27th November 2005, 01:04 PM
Yep, the snood is the way forward. Dug mine out of the closet about a week ago. Combined with a touque (woolly hat for the non-informed
) you only leave a ninja like slit to see through. The layering thing does work, but the windproof layer is critical, and in the recent windy conditions the fleece/insulating layer has to be quite thick.
I've found the best glove combo is thin cotton gloves with fingerless cycling/weightlifting gloves over them. Enough padding for bracing oneself while trowelling, while allowing pencil use for recording. No bare skin!
I've also found it best to have 2 pairs of boots, which get used on alternate days. Going out with even slightly wet boots will guarantee a miserable day. It also allows the other pair to dry slowly. Critical if cracking of the leather is to be avoided. Radiator drying and oven drying a big no-no. Slapping on polish while wet and muddy doesn't seem right but does preserve the leather.
As for waterproofing: I've not figured this one out yet. Expensive gore-tex does not work. Not surprising when you read the small print where it says dirt will ruin it! Road coats likewise aren't waterproof after a few uses. I'm coming to the conclusion that rubber fishermen's togs are the only way forward. But then there is the sweating problem. Either way you're going to get wet.[xx(]
) you only leave a ninja like slit to see through. The layering thing does work, but the windproof layer is critical, and in the recent windy conditions the fleece/insulating layer has to be quite thick.I've found the best glove combo is thin cotton gloves with fingerless cycling/weightlifting gloves over them. Enough padding for bracing oneself while trowelling, while allowing pencil use for recording. No bare skin!
I've also found it best to have 2 pairs of boots, which get used on alternate days. Going out with even slightly wet boots will guarantee a miserable day. It also allows the other pair to dry slowly. Critical if cracking of the leather is to be avoided. Radiator drying and oven drying a big no-no. Slapping on polish while wet and muddy doesn't seem right but does preserve the leather.
As for waterproofing: I've not figured this one out yet. Expensive gore-tex does not work. Not surprising when you read the small print where it says dirt will ruin it! Road coats likewise aren't waterproof after a few uses. I'm coming to the conclusion that rubber fishermen's togs are the only way forward. But then there is the sweating problem. Either way you're going to get wet.[xx(]