A chill in the air, the changing colours of the leaves, darker evenings and rain showers. Yep, it’s autumn alright! But just because we’re facing a cooler and wetter few months it doesn’t mean you should pack up your outdoor clothing and head indoors to hibernate. Being outdoors, especially during autumn and winter, is great fro your health and well-being and only requires a few changes to your walking wardrobe.

Health benefits of walking

While we all know how beneficial walking is to our physical health (it zaps calories and keeps us toned and shapely) walking in daylight can boost our feel-good hormones, helping to prevent depression and the traditional winter blues (also known as SAD). Just 20 minutes spent walking outside each day can be all it takes to keep your mind in good working order. Aim for more if you can and take advantage of weekends to a stretch your hikes to a few hours at a time.

How to autumnise your walking kit

Walking boots not walking shoes will keep your feet warm and dry during the colder season. If you’re heading for a stroll with the family in a local woodlands then Wellington boots will be a good choice, but for anything more strenuous waterproof walking boots that fit well and are required. Add a good quality pair of thicker walking socks, such as Bridgedale, Crahoppers of regatta, to your feet and tootsies and you will rarely feel the chill of the outside air.

Good quality waterproof jacket. The chances are your summer walking jacket will be up to the job of keeping out the wind and the rain, but if in doubt invest in a new one. Look for such features as 100% waterproof materials, taped seems, a waterproof cover over the zip, waterproof zipped pockets, a good-sized hood with a drawstring or elastic so you can firmly tighten it around your head in winds. Adjustable arm cuffs and hem of the jacket are also a great asset for cold days.

Waterproof trousers. There is no point in keeping your feet and body dry and warm if you then allow your legs to get a soaking! A pair of water proof and breathable over trousers will make all the difference between cosy and contented walking and enduring a damp nightmare. Waterproof trousers can be taken on and off according to the weather but make sure you can get your booted foot into the waterproof trousers while out on the hills. Zips at the base of the trouser legs are vital. Zips al the way up the outside leg are a huge bonus.

Test review of Regatta Amelie II Waterproof Overtrousers

    The technical details state:

  • Waterproof and breathable Isotex 5000 coated, soft-touch polyester fabric with liner
  • Rubber cuff tabs at ankle
  • Elasticated and drawcord waist
  • Zip gusset to knee
  • Taped seams
  • Sizes 10 to 16, short and regular

Our tester says: "The overtrousers feel lovely to touch and they are far less 'crispy' sounding when you walk than normal waterproof trousers. They also come with a nice liner so it is possible to wear these waterproof trousers on their own or with a thin pair of base leggings. If you plan to do this buy a size smaller than normal because the trousers are roomy.

"The trousers keep me nice and dry, even on rain soaked Scottish mountains and I like the deep pockets for times when I wanted to keep my hands warm and dry out of the wind and rain.

"These trousers come with zips at the base of the legs, which is useful for pulling them on and off over boots. The last thing you want to have to do is to take off bots to put on waterproof trousers. I think the trousers could have benefited from longer zips, though, and for this reason I suggest that people keep the trousers on for the entire walk. This will not be a problem if you’re enjoying shorter low-level walks as you will be less likely to feel the need to keep changing your clothing arrangement.

"These are a good choice of waterproof trousers especially as they are priced at less than £25. ideal for country and beach walks with the family and/or dogs."

Base layers: Check out our previous guide to baselayers and their utter loveliness.

Hats, gloves etc. It’s surprising how quickly the weather can change when out and about in the countryside, and especially if you’re climbing hills. Always add hats, gloves, spare socks and baselayers to your rucksack regardless of how clement the weather feels when  you set off. There is a high chance of finding your extremities chilled if you do not have access to warm hats and gloves.

Now you simply need to plan a walk this weekend, and the next, and the next! Enjoy!