Quote:
Originally Posted by Camelopardalis
I'm surprised some enterprising spirit isn't in the business of making bug-proof clothing  |
Dunk, you have yet to discover the merits of Drizabone long-sleeve cotton shirts (the standard bug-proof daytime wear in the country) and a merino-mink sweater at night (winter) or a light shell at night (in summer).
"Merino-mink" sweaters are a mix of ultrafine merino wool and possum, made here or in NZ. The main brand is Lothlorien, who make them for men and women. They are expensive but IMHO worth it, this stuff is lightweight, incredibly soft to the touch, it breathes like fine wool, yet is incredibly warm when you need it, and it looks gorgeous. To my knowledge these are not available in the UK, this fabric is fairly new. I carry a zip cardigan on long distance plane flights and travelling in Scotland last September it was the perfect thing to wear in the highlands. There are also gloves and beanies made from this stuff.
I can tell you where to find these if you want a souvenir to take home as department stores do not stock them. Harris tweed jackets are lame, compared to this. If you buy one, be careful not to leave it lying around, it won't last long.
PS a pair of merino longjohns under a pair of jeans are enough for winter nights at Katoomba. Thankfully I lost a few kilos this year so I know I will still fit into mine.
If you are looking for cold weather gear, all the important shops are in Kent St, between Bathurst and King Sts - Kathmandu, Mountain Designs, Paddy Pallin and a couple of others. There is also one at the bottom of the Mall in Leura (Blue Mountains).