Gilets are really useful as throw-on lunch stop insulation, so one designed specifically as an outer layer makes obvious sense. The Páramo Torres Gilet has a windproof, water-repellent Nikwax outer that can be treated to increase wet-weather performance – although our tests found that it was remarkably waterproof even without additional treatment.
The fast-drying synthetic fill lends itself to use in the claggiest conditions, making it perfect for British mountain weather.
This gilet is blessed in the way of pockets, with two zippable handwarmers, a generous chest pocket and an ingenious mesh inner pocket for drying wet kit using a combination of your body heat and the breathable lining. We also found that the elasticated arm holes and hem really enhanced the fit, and were effective at keeping your all-important body heat in.
The only real minus point of the Páramo Torres Gilet is the weight – at 370g (size M), it is the heaviest gilet we looked at, although Páramo now does a lighter 330g version.
Size XS-XXL (men’s)
Weight 370g (size M)
Outer fabric Nikwax
Insulation high
Water resistance high
Wind resistance high
Pockets 4 (1 inner)
www.paramo.co.uk