Páramo, Nick explained, is an area in the Andes above the tree line and below the snow. Somewhat akin to Scotland but with a lot less oxygen, Nick had chosen it as a challenging location to prove the products' worth. Prototypes of several garments were produced and in 1986 Nick was able to test the new fabric to it limits, staying warm, dry and comfortable (with the emphasis on comfortable) on a trip to the Colombian Andes. An early article in the Ramblers' Association magazine, written by Gladys Sellars, who had put Páramo to the test, attracted 600 enquiries. Success was just around the corner!

To learn more about Paramo click here www.paramo.co.uk