WINTER IS NEAR: HERE’S HOW YOU SHOULD LAYER UP FOR OUTDOOR WALKS

Published: 29/09/2026 | By: Dominic Toner

Outdoor walks clear the mind, keep you healthy, give you a chance to explore. But when winter rolls into town, a little preparation goes a long way. Get your kit right and you can roam wherever you like without worrying about plummeting temperatures, sideways rain or that familiar feeling of questioning your life choices halfway through a walk. Layer up and put your best foot forward!

Think of layering as your personal thermostat when you step outside this winter. One big jacket leaves you with two options: freezing or boiling. Not exactly ideal. Layering, on the other hand, gives you options. By breaking your outfit down into specific layers, you can adapt as your body temperature changes. It stops you from overheating when you're working hard uphill and keeps the chill out when you stop for a breather. Basically, it's about staying comfortable enough to enjoy the walk rather than spending the whole thing thinking about the weather. 

The winter months shouldn't stop you from getting outside and breathing in the fresh air. In fact, there's something pretty special about getting out early on a crisp, frosty morning, when the paths are quiet and the countryside looks like it's been turned down a few shades. 

Keep your routine ticking over with a long walk, a quick wander or something in between. Get the layers right and the cold doesn't have to call the shots. 

The Base Layer: Temperature Regulation Keeps You Cozy Not Sweaty

To be relaxed on your walks this winter, you must start by choosing the correct base layer. Done right, moisture-wicking fabric will give you dry comfort. Even when it is freezing, walking outside can make you work up a sweat, especially on the long ones. If that dampness sits on your skin, you’ll shiver when you stop moving. A proper base layer prevents that by pulling the sweat away so it can dry out, keeping your core temperature steady. Just make sure the fit is close to your body! It needs to be against you to trap your heat while also blocking out any winter coldness.

Stay in control of your outdoor hikes by wearing a breathable, snug top to fight the cold. Think the Men’s adidas Team Base Tee or Women’s Oldo Active Warm Baselayer Top. Don’t forget your bottom half! Grab something like the Men’s Under Armour Cold Weather Grid Baselayer Leggings or Women’s Trespass Sunita Baselayer Leggings.

Trap the Warmth: The Mid-Layer  

Next up is the mid-layer, and this is where you start building your little fortress against the cold.Its job is simple: trap body heat while still letting you breathe. A good fleece or mid-layer adds warmth without making you feel like you're carrying a sleeping bag up the trail. Try the Men's Karrimor Fleece Jacket or Women's Dare 2b Emerging III Mid-Layer. They're easy to throw on when the temperature drops and just as easy to peel off once you've found your rhythm. Think of it like pacing on a run. You don't want to go out too hot, only to pay for it later. The same goes for your layers. Start smart, adjust as you go and you'll be much happier for it. 

• Prevent shivers when you cool down: Stop for a drink, take a breather and your body temperature can drop quickly. A good fleece keeps the warmth where you want it. 

• Move without restriction: Stretchy, lightweight materials let you tackle climbs, stiles and muddy paths without feeling like your clothes are holding you back. 

The Outer Layer: Protect Yourself in Style 

Now for the final line of defence. Your outer layer is what stands between you and the classic British weather combination of wind, rain and a suspiciously dark cloud that's definitely heading your way. 

A good jacket should keep the elements out while letting the layers underneath do their job. Waterproof, windproof and breathable is the name of the game. Looking good in it is a bonus, but we're certainly not complaining. For the top half, there's the Men's The North Face Quest DryVent Windproof Waterproof Jacket or Women's Regatta Mabrie Waterproof Jacket. 

And don't leave your legs to fend for themselves. The Men's Craghoppers Steall Thermal Waterproof Trousers or Women's Craghoppers Airedale Waterproof Walking Trousers will help keep you warm and dry when the trail gets properly muddy. Because there's nothing quite like confidently stepping into a puddle, only to discover your trousers have decided to side with the weather. 

The Final Touches: Extra Accessories to Help 

You've sorted the main layers, now it's time to deal with the little things. The details matter, especially when you're out for a few hours. A cold wind on bare hands can take the fun out of a walk pretty quickly, so get yourself a decent pair of gloves. The Women's Karrimor Thermal Gloves will keep your hands warm without getting in the way. 

Then there's the head. Keeping your ears covered is an easy win when the temperature drops, and the Adult's Nevica Meribel Beanie has you sorted. 

Finally, let's talk feet. Cold, wet feet or a fresh blister can turn a promising walk into a very long march home. Ditch the everyday trainers and get some proper socks on, like the Men's Firetrap Formal Socks. Then, for footwear, the Men's Karrimor Gedling Waterproof Walking Shoes or Women's Gelert Horizon Waterproof Walking Boots will give you the grip and protection you need to keep moving when the path gets muddy, slippery or generally decides to make things interesting.