WALBOTTLE RAMBLERS

The main criteria for the clothing used on the upper body is that it should be warm (when necessary), cool (when necessary) and waterproof (when necessary).  This means that clothing may vary considerably from Summer to Winter.  However in general the modern "layering" ideas are strongly recommended.  In this system the body is clothed using several thin layers of clothing rather than two or three thick layers.  This system can be summarised as follows:

Next to the skin

In summer this layer is usually a "Wicking" layer which is designed to "wick" perspiration away from the skin.  This makes things much more comfortable and cooler on a hot day.  In winter it is possible to combine this wicking effect with a thermal insulation effect, meaning that the skin is kept both warm and dry   .

Intermediate Layers

On top of the skin layer comes the intermediate layer.  This can in fact be made up of two layers- a shirt and a light weight fleece.  In summer the fleece can probably be dispensed with, depending on the weather  In winter it could be necessary to use either two thin fleeces or one thicker fleece

OuterLayer

The outer layer is probably the most important.  It should where possible be designed to be wind proof as a minimum.  The wind chill factor is a very important item when considering the type of clothing to buy and wear.  The second important factor to be taken into account is how waterproof the garments are.  Getting wet through is a most unpleasant experience especially if it occurs early on a walk .  So it appears that the outer layer should fulfil two important functions. It should be both waterproof and wind proof.  Both of these functions occur in one garment  in the form of one of the many varieties and designs of weatherproof wear produced by the major manufacturers.  These can be quite expensive but it is worth paying a little bit more for such an important garment. 

To see the recommendations for Leg Wear   Boots and Miscellaneous Items simply click on the words

Last modified: 09/27/11