kids from six months to six years?

If your kiddo has grown up a size or two since summer began, don’t overcomplicate the search for shoes that he or she will love and so will you. Think ease and comfort. Thankfully, skater-inspired shoes have this balance figured out.


When getting your littles ready for school, the park, or the skatepark, leaning into a skater-inspired shoe will let them play to their feet’s content, and look good while doing it.

October 03, 2022 — Matthew Fisler
Back to School

Back to School

Preparing for a new school year is a whirlwind. Take out some of the guessing game and late-night online shopping with our easy guide for back-to-school gear. From toddler backpacks to lunch boxes to water bottles, you can start and end back-to-school shopping here with our BinkyBro gear guide. Let’s go!

Backpacks

BinkyBro

BinkyBro offers some of the best toddler backpacks in the game. It’s hard to find a small silhouette in a backpack without the obnoxious prints. BinkyBro has backpacks that fit just right for preschoolers and early elementary-aged kiddos. (Not designed to hold school binders.)

There’s blue and brown corduroy, canvas solids, and theeee cutest patterns in gender-neutral checks or feminine pink daisies and smiles. And the price point is just right at $30.

L.L.Bean

The Junior Original Book Pack from L.L.Bean is the definition of a classic, only in pint size. This backpack made for kids ages 4 to 7 comes in four bright and bold colors—neon pink, kelly green, red, and royal blue. Because it comes from one of the most tried-and-true outdoor companies, you can put this backpack through the wringer (AKA elementary school).


Retailing at $34.95, you can add a monogram to personalize your kids’ backpack for an additional $8.

Lunch Boxes

Herschel

Lunch boxes need just a few features: insulation, easy-to-clean material, and a closure. Simple! Herschel’s Pop Quiz Lunch Boxes do just that and keep it simple with clean features and cute color blocking, as well as kid-approved, trendy patterns.

Importantly, this lunch box will fit easily in almost any backpack, even toddler-sized ones. It retails for $30, but is sometimes on sale for $20.

Bentgo

A bento-style lunch box has dividers that separate food inside the box. This works especially well for small children because you don’t have to individually open food packaging once you open the bento box.

Bentgo’s Fresh box comes in six solid colors and is a great choice for preschoolers to adults. It’s available on Amazon for $30. (Hellooo two-day shipping!)

Water Bottles

Nalgene Kids

If you’ve gone on a hike before, it’s likely you’re familiar with big plastic Nalgene water bottles. But you may not realize they make the most fool-proof, leak-proof sippy water bottles on the market. The Nalgene Kids Grip-n-Gulp water bottle is practically indestructible and only has one simple removable valve part to clean.

It comes in several prints and solid see-through colors and is available on Amazon or any major outdoor retailer for $11 each.

CamelBak

Once your kid has graduated from a sippy style, a straw-style water bottle is a great choice. The CamelBak Eddy+ Kids is a highly recommended choice for a plastic water bottle, and it is also available in stainless steel, although it is more expensive and the heavier weight of steel may not be as easy to carry for little ones.

The plastic version is available on Amazon for $13 and $15 from REI. It comes in lots of color and pattern options, so your kid can choose a style they’re excited about to bring to school.

Getting back-to-school basics can be overwhelming—and sometimes expensive—but making stylish, solid choices that will last the school year will make both kids and parents happy.

September 15, 2022 — Matthew Fisler