Instead of using that nasty stuff, the Ostro comes pre-treated with Nikwax, a hydrophobic solution that works brilliantly. We’re big fans of it at Outdoors Magic. Once this Nikwax starts to wear out, it’s super, super easy to just reapply it yourself at home.

Páramo’s green ethos doesn’t stop with its water repellent coating either. The 100% polyester used here is fully recyclable, and it is ethically made too, thanks to the brand’s long-standing manufacturing partnership with the Miquelina Foundation in Bogotá, Colombia. 

Performance

First up, this thing is just ridiculously packable. I love the fact I can stash it in the pocket of my shorts just in case I might want a windbreaker when out hiking, trail running or cycling. The breathability really is excellent as well, so it’s perfect for any higher tempo stuff in cooler temperatures.

Durability-wise, I haven’t ripped or snagged it yet, though I wouldn’t want to put it through too much. I’d recommend going for the Fuera Classic Smock if you want the same lightweight breathability but something that’ll be able to hack, say, a season of climbing. 

The Nikwax treatment helps the fabric to see off any light rain and it also massively speeds up the drying time. There’s then the option to combine this with Páramo’s Ostro Fleece if you want to see out any rougher stuff. How rough then? Well, Paramo call it a waterproof system, but I don’t think that’s the right word for it. In really heavy and prolonged rainfall, I’ve found water does soak through. The thing is though, as soon as that rain eases, the Nikwax treatment causes the fabrics to dry out super quickly, so you’re not actually left feeling saturated for the rest of the day. You don’t get that clammy feeling that you get when wearing jackets with waterproof membranes either.

I’ve found myself using the two layers as my main form of rain protection on most of my backpacking trips over the last few months. That said, I’ve always brought a super lightweight membrane jacket with me as well for backup and I’d be a bit nervous without that reassurance.

Conclusion

Good articulation, a smart look and cut. That amazing packability and low weight. Excellent breathability, reliable windproofing and then those eco creds. There’s certainly a lot to like about the Ostro and it’s served me very well for all manner of activities these last few months. I think it’s likely to continue to do so for a good while too. 

More info: paramo-clothing.com