Lambing season means long days, short nights and being outside in whatever the weather throws at you. The right clothing keeps you dry, warm and able to work comfortably in the lambing shed and in the field. This guide covers what to wear for lambing season in the UK, layer by layer.
When Is Lambing Season in the UK?
Dates vary by flock and region. Early lambing flocks start in January, most lowland flocks lamb in March and April, and hill and upland flocks lamb later, into May. Weather in that window can swing from frost to heavy rain, so you need kit that copes with everything.
What to Wear for Lambing: Layer by Layer
1. Base layer
Lambing shifts can involve hours of standing in cold sheds and sudden bursts of effort. A good thermal base layer keeps you warm without trapping sweat. See our thermal base layers guide.
2. Mid layer
A fleece or wool jumper adds insulation. Choose something you can take off easily when you warm up in the shed.
3. Waterproof bib and brace or overalls
This is the most useful item for lambing. Bib and brace cover your back and stomach when you kneel or lean over a ewe, and they wipe clean. See Waterproof Over Trousers & Bib and Brace, or browse waterproof bib and brace. For a one-piece option, see our overalls and boiler suit guide.
4. Jacket
A waterproof farming jacket to go over the top for checking ewes in the field. Browse farming jackets and coats.
5. Boots and socks
Wellies are standard for lambing because they hose clean. Warm socks make long shifts bearable. See farm boots and wellies and our guide to thermal socks.
6. Gloves
Keep a few pairs: warm gloves for walking the fields and thin, waterproof or disposable gloves for hands-on work. Browse gloves.
Lambing Kit Checklist
- Waterproof bib and brace or overalls
- Waterproof jacket
- Thermal base layers
- Fleece or jumper
- Wellies with warm socks
- Warm gloves and a spare pair
- A hat or beanie for night checks. See hats and caps.
- A change of dry clothes
Tips for Staying Comfortable
- Dress in layers you can add or remove as you move between the shed and the field.
- Choose washable clothing – lambing is messy. Wipe-clean waterproofs save time.
- Keep spare socks and a dry layer in the vehicle.
- Prepare early – check and replace worn kit before the season starts, not during it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear for lambing?
A thermal base layer, a fleece or jumper, waterproof bib and brace or overalls, a waterproof jacket, wellies and warm gloves.
What is the best clothing for lambing?
Waterproof bib and brace is the most useful item, as it keeps your front and back dry when kneeling and wipes clean.
Do you wear overalls for lambing?
Many people do. Overalls give full coverage and are easy to wash. Waterproof bib and brace is a good alternative if you want to change layers through the day.
When should I buy lambing kit?
Before lambing starts. Worn waterproofs and boots are easy to miss until the weather turns, so check yours in December or January.
Browse the full Farm & Workwear range.
