Paramo 3rd Element Jacket Tested

If you run hot and move fast, Paramo's Analogy fabric, with its directional lining can get really warm, even in winter. Yes, Paramo's breathability is excellent, but it won't stop you sweating even if that excess moisture will be gone faster than with a conventional waterproof. We found the 3rd Element worked perfectly for winter mountain biking and walks (uphill ones anyway). Stow the upper section in an outer pocket and the gilet strikes a great balance between protection and ventilation. Sure, your arms get wet, but so what?

The seal between the two is good, though in really, high winds, there might be potential for some draughtiness under the arm pits - the rest of your torso is protected by the gilet remember. Other good points are the drop tail, which is excellent on a mountain bike in particular and the roll-away hood, which has a wired peak and is surprisingly effective. You don't get Paramo's classic side vents, but then that might have been a feature too far and you can always rip your arms off, if you'll forgive the phrase.

The Fabric

We've said it before, but Paramo's directional fabrics work really well although they are heavier and warmer than conventional waterproofs. The main advantage is high breathability and wicking so you don't stay damp for long. Some testers raise the need to occasionally re-proof the fabric as a disadvantage, but to be honest, it's an easy operation with a wash-in proofing agent and only has to be carried out occasionally.

Verdict: Mad but brilliant. Used as a gilet, the 3rd Element gives decent protection with high ventilation but when things get colder, you can opt for the full jacket version, which you can throw together in seconds. If you don't run hot, then it's probably a bit OTT, but for stop - start, high intensity activities it works very nicely thanks and a decent hood is a bonus as well. The cons? Well, it does look a bit silly and the press-studs and zips can be fiddly with cold fingers, plus it's not as light as some conventional waterproofs. After initial dubiousness, we grew to love the 3rd Element. Excellent winter kit though not cheap. It's made in Colombia.

Performance
Value

Paramo web site

Pushed for time: Mad three-in-one solution that works amazingly well. The sleeves and shoulders come off for high intensity or warm weather work, but reattach much faster than with a jacket where the sleeves simply unzip. You can chuck them back on for stops and even over a rucksac if you choose to. The fabric is brilliant, breathes well and wicks sweat fast, but is warmish and heavier than the lightweight competition. If you wear the sleeves and shoulder/hood unit alone, people will laugh at you. Don't do it... Good if weird kit. We like.

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