Anyone who has stood a long watch in the cold knows that warmth is a system, not a single garment. The most expensive jacket cannot compensate for wet socks or bare hands. Good cold weather protection depends on layers that work together.

Base layer: manage moisture

The layer touching your skin should move sweat away. Knitted woollen or acrylic jerseys and ribbed patterns do this well, and a high neck jersey protects the throat and neck, where heat is quickly lost.

Middle layer: trap warmth

Insulation holds warm air close to the body. Woollen jerseys, fleece or thicker knits suit this role. In very cold or high altitude conditions, down jackets and down trousers offer exceptional warmth for their weight.

Outer layer: block wind and moisture

A jacket that stops wind keeps the insulation working. Leather or windproof fabric jackets are common choices for patrol and security duties.

Do not forget the extremities

Hands, feet and head lose heat fast. Use woollen or acrylic gloves, and in extreme cold use gloves designed for high altitude. Double knit socks cushion and insulate the foot, and a cap or cap comforter protects the head and ears. Goggles help against wind, glare and snow.

Keep dry

Wet insulation loses much of its value. Carry spare socks and gloves, and let damp items dry fully before storing.

Adjust as you work

Open a zip before you sweat heavily, because sweat that cools later is a common cause of chills.

Our roots lie in hosiery and knitwear, and snowline and high altitude items remain a core strength. Talk to us if your unit or workforce needs complete cold weather kits.