Paramo Scala Jacket

Easy bits first: the features list for this jacket is fairly good but nothing too out of the ordinary: Thigh length four season mountain shell jacket, foldaway volumume adjustable hood, 2 chest and 2 skirt pockets, double storm flap, ventilation zips on upper arms.

The harder bit: what's it made of? It's not like standard waterproof jackets at all. The material has a cotton feel (actually polyester) and drape. Behind the surface layer is a soft mat like structure, with a lining behind that. All of which makes the jacket fairly warm for a shell garment. When worn it feels like yourold denim jacket: soft and comforting.

By some magic this stuff is waterproof. I don't know how but it works. I was convinced by an 8 hour day in an absolute hooley of a storm in the lakes. Dry as a bone inside. For non-warm weather work this material just has to be the best thing since goretex. Softer, quieter, more robust (you can just sew up tears and holes), long lived (occasional reproofings with TX10)and well designed - the hood is excellent.

Distribution in the UK is fairly limited. Contact Paramo for details.

I'm not connected with Paramo in any way: I'm just impressed by their jacket.