Chris Towsend reviews a well-designed windshell from Páramo
This review is part of our windshells gear guide, and was first published in the April 2018 issue of The Great Outdoors.
The Bentu has the best design of all the garments tested in our April 2018 comparative review. There is nothing I dislike. However it’s also the heaviest top tested and so not one for those for whom every gram matters. It’s made from a soft, comfortable and highly breathable windproof fabric with a non-PFC water-repellent treatment. Part of the reason for the high weight comes from the hood and shoulders which are lined with the same Pump Liner as Paramo waterproofs. This means these areas are waterproof so the Bentu will repel a fair amount of rain. Team it with a Bentu Fleece and you have a waterproof combination though it’s really only suitable for winter as it is quite warm. The Bentu Windproof is sized to go over the fleece so I didn’t need to go up a size from my usual Medium.
The Bentu is longer than most windshells and has an extended back. The hood and pockets are excellent. The former is fully adjustable and has a good wired peak. It moves with the head and is just as good in storms as any waterproof jacket hood. The large chest pockets are very roomy and easily hold maps. I really like the wide cuffs too as they’re excellent for ventilation and mean the sleeves can be pushed up without difficulty.
If weight isn’t an issue the Bentu is an excellent windshell for year-round use.
- Further reading: Chris’s Column – Páramo Bentu Windproof & Fleece