Paramo Velez £300

Paramo doesn’t do waterproof ‘shells’ in the conventional sense. Rather than relying on a membrane, the Velez uses Nikwax’s Analogy system; a 2-layer fabric with a waterrepellent outer and a mesh ‘pump liner’ that transports moisture away from the body.

It has all the features of a technical mountain jacket: a protective wire-brimmed adjustable hood, a drop tail hem with dual drawcords, adjustable cuffs with sturdy tabs, and zipped sleeve vents for ventilation. You can further vent the jacket via twin torso vents, which have secondary zippers to give access to roomy hand pockets positioned out of the way of a rucksack hipbelt. The two-way main zip is backed with a stormflap with press studs along its length, allowing for even more ventilation.

The polyester fabrics feel soft and pliable without the crisp-packet crinkle of a hard shell. The ripstop outer is reasonably durable, and an advantage of the Nikwax Analogy system is that it will continue to work even if punctured. The lined construction adds a little insulation, which is a bonus in cold conditions but a drawback in milder weather.

The Velez is ethically manufactured via a long-standing partnership with the Miquelina foundation in Colombia. The jacket is made entirely from polyester, ensuring it is more easily recyclable at the end of its life, and does not rely on PFC-based treatments for water-repellence. Its only real drawback is that its relative bulk means this isn’t the lightest or most packable jacket.

■ MEN’S SIZES S-XXL

■ WOMEN’S SIZES XS-XL

■ WEIGHT 650g (men’s M), 605g (women’s M) ■ FABRIC Fair Trade certified Nikwax

Analogy (100% polyester), PFC-free

Verdict

A great choice if you don’t mind a little extra weight and bulk in exchange for additional comfort, warmth and weather protection.

Features ★★★★★

Fit ★★★★★

Comfort ★★★★★

Performance ★★★★★

Value ★★★★★ 88% OVERALL

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