As temperatures drop across the UK, a security professional who spends up to 12 hours a day standing outside in the cold shares his hard-won expertise on staying warm. From thermal underwear to padded boots, these tips are designed to keep frostbite at bay.
Layering is key. Icebreaker's 260 Tech thermal leggings, made from merino wool, offer cosiness for the lower body. For the top half, Decathlon's long-sleeve Simond MT500 is a more affordable merino option. Zipped hoodies, such as the Rab Nexus or Houdini's Power Houdi, are recommended over jumpers for ease of movement between cold and sheltered environments.
For outerwear, two approaches are suggested: an ultra-thick coat like Aritzia's Super Puff, which is waterproof and down-filled, or a breathable shell like Burton's AK Cyclic Gore-Tex, which has pit vents and multiple pockets. Fingerless gloves from Black Yak keep most fingers warm while allowing phone use, while Vallerret's Markhof Pro V3 photography gloves offer removable fingers for dexterity.
For the head, layering with a thin beanie like OMM's Core Beanie under a thicker one like Finisterre's Fisherman Beanie, combined with a neck gaiter, provides insulation. Footwear choices include Altberg's Norway Military boot for arctic conditions or its lighter SF-MK3 tabbing boot for milder weather.
