Winning the most awards of all of Paramo’s jackets, the Velez is their lighter option for technical users. Using the paramo Analogy Light fabric throughout, this mesh-feeling material is still just as good at wicking moisture and keeping you dry in wet conditions and during active pursuits, but allows air to circulate around the body more easily, making it better in warmer conditions where something like the Alta 3 might be a bit too stuffy.

There are only 2 OS map-sized pockets on the front of the jacket that also work as vents. This isn’t many storage options but they are in the perfect spot to put your hands in, or stash the gear you want easily accessible like your phone, a compass and a map. The jacket not having more pockets keeps the weight and possible breakage points to a minimum. There are tightening cords on the bottom hem, at the midpoint, around the top of the head, and around the hood opening. This gives you a lot of capability in getting the jacket to be a perfect fit. A wired peak on the hood allows, once you tighten up the hood correctly, a perfect viewing angle even in sideways rain.

This is listed as men's but if you like a square cut, it's unisex. Just remember a men's medium is a women's large.

Finding ethically produced outdoor gear without forfeiting on quality performance can be a challenge. Not so with Paramo. Paramo are the leading ethical producers of waterproof clothing in terms of the labour, production and environmental impact of materials. Paramo has an ethical manufacturing partnership with the Miquelina Foundation in Bogota, Colombia, which gives vulnerable women training and employment, and helps to care for and educate their children.

The key strength of the Analogy waterproof system is its ability to draw perspiration through the the jacket whilst remaining waterproof, making it ideal for cycling, hiking or any more strenuous adventures.

Specifications:

• Weighs 605g.
• Made from PFC-free DWR (Durable Water Repellent) recyclable material.
• WFTO-verified Fair Trade: from the Miquelina Foundation
• 2 Large OS map sized chest pockets.
• Hood can be rolled away and secured.
• Design is harness, pack and helmet compatible.
• Scooped hem with draw cord.
• Reflective patches placed around the jacket.
• Forward facing arm vents.
• Hood peak is wired allowing a larger field of vision.
• Reinforced shoulders and back to reduce ingress of water when wearing a pack.
• Made in Colombia.

Care and warranty:

Paramo offer a on all products provided they are registered within the first 3 months of purchase, this warranty covers manufacturing faults but not any damage as a result of normal wear and tear. However, if you do damage your jacket from normal wear and tear Paramo offer a free in-house repair service. So either way Paramo have you covered.