Lastly, the brand runs its own garment recycling scheme, so at the end of its lifetime the smock can be returned and given new life by Páramo. This is made far easier by the all-polyester construction, since it is often the use of mixed materials in garments (particularly if they incorporate some sort of waterproof-breathable membrane) that can make them difficult or impossible to recycle. None of that to worry about here.

Construction and Performance

This smock is a fully featured bit of kit. It has two-way twin front zips with inner, press-stud baffles and upper arm vents, allow venting for maximum temperature control – even on the move. There’s a fully adjustable roll-away ‘halo’ hood with a wired peak, which provides excellent field of vision without sacrificing wind and rain protection. Velcro cuff tabs provide easy adjustment and sleeves are wide enough to be pushed up the arms for added cooling.

Related: Páramo Velez Jacket Reviewed

You also get very practical pockets, with one large ‘dry’ zipped chest pocket and one inner ‘dry’ zipped pocket. A small secure pocket within the chest pocket can also store little essentials (like car keys).

In terms of fit, the smock has fully articulated shoulders and elbows, and a cropped front, ensuring maximum freedom of movement. At the rear a drop tail with hem drawcord protects the lower back. A double-layer lining at the back and shoulders also provides enhanced comfort for technical rucksack use.

When it comes to keeping you dry, it uses the Nikwax Analogy waterproof system. If you’re a regular reader of Outdoors Magic, you won’t need us to tell you about this fabric technology – we’re big fans and have already covered how it works in detail many times before.

However, for those who aren’t versed in Nikwax Analogy, it is different to most other membrane-based systems, such as Gore-Tex. Instead, it uses a water-repellent outer fabric combined with a mesh ‘pump liner’ to keep you dry. Unlike a waterproof-breathable membrane, it is capable of moving liquid water (sweat) away from your body and not just water vapour. Many users swear that it keeps you drier and more comfortable than any other waterproof jacket. Plus, all Nikwax Analogy garments have been tested in the Leeds University Rain Room, so they are guaranteed to withstand at least 4 hours of heavy, continuous rain.

Verdict

The latest iteration of a classic, the Velez Adventure Smock is well suited to cold, windy and damp conditions, and for that reason, we’re big advocates of the Nikwax Analogy system for hillwalking in the UK. We’ve been out in some pretty rough weather in Páramo jackets and they’ve never let us down. Ok, there are lighter and cooler alternatives out there, but for all-day winter wear on hill, moor and mountain, this is a great choice.