Wrapping up warm for Winter walks

Now that the clocks have gone back it’s officially British wintertime. The gorgeous autumn leaves on the trees have all started to fall off and the chill in the air means that winter is just around the corner. There’s nothing better than going for a walk in the countryside and kicking all the leaves and finding the conkers before they’ve all gone. But what to wear for winter walks?

Despite being in the middle of the woods with the squirrels and birds for company looking good as well as being practical is always essential. The trickiest bit of getting dressed for winter walks is layering up without looking and feeling like the Michelin man. Follow the below formula for a winter walk wardrobe worth having:

Shoes

Shoes are the most important bit of the outfit. Muddy terrain and uneven surfaces combined with the potential to stand in a puddle or even an unpredicted snowfall means that often wearing the most fashionable shoes isn’t always practical. Wellies or walking boots are the best bet although there not exactly trendy; if you have a pair of Hunters of course get them out but a sturdy pair of boots makes for a solid footwear choice. Make sure you have a pair of comfy socks on underneath too to prevent blisters.

Layers

The best way to stay warm is the wear lots of layers rather than one big coat. If you’re doing some serious walking bear in mind that you might get too hot and need to take a layer off. Usually a t shirt, jumper, hoody and coat does the trick. If you’re heading out in the middle of winter you could even add a thermal vest underneath for extra warmth. The men’s knitwear at M and M Direct is great value for money and won’t break the bank. A more expensive outer layer is usually required though, it’s worth investing in a proper winter coat like a parka or a waterproof jacket so that you’re prepared for all weathers.

Accessories

The best way to style up to your outfit with a scarf, hat and gloves. A matching set often looks really nice especially if you can complement the colours to your coat. If you want to add some extra style points you could go for a colour combination to beat the winter blues. Try wearing a beanie or bobble hat for maximum warmth.

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Winter coat wish list

I’m known for having one long cashmere coat that seems to serve me well all year around, the simple addition of a scarf and gloves when the temperatures start to plummet always do the trick.

However, constant ribbing that I really should mix it up a bit has resulted in me looking further a field to find the perfect coat that I like for the approaching winter season.

I’ve found four that I like, some are well out of the price range I would normally stretch to, after all I think a coat for around £150 should be of sufficient quality and style to last for more than one season.

The first coat I’ve fallen in love with is the Roman from Reiss but at £275 my first thought was “ouch” but I just can’t help but admire the finish of this wool-rich peacoat. The older I get the more I find myself drawn to double-breasted coats and suits. 

Made from a wool-rich blend, the Roman peacoat is a classic yet contemporary design and it screams “buy me” every time I see it. 

After the mind-melting cost of the first and my new found love of fishing (yes, I have firmly become middle aged) I have been taking a peek around for something a little old school and much cheaper. Enter the Dark Grey Holloway Road Waxed Coat.

With a flannel hood, faux leather trim and thick waxy exterior this has the power to cut dead the iciest of winds. Available from River Island at £128 it sits in the reasonable category for my own personal coat shopping budget.

Another coat that sits at the top of my budget range is the Barbour Quilted International Ariel Polar Jacket for £150 from House of Fraser.

I know Barbour have increased in popularity over the years but my decision is based purely on the comfort and warmth factor. Having tried this one on it was like having a second skin with levels of comfort from seen his the days of shell suits (that’s a joke to see if anyone is paying attention).

Last but not least is the John Lewis Buckle Neck Donkey Jacket in Navy. I’m 99% certain that this is the one for me, the only thing holding me back is the Navy colour, I much prefer my clothes to be black (and not because I need the slimming effect before any starts that).

Being wool rich rather than being 100% wool means that it won’t irritate my skin (I’m weird like that) and it truly is a modern twist on the traditional donkey jacket.

This is my favourite, it would look good for work and still as that slight snazzy edge for casual nights out. The coat that has everything in my book, except for a huge price tag. 

As you would expect from John Lewis it isn’t cheap but it also isn’t massively inflated - at £140 this is a reasonably priced coat.

What do you think to my winter coat wish list?

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