Published by Stormline | Wet Weather Gear Since 1966
Lambing time is perhaps one of the most hectic periods for UK farmers – very long days, freezing nights, rain, wet weather conditions and lots of physical labor throughout February and April. What you wear can have a huge effect on how comfortably and hygienically you’ll perform your duties. So, below is a short list of equipment UK farmers commonly inquire about regarding clothing for lambing.
What should I wear for lambing season in the UK?
There are four essential items – waterproof bib and brace overalls, a waterproof jacket, thermal base layers (shirt and pants) and waterproof boots. The vast majority of experienced farmers opt for waterproof bib and brace overalls together with a jacket rather than with waterproof trousers as it eliminates the waist gap where cold and dirt can enter.
In terms of material, PVC-coated overalls provide the easiest clean up between ewes, while those with fabric waterproofing absorb fluid and are less hygienic and harder to clean.
Essential Lambing Season Kit
- Waterproof bib and brace overalls (PVC or breathable PVC)
- Midweight waterproof jacket with full zip
- Thermal base layers — top and bottom
- Waterproof, insulated boots
- Waterproof gloves or lambing gloves
- Head torch for night checks
- Spare set of overalls if lambing is intensive
Why are bib and brace overalls better than waterproof trousers for lambing?
Regular waterproof overtrousers sit on the waist level and leave a gap between themselves and the bottom part of your jacket. While you are helping a ewe with lambing, this gap allows cold and moisture to enter.
Plus, bib and brace overalls protect the torso. The straps provide additional support and hold the whole thing in place without a belt. Many UK farmers who switched to bib and brace from waterproof trousers will never return back for lambing.
Stormtex-Air 664G Waterproof Farming Bib Overalls
Waterproof bib overalls made of lightweigjt PVC designed for farming. Full body protection, easy to clean, in traditional farming green. Popular among UK sheep and dairy farmers.
Explore Farming Bib and Brace Overalls →
What waterproof jacket is best for lambing?
For lambing you need a lightweight, easily removable PVC zip-jacket which is warm enough for cold nights yet light enough for indoor work. Your jacket should also be of sufficient length to overlap with the bottom part of your overalls and have neoprene cuffs.
Too heavy jackets can restrict your movements when you need to maneuver in tight spaces, perform some complicated maneuvers. The Stormline Stormtex 248G offers an ideal blend of comfort and warmth for most UK lambings.
Tip: if you lamb in heated shed or tend to run warm, choose a lightweight PVC jacket, such as Stormtex-Air 220G.
Stormtex-Air 220G Waterproof Farming Jacket
- 340gsm stretch PVC with PU coating in Green. Oil resistant
- Two way YKK zipper and velcro storm flap
- Raglan sleeve for better range of arm movement
- Neoprene cuffs and cuff extender
- Large front utility pockets
- Weight: 1.2kg / 2.64lbs
MODEL WEARING GARMENT: 5ft 9in (175cm) / 167lbs (76kg)
What do I need for night lambing checks in the UK?
It can be very exhausting work and you will want to rush out of bed and out the door as soon as possible, especially when the weather is wet and cold. You need clothes which are easy to access quickly.
Your waterproof overalls should be placed right next to the door and strapped beforehand to allow you to be dressed in them in less than a minute. For your night check you also need: headtorch, waterproof insulated boots, thermal leggings and fleece under your overalls
Do I need different gear for indoor versus outdoor lambing?
The requirements for indoor and outdoor lambing can differ greatly. In case of lambing in the shed/barn, the climate is less severe – the air will be warmer and your waterproofs should breathe.
In case of outdoor lambing, you will need heavy waterproof clothing able to withstand wind and rain, which, at the same time, won’t restrict your movement. Outdoor lambing is very typical for upland farms of Wales, Scotland, Lakes District, and the North Pennines.
How do I keep my lambing waterproofs clean between ewes?
PVC materials are not absorbent, which adds up to your hygiene as there is no risk of contamination through absorption. You should wipe the overalls between ewes with a damp cloth or rinse. After lambing session you need to rinse your overalls thoroughly, paying special attention to seams and cuffs, where moisture can be stored.
Never use any bleaches or agricultural disinfectant products, which may weaken your coat’s coating. Mild detergent is perfect. You should let the overalls dry completely as stored PVC in a damp area is subject to molding.
How should I layer clothing under my lambing waterproofs?
Ideally, the layering system will include three elements – moisture wicking thermal base layer under your skin, mid-layer (fleece), which will help insulate you from cold and a pair of overalls. You will then be able to add/remove the mid-layer according to changing conditions and intensity of your work.
Cotton as a base layer is a bad idea as the fabric does not cope well with moisture and becomes cold. You should use either merino wool or thermal synthetic material instead.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lambing Clothing
What should I wear for lambing season in the UK?
Waterproof bib and brace overalls made of PVC, mid-weight waterproof jacket, thermal layers (base + fleece) and waterproof insulated boots. Bib and brace combination is highly recommended as it eliminates gaps and provides you with easy to clean clothing during lambing.
Why are bib and brace overalls better than waterproof trousers for lambing?
They have straps, which hold them in place and allow you to bend without gaps between jacket and trousers allowing cold and mess to enter. Moreover, the whole front of the overalls can be wiped.
What waterproof jacket is best for lambing?
A medium weight PVC zipper jacket, light enough to put on/take off easily, yet sufficiently warm for cold nights. With neoprene or adjustable cuffs. The popular choice is the Stormline Stormtex 248G.
What do I need for night lambing checks?
Bib and brace overalls, easily accessed near your bedroom door, headtorch, insulated waterproof boots, thermal base layers.
Do I need different gear for indoor versus outdoor lambing?
Indeed, indoor lambing will require more breathable overalls to avoid overheating, whereas outdoor lambing will need more heavy-duty waterproofs for exposure.
How do I clean lambing waterproofs?
Wipe them between ewes using damp cloths, rinse thoroughly after the work. Do not use bleach or agricultural disinfectant agents, but wash with a mild detergent in warm water.