The Páramo Velez Adventure took a very close runner’s-up spot in the jacket test in Country Walking’s November Issue. “It’s a good bet for cooler autumn days, with its layers of fabric. Waterproofing and the adjustability of the hood are both very good”

PÁRAMO VELEZ ADVENTURE SMOCK – HIGHLY COMMENDED Country Walking

COMFORT & FIT 10/10

PERFORMANCE 9/10

TOTAL 19/20

In a nutshell: A classic Páramo top that performs beautifully in cooler conditions.

An anomaly in the test, as this is the only jacket to use Nikwax Analogy waterproofing (and it’s a smock). The top works in a similar way to animal fur, driving moisture out and away from the skin. The waterproofing is handled by a DWR coating on the face fabric. The coating retained its water repellence for alonger period than expected, and only really started to wet out in high abrasion areasand the back and shoulders. This is certainly not a top for warmer weather, though, and although the system works very well at drawing away sweat, it still remains warm inside. There are some vents and wide, cuffed sleeves can be rolled up, but the bulky material is still warm. In wet and cooler conditions, its hard to fault.