Swatting Off Summer’s Uninvited Guests
There’s a lot to love about a British summer in the countryside, and if you’re like me (and Billy), the long days and warmer weather mean the more time outside, the better!
It can, however, come with a (rather irritating) catch...
Midges, horseflies, and ticks love turning up to the party uninvited. And while most of us remember the suncream, insect protection is often the bit that gets forgotten, until you’re halfway through a woodland walk swatting away the local midge population.
But don’t worry, here at Hollands we have you covered (quite literally!) We’ve put together a collection of summer country clothing from our top three bug-repelling brands, designed to keep you covered, comfortable, and bite-free this summer- without compromising on style.
So, grab your ice cream and enjoy the sun, as we talk top anti-insect country clothing for summer 2026.
Pinewood InsectSafe: Built for Bracken, Banks & Bug Season
If your idea of a summer walk involves long grass, shady woodland paths, or the occasional wander off the beaten track, Pinewood’s InsectSafe range is not one to miss.
Designed in Sweden, it’s the sort of kit that’s made for bracken, riverbanks, and that thick summer air where the bugs seem to thrive. Each piece is treated with built-in insect repellent, but just as importantly, it’s breathable, comfortable, and easy to move in, which makes a big difference when the temperature heats up.
For lighter layering, the Function Hoodie is a personal favourite. It’s moisture-wicking and easy to throw on for extra but cool coverage, especially in tick-prone areas or when you’re walking through shaded spots. Up top, the InsectSafe Hat does exactly what you’d think, keeping midges at bay without feeling overly technical or like you’ve been deployed on a bug-fighting special mission.
Pinewood Womens InsectSafe Function Hoodie in Moss Green: Also available in mens
It’s also worth thinking about protection from the ground too if you’re taking on long grass. A good pair of Coolmax socks makes a literal unsung hero under your trousers, and helps keep ticks from launching an unwanted ankle attack when you're sporting shorts!
Speaking of trousers, on hotter days, the Varnamo Linen Trousers are perfect as a loose, breathable, and sensible way to stay covered without overheating. And if you’re out for longer or need something a bit more hard-wearing, the Smaland Hunters Trousers offer that extra durability with the same top-level protection.
Pinewood Mens Varnamo InsectSafe Linen Trousers in Linen Beige: Also available in womens
Finish it off with an InsectSafe long sleeve shirt, (which handily, is also UV protected and wrinkle resistant) and you’ve got a setup that keeps you covered, cool, and a lot less appealing to anything that bites!
Pinewood Mens Insectsafe Long Sleeve Shirt in Green Off White: Also available in womens
Craghoppers NosiLife: Tried, Tested & Travel-Ready
If you’re after something that’s travelled across continents as well as the countryside, the Craghoppers NosiLife range is well adapted to life on the move.
Originally designed with travel in mind, it’s now just as at home in the British countryside as it is on distant exotic adventures. Think long dog walks, working days outdoors, or packing for a country holiday where you want to be prepared for a bit of everything (bugs included!)
The built-in insect protection is what the range is known for, but it’s the breathable, moisture-wicking fabric and easy wearability that puts Craghoppers and the NosiLife range into the top three for us.
The Adventure Long Sleeve Shirt is a great example to start with, offering both insect defence and UV protection, while still being smart enough for a cheeky pub stop after a long, hot walk. It’s one of those pieces that works just as well dressed up as it does out in the field- but don’t worry, it only looks good to us, not the bugs!
Craghoppers Mens NosiLife Adventure Long Sleeved Shirt in Parchment: Also available in womens
For the lower half, the Convertible Trousers are a practical choice, especially in the classic unpredictability of the British weather- even in summer! Zip them off when the sun makes an appearance, zip them back on when the midges arrive- simple, but very effective. Pair them with a SolarShield T-shirt, and you have a set ready for complete country coverage.
Craghoppers NosiLife Pro Convertible Trousers in Black Pepper (mens) and Soft Mushroom (womens)
Again, there’s plenty of choice for headwear too. From more heavy-duty Outback and Jungle Hats to lighter caps like the Multi-Active Cap, it really is a range that covers everything, from full bug protection to easy everyday wear.
And, ladies, if you’re looking for that feminine touch from your bug-repellent brand, the NosiLife range even has options like the Pro Skort and Dress, for those days that call for style and practicality! stylish but sensible….we like it.
Craghoppers Womens Nosilife Pro Skort II in Soft Mushroom
Rovince: For Forests, Ferns and Serious Adventures
Now, if your summer plans involve some serious adventures- we’re talking long treks, dense woodland, or anywhere ticks are a little more than just a passing thought, Rovince is definitely one for your list.
This Dutch-originating brand has built a strong reputation across Europe, with its specialist anti-tick clothing trusted by forest rangers, wildlife officers and stalkers who spend day in, day out in the sort of environments most of us only dip into occasionally. It’s serious protection, but designed to still feel wearable, even if your adventure is, like mine, a woodland walk and a campout.
What sets Rovince at top three standard is the permanent treatment of their garments with permethrin. This basically means the insect protection doesn’t wash out over time. It’s built in for the long haul, so you don’t even have to give it a second thought for as long as you wear them to know you’re covered.
The Ergoline range, for me, is the standout. You’ve got everything from your essential shirt and trouser options, right through to fleeces and softshells for early mornings or chilly evenings- all designed to be tough, breathable and highly ergonomic.
Rovince Ergoline Mens Trousers in Olive Green: Also available in womens
For warmer conditions, the Savanna Trousers are a great option, coming in a lighter weight but with the same level of built-in protection. And if you’re looking to cover all bases, the Shield Socks (both regular and long) are well worth adding into the mix, again helping to protect that lower leg area where ticks tend to take their chances.
Rovince Shield Socks in Green
We know it’s not all serious go all the time, so if you want something a bit more relaxed but still protective, the Bamboo Polo Shirts offer a softer, more casual option. They’re still comfortable, still practical, and still doing the job when it comes to keeping bugs at bay.
Rovince Mens Bamboo Polo Shirt in Olive Green: Also available in womens
Covered, Cool and Carefree
No matter what your summer has in store, the good news is, you don’t have to choose between staying cool in the heat and keeping the bugs at bay. With our top three bug-repelling brands, you can have both!
From lightweight shirts and breathable trousers to hats, socks and those often-overlooked extras, Hollands insect repellent clothing collection is built to keep you comfortable, covered, and able to enjoy the countryside without the constant swatting.
So whether you’re heading out on daily dog walks, planning longer days in the field, or packing for a countryside getaway, it’s well worth getting a few of these pieces lined up ahead of the season- before the midges move in!
You can explore the full range on our website, from insect protection clothing to accessories and outdoor essentials, and find what suits your pace of life, your plans, and your summer ahead.
About the Author
Sarah Holland
With her extensive firsthand experience of farm life and a keen eye for quality, Sarah Holland's advice on country clothing reflects her genuine appreciation for the joys and comfort of rural living. Whether it's a smart tweed jacket for a formal occasion or durable wellies for muddy walks, she knows what works for life in the countryside. Sarah loves sharing her knowledge and insights to help others discover the perfect attire for their outdoor lifestyle.
