Paramo Velez Adventure Light Smock – First Impressions

The Velez Adventure Light is a new waterproof from Paramo, IMO it’s their 1st one that’s not too hot for biking (in the UK at least!).

[edit] – since this was originally written, Paramo have released other waterproofs that are very suited to mountain biking

So far it’s all good. I find it’s best worn with just a base layer; with all the vents closed it’s warm, open the vents and it cools down enough not to have to remove it except in warm weather, when you’d not be using this kind of garment anyway

For me, the best thing with Paramo waterproofs is that the waterproofing doesn’t wear out. It doesn’t use a membrane – the layering system does the main waterproofing, and you just reproof it with Nikwax every so often. Because there’s no membrane, you can reproof it indefinitely, so they work out quite reasonable value. Also, they’re among the most breathable outdoor waterproofs available

Downsides? Sleeve length whilst OK could be a bit longer for me, and it replaced an Endura eVent jacket that I lost at Dalby (don’t ask…)