Walking in All Weathers – How to Make Peace with the Rain, Wind, and Mud
Let’s be honest, living in Scotland means that if you only walk when it’s sunny, you’ll get your boots on about three times a year. The rest of the time? You’ll be dancing with wind strong enough to launch a kite, rain that soaks you from every direction (including up), and mud that could claim your footwear as a permanent resident.
But here’s the secret: some of the most memorable, laugh-out-loud, “I can’t believe we did that” walks happen in so-called bad weather. The kind where you’re peeling off wet layers in the car, hair plastered to your head, cheeks pink from the wind and yet you feel absolutely alive.
The trick is knowing how to work with the weather, not against it. That means having the right mindset, the right gear, and a dash of that unshakable SWWG spirit.
Dress for the Weather You’re In, Not the Weather You Wish For
Waterproofs are non-negotiable – A quality waterproof jacket and overtrousers will save you from the misery of soggy layers. Look for breathable fabrics so you don’t steam yourself from the inside out.
Layers, layers, layers – Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid layer, and top it off with your waterproof shell. That way, you can add or shed warmth without a full wardrobe change on the trail.
Gloves and hats aren’t just for snow days – Wind chill can bite hard on open ground, even in spring.
SWWG Tip: Don’t trust the forecast blindly. “Light showers” could mean 5 minutes of drizzle… or a three-hour monsoon. Pack for both.
Keep Your Feet Happy in Wet & Muddy Conditions
Your feet are your engine - keep them dry and comfortable, and you’ll go further, faster, and with fewer complaints.
Waterproof boots + gaiters = bliss – Gaiters stop water and mud sneaking in from the top, keeping socks fresher for longer.
Dry bag + spare socks – There’s no luxury like sliding into dry socks halfway through a sodden walk.
Know your tread – Deep, chunky lugs will claw through mud, while a mixed grip is better if you’re alternating between wet paths and hard-packed tracks.
Make Wind Your Ally
Wind can either be your worst enemy or your exhilarating trail companion, depending on how you prepare.
Buffs or neck gaiters protect your ears and face from that “sandpaper” windburn.
A well-fitted hood, one that stays put in a gust, can mean the difference between braving the summit and turning back early.
Safety first – On truly wild days, swap exposed ridges and summits for lower, more sheltered routes. There’s no medal for getting blown off a hill.
Stay Warm & Dry on Breaks
The moment you stop moving, your body temperature drops. Plan for it:
Pack an extra warm layer — fleece or insulated jacket and keep it in a dry bag until you need it.
Carry a sit mat — sitting on wet ground is a fast track to feeling miserable.
Hot drinks are morale in a mug — tea, coffee, hot chocolate, even soup; it’s like drinking motivation.
Mindset is Everything
Walking in wet weather is half about your gear and half about your attitude. Laugh at the sideways rain. Make a game out of dodging the deepest puddles (or deliberately stomping in them). Take the daft selfies. You’re the one out there collecting memories while everyone else is indoors scrolling through their phone.
Post-Walk Comfort
Your walk doesn’t end at the car park. The after is just as important:
Dry clothes in the car – Nothing feels better than changing into something cosy before the drive home.
Sort your kit – Hang everything up to dry as soon as you’re home; it’ll last longer and won’t smell like a swamp next time.
Celebrate – Whether that’s a steaming mug of tea, a big slice of cake, or a long soak in the bath, give yourself that post-walk reward.
Bottom line:
Scotland’s weather will never bend to your plans so you might as well embrace it. With the right gear, preparation, and a healthy sense of humour, a “miserable” forecast can turn into one of your best walking stories yet. And when you look back, you might just find that the days with rain and mud are the ones you remember most fondly.