What should I wear under my waterproofs?
Layering your clothing helps you manage your temperature on your journey and keeps you comfortable in all weather.
You can experience sun, wind, and rain all in one expedition, so a multi-purpose scarf or hat can also be a useful addition to your kit.
Underneath your waterproofs you’ll want a lightweight middle layer, such as fleece, to keep you warm and insulated. Under that, you’ll need a breathable and tight-fitting base layer to absorb moisture away from your body.
Remember – avoid cotton and denim! They let heat escape, get heavy when wet and dry slowly, so no jeans or joggers.
All Duke of Edinburgh’s Award recommended technical clothing is breathable and lightweight. It’s designed with a specific role in mind.
The wicking layer (also known as the base layer) is worn closest to your body to help move moisture and sweat away from the skin, regulating your temperature.
Craghoppers Atmos Base T-Shirt – Men’s
- Lightweight
- Moisture control
- Quick drying fabric
Craghoppers Atmos Base T-Shirt – Women’s
- Lightweight
- Moisture control
- Quick drying fabric
All Duke of Edinburgh’s Award recommended technical clothing is breathable and lightweight. It’s designed with a specific role in mind.
Working with the wicking layer, the mid layer provides insulation, directing heat back into your body and preventing cold air from cooling you down.
Craghoppers Mannix Hooded Jacket – Mens
- Insulating
- Recycled materials
- Two pockets
VIEW MEN’S MANNIX HOODED JACKET
Craghoppers Mannix Hooded Jacket – Womens
- Insulated
- Recycled materials
- Two pockets
VIEW WOMEN’S MANNIX HOODED JACKET
Craghoppers Stromer Jacket – Mens
- Insulating
- 2 pockets
- Sleek construction
Craghoppers Stromer Jacket – Womens
- Insulating
- 2 pockets
- Sleek construction
Craghoppers Stromer Half Zip Top – Mens
- Elasticated cuffs and hem
- Easy-on, easy-off half zip construction
- 100% polyester
All Duke of Edinburgh’s Award recommended technical clothing is breathable and lightweight, including walking trousers. It’s designed for a specific role and layer.
You will be walking in the countryside, up hills, and in all weathers so your trousers must be flexible. Remember, no jeans or joggers.
Craghoppers Verve Trousers – Men’s
- SmartDry Eco
- UPF 40+ sun protection
- Three pockets – one zipped
Craghoppers Verve Trousers – Women’s
- SmartDry Eco
- UPF 40+ sun protection
- Three pockets – one zipped
Craghoppers Verve shorts – Men’s
- SmartDry Eco
- Three pockets – one zipped
- Water repellent
Craghoppers Velocity Tights – Women’s
- SmartDry Eco
- Stretchy
- UPF 40+ sun protection
- Try to avoid anything that holds moisture when wet. It will weigh you down and won’t keep you warm.
- Every bit of space counts in your rucksack. Make sure whatever you take is lightweight and packs down small.
- Use neckwear as a facemask to protect against midges.
At Silver and Gold level, have a separate set of clothing for use at camp. You can then air or dry your day kit.
- Heel tape on trousers gives extra durability when they run against your boots.
- Craghoppers recommended DofE clothing has a lifetime guarantee.
- You can substitute these products for loose fitting long sleeve tops or long lightweight trousers – but avoid cotton, jeans and tracksuit bottoms.
- Depending on the weather and when and where your expedition is, think about what you should bring. It’s unlikely you’ll need a winter hat for summer expeditions.
- Use your DofE Card to save at least 10% on expedition kit at our recommended retailers. Find your nearest store.
Waterproofing and weather protection poster
Whatever the weather, know how to look after your yourself and your kit with our waterproofing and weather protection poster.
