In a rush? After in depth analysis, we’ve concluded that the very best poncho for backpacking is the Sea to Summit Extremely-SIL Nano Tarp Poncho.
Regardless of how goofy they may look, ponchos are nonetheless nice climbing equipment. I as soon as thought in any other case, however getting caught in a thunderstorm whereas climbing – with none waterproof gear – shortly modified my thoughts.
Since then, my trusty poncho has earned a everlasting place in my packing record. It’s light-weight, sturdy, and may cowl most of my physique and backpack. What’s to not love?
Listed below are the very best backpacking ponchos available on the market in the present day:
Nonetheless confused? Examine all the prime Backpacking Ponchos.
Greatest Rain Ponchos For Backpacking: Our Prime Picks
Sea to Summit Extremely-SIL Nano Tarp Poncho
Weight: 8.1 oz | Packed Dimension: 3 x 5.25 in | Unfolded Dimensions: 57 x 104 in | Materials: 15D Extremely-Sil Nano cloth
Some ponchos are waterproof, some are light-weight, and a few others are top quality. This one is all three.
Let’s begin with the load. Packed, this poncho solely weighs 8 oz., which is fairly good. The packed dimension is 3’ x 5.25 inches, so even essentially the most economical hikers can discover a method to suit it of their backpack.
In fact, it goes with out point out that it’s 100% waterproof. That’s because of its 5D Extremely-Sil Nano cloth, which is each gentle and sturdy.
Nevertheless, for me, essentially the most wonderful function of this poncho is definitely its versatility. Positive, it’s a hooded rain poncho – and a rattling good one at that. However it could actually additionally function a two-person shelter (57’’ x 104’’). This provides you loads of choices and means that you can pack extra effectively when you’re a seasoned hiker.
Execs:
- Fully waterproof because of its15D Extremely-Sil Nano cloth
- Light-weight – it weighs solely 8 oz. when packed
- Can simply be transformed right into a two-person shelter (epic for emergencies)
- Nice air flow so you’ll be able to keep away from sweating like a turkey in November
Cons:
- It’s a bit dear in comparison with another choices on this record
- In case you’re not sporting a backpack, it may be fairly broad
Greatest for: individuals who need the general finest poncho for tenting within the rain and backpacking.
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Terra Hiker Waterproof Rain Poncho
Weight: 10.4 oz | Packed Dimension: 8.66 x 3 x 2 in | Unfolded Dimensions: 43 x 55 in | Materials: 210T excessive density polyester
In case you like climbing long-distances, listen. This Terra Hiker rain poncho is giant sufficient to cowl 60 to 80 L backpacks and your physique, so it’s good for extra critical backpackers.
It is available in 4 colours (inexperienced, blue, black, orange) and two sizes. The bigger ones include a built-in pocket, so that you’ll have much more protected space for storing.
The principle advantage of this poncho is its sturdiness. In contrast to these low-cost plastic ponchos, this may preserve you dry even throughout extended moist circumstances – assume hours and hours of heavy rain. This makes it a wonderful piece of rain gear for all hikers and backpackers on the market.
Execs:
- Made out of 100% waterproof materials – good for climbing throughout lengthy thunderstorms
- Constructed-in pocket permits for extra waterproof storage choices
- Value – it’s a fantastic reasonably priced choice for price-conscious prospects
- Massive sufficient to cowl 60 – 80 L backpacks
Cons:
- Not nice in windy circumstances
- Not essentially the most breathable of ponchos
Greatest for: backpackers on a price range who desire a easy, but sturdy rain poncho.
VOITED Pack & Journey Outside Poncho
Weight: 22 oz | Packed Dimension: 14.2 x 8.2 x 8.2 in | Unfolded Dimensions: 48 x 64 in | Materials: 100% recycled 50D Ripstop cloth
VOITED presents a sustainable backpacking poncho constructed from 100% recycled plastic bottles right into a 50D Ripstop cloth.
Whereas barely heavier, this poncho is ideal for anybody anticipated rain with definitely.
Constructed with a storm visor adjustable formed hood, kangaroo pocket, waterproof compartments, and a reflective again emblem for safety.
VOITED says it weighs 8.8 oz, however we discovered the Medium/Massive to really be 22 oz. It was fairly huge, with room sufficient for a big backpacking pack.
Execs:
- Made with extraordinarily sturdy and waterproof 100% recycled 50D Ripstop Material
- Loads of room to your pack with the ultra-wide bat sleeves
- Snap closures to supply a snug and safe match
- Folds again into itself with waterproof zippers and waterproof kangaroo pocket
- Adjustable hood with storm visor
Cons:
- On the pricier facet
- Weighs greater than marketed
Greatest for: Backpackers anticipating to put on this poncho for a number of days at a time
Charles River Attire Pacific Rain Poncho
Weight: 16 oz | Packed Dimension: 11.7 x 9.3 x 1.6 in | Unfolded Dimensions: 52 x 80 in | Materials: Polyurethane
In case you’re searching for an reasonably priced poncho that can present nice rain safety, look no additional than this magnificence.
Produced from New Englander polyurethane, this dangerous boy is 100% waterproof. Folks have examined it in raging thunderstorms of varied varieties and got here away dry as a bone.
Because it’s fairly huge – 52’’ x 80’’ – the one method you gained’t be sufficiently lined is when you’re a participant within the NBA. On prime of that, it comes with adjustable sleeves so that you might be much more shielded from the weather.
Execs:
- Value – it’s actually reasonably priced for a poncho of this high quality
- Extremely sturdy – it can preserve you dry even in a torrential downpour
- It measures 52’’ x 80’’, so it’s fairly huge and can cowl you adequately
- Comes with sleeves so it can preserve you much more shielded from the rain
Cons:
- Out of the field, the plastic type of smells. However, it goes away fully when you go away it to air out for a couple of hours
- Is usually a bit troublesome to fold it again into the pouch
Greatest for: backpackers searching for an reasonably priced, but high quality rain poncho.
Mil-Tec Ripstop Moist Climate Poncho
Weight: 21.2 oz | Packed Dimension: 10.2 x 7.3 x 4.6 in | Unfolded Dimensions: 82.6 x 59 in | Materials: Polyester
Need to really feel like an Military Ranger tenting within the woods? Then this navy poncho is correct up your alley.
Its olive coloration means that you can mix in with most forest environment, permitting you to take pleasure in watching the wildlife whereas being unobserved.
Subsequent, its feather-light weight (1.4 lbs. packed) means it’s ideally suited for hikers and backpackers. That’s with out bearing in mind that with some stakes and a wire it could actually function a good emergency shelter.
Sadly, it’s not 100% waterproof and may finally leak, so when you’re often climbing in wet areas you may need to give this one a move.
Execs:
- Its olive coloration will make it easier to mix in together with your environment
- Can double as an emergency shelter
- Fairly lengthy – it can virtually attain your boots
- Further-large – it could actually cowl each you and a small-to-medium backpack
- Glorious alternative for anybody searching for a light-weight poncho
Cons:
- Not 100% waterproof
- Solely is available in one dimension – may be too giant for petite folks
Greatest for: informal hikers and campers who desire a good and easy poncho.
JTENG Rain Poncho
Weight: 25.6 oz | Packed Dimension: 13.5 x 8.7 x 4.4 in | Unfolded Dimensions: 59 x 55 in | Materials: Polyester
Do you simply love the look of camouflage ponchos?
Then this poncho is for you! (stated in my finest infomercial voice)
However critically although, this not-so-little (56’’ x 55’’) hooded poncho is an all-around stable alternative for anyone who desires a easy, but reasonably priced multipurpose poncho. It’s good for individuals who wish to go searching, fishing, or hen watching as it can preserve you dry but in addition make it easier to mix in together with your environment.
Sadly, it’s not made out of the sturdiest supplies, so it’s finest suited to occasional use in hotter areas.
Execs:
- Camo is nice for individuals who need some protection from predators
- Can be utilized as a blanket or a tent, too
- Fairly giant – 56’’ x 55’’ – so it could actually cowl most individuals
- Perfect for hunters, fishermen, or hen watchers
Cons:
- The supplies are low-cost and low high quality
Greatest for: informal campers and hikers who solely sometimes want rain ponchos.
FROGG TOGG Males’s Waterproof Breathable Poncho
Weight: 9 oz | Packed Dimension: 9.3 x 7.3 x 2.4 in | Unfolded Dimensions: 10 x 7.5 x 2 in | Materials: Polypro
In case you’re actually fearful about your packed weight, this unisex rain poncho from Frogg Toggs is value trying out.
First off, it’s enormous. With a size of 36 inches and 44 inches of width, you and your backpack shall be properly shielded from heavy rain.
At ~9 oz. of packed weight, it’s additionally extremely light-weight. It can also simply be folded and packed into your pocket. That signifies that even the ultralight backpackers can take it with them with out worrying about dimension and weight.
On the draw back, it’s not the best high quality product on the market. Plus, as a result of it’s so huge, it could actually drag on the bottom when you’re shorter facet.
To summarize: this shouldn’t be your first decide for a high quality, well-made poncho. Nevertheless, when you want a backup that doesn’t weigh a ton and may slot in your pocket, you’ll be able to’t go fallacious with this one.
Execs:
- Enormous – except you’re freakishly tall, it’s large enough to cowl you and your backpack
- Light-weight at round 8 ounces of packed weight
- Its breathable materials assure you gained’t get sticky or sweaty
- Inexpensive – can match any backpacker’s price range
- Adjustable hood and facet snaps can help you modify the poncho to your liking
Cons:
- Not essentially the most sturdy product on the market
Greatest for: hikers searching for a very good backup poncho in case of sudden thunderstorms.
Test Value at Dick’s Sporting Items
The Greatest Backpacking Ponchos In contrast
How To Select The Greatest Backpacking Poncho: A Fast & Simple Information
Phew! Who knew there have been so many selections relating to backpacking ponchos, am I proper?
Now, even after studying the evaluations above you may nonetheless want extra info with a view to make an knowledgeable alternative.
Don’t fear, I’ve you lined. Let’s first shortly go over why ponchos rock.
The Many Advantages Of Rain Ponchos
On the primary look, ponchos don’t look so spectacular. I imply, you’ll be able to simply use a rain jacket, proper?
Nicely, you’ll be able to, however ponchos do include a number of distinct benefits:
- They’re ethereal and have nice air flow so that you’ll sweat quite a bit much less
- They’re a lot, less expensive than most rain jackets
- Most of them are giant sufficient to cowl each you and your backpack
- They’ll double as a tarp tent or a fast shelter
- They’re extraordinarily light-weight, permitting you to pack extra requirements
And that’s only for starters. Additionally, in contrast to umbrellas, they don’t break within the wind, so that you’ll be shielded from the rain it doesn’t matter what.
Now that we’ve lined that, what are among the issues it is best to look out for when selecting a poncho?
Supplies
Clearly, the very first thing it is advisable to take a look at is the fabric the poncho is constructed from. That is what is going to in the end determine whether or not or not you’ll be drenched in rainwater or dry as a bone.
The most typical poncho supplies are:
- PVC
- PU nylon
- Cuben fiber
- Sil-poly
- Polyester
Now, I don’t need to bore you with the technical particulars behind every materials. It’s ample to say that the PVC ponchos are the most cost effective (and feel and look like trash baggage), whereas the cuben fiber ponchos are the costliest ones (however they’ll final you for years to return).
PU nylon is an effective center floor between these two extremes and is a stable alternative when you’re budget-conscious.
Finally, you’ll be able to normally inform the standard of the poncho by its value, which leads me to…
Value
Backpacking ponchos, surprisingly sufficient, fluctuate quite a bit of their costs. A few of them value only some bucks, whereas others retail for a whole bunch of {dollars}.
It may be tempting to go for the most cost effective choice proper out of the bat – I imply, who spends some huge cash on a poncho, proper? In my humble (however normally right) opinion, that’s moderately shortsighted.
A top quality, well-made poncho will final you for years to return, whereas a less expensive choice will normally tear itself on the primary department you encounter climbing. To not point out the truth that they normally leak water after a couple of minutes, which defeats the entire goal of shopping for a water-proof poncho.
When unsure, I at all times opt-out for a pricier, however larger high quality choice. Often, they final me for a minimum of a number of years, which makes the worth distinction negligible.
Dimension & Weight
Often, ponchos are available a one-size-fits-all bundle, however not at all times (we listed examples above). You have to be conscious that the majority ponchos cowl your leg as much as your knees, however go away the shins and ft unprotected. Due to this fact when you hike in wet areas, you’ll want to pack rain boots and sturdy pants.
Additionally, don’t purchase ponchos which might be too huge to your wants. In case you simply go on brief hikes with a small backpack, shopping for an extra-large poncho will make it drag on the bottom and can most likely tear. At all times rely the scale of your backpack when deciding on the correct poncho for you.
Further options
Some ponchos include further options that give them an edge in opposition to their competitors.
Right here’s a shortlist of a few of these options:
- Storage bag
- Adjustable hood
- Further pockets
- Zippers & drawstrings
- Reflective Strips and logos
Moreover, some ponchos can be utilized as a tarp or a fast & straightforward shelter, thus including to their versatility.
How To Take Care Of Your Rain Poncho
Now it could suck when you purchased a shiny new (and costly!) poncho… just for it to crumble in mere months resulting from lack of correct upkeep.
Belief me – it occurs extra usually than you’d assume. Fortunately, you’ll be able to preserve your poncho in tip-top situation when you simply observe a couple of easy guidelines:
- Let it dry. Resist the urge to stuff it proper again into your backpack as quickly as you are taking it off. As a substitute, grasp it in a well-ventilated space and let it dry off first. That may forestall the buildup of mildew which might destroy your poncho cloth.
- Observe the label directions. Whereas it’d seem to be widespread sense, don’t underestimate the significance of this step. In spite of everything, who is aware of the product than the producer?
Wash it. After studying the directions, wash your poncho (safely). Some ponchos might be washed in a washer – others can solely be cleaned by washing them by hand. It normally is determined by the poncho materials – so select rigorously!
FAQs
Are ponchos any good for climbing?
A poncho is a superb choice for climbing. They normally weigh a lot lower than a rain jacket, as there’s much less materials concerned, however additionally they supply extra safety and supply higher air flow.
Not solely that, however it’s also possible to use ponchos as a tarp or groundsheet when wanted.
What’s the finest poncho materials?
The very best materials for a poncho is Cuben Fiber, also called Dyneema Composite Material.
It’s very light-weight but doesn’t sacrifice sturdiness.
Are waterproof ponchos good?
Ponchos which might be labeled as waterproof will preserve you dry no matter how a lot it’s raining.
What’s additionally nice is that they’ll preserve the highest of your legs dry as properly, in contrast to rain jackets.
Which is healthier: a poncho or raincoat?
Between the 2, a poncho is significantly better for backpacking.
It’s light-weight and packs down compactly, so it gained’t weigh you down. And in case your backpack isn’t fully waterproof, you’ll be able to put on a poncho over it for extra rain safety.
Is a poncho good for backpacking?
Sure, a poncho is nice for backpacking, for a similar causes it’s good for climbing.
It’s light-weight, compact and versatile. It doesn’t weigh you down and you should use it in quite a few conditions.
What can I take advantage of as a substitute of a poncho?
A rain cape is an effective different to a poncho. It doesn’t open to a full rectangular sheet like a poncho, so it presents barely higher safety from the rain.
However on the identical time, that additionally means it’s barely much less breathable than a poncho.
Do ponchos preserve you heat or cool?
Ponchos are typically designated to maintain you dry in wet climate.
Product of light-weight materials, they gained’t preserve you heat in chilly climate or chilly in heat climate, however they are going to preserve you dry!
Our Verdict
So – there you could have it.
I hoped I’ve proven you the sheer awesomeness of the poncho, and why each hiker and camper shouldn’t go away their home with out one.
On the subject of the very best backpacking poncho, though there are lots of positive selections, I’ve to go together with Sea to Summit Extremely-SIL Nano Tarp Poncho.
Not solely is it fully waterproof (because of its to-notch design and high quality supplies), it could actually additionally function shelter. On prime of that, it has nice air flow and is admittedly light-weight (8 oz.).
In case you’re searching for an affordable poncho that appears (and performs) like a trash bag, this ain’t it, chief. However in order for you a high quality poncho that can serve you properly for years to return, I extremely counsel you take a look at this gem.
Additionally Learn: Tenting in a Thunderstorm (How To Keep Secure)