Last updated: 25 October 2026.
The short answer: dress in layers you can add and remove: a wicking base layer, a warm mid layer (fleece or wool jumper), and a waterproof jacket with a hood. Add warm trousers that dry quickly (not jeans), waterproof boots with deep grip, a hat and gloves. Carry a spare warm layer, a torch and water, because winter daylight in the UK is short and the weather changes fast.
A frosty fell walk with our 30L Hiking Backpack.
Why layers beat one big coat
Walking uphill you'll warm up fast; stop for a sandwich on a hilltop and you'll cool down just as fast. A single heavy coat makes you sweat, and damp clothing then chills you. Layers let you stay comfortable the whole way round.
| Layer | Job | What to wear |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Move sweat off your skin | Merino or synthetic thermal top; avoid cotton |
| Mid | Trap warm air | Fleece or a wool jumper; an insulated gilet for cold days |
| Outer | Block wind and rain | Waterproof jacket with a hood |
| Spare | Warmth when you stop | A packable puffer or extra fleece in your bag |
The jacket: waterproof, with a proper hood
British winter walks are more often wet and windy than truly freezing, so your outer layer matters most. A lightweight waterproof shell over a warm mid layer is more versatile than a heavy padded coat. Try our Men's Waterproof Rain Jacket or the Unisex Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket. For walks with a rucksack in heavy rain, a rain poncho covers you and your bag. Not sure what the ratings mean? Read waterproof vs water-resistant.
Trousers: anything but jeans
Denim soaks up rain, takes hours to dry and gets very cold when wet. Wear walking trousers, thermal leggings under waterproof over-trousers, or fleece-lined trousers like our Fleece-Lined Quilted Water-Resistant Trousers, which are ideal for cold, dry days and dog walks.
Boots: grip first, then waterproofing
Muddy paths, wet leaves, frozen puddles and slippy stiles are where winter walks go wrong. Look for a deep, chunky lug sole, a waterproof upper and ankle support on rough ground.
- Hills and rough paths: Men's High-Top Hiking Boots
- Lighter trails and towpaths: Men's Waterproof Hiking Shoes
- Snow and ice: Women's Waterproof Non-Slip Snow Boots
- Countryside dog walks: Women's Comfort Boots with Buckle Strap
High-Top Hiking Boots on a Snowdonia ridge.
Wear wool or thick walking socks, and break new boots in on short walks before a long day out. More on choosing boots in our winter boots guide.
Hands, head and neck
You lose a lot of comfort through cold hands and an uncovered head. Pack a warm hat, a neck warmer, and gloves you can use your phone in. If your hands always get cold, heated gloves are a game-changer on winter walks; see our heated gloves guide.
What to carry in your rucksack
- A spare warm layer and a waterproof (even if the forecast is dry)
- A head torch: in December the sun sets around 4pm in much of the UK
- Water and a flask of something hot, plus snacks
- A charged phone, a power bank and a map or offline map app
- A small first-aid kit and blister plasters
- A sit mat for lunch stops on wet ground
A 20 to 30 litre pack is plenty for a day walk. Our 30L Hiking Backpack has a ventilated back panel, and the Waterproof Roll-Top Backpack keeps your spare layers bone dry.
Before you set off
- Check the Met Office forecast, and the mountain forecast if you're heading onto hills or fells.
- Plan to finish well before dark, and tell someone your route.
- Walking the dog? Small and short-haired dogs may need a coat: see does my dog need a coat?
FAQ
What should I wear for a winter walk in the UK?
A wicking base layer, a fleece or wool mid layer, a waterproof hooded jacket, quick-drying trousers, waterproof boots with good grip, and a hat and gloves.
Can I wear jeans for hiking in winter?
It's best not to. Jeans absorb water, dry slowly and get very cold when wet. Walking trousers or fleece-lined trousers are much warmer.
Do I need walking boots or are trainers OK?
On muddy, icy or rough paths, waterproof walking boots or hiking shoes with a deep sole are much safer and warmer than trainers.
How many layers should I wear hiking in winter?
Usually three: a base layer, a mid layer and a waterproof outer, with a spare warm layer in your bag for stops.
What size rucksack do I need for a day walk?
Around 20 to 30 litres is enough for spare layers, food, water and a flask.
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