How Iksplor is Redefining Family Adventures
This is my first year as a mom, and as the timing would have it, the first three months of my son’s life were experienced in the heart of a Rocky Mountain winter. I’m not exaggerating when I share that he has spent countless hours in the Iksplor Beanie and Adventure Zippy throughout this first season of his life. The soft and versatile pieces just seem to be what we grab first, whether we’re heading out for a family hike or just popping out for some errands.
Baby Emery snug in his Iksplor and dad Bobby L’Heureux’s arms. Photo by Kim Fuller.
We’re hooked, especially after trying their “grown up” base layers for adults. And I must mention how much I love the Nursing Long Sleeve. It was a gift from a girlfriend during my first month of postpartum, and ever since my son and I have shared many merino wool snuggles in our Iksplor essentials.
So what’s the magic thread here? For the founders of Iksplor, Karissa Tuthill Akin and Kailey Tuthill, adventure isn’t just a pastime — it’s a way of life. As sisters, moms and lifelong outdoor enthusiasts, they grew up with dirt trails beneath their feet and the wild beauty of nature as their playground. Now, as they navigate motherhood, their mission is clear: to make it easier for families to get outside, explore and create lasting memories — without the stress of worrying about the right gear.
That’s where merino wool comes in. This natural, high-performance fabric is the backbone of Iksplor’s adventure-ready apparel, designed to keep little explorers warm in winter, cool in summer and comfortable through every season of discovery.
“Iksplor was born out of a deep connection to the outdoors and a desire to share that joy with our families,” shares Akin. “Growing up in Colorado, my sister Kailey and I were immersed in outdoor adventures — skiing, hiking, camping and kiteboarding. These experiences shaped our childhood and helped us navigate life’s challenges, from the loss of our brother Michael to becoming parents ourselves.”
Akin shares that when they moved to Jackson, Wyoming, the mountains and active lifestyle further fueled their shared passion for outdoor exploration.
“As parents, we quickly realized how essential the right gear is to keeping little ones warm, dry and comfortable in unpredictable mountain weather. When we couldn’t find sustainable, high-quality base layers for kids, we decided to create them ourselves.”
Vibrant colors and playful designs bring joy to the clothing, and the pre-loved Iksplor More program makes exploration accessible and exciting for families.
Photo courtesy of Iksplor
“Iksplor More allows parents to resell and purchase gently used layers, keeping them on the trails longer while reducing waste,” explains Akin. “Especially important since merino wool decomposes within six months, unlike synthetic materials that can take hundreds of years to break down.”
The Iksplor products are machine washable and dryer friendly, designed to hold up to the demands of active families.
“Everything we create is thoughtfully designed to reduce stress so families can focus on what matters: enjoying the journey,” says Akin.
Over the next five years, Iksplor plans to expand and refine their layering system, tailoring it to meet the needs of families in all seasons and climates.
“Ultimately, we hope to inspire parents to get outside, connect and create memories with their kids,” adds Akin, “wherever they are and whatever adventure they’re chasing.”
Iksplor isn’t just about clothing — it’s about community.
“We wanted to create a brand that inspires families everywhere to unplug, explore and make lasting memories, no matter the stage of parenthood,” says Akin. “All while honoring the values of sustainability and simplicity.”
Originally published in the Spring 2025 issue of Spoke+Blossom.