How to Dress for any Weather

It's fair to say that weather in the UK is … variable. Our green islands are influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, as well as tropical and polar air from the Continent.

With this in mind, you'll need to be prepared for all eventualities - Rain, Sun, Hail, and Snow...

How to Dress for Rain

Light Rain

Getting outside in wet weather doesn't have to leave you in a wet, sodden mess. When just a little rain is falling, you're best to use a lightweight, packaway raincoat. This type of jacket is waterproof enough to make sure you'll stay dry, but still packs away into a tiny bag for handiness.

Heavy Rain

When the rain really gets going, you'll need to have invested in a waterproof jacket that can handle the deluge. Look for technical outdoor jackets with high water column values (8000mm+). Features such as water resistant zips, storm flaps and peaked hoods can also help.

How to Dress for Sun

Our favourite type of weather. Keeping cool and non-burnt is what it's all about here. There's plenty of clothing to choose, from any number of high street shops. Lightweight, breathable clothing and a hat are best, but be sure to use high factor sun cream and stay hydrated too. Oh, and take the opportunity to get ice cream!

How to Dress for Hail (?)

We're not sure why we included this one, but it's a type of weather, so why not!

Hail in the UK isn't too frequent, but when it happens it can be nasty.Interestingly, the largest hailstone that was found in Horsham in 1958. It weighed a massive 190g - just bigger than a cricket ball! If you're heading out in hail, the best choice would be a soft shell jacket with a peaked hood to keep it off your precious face. Just avoid the cricket ball hailstorms.

How to Dress for Snow

With snow falling at unseasonable times of the year, it's better to have a few pieces of suitable clothing at the ready. Wellington boots are great for keeping your feet dry, and work really good with waterproof trousers over the top. Thick socks underneath that, and you'll be throwing snowballs longer than everyone else.

Most types of waterproof jackets will keep you dry, as long as they are regularly washed and re-proofed. What you'll need to make sure of is a decent fleece mid layer to keep you warm. Couple this with a pair of waterproof gloves and a wooly hat for full preparedness.