Winterzubehör

UK winter hiking demands accessories that manage cold and wet in changeable conditions. A solid kit list covers the head, neck, hands and feet.

• A merino wool beanie, such as the Guard Beanie, for warmth on the move
• A thin merino neck layer, like the Stealth Neck Gaiter, that packs easily under a hood
• Waterproof, insulated gloves, such as the Engage Gloves, for dry hands in wet conditions
• Merino and Cordura hiking socks, Regular or Long Mountain length, to manage moisture underfoot

Layer these pieces and adjust them as conditions change through the day.

The trick is managing heat through adjustable layers, not swapping entire outfits. On a climb, vent heat early, before sweat builds, by pulling down a thin merino piece like the Stealth Neck Gaiter or unzipping a mid layer.

At a stop, heat loss is rapid once you stop moving, so add warmth back quickly. A heavier piece such as the Sentry Beanie or the Stealth Balaclava holds warmth well for standing still, in a way a thinner layer can't. The same applies to hands: swap in a warmer, insulated pair, such as the Engage Gloves, once they cool at rest.

Each covers a different job, so most UK hikers carry more than one. A beanie, such as the Guard Beanie or the heavier Sentry Beanie, gives general head warmth on the move or at rest. A neck gaiter, like the Stealth Neck Gaiter, is thin enough to sit under a hood or helmet, and easy to pull down on a climb and back up on a cold stop. A balaclava, such as the Stealth Balaclava, steps up for higher wind chill and fully exposed ground like ridgelines and summits, with a hinged design that also works as a simple neck gaiter.

For most UK routes, a beanie and a neck gaiter cover it. Add a balaclava for exposed, high wind chill terrain.