78 The Great OutdoorsAugust 2021
Other clothingI wore Mammut Runbold trousers throughout. These stretchy nylon
trousers are cool in the heat and proved just wind-resistant enough.
For warmth I had the Patagonia Micro Puff insulated jacket. I only
wore this in camp when it was a little chilly. My waterproofs –
the 66 North Snaefell jacket and Berghaus Paclite trousers –
were never worn, though they could have been if the rain that
fell during the last 20 minutes of the walk had started earlier.
As it was I just got damp. I also had a Smartwool Beanie for warmth
in camp and an old baseball cap with a neck cord for the sun (it stays
on in the wind). Neither saw much use.Páramo
Fuera Smock
£ 80 300 g (m)lightweight, good gripMaterials: polyester microfibre
Hood: adjustable, wired peak
Pockets: dual-access chest
Cuffs: Velcro
Hem: drawcord
Sizes: XS-XXL
paramo-clothing.com
Good designs last. I’ve had this old favourite windshirt for
over 15 years now and I still find it as good as ever. Páramo
has brought out several windproof tops since the Fuerabut
happily has kept it in the range. With a forecast for windy
but mostly dry weather it seemed ideal for this trip. In
fact, I only wore it on one day but then it was just the right
garment to keep off the cold wind. I also wore it in camp
when the breeze was chilly. The design is functional. The
hood has a wired peak and drawcords, and it doesn’t blow
off your head in strong gusts (as too manymore basic hoods
do). The big chest pocket isexcellent for map, phone, and
other items. The neck zip is long enough for reasonable
ventilation. I love the wide cuffs, which are great for airflow
and allow the sleeves to be easily rolled up if your arms do
get hot. The fit is roomy – the Medium is bigger than some
current Páramo Large sizes – and getting the Fuera on over
the head is no problem. The fabric is soft and comfortable
against the skin. It’s tough too, the garment showing little
sign of wear after all these years.WINDSHIRT
Looking west from Beinn LairBeinn Lair boasts an impressive north faceGear trip report