Why Coastal Weather Demands a Different Approach

Walking a dune system or a cliff path is not the same as a stroll through a sheltered park. The wind rarely stops. It funnels through gaps in the dunes, whips along exposed headlands and carries fine sand that finds every gap in your clothing. Even on a mild day, wind chill can make a 15°C afternoon feel closer to 8°C. Add a sudden sea fret or a passing shower, and you will be glad you dressed for the coast rather than the car park. The good news is that a simple layering system, a windproof outer and grippy footwear will keep you comfortable for hours. The bad news is that cotton jeans, a loose scarf and fashion trainers will make you miserable within twenty minutes. So let us get the kit right.

Build Your Layers from the Skin Out

Start with a base layer that moves sweat away from your skin. Merino wool or a synthetic wicking fabric is ideal. Avoid cotton t-shirts, which soak up moisture and then chill you when the wind hits. Over that, add a mid layer for warmth. A lightweight fleece, a thin down jacket or a wool jumper all work well. The trick is to be able to add or remove a layer without stopping for long. If you are walking up a steep cliff path, you will warm up quickly; on the exposed top, you will cool down fast. So choose layers that are easy to pull on and off over your boots or hat. Zip-neck tops are especially handy because you can vent heat without removing anything.

• Base layer: merino or synthetic, fitted but not tight.
• Mid layer: fleece, light down or wool; pack a spare in your rucksack.
• Avoid: cotton next to the skin, heavy jumpers that are hard to remove, and anything that restricts your stride.

The Windproof Jacket: Your Most Important Piece

A windproof jacket is non-negotiable. It does not need to be a full mountaineering shell, but it must block the wind. Look for an adjustable hood that stays up without holding it, a drawcord hem you can cinch tight, and Velcro cuffs that seal around your wrists. Taped seams and a water-repellent finish will handle drizzle and sea spray. Breathability matters too, because you will sweat on the climbs. If the jacket is windproof but not breathable, you will end up clammy. A good compromise is a lightweight windproof smock with a few vents, or a softshell that resists wind and light rain. Wear it over your mid layer, and keep it on when you stop for a snack. The moment you take it off on an exposed dune top, the wind will find you.

Footwear for Sand, Shingle and Steep Paths

Cliff paths are often uneven, muddy and steep. Dune paths are soft and sandy. Neither is kind to thin-soled trainers. Choose walking boots or sturdy trail shoes with deep lugs and good ankle support. Boots give you more protection from stones and sand, while trail shoes are lighter for faster walks. Either way, make sure they are broken in before your holiday. Sand will get in over the top of low shoes, so wear trousers that cover the boot opening or add a pair of ankle gaiters. Socks matter too: wool or synthetic blends cushion your feet and wick moisture. Cotton socks will rub and cause blisters. If you are walking on wet sand or crossing a stream, waterproof boots are useful, but they can also make your feet sweat, so pair them with breathable socks.

Hats, Gloves and Other Small Essentials

A hat is essential, but it must tie securely. A wide-brimmed sun hat will be gone with the first gust unless it has a chin strap. A close-fitting beanie or a peaked cap with an adjustable cord is a better choice. In cold wind, add a thin pair of windproof gloves. A neck buff or a scarf tucked inside your jacket collar keeps the wind off your neck without flapping. Sunglasses with a retainer strap will save you from squinting and from losing them over a cliff. Avoid loose fabrics: long flowing skirts, capes, baggy trousers and dangling scarves all act like sails. If you wear a scarf, tuck the ends in. Jewellery that dangles can catch on gates or branches. Finally, apply sunscreen to your face and lips, because wind and sun together burn more than you expect.

What to Carry and What to Leave Behind

Pack a small rucksack with a spare mid layer, a lightweight waterproof trouser, a flask of tea or water, and a few plasters. A dry bag for your phone and keys is wise if you are crossing wet sand. Leave heavy cotton clothing, umbrellas and anything that cannot be secured in the cabin. Check the forecast for wind speed, not just temperature. A 30 mph gust will change your plans. If the wind is stronger than you are comfortable with, choose a sheltered woodland walk instead. But with the right layers, a windproof jacket, sturdy footwear and a hat that ties, you can enjoy the dunes and cliffs in almost any weather. That is the difference between a bracing walk and a miserable one.