Páramo Men's Teide Shirt

It is always nice to receive a parcel even if you hava a good idea of what's inside. However nothing had prepared me for the gorgeous shirt that appeared from beneath the wrapping paper. It was so light and the colour was interesting. It was a very 'classy' garment and almost too good to take on the hill.

I am a keen supporter of Páramo who seem to have avoided going down the trendy fashion route for their outdoor clothing like many of their major compeititors. Instead they provide gear that does the job yet looks good.

Páramo state that "this short sleeved Trek & Travel shirt is ideal for summer hill walking, rambling, backpacking and travelling in warmer climates. It is designed to give protection whilst being very cool, lightweight and comfortable to wear."

Taking the shirt out for a test walk identified no problems at all. The shirt felt good - cool and light - and after a short sharp shower dried remarkably quickly. The fit was generous with pelnty of room to move. The sleeves in particular were very comfortable and airy. With a heavy pack and a sweaty back, I never left the comfort zone with the wet patches on my back drying almost imediately the pack came off during a rest stop.

From a practical perspective, the three pockets - two breast pockets and a hidden document pocket - make this a useful short for holidays in warmer climates. The test route in the Peak District showed it was up to the job and this shirt will be seeing some extensive use as I drag it around the world on my more adventurous trips.

The shirt retails at £40, which in my opinion is excellent value for money. Long term prospects look good with my wife (a competent seamstress) commenting very favourably on the standards of the seams and general finish.

Rating - Great Gear! Why not 5 stars? Being super fussy I would like to have seen the creases drop out a little bit more readily. Mind that's been rather too picky!

For more information visit the Páramo Web Site

Review date - 14th July 2007 - Reviewed by LJ