If you’re reading this, there’s a 99% chance you’ve spent at least one very cold night in the stands watching a teenage soccer game recently. Yup, it gets cold this time of year, cold enough to turn your HOT coffee into an ICED coffee while you watch the game.

Yep, I’m a soccer mom, and I LOVE watching my kid play. There’s nothing quite like seeing them hustle, and that feeling when they score. But let’s be honest, some of those games feel less like “fun family outings” and more like a job with extreme weather conditions. I mean, why do they run the season during the coldest months of the year? 

So if you’re a fellow sports mom (or dad), here are the things we all understand… plus the must-have gear that keeps us warm enough to enjoy every minute.

Arriving at a late soccer game a few weeks ago, with my heated seat, extra blanket, and getting ready to put on my thick gloves with hand warmers ready! Brrrrr

1. Freezing on the Bleachers

You show up early, settle in, and two hours later, your body is like, “What is this torture?” It happens every time temperatures are low, and they have their evening games. 

Warm gear you NEED:
• Heated stadium seat:  because cold metal bleachers are a form of cruel punishment. I got one of these for Christmas from my sister-in-law, and it’s a serious game-changer! Note: Set a reminder to plug the charger in before the game, learn from my mistakes! 
• Insulated travel mug:  for lukewarm coffee or hot chocolate.
• Thick winter scarf : doubles as a blanket for your shoulders.

2. Running to the car for some heat at half-time

There’s a reason your car becomes your saviour during half-time. You jump in, crank that heat, and wait.

Warm gear you NEED:
• Hand warmers (reusable or disposable): I got some reusable, rechargeable ones for Christmas and I love them.
• Thermal socks: because your toes get COLD too.
• Comfy beanie: hides messy hair and keeps ears toasty.

 3. You Become an Onion

Yes, layers upon layers, upon layers. You need them all, dress like an onion. Then add the blankets. You start with one blanket… and somehow end up with three. One for your lap, one for your legs, one for your heart.

Warm gear you NEED:
• Fleece throw blanket: the bigger, the better.
• Water-resistant outdoor blanket: because rain and cold are no fun.
• Heated gloves: for thumbs that text and hands that freeze.
• Windproof jacket: the MVP of outerwear.
• Boot warmers: because warmth starts from the ground up and cold toes HURT.

Yes, the cold sucks. Yes, you do a little dance every time you get back in your car’s heated seats. But you’re there because you want to be. You’re there for the smile when your teen scores, when they make a good play, when they give their all. That’s what makes it worth it, and if you can be warm doing it? Even better. Let’s stay warm together, o.k., friends?

That’s sport mom life for you! 

Do you have any other tips? Share them below!

xo