For many of us the Lakeland winter brings the best out in our mountains. A fun summer’s walk in shortsand T shirt transforms itself into a serious-feeling expedition that starts and finishes in the dark. The hordes have gone; you’ll find few people on Hall’s Fell Ridge. Those that you do meet are reveling in the experience,crampons on feet, axe in hand.

It’s now that you appreciate the design features built into your gear. Lightweight waterproofs are ideal in the summer months but won’t cope with blizzard conditions - a fully specified winter jacket allows you not only to survive, but actually to enjoy the situation. You’ll need effective insulation; not just fleece but maybe down or synthetic too. Map and compass skills which are ideal in good weather become essential for winter walking. Footwear becomes a serious factor, both for cold-weather comfort and underfoot security. Plus crampons and axes may be needed – do you know how to use them properly?

With the right knowledge and equipment, being out in the mountains in winter weather actually has its own appeal – the satisfaction of being in control in poor conditions. Arguably winter walking has more potential for risk given that a simple accident can more rapidly turn into a serious situation in blizzard conditions. So if you’re heading out on the fells, whatever the season,are you fully prepared?