I've spent a while trying to improve my winter kit without spending too much money. I'm almost there, I have new Berghaus all leather Superlights, no problem with socks, I've three pairs of trousers to choose from, waterproof gaiters, a pair of long johns, excellent Decathlon underwear, bamboo baselayers, a Rab Vitall windproof coat, a couple of fleeces to choose from and a Lowe Alpine hat. My only sticking point is what warm wear will I buy to wear between my baselayer/fleece and windproof. I went to a hiking shop yesterday and following the advice offered to me earlier from the Forum so I suggested to the saleslady that a down jacket may not be really suitable to wear whilst actually hiking, but fine when standing still and she got really ratty with me and told me that the down jackets are the best of all! I had to say Whoa, Whoa Whoa to her, she was really fired up! I didn't buy anything but I did check that a medium would fit me well.