Your clothing is very important. All your layers need to work together so that you remain warm, dry and comfortable. The key is to wear warm layers. Several thin layers are warmer than one think layer, and more versatile.

In general, there are 3 layers:

* Base or Comfort layer

* Mid or Warmth layer

* Outer or Protection layer

Base or Comfort layer: This is normally a tee-shirt or long sleeved top. It is made out of synthetic materials (NOT cotton) so its wicks sweat away from your skin. Examples include Lowe Alpine DryFlo, Coolmax and VapourWick.

Mid or Warmth layer: This is a long sleeved top, normally made from fleece. It can be a jacket, or a pull-on. Some people where thinner materials such as Powerstrech or Parmeta S. Again, this needs to be synthetic, so it can continue the process of wicking sweat away from the skin. This layer keeps you warm by trapping air. In windy weather, this trapped air can be blown out, so the layer is useless. For this reason, a 3rd layer is needed.

Outer or Protection layer: This is the layer that keeps out the weather. Most layers in this range are waterproofs, designed to keep out the rain. Most jackets now are breathable. This means the sweat that has passed out from the first two layers can finally escape. None - breathable jackets mean this sweat is trapped, and you end up getting wetter from your own sweat than from the rain!

The jacket must be fully waterproof, and at least thigh length. Always check the hood. Some waterproof materials are not designed to be used with abrasion heavy rucksacks - again, ask at the shop.

Examples of breathable materials include Gore-Tex, SympaTex, TriplePoint, Nikwax Analogy and AquaDry.

Sometimes, there is no need for full waterproof protection. In these situations, many people wear a windshirt. These are very light and much more breathable than the most breathable waterproof. They are not waterproof however. examples include Pertex and even plain Nylon. Windproof fleeces are now also available, eliminating the need for the 3rd layer at all. Examples include Polartec WindBloc and Gore Windstopper.

Legwear: There are two options. Some people prefer a standard walking trouser, such as the Regatta Action trouser. Others prefer to wear the Ronhill range of tighter leg wear. Neither are waterproof, so a pair of waterproof over-trousers is still needed. (In the same material as above).

Gloves, Hats and Scarves: An absolute must. Make sure you have spares.