How do I reproof a waterproof jacket at home?

The easiest method is a wash-in reproofer like Nikwax TX.Direct. Wash your jacket in the machine using the reproofer instead of detergent, then tumble dry on a low heat or iron on a low setting to activate the DWR coating. This restores the water-beading performance of the outer fabric and extends the life of your jacket significantly. It should be done whenever water stops beading off the shell.

When do ticks become active in the UK?

Ticks become active in the UK when temperatures consistently rise above 7°C, which typically means from March in most parts of England and Wales. Tick season runs through to November, with peak activity in spring and early summer. They are most common in long grass, bracken, and woodland edges — areas that are typical on most UK walking routes.

What is the best way to remove a tick safely?

Use a dedicated tick removal tool such as the O'Tom Tick Twister. Grip the tick as close to the skin as possible and twist it out rather than pulling straight — this reduces the chance of leaving the mouthparts embedded. Do not use petroleum jelly, heat, or twisting with fingers. After removal, clean the bite site and monitor for a bull's-eye rash over the following weeks.

What should I look for in walking trousers for spring in the UK?

For spring UK walking, look for trousers made from a lightweight stretch fabric with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. This combination handles mud, rain, and warmer temperatures without making you sweat or becoming soaked. Quick-dry fabric is also important — wet cotton trousers in cold wind can cause hypothermia even in mild temperatures.

Is sun protection really necessary on UK hills in March?

Yes, and it catches many walkers out. UV intensity increases significantly with altitude, and snow or frost on the ground can reflect an additional 80% of UV back at you. March sun is also underestimated because the air temperature feels cold. SPF 30+ sun cream, a lip balm with SPF protection, and a sun hat are worth carrying from March onwards if you are heading above 500 metres.

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Updated this month

March Gear Picks — Best UK Outdoor Kit to Buy This Month

Survivals editorialUpdated 2026-03-255 min read

Spring Has (Nearly) Sprung

March is when the outdoor year really begins. The clocks change at the end of the month, giving you evening daylight again. Temperatures are rising, paths are drying out (slowly), and the hills are calling.

But March weather is unpredictable — sunshine one hour, sleet the next. Your gear needs to handle everything.

1. DWR Reproofing Treatment — Around £10-15

Before the spring rain starts in earnest, reproof your waterproof jacket and trousers. Nikwax TX.Direct (wash-in or spray-on) and Grangers Performance Repel are the go-to options. A £10 bottle of reproofing treatment extends the life of a £200 jacket by years. See our spring gear refresh guide for the full process.

2. Tick Removal Tool — Around £4

Ticks become active when temperatures consistently rise above 7°C — which means March in most of the UK. Lyme disease is a serious and growing problem. The O'Tom Tick Twister is small, light, effective, and costs less than a coffee. Carry one always from March to November.

3. Lightweight Walking Trousers — Around £40-70

Swap your heavy winter trousers for something lighter and quicker-drying. March walking means mud, rain, and increasingly warm temperatures — you want trousers that handle all three. Craghoppers Kiwi Pro, Fjallraven Abisko, and Montane Terra are all excellent spring options. Look for stretch fabric and a DWR finish.

4. Sun Protection — Around £10-20

It catches people out every year: the March sun is stronger than you think, especially at altitude or with snow reflection. Pick up a tube of SPF 30+ sun cream, a lip balm with SPF, and a lightweight sun hat. Your winter-pale skin will thank you.

5. Daypack Refresh — Around £50-80

If your daypack is worn out, March is a good time to replace it before the heavy-use season. A 20-30L pack with good ventilation, a rain cover, and comfortable hip belt is all most day walkers need. Osprey, Deuter, and Gregory all make excellent options with strong warranties.

March is the start of lambing season. Keep dogs on a lead near livestock, stick to paths through fields with sheep, and close every gate behind you. Farmers are working incredibly long hours right now — be considerate.

March Must-Haves

Nikwax TX.Direct Wash-In Waterproof Reproofer

Amazon UK

£0Budget

A £10 bottle of reproofer extends the life of a £200 waterproof jacket by years. The single best value maintenance product in outdoor gear.

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O'Tom Tick Twister

Amazon UK

£0Budget

Ticks become active from March as temperatures rise above 7°C. Carry one of these from now until November — Lyme disease is no joke.

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Affiliate link — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you

The Month Ahead

March is preparation month. Get your kit sorted now and you'll be ready to make the most of the longer days from April onwards. Check our April gear picks for the next instalment.