If I've got a walk out, I tend to role them down like trousers, as you do get hot, but that's the same as any clothing in winter so you don't get cold through sweating to much. I put my stuff in a rucksack till I get to me spot, I then cool off then redress, all weather permitting . I can see the point of ruining expensive kit in such harsh conditions. I will be out to Lindisfarne next week so they will get plenty of stick there