Enjoy walking whatever the weather with performance outdoor clothing
If you are looking to go out at the moment, walking is quite possibly the only option – and to make the most of the winter months it pays to be kitted out properly.
Taking exercise is essential to wellbeing and fitness with walking ticking all the boxes. It is enjoyable, gets you away from the four walls of your home, helps you connect with nature, keeps you fit and you don’t need to be a fitness freak to enjoy it.
But what about the freezing weather January has brought us, or the very seasonal rain? Don’t let that put you off, as with the right clothing you can stay comfortable, warm and dry.
If you want to get out of your home more often and enjoy walking on a regular basis, it is certainly worth investing in the essentials.
Take inspiration from the fact that certain Scandinavian countries enjoy the great outdoors even in the depths of their very cold winters and that seasoned walkers proclaim ‘there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing’ and you will be putting your best foot forward before you know it.
All weather clothing for walking
Having the right equipment will make walking far more enjoyable and if you invest well it will last you for years.
Hiking boots for all terrains
The most important pieces of kit have got to be shoes and coat. Supportive hiking boots will protect your feet from blisters, strains and rubbing. They will also give you the grip you need to feel confident and help to keep your feet warm. For year-round walking choose a waterproof boot that will give you protection from soaking fields, paths and muddy tracks. There is a huge range of choice from traditional leather boots to those made from lightweight technical material.
While wellies are perfect for navigating soggy fields, hiking boots offer exceptional comfort for a longer walk. For the warmer months you may choose to add walking trainers or sandals to your hiking footwear choices to offer comfort and a good grip without the heat and bulk that can be associated with boots.
Walking jackets to keep the warmth in
There is no way around it, in the UK you will need a waterproof jacket to stay dry if you plan on getting out regularly. Make sure it is just that though – waterproof. Weather resistant and water resistant are not the same thing as waterproof. Check the label and get the best spec you can afford to keep you warm and protect you from the rain.
Walking trousers for any environment
Lightweight materials are the de facto leader when it comes to walking attire and that is mainly because they dry quickly. A fair of fleece-lined walking trousers will help to keep you warm and stop droplets of water soaking through and weighing down your clothing – jeans for example will quickly become heavy and uncomfortable, likewise traditional cotton joggers. With plenty of pockets for storing your things and often the option to zip off part of the legs to make shorts, walking trousers make practical sense.
If it’s a really wet day though you will want waterproof trousers. These can be pack-away trousers that you can store in your bag or more comprehensive heavy-duty waterproof trousers. Pop on athleisure leggings or polyester joggers underneath for lightweight, warm layers.
Clothing layers for every occasion
And it is layers that will make sure you do stay warm on your walk. Layers work by trapping air in between each layer, which is essential to maintaining warmth. And, of course, if you get too warm it is easy to remove a layer. Start with a t-shirt – you can choose a fashion t-shirt or a specialist moisture-wicking top for ultimate comfort, then follow this with a fleece, jumper or thick shirt depending on the weather.
Technical clothing comes into its own in the colder months by being quick-drying, moisture-wicking and insulating. This extends to gloves and socks that will stay dry and keep you warm when you need it most.
Trespass, at Marriotts Walk, is an excellent place to head to for quality and affordable performance outdoor clothing from hiking shoes to windproof and rainproof jackets and thermal layers.
Fat Face also has an excellent range of durable and warm clothing that is ideal for everyday walks, including sweatshirts, shorts, leggings, t-shirts and shirts.
In addition, Marks and Spencer has its own range of sportswear, that includes fleeces, leggings and outdoor clothing.
Shopping at Marriotts Walk
Detailed opening information is available on individual shop pages.
Owing to the current Government restrictions only the following stores are currently open at Marriotts Walk:
- Marks & Spencer
- Caffe Nero – for takeaways
- Subway – for takeaways
As soon as regulations permits visitors can enjoy the following stores and salons at Marriotts Walk:
- Crew Clothing
- Fat Face
- Hobbs London
- Jo Jo Maman Bebe
- Marks and Spencer
- New Look
- Phase Eight
- Ezina Sanctuary
- Trespass
- Whittard of Chelsea
Marriotts Walk has introduced measures to help all shoppers feel safe. Please wear a face mask, follow one-way systems and sanitise your hands to help stop the spread of Covid 19.
MARRIOTTS WALK YOUR LOCAL, FRIENDLY, EATING, DRINKING, ENTERTAINING SHOPPING CENTRE HERE FOR YOU.