Paramo Alta II

Guy Hurst
Reviewed: 15 March 2012

The most comfortable and practical waterproof around in cool weather, but not very modern looking.

This is very comfortable to wear and controls condensation like no other jacket -- accept maybe one of Paramo's other tops. It's longer than most modern waterproofs, which I like, has a good array of pockets and the hood fits well and gives excellent protection. It is quite warm, which is actually an advantage in the colder months when it does the job over a base layer, and the vents can be used if you get a bit warm. The fact it can be reproofed and repaired indefinitely is another big plus, although this does remove any excuse for buying new winter waterproofs.

The warmth is an obvious disadvantage for summer wear, and it's not a jacket you want to carry around -- it's too heavy. The outer map pocket is not waterproof in prolonged rain, but then I always carry my map in an Ortlieb case, so not a major issue. The foam pads down the back of the jacket seem to me to serve no purpose at all, so I've removed them, which is easily done. The look of it is distinctive -- which might be good or bad.

I actually bought this in a sale a couple of years ago for rainy walks around local lanes or for work, but have used it more and more in the hills: when it's cool enough to wear it all day I really do like it.

Don Thompson
Reviewed: 27 January 2010

GREAT JACKET BUT NOT WITHOUT A PROBLEM

When it works (see weakness) it;s a fantastic jacket. Even in cold weather I rarely need more than a T shirt under it. In warm weather venting works well. Customer service is second to none.

On a couple of occasions, in prolonged rain (3+ hours of it), and when wearing a rucksack, I've got a bit damp on the sides of my chest where the rucksack straps are. Don't really know how this happens, but I've had other Alta II's and it's happened on one of them as well.

The strengths outweigh the weakness for me.

Ben Turner
Reviewed: 13 January 2010

THE BEST WINTER WALKING JACKET

Soft shell breathability.
Hard shell water resistance.
Venting.
Good pockets.
Built to last.

Looks a bit naff.
Expensive.
Too hot for warmer months.

Had this for a year now and for me it ends the argument. When its cooler (below about 10°C) Paramo is simply the best solution. One jacket that does everything. Keeps you dry from sweat and rain. No changing layers. Keep it on all day. Open the vents or main zip, roll up the sleeves if necessary to adjust temperature.

If it is as reliable as people claim then it also will not work out expensive in the long run.

I have even come to like its rugged, old school looks. It is worth adding a few grammes to get a decent length and good pockets.

In summary the best winter walking jacket you can buy.

Ray Young
Reviewed: 13 December 2008

SUPERB JACKET

great material, excellent quality,superb fit,best jacket i have ever owned.

dosent have one.

i got mine from adapt outdoors in liverpool for 160 quid, the best kit ive had for a great price.looking forward to getting the cascada trousers.

Chris Billinge
Reviewed: 11 November 2008

THE BEST I'VE FOUND FOR ALL ROUND UK USE

More breathable than membrane systems
Use as a windproof soft shell and a waterproof
Comfortable and quiet to wear
Excellent after sales service

Not stylish for the High Street

I have been turned from a mild sceptic to a hopeless devotee of Paramo.

I find this jacket can be used as a windproof and a waterproof because it is so much more breathable than my Goretex Jacket.

For mixed weather it is superb. It keeps you dry without having to be completely done up. There are venting options down the front, under the arms and through the pockets which help you adjust your temperature rather than playing hokey kokey in showers. The softer material is more comfortable and quieter than alternatives. It dries quickly and can be easily cleaned and re proofed again and again.

I only ever leave it out of my pack on the warmest of days. It would be hot to wear in a summer shower.

After sales service has been outstanding. On my ML assessment I stupidly squatted down and broke the zip. I sent off to Paramo and they repaired the zip, replaced other bits that were worn or had fallen off, thoroughly cleaned and reproofed it, all without charge.

So there you are, I have been turned into one of the staunch advocates I used to be so sceptical about!"