Recent Essays
The Playground Test
Real-world wear reports from the front lines. Joel tests garments on his own kids through recess, soccer, and full school days, delivering honest durability feedback.
01
Why Every Playground Needs a 'Slide Test' for PantsThe simple but effective test I use to evaluate kids' pants durability. One slide down the...
Joel DonovanThe Playground Test
Jul 25, 2026
→
02
The $8 Target Tee That Outlasted Three Growth SpurtsHow one basic Target t-shirt survived multiple kids, countless washes, endless playground ...
Joel DonovanThe Playground Test
Jul 24, 2026
→
03
Cat & Jack Joggers: 6 Months on Hallie's KneesAfter six full months of daily wear on my seven-year-old daughter Hallie, these budget Cat...
Joel DonovanThe Playground Test
Jul 22, 2026
→
04
Why This Blog Exists (And Why a PE Teacher Is Writing About Kids' Clothes)After 12 years watching kids destroy clothes on the playground and 4 years running laundry...
Joel DonovanThe Playground Test
Jul 22, 2026
→