I haven’t complained even once about the Arctic freeze that has fallen over the country for one simple reason: remember our blistering summers? No way I can ever forget. So I’ve kept my mouth shut, grateful it’s not hot but not fully embracing the single-digit temps with biting wind chill.
Yesterday was our first day above freezing in over a week. The moment the kids walked in the door from school I announced, “We’re going on an adventure!” which usually results in knowing groans but within moments, all reluctance is forgotten as they’re unleashed in the great outdoors
We were on a mission to test out Bode’s new KEEN Loveland Boots WP ($70). I’ve been a long-time advocate of their great footwear–everything from sandals to Mary Janes to trail runners but we’ve never tried out their boots so I jumped at the chance when KEEN offered to send Bode a pair to review. Never mind I’d just bought a used no-name brand from the local thrift store. These are, after all, KEENS!
As soon as Bode slipped them on (easy to do with their bungee lace system), he squealed, “They’re so light!” which is certainly a paradigm shift from his usual heavy, clunky winter wear. Prospect Park was the perfect testing ground as it combined outdoor play on the trails with versatility on the playground.
Because doesn’t every kid do the monkey bars in the snow?
And scale treacherous climbing walls? No problem with the dual-climate outsole for great traction on slippery surfaces.
Of course, you have to do the snow test in winter boots and the warm insulation kept his feet warm while the waterproof, breathable membrane kept him dry. 
Bode wasn’t the only one having an adventure that day and both kids pressured me to join in the fun. I doubtfully looked at the slippery jungle gym. “You really don’t want me to try this and die, do you? I’m the only one who knows where the Christmas presents are hidden.”
They took their chances and I rose to the challenge by climbing the very slick climbing wall in my very non-KEEN boots.
It was touch-and-go for a bit but I lived to tell the tale. Sometimes it’s the little [in your face] victories that mean the most.
But next time, I hope I’ll be sporting some cool KEEN winter boots like Bode.
I'm a Canadian-born mom of two, former Denver Post columnist, family travel writer, editor of MileHighMamas.com and 9News contributor. Expert on all things Utah, Denver, family and travel. Lover of laughter and life. Happily married to a man obsessed with growing The Great Pumpkin. 