Paramo Velez Adventure Smock Review          

Paramo waterproof jackets work on a different principle to others. There’s no membrane or coating but two layers of material, the outer one to deflect wind, rain, and snow, the inner to pump moisture away from the body. The combination is effectively waterproof as long as it’s kept clean and treated regularly with Nikwax TX.Direct (which can also be used to replace the DWR on other waterproof clothing). Paramo waterproof clothing is also very breathable and very comfortable. It’s not that light though and so best used when it’ll be worn all day. I find it excellent from October to May but too warm in summer.

The Velez Adventure Smock is designed to have excellent ventilation so it can be used during high-energy activities in cold and wet conditions. Although it’s an over-the-head design it has better ventilation than most full-length zip jackets as it has two long two-way front zips that can be undone to allow air flow across the lower chest and midriff. There are zipped upper arm vents on each sleeve too. The cuffs are very wide, and the sleeves can be pushed up to cool your arms if necessary.

The design is superb. The hood has a wired peak, fits snugly and gives excellent protection without hindering vision. There’s a big kangaroo pocket that easily holds maps and other items with a small zipped pocket inside for items like compass and phone. Inside the smock there’s another zipped pocket that runs across the front of the jacket though this is covered by a hipbelt. However it’s easy to partially unzip the main front zips and stick your hands inside if you need to warm them.

The Velez Adventure Smock is warmer than a conventional waterproof jacket, so you don’t need to wear as much under it. I find it excellent in cold winter weather.

Paramo Velez Adventure Smock tech spec