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Why I Trust Páramo in the World’s Toughest Environments
We’re thrilled to feature a new blog from adventurer Tom Hicks as he prepares for his Kilimanjaro expedition in Páramo gear. From harsh winter training in the UK to high-altitude expeditions abroad, Tom shares why the Aspira 360 Smock has become a trusted part of his kit in some of the world’s toughest environments.
Why I Trust Páramo in the World’s Toughest Environments
In June, I’ll be setting off to lead a team up Kilimanjaro, one of the most iconic mountains on the planet. It’s a challenge that demands a lot from everyone involved, not just physically and mentally, but logistically too. The right kit can make a real difference to how smoothly a climb unfolds.
For me, that’s where Páramo comes in.
This year, I’ll be wearing the Aspira 360 Smock—a piece of kit I’ve come to rely on through years of training and expeditions in challenging environments.
Built Through Experience
I’ve never been one to take gear at face value. Everything I use has to earn its place, and that means testing it properly before it ever gets near a big objective.
Over the past year, that’s meant winter training in Scotland and Wales, long days in driving rain, strong winds, and cold, damp conditions where staying comfortable isn’t a given.
The Aspira 360 Smock has been with me through much of that.
One thing I’ve learned about myself over the years is that I run hot—especially when moving uphill under load. That can be just as challenging as the cold itself, because once you start to overheat and sweat heavily, it’s very easy to become cold again when you stop.
That’s where the ventilation on the smock really comes into its own.
The twin front zips and arm vents give me the ability to dump heat quickly without needing to stop and strip layers. It means I can keep my temperature under control and, importantly, minimise sweat build-up in the first place. It’s a small detail, but over long days it makes a big difference to overall comfort and energy levels.
Staying Dry on the Move
In the mountains, staying dry isn’t just about keeping the rain out—it’s about managing moisture from the inside.
Páramo’s Nikwax Analogy fabric works differently to traditional waterproofs, actively moving liquid water away from the body while still allowing moisture vapour to escape.
In practice, that means you avoid that clammy, damp feeling that can build up during sustained effort.
The Aspira 360 Smock gives me confidence across those environments—whether it’s managing temperature lower down or dealing with wind and exposure higher up.
I’ve used Páramo kit on previous Kilimanjaro trips as well as out in Kyrgyzstan, where conditions can shift quickly and days are often long and demanding. In both environments, that moisture management has been something I’ve come to rely on—not in a dramatic way, but in the kind of consistent comfort that helps you keep going day after day.
What “360” Really Means
The “360” in the Aspira 360 Smock reflects a bigger picture approach to how the garment is made and used.
It’s constructed using recycled materials, including a liner made from repurposed garments and textile waste, and it’s designed to be repairable and recyclable at the end of its life.
It’s also completely free from harmful fluorocarbons (PFCs), which are often used in waterproof treatments but have a lasting environmental impact.
That circular approach—design, use, repair, reuse—is what the “360” represents.
Spending time in wild places inevitably makes you think more about how you interact with them. For me, choosing equipment that’s built responsibly, and built to last, feels like an important part of that.
Designed for Real Conditions
There’s also something reassuring about gear that feels purpose-built.
The Aspira 360 Smock is robust, with reinforcement where it matters when carrying a pack, and features that actually make sense in the mountains.
One thing that stands out for me is the pocket design. Nutrition is a big part of how I operate on long days—I try to stay consistent with fuelling rather than waiting until I’m already running low. Having accessible, well-placed pockets means I can grab food quickly without stopping or taking my pack off, which helps me stay on top of energy levels and keep moving efficiently.
Again, it’s a small detail, but it plays into the bigger picture of staying consistent and looking after yourself properly in the mountains.
Carrying It Into Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro is a mountain of contrasts. You move through rainforest, into alpine desert, and eventually into cold, exposed summit conditions.
Having kit that can handle that range without constant adjustment is key.
The Aspira 360 Smock gives me confidence across those environments—whether it’s managing temperature lower down or dealing with wind and exposure higher up.
And when you’re leading a team, that reliability matters. It allows you to focus on the group, the pace, and the experience as a whole, rather than being distracted by your own kit.
Final Thoughts
I wouldn’t say I’m loyal to brands for the sake of it—but I do stick with what works.
Páramo has proven itself to me over time, from winter training in the UK to previous expeditions abroad. The Aspira 360 Smock feels like a continuation of that—practical, dependable, and built with a clear sense of purpose.
As we head towards Kilimanjaro this June, it’s one less thing to think about. And in the mountains, that’s often exactly what you need.
https://paramo-clothing.com/en-gb/
https://tomhicksadventurer.co.uk/
FAQs: Caring for Your Waterproofs: How to Wash and Reproof Them
How often should I wash my waterproof jacket?
Wash when it becomes dirty or when water stops beading on its surface. Over-washing can reduce water repellency, so clean only when necessary.
Can I use regular detergent to wash waterproofs?
No. Regular detergents and fabric softeners can damage waterproof coatings. Use a recommended technical detergent instead.
How do I reproof a jacket?
You can use spray-on or wash-in reproofing products, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Some coatings require gentle heat to reactivate, such as ironing or tumble drying.
Will reproofing affect breathability?
Properly applied reproofing restores water repellency without reducing breathability. Using the correct product for your garment is essential.
Why choose Páramo waterproofs?
Páramo waterproofs are designed for comfort, breathability and longevity. Their guidance on washing and reproofing helps maintain peak performance for years.
