I had my eye on this jacket for some time but in spite of this I was reluctant to fork out the £180 asking price. That is until I was told that this garment had a life time guarantee. Sold to your very prudent (stingy) critic.
My new water proof smock and I have had a magnificent time together throughout all the four seasons and in every imaginable weather condition. The Velez kept me warm and dry be it, lunching at the summit of Broad Cairn, scrambling up the Devils back side, or walking along the road to my local tavern.
If you are not familiar with the Paramo Velez, it’s a very breathable - waterproof smock type jacket, with a huge chest pocket that will easily take a map and compass. It will take a lot more if you don't mind looking an odd shape. For aeration this smock has a zip under each arm pit that runs all the way down the torso. The peek hood is easily adjusted and also detachable, a rap around collar, an elongated back that just about covers your bum, and tight fastening cuffs. I have washed my Velez three times in the last year in Nic Wax wash and water proofing and it is as good as they day I bought it.
Yes dear reader the Paramo Velez smock is near perfection. Therefore it would be a shame for me to bitch about its few faults.
But I'm going to anyway.
Why?
Because I can.
The smock is a little warm for sultry days; I found that I was taking it off preferring to be a little wet than over heat.
It has no out side hand warming pockets but as an alternative two internal hand warming pockets that can be accessed through the side vents. Now I ask you, if it is cold enough to need to put your hands in your pockets the last thing you want to do is open your side vents allowing all the cold air in and all that snugness out.
Finally, and now I am rely splitting hairs. It’s near on impossible to button the hood up with winter gloves on.
The verdict for me is that it was a £180 well spent and I won't ever need another jacket.
Although I hear that Paramo are brining out a pack light type version for the summer of 2009.
(Written by: ronrae)