WATERPROOF TOP

"Waterproof outer garment" appears on the kit list for every outdoor activity. For most scouts, this will be a shell jacket (i.e. a thin totally waterproof layer), which should provide protection against rain and wind. It is important that this protection is effective.

A jacket that is merely shower-proof, or that has lost its proofing is not really suitable for extended use: it will gradually absorb water and then be difficult to dry.

Most scouts use a jacket of the cagoule type. Ideally this should be long enough to cover their backside and large enough to have several jumpers or a warm jacket underneath. A hood is a very useful, but ideally should be large enough to jut out at the front, to provide some face protection.

WATERPROOF OVERTROUSERS

Many scouts get waterproof over-trousers.

These are recommended for significant amounts of winter or spring hiking and are REQUIRED for some activities such as the Derek Turner Challenge.

These should be large enough to get on and off easily over normal trousers or should have zips part way up either leg on the OUTER SIDE, so they can be put on or off without removing boots.