Topcat47
Well-Known Member
I have a couple of old Rohan winter bags . Thin, then thick fleeces on top. If it's bitter then thermals under all that. Feet are the biggest problem but I"ve a pair of Snow boots that are toasty warm.
What layers?
- Thread starter Capt. Clueless
- Start date
Iliade
Well-Known Member
Cheap fleeces keep you warm(ish) even if wet.
Hollofil (sp?) slightly keeps you warm if wet.
Down is utterly hopeless if wet.
Wool is alleged to get warmer when wet (this is a lie, but it copes well)
If properly cold conditions are expected:
Hands: Dachstein mitts. Nothing else compares. Add iron based hand warmers for real luxury.
Body: merino wool underwear and layered fleeces with a softshell outer layer and a hardshell available lest it gets soggy out there. I find the older style 'fluffy' fleeces such as Javelins work really well in the marine environment though I wouldn't dream of lugging one up a mountain nowadays. I use the modern coolmax type mountain kit* as a mid layer. Dries quickly etc., etc. Chinese copies work well though the cut may be style-free.
*E.g. Mountain Equipment Ibex trousers and my own firm's similar tops.
Feet: woollen socks and iron-based chemical toe warmers, one pair per 5 hours. Personally I hate wellies because they have the thermal properties of a copper-bottomed saucepan, but my sadly missed old leather sea boots would look a little out of place on a plastic boat, not to mention the spoor they would leave all over the gelcoat.
Head: Wear a hat. If your outer shell has a hood with a face shield so much the better. Snoods may sound daft but they work really well. Goggles are also good if the wx is truly foul. I have become a fan of helmets as they provide a really good thermal barrier, but you may find that a step too far.
Hollofil (sp?) slightly keeps you warm if wet.
Down is utterly hopeless if wet.
Wool is alleged to get warmer when wet (this is a lie, but it copes well)
If properly cold conditions are expected:
Hands: Dachstein mitts. Nothing else compares. Add iron based hand warmers for real luxury.
Body: merino wool underwear and layered fleeces with a softshell outer layer and a hardshell available lest it gets soggy out there. I find the older style 'fluffy' fleeces such as Javelins work really well in the marine environment though I wouldn't dream of lugging one up a mountain nowadays. I use the modern coolmax type mountain kit* as a mid layer. Dries quickly etc., etc. Chinese copies work well though the cut may be style-free.
*E.g. Mountain Equipment Ibex trousers and my own firm's similar tops.
Feet: woollen socks and iron-based chemical toe warmers, one pair per 5 hours. Personally I hate wellies because they have the thermal properties of a copper-bottomed saucepan, but my sadly missed old leather sea boots would look a little out of place on a plastic boat, not to mention the spoor they would leave all over the gelcoat.
Head: Wear a hat. If your outer shell has a hood with a face shield so much the better. Snoods may sound daft but they work really well. Goggles are also good if the wx is truly foul. I have become a fan of helmets as they provide a really good thermal barrier, but you may find that a step too far.
PaulRainbow
Well-Known Member
T Shirt, pants, Eberspacher, sorted :encouragement:
MoodySabre
Well-Known Member
Another vote for merino wool. I have an Icebreaker that is just superb. Expensive and worth. Every penny. Merino wool can be worn for weeks on end without smelling.
Topped by a thin fleece and a thick fleece. Ski gloves with a fleece removable lining.
Topped by a thin fleece and a thick fleece. Ski gloves with a fleece removable lining.
TC Tuckton
Well-Known Member
I found BAMA Sokkets on top of ordinary socks transformed wellies. Feet stay warm and dry while the outside of the Sokkets gets damp. The Sokkets dry on top of the engine.
[70521]
Well-Known Member
Long Johns and a good vest is the key, socks, a good hat, gloves and scarf really do help.
I am allergic to wool so don't have any - if you can afford them goat hair socks (eye wateringly expensive) are worth the cost.
http://corrymoor.com/
A very satisfied customer.
I am allergic to wool so don't have any - if you can afford them goat hair socks (eye wateringly expensive) are worth the cost.
http://corrymoor.com/
A very satisfied customer.
Corribee72
Well-Known Member
Thermal base layer is a must, another vote for Aldi, they sometimes do merino base layers for skiing at very good prices. If not sports direct do thermal base layers at reasonable prices. On top of that another close fitting outdoors top, Dare2B make excellent ones and are sometimes discounted at Halfords. Then layer up as you need to, remember that the closer the layers, the more warmth will be retained. Another excellent purchase from Aldi are the skiing trousers and bib and never forget the charity shops, I once bought Columbia skiing trousers from a charity shop in Chichester for about £10, they are worth well over £100 new and are very wind and water resistant. Regarding hats, I love hats and have tried many beanies over the years, the warmest I have ever had is my current cold weather go to beanie, a Heat Holders pile lined watch cap style beanie, love it. With gloves, use a Merino glove liner or similar in skiing gloves, skiing gloves limit dexterity so if you need to remove your glove you still have the glove liners. Heat holders socks are also excellent and remember to layer up the socks as well. Hope that helps.
Capt. Clueless
Well-Known Member
Some really good tips here guys, and I now know I need to change my clothing habits, which will keep me warmer.Many thanks for taking the time to give out some well given advice
fisherman
Well-Known Member
As said above wellies are cold but if you are not hiking or walking anywhere too far then dunlop purofor, £75, but putting them on is nearly as good as sex.
sarabande
Well-Known Member
Hmm, for freezing farm conditions I have just changed from Purofort (the soles wear, and the ankles split for a laugh) to some Guy Cotten stuff. Insulated leg bits and big deep soles. I shall not be worried about the socio-cultural-fashion issues when wearing them on the saily boat if my toesies is warmsies.
Wherever you go in France, the fishermen wear Cotten stuff.
https://www.guycotten.co.uk/
Wherever you go in France, the fishermen wear Cotten stuff.
https://www.guycotten.co.uk/
Tim O
Well-Known Member
fo info.....our local Aldi still has some cheapish winter gear for sale and some of it is making its way into the reductions section. might be worth a look