In reply to UKC Gear:
My 2 p - This works for me.
Very thin synthetic liner socks are great for reducing the chance of blisters, but if they're soaked with sweat feet can get very cold on belays. It is probably better to use merio liners or not bother at all.
Yeti Gaiters are super untrendy, but they keep your boots dry and your feet and lower legs warm and toasty. Wear your overtrousers over them if you don't want other folk to see.
Changing into a dry thermal at the base of the route is a good idea if you aren't carrying the sack up the route. But I don't really like carrying a sodden thermal up the route for the sake of it.
What works quite well is wearing a synthetic thermal to the base of the route. Remove this while gearing up and replace it with a warm merino thermal. Then layer the synthetic thermal over the top. The merino should keep you warm and your body heath should quickly dry out the other thermal.
Mid layer. I wear a Patagonia R1 Hoody. The balaclava hood creates a brilliant seal from the elements and the thumb loops keep my wrists warm, preventing hot aches. It is very expensive, but I think worth the money.
Normally over the top of this I wear a Patagonia Ascentionist Jacket, which I also use as a windproof on the walk in. This seems to be super water resistant and very breathable, several of my friends have commented that it is more waterproof than their Hardshells.
Gloves. Thick liners if walking in with poles. Thin liners if I'm walking in without.
For climbing, I've been using a pair of BD punishers, which I think are brilliant. They're warm enough to wear seconding and belaying and dexterous enough to lead in.The other day I put them on are the base of the route and didn't remove them until back at the car.
It's a good idea to have light pair of mitts for cold hands and dropped glove f*ck ups. Buffalo Mitts are very warm and super cheap. However if it is very cold and you're going to be belaying for hours at a time then a huge pair of synthetic Mitts will make everything more pleasant.
Lowe Alpine make a great little bag for carrying a belay jacket and some food up the route.
http://www.lowealpine.com/eng/prod_app_det.php?catid=16&itemid=411&...
Don't bother with carrying cold water. A flask full of hot juice is a much better bet and a massive psychological boost. Carry the cup/lid in your pocket and use it to drink from streams.
Never ever leave your headtorch. For example if you are going to leave your sack clipped to a runner half way up a pitch, make sure you remove your torch from the lid first.
Belay Jackets are a pretty idea. For Scotland I don't think they need to be too warm. Make sure it has a good hood and is cut well enough to climb with. A bright colour is a good idea too.
I hope people find this useful.