Waterproof overtrousers

We put on overtrousers when it rains. Decathlon sell overtrousers for £12, and they work fine, if perhaps a little clammy, but are good to get started with. More expensive items have zips and buttons which go all the way from hip to ankle so are quick to put on over your boots.

Layers

Much of the time you will be feeling hot, walking up hills is hard work, and even in winter all you sometimes need is one layer under your jacket, but at rest, or on top of a windy hill lots of insulating layers are needed under the jacket, so layers are very important.

Cotton tends to soak up body moisture and get sodden and is a poor choice, but most other materials, synthetic, wool, etc. work fine between your body and your jacket. You will almost certainly manage your first walks with what you have already in your wardrobe. Take several layers rather that one all or nothing thick insulating layer. Fleece layers are cheap, light, come in different thicknesses, and are quick drying and cosy. Trousers should be loose fitting and not cotton. Jeans are particularly bad as they soak up water, are slow to dry and are uncomfortable in these situations.

Backpack

You will need a backpack to hold your clothes, food, water, etc. It will need to have a hip strap so the weight is supported on your hips and not your shoulders. Again, you can get one for any price, and the main difference is that the more expensive ones will take more abuse and last longer. Something around 30 litres is fine.

Hat and Gloves

A hat that won't blow away and waterproof gloves. Aldi usually have these things in their 'tat' racks and they do the job.

Less essential equipment for newcomers

The items above will get you started. These other items are things you could take or purchase later.

Gaitors

These wrap around your lower legs to stop heather and snow getting into the top of you boots.

Survival bag and whistle

The club carries group shelters on each walk, but it is a good idea to carry a large plastic 'survival' bag in the hills. In an emergency situation, the difference between being inside a large plastic bag, or being exposed to the wind and rain is enormous. These cost £5 from outdoor shops.

Walking Poles

Many people find walking poles help with balance and security, especially crossing burns and going down steep rough ground.

Map and Compass

Not getting lost in the hills is important, so navigating is important, however club novices are led by more experienced walkers so this is something you can learn as time goes on.

Head torch

It does happen, especially in winter, that something delays the group and the last miles are done in the dark.

Ski Goggles

In windy wintry conditions, with snow blowing around, ski gogggles are pretty much essential to see anything at all

Ice axe and Crampons

Something for you to discuss with the experienced members. Winter walks are normally selected which do not require crampons and ice axe, but conditions in Scotland can change quickly and there can often be more snow lying that expected and forest tracks can be covered in sheet ice. If you take some form of crampon, even the Yak Trax variety, it makes a huge difference. Ice axes are good for balance and traction in winter conditions.