Finding a pair of walking trousers that can withstand Britain’s famously changeable weather, without leaving you hot, sticky or constantly having to stop to put on and take off waterproof overtrousers, is no easy task. However, luckily, I’ve found that the Paramo Velez Adventure Trousers are designed to fill exactly this niche. Utilizing Paramo’s well-established Nikwax analog fabric system, these provide weather protection that’s far more breathable than traditional membrane waterproofs, making it an attractive option for year-round hill running, as I’ve found during my tests.
Paramo Velez Adventure Pant
Our editor’s verdict: “Different from traditional waterproof trousers, these do not use a membrane and are designed as standalone trousers. They are a great choice if you want breathable wet weather protection.”
I’ve been evaluating the Men’s Paramo Velez Adventure Trousers since the beginning of the year during winter, spring, and summer, and wore them for about 20 days in the hills. They have accompanied me on the entire Helvellyn Ridge round, including scrambling, drenched days in the Brecon Beacons, breezy walks in the Yorkshire Dales and surprisingly hot spring walks, where breathability matters as much as weather protection.
Specifications
- price: £120
- weight: 392 grams
- Color Tested: black gray
- Size tested: male 32 regular
- Waterproofing: Nikwax analogy system
- Rating: 4.5/5
first impressions
These are made from layers of synthetic fabric in Paramo’s signature style. I’ve spent several years wearing the brand’s other trousers, the Cascada II and Velez, and by comparison, these are noticeably trimmer and less bulky.
The fit is still on the baggier side, though not by much. I am 5 feet 10 inches tall and of average build, and the size 32 proved to be true to regular size. The integrated removable belt makes it easy to dial in the fit, while the ankle adjustment allows you to minimize excess fabric around your shoes. One minor complaint is that the Velcro ankle tab has a habit of collecting seeds and other trail debris.
comfort and fit
I’ve learned that most waterproof trousers are something you have to tolerate. However, the Velez Adventure Trousers are actually very comfortable to wear. The fabric feels soft on bare skin, there’s very little feeling of clinginess with membrane waterproofs, and I’ve had several occasions when I’ve been perfectly happy wearing them all day in the hills.
This comfort also extends to walking. Whether climbing Helvellyn, stepping on stiles or tackling steep climbs, I’ve never found the cut restrictive with a clear design that allows plenty of freedom without feeling cumbersome.
weather protection
The biggest question surrounding any paramo trouser is whether it can really replace waterproof overtrousers. The answer, I would say, is often, but not always.
In light to moderate rain, the Velez Adventure Trousers perform impressively. Water clings to the surface well and they ward off showers that would normally tempt me to overtrousers. They are particularly effective during the kind of changeable weather that defines much of the UK walking season.
However, eventually, they reach their limits. The outer fabric begins to get wet during prolonged heavy rain, and while they’re surprisingly comfortable compared to wearing sweaty membrane overtrousers, they don’t provide the same bombproof protection as a fully waterproof shell.
That being said, the trousers dry remarkably quickly once the rain subsides. This is one of the greatest strengths of the analogy system. Even after being saturated, I’ve found that they fit quickly when I’m on the go, and after letting them hang out overnight they’re ready to wear again the next morning.
breathability
I have yet to wear traditional waterproof pants that are breathable. Much less moisture builds up inside the trousers during sustained climbing, meaning you stay more comfortable during a long day. The thigh venting zips also work well when excess heat needs to be dumped on steep climbs.
This does not mean that they remain calm in every situation. On really hot summer days they can be very warm, and there are certainly lighter running trousers that are more comfortable in higher temperatures.
But compared to wearing waterproof overtrousers in humid conditions, they’re in a completely different league. I’d rather accept a little warmth than spend days marinating in condensation.
features
A removable belt keeps trousers securely in place without becoming uncomfortable under the rucksack hipbelt, while zipped hand pockets are useful for keeping valuables safe, especially when scrambling.
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Adjustable ankle straps (Velcro) are useful for reducing excess fabric around the shoe and giving you protection from biting insects. To a lesser extent, I’ve found that you can also use these to control the temperature.
Tolerance
After several months of use, including combat and rough mountain terrain, the trousers have held up well overall. I noticed some abrasions around the ankles where they rubbed against the rock, but no defects in stitching, seams or zips.
However, the fabric itself is not indestructible. Compared to the heavier Cascada II, it finds it easier to snag on branches, barbed wire or sharp vegetation. That being said, one advantage of the Analogy system is that small tears do not immediately compromise weather protection in the same way they do with a membrane waterproof, and repairs with needle and thread are straightforward.
In terms of maintenance, washing with Nikwax Tech Wash helps maintain performance, while occasional treatment with TX.Direct restores the durable water-repellent finish.
price
At £120, these aren’t cheap running trousers, but I think they represent good value.
Part of it comes down to longevity. I’ve owned a pair of Paramo Cascada II trousers for over a decade, and they’re still going strong. If these prove to be equally durable in the long run, the costs are well spread.
how do they compare
The obvious comparison is with the Paramo Cascada II.
The Cascada II remains the better choice for winter mountaineering, cold conditions, and situations where weather protection is a priority. It is tougher, heavier and more suitable for extended periods of inclement weather.
However, the Velez Adventure feels noticeably lighter, cooler and more agile. This is the pair I reach for on typical British mountain touring days where the forecast includes sun, rain, wind and everything in between.
I guess another comparison would be to waxed polycotton trousers from brands like Fjällräven. They are similar in that they provide breathable protection, but from my experience, they stay wet longer after saturation, whereas Velez dries remarkably quickly once the rain subsides.
real world performance
A walk on the Helvellyn Mountains presented these trousers perfectly. It was unexpectedly warm for March, but open and windy at the top. The trousers blocked the wind effectively, remained comfortable in contested stretches and the ventilation prevented me from overheating despite the spring sun.
Another memorable time wearing them was on a completely wet day in Wales when I deliberately chose them instead of traditional waterproof overtrousers. I knew whatever I wore would almost certainly get wet, but I decided I’d rather wear pants that breathed and dried quickly than spend the day drenched in my own sweat. I have no regrets on this decision.
decision
The Páramo Velez Adventure Trousers won’t replace waterproof overtrousers for every mountain day, and if you’re regularly wearing crampons or wading through thorny bushes these aren’t the toughest trousers available.
But in the type of changeable weather that most UK walkers actually experience, they are one of the most comfortable outdoor trousers I have ever worn.
Their combination of breathability, all-day comfort and fast drying means you can spend less time worrying about changing layers and more time simply moving.
Whenever I know I’m heading into a day with mixed conditions, these pants are the first thing I reach for.
Pros
- excellent all day comfort
- Exceptionally breathable compared to membrane waterproofs
- excellent freedom of movement
- Dries remarkably quickly
- Ideal for Britain’s changing conditions
- Easy to repair and maintain
Shortcoming
- really hot for hot summer days
- eventually reaches its limit in prolonged heavy rains
- Outer fabric may cling more easily than heavier options
- Technical styling won’t appeal to everyone
Who should buy them?
Hillwalkers who spend long days outside in Britain’s famously unpredictable weather value comfort, breathability and versatility over absolute waterproof performance.
Who should look elsewhere?
Winter climbers, anyone who regularly uses crampons, or walkers who prioritize maximum storm protection above everything else.
Paramo Velez Adventure Pant
Our editor’s verdict: “Different from traditional waterproof trousers, these do not use a membrane and are designed as standalone trousers. They are a great choice if you want breathable wet weather protection.”
