Paramo place great store on the Nikwax Analogy fabric from which the Pasco is made, and with good reason.
It’s renowned for its ability to remove perspiration and condensation whatever the temperature or humidity, which is especially good if you’re engaged in high energy activities such as ski touring or hard off-piste riding.
Conventional breathable waterproofs can only let water vapour escape and then only when a sufficient humidity gradient exists, while Nikwax Analogy removes both liquid water and water vapour continually in all conditions (this explains why it’s possible to feel damp whilst wearing some ‘breathable’ fabrics).
An additional advantage is that Analogy fabric is quiet, soft and flexible unlike some shell fabrics, and it can also be re-waterproofed.
As ever with Paramo there are plenty of practical features packed into the Pasco, including a fully adjustable, securable hood with wired peak, great venting through huge sleeve/ torso vents, fully articulated shoulders and elbows for maximum freedom of movement and reinforced shoulders and back for extra protection when load carrying or in heavy rain.
The pocket situation won’t suit everyone, consisting as it does of one zipped map pocket on the chest, one internal zipped pocket and two internal handwarmer pockets that can only actually be reached by opening the sleeve/torso vents, which means your torso will cool as your hands warm in cold weather.
But for me that’s a minor point since the Pasco is designed to be used for high energy activities, during which you rarely have your hands in your pockets. In use the jacket feels very tactile and works with your movement rather than restricting it; it is heavier than some shells and takes up more room in your pack, but no to the extent that it’s a major issue.
All in all the Pasco has a well-considered (if at times unusual) design and is built to last, so if you give your gear a lot of stick you should check it out.
