What to wear in sleet and slush
Short answer: Sleet is the wettest and coldest weather we get. It calls for a waterproof outer jacket, shoes that can cope with slush, and a base layer and socks that keep you as dry and warm as possible, even when the wet gets in.
What sleet actually is
In everyday speech, sleet means a mixture of rain and snow that falls when the temperature hovers just around freezing. Some of the flakes melt on the way down, while others reach the ground as wet snow. On the ground it soon turns to slush, a grey mass of half melted snow and water. Sleet is hard to dress for, because it is as wet as rain and as cold as snow. It soaks into fabric faster than dry snow and chills you more than ordinary rain does.
A jacket that keeps the water out
In sleet, a waterproof outer jacket matters more than in almost any other weather. It should have taped seams, a hood that can be tightened and closures at the wrists so water cannot run inside. A jacket that reaches below the hips also keeps your lower back and seat dry when you sit down. Check that the zip has a storm flap over it, otherwise water can seep through. A water repellent jacket may cope with a short trip, but it is not enough for longer spells out in sleet.
Trousers and legs
Slush sprays up your legs from pavements and roads, especially when cars drive past. Waterproof overtrousers are practical on days with a lot of sleet. Underneath them, or under ordinary trousers, a soft and warm layer is pleasant, particularly if you have a long way to walk. See bamboo sweatpants for men. Once home, it is good to change into dry, soft trousers so your legs can warm up again after the journey. Hang the wet trousers up straight away so they can start drying.
Feet in slush
Slush is hard on your feet. The coldest water sits right in the slush, and it quickly gets in through seams and low edges. Choose boots with a high, sealed upper and a sole with good grip, since slush can hide ice underneath. In boots, socks should reach well up the leg so they do not slip down. See bamboo socks for men. Bring a spare pair of socks in your bag if you will be outside for a long time, so you can change halfway through the day.
When you come indoors
The first thing to do when you come in from sleet is to take off the wet things. Wet clothing against the body holds on to the cold, even in a warm room. Change into dry socks or low socks for indoor wear. See bamboo footies for men. Stand your boots on a tray or newspaper so the slush does not run onto the floor, and let them dry at room temperature. Do not put them directly on a radiator, as that can damage leather and glue and shorten the life of the boots.
Care after sleet
Slush often contains road salt, which leaves white marks on shoes and trouser hems. Wipe your shoes with a damp cloth as soon as you come in and let them dry slowly. Trousers with salt marks can be rinsed under the tap before washing. Wash according to the care label and use a mild detergent for viscose. Viscose is weaker when wet, so avoid wringing it hard. Press the water out gently and hang the clothes to dry on a rack instead.
Frequently asked questions
Why is sleet so cold
The water sits right around freezing and soaks easily into fabric. Wet clothing draws heat away from the body.
Is water repellent the same as waterproof
No. Water repellent clothing handles light rain for a short time. Waterproof clothing keeps water out for much longer.
How do I remove salt marks from shoes
Wipe the shoes with a damp cloth and let them dry slowly. Repeat if needed.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
