Páramo Cascada Trouser

Ever since I purchased my first Goretex jacket (which incidentally was a very fetching bright pink number)I have been completely sold on that clever little membrane. As a result I was a bit sceptical when I got issued with a pair of Paramo Cascada trousers by my firm. They seemed very bulky and heavy and didn't look like they could withstand more than a light shower but I gave them the benefit of the doubt and I'm glad I did. They have a comfortable elasticated waist and almost full-length leg zips. This means that even Coco the clown could get them on over his boots without a struggle. They breathe exceptionally well and if your legs get a little too warm then you can open the leg zips to let the cooling breeze, or howling gale waft through. They have never leaked despite being subjected to the worst efforts of Cumbria's finest horizontal rain. My only gripe is that they are too warm for summer use so I have to fall back on my trusty Goretex in the midge-filled months but as the mulled wine appears on the shop shelves my Paramo Cascada trousers get pulled on and become a second skin until I shed them whilst frolicking round the Maypole!

(Written by: penrithplodder)

I hate waterproof trousers - REALLY hate them. Never found a pair that don't leak in water in unfortunate places, can't find a pair that are comfortable on my rather large legs, and don't like wearing 2 pairs of trousers. But my Paramos are pure bliss. Don't have to wear 2 pairs of trousers, fit well, warm, AND keep me totally dry. Wore them for the first time a couple of weeks ago in a monsoon on Skiddaw, and despite the rain I was completely dry, warm and very happy. Have since worn them - by choice - on cold dry days, because they're so good. The downside for some would be they're rather large, baggy and shapeless - fortunately so are my legs, hence why they're so perfect for me! Experiment with sizes and lengths - OK, you won't win any prizes for sartorial elegance, but you'll be a very happy bunny out on the hills in the cold and wet!!

(Written by: Sue_B)