Clothing for walking and hiking

Clothing for outdoor recreation is now a fashion item in its own right. However - style aside - the key items are:

Waterproof Jacket:

This essential item of outerwear should:

keep out wind and water so must have a fully waterproof outer shell
let out water vapour. (Products based on eVent®, Gore-tex®, Triple Point® or Sympatex and Nikwax's Analogy perform well in this respect)
have a hood large enough to pull up while wearing a hat.
have a storm flaps over zips or waterproof zips
be big enough to wear over several layers of clothing

For more information about outerwear and to get your waterproof jackets Gear Guide pdf, click here: Gear > Gear Guides > Waterproof Jackets

Inner Clothing:

Several thin layers are better than one thick one. The key here is to be able to adjust your layers to suit your work load.

It is pointless becoming sweaty and weary during a period of exertion only to shiver from cold when resting, as the perspiration subsequently produces a 'refrigeration' effect.

Build up several layers comprised of wool and/or some man-made materials but NOT cotton.

Hat/Balaclava:

In winter a significant amount of heat loss is from the head.

Ski hats and/or balaclavas can help significantly in maintaining the overall body temperature. In the summer, an exposed head can cause over heating - a hat will help protect your head.

Mittens/Gloves:

Hands are probably the most difficult part of the body to keep both warm and dry - particularly as many tasks can only be completed after removing your gloves or mittens.

Nonetheless, the best approach here is to have at least two layers:

a warm/thin inner layer together with
a waterproof outer layer.

Mittens are better for keeping your hands warm but makes some tasks difficult to perform. If your gloves/mittens get wet, a spare pair of socks make a good substitute.