Paramo Fuera Ascent Jacket

Daniel Shannon
Reviewed: 01 July 2010

Does what it says--windproof/water resistant--great hood

Windproof
Water resistant
Highly Breathable
Three Way Adjustable Hood
Large Venting Zips (Bicep/Torso)

The plastic pieces at the end of the adjustment cord(s) on the hood and sleeve/torso vents will come off with daily use. It seems impossible to put them back on.

Although the sleeve/torso vents enable one to “dump heat” exceptionally well, they are difficult to zip/unzip and require two hands to maneuver.

The Ascent is very windproof and shrugs off light to medium showers and wet snow if treated with Nikwax TX Direct; although the seams of the hood are the first to leak when it really pours. The three way wired adjustable hood is superbly functional and when not used as a hood can double as protection for the neck and chin from wind by adjusting the draw cords. I particularly like this feature. Adjustable hook and loop fasteners on cuffs work well and are durable. A scooped tail is a nice touch. It breathes exceptionally well; hence aiding in keeping the body temperature at proper levels under exertion. Paramo recommends the jacket be primarily used for summer alpine use. However, I layered beneath it and used it repeatedly on cold winter days and was well pleased with its performance. The Ascent’s sleeve/torso vents are generous and do the job.