Page 46 - 2018 AMA Summer

KITREVIEW
lanyards. A simple concept but not one I’ve seen elsewhere.
The most striking aspect to the Enduro, particularly with the blue/red combo that I trialled, was the asymmetric design pattern. Being a bit of a traditionalist, this design style isn’t to my taste, some may really like it, however, as all the available colours are of this type you either have to deal with that knowing you’re going to be getting a really capable
piece of kit or suck up the idea of not owning one. Hopefully Páramo will consider a more traditional style option for future versions.
Given the multiple layers of
fabric in this jacket, there’s
a consequence of having directionality. That is heat. The
Velez and more-so the Enduro
are warm jackets. Having
tested these two in all conditions
over the summer and through
to spring, it’s clear that ventilation is required. When wearing the Velez, if the ambient temperature is more than 10 degrees, it became too warm for wearing with anything more than a base layer. Ventilation via the various zips solves part of the problem but it’s not going to be enough for summer conditions.
In winter, this heat retention can be your best friend and is where the Enduro excels. Specifically for higher altitude and cold winters, the Enduro is designed for die-hard enthusiasts and professionals working in extreme climates. If you’re not in these categories I’d suggest, as much as it’s a fully loaded jacket, it’s probably
ENDURO
water on the garment. If it beads then it doesn’t require re-proofing, if it doesn’t then wash again but with the reproofing fluid. Once this has finished, hang the garment to drip dry. Job done! As a rule of thumb, unless excessively dirty, each garment will go for five washes before needing to be reproofed.
And if you damage your jacket you no longer have to worry as much as Páramo can sew up most rips and tears without losing the waterproof properties. If significant damage has been caused Páramo will first quote for repairing it and if they can’t repair it then you can trade it in for significant
discounts on a new purchase.
SUMMARY
At the start of the trial Páramo told me that most reviewers of their kit tend to sit in one of two categories; those who give their kit back at the end of the trial period and those who won’t. I firmly sit in the latter category and will be keeping the Velez and putting my Gore-tex Pro
up for sale.
In moderate climates the Velez has offered considerable flexibility. Layering with other Páramo garments gives greater thermal benefits whilst retaining the directionality properties and most of these can often be worn over the top of an Analogy layer too giving total environmental protection without having to disrobe first. It does require a different way of thinking but the benefits outweigh the costs – if only there was a way to tie the hood down!
not right for the environments or activities you intend to do.
AFTERCARE
Cleaning and re-proofing are simple activities requiring a domestic washing machine. Nikwax Tech Wash is used in place of your regular detergent and fabric softener. Once the cycle has finished, check for waterproofing by splashing
46 / ARMY MOUNTAINEER
CONTRIBUTOR DEADLINE FOR THE
AMA WINTER 18 EDITION IS 1 OCT 2018 SUBMISSIONS SHOULD BE SENT TO JOURNAL@ARMYMOUNTAINEER.ORG.UK