Rain protection clothing

Reliable rainwear for protection against wet conditions during outdoor activities

For ideal protection against wind and moisture, it’s not just rain jackets that have proven their worth. Ponchos, for example, are considered reliable all-rounders and can be used in many different ways. They keep out even heavy rain and can serve as a tent substitute, windbreak or camouflage cover. In addition, ponchos can be used as a tarp, providing moisture protection for your entire gear. Ponchos from army surplus are particularly robust, although they do come with a higher weight. After use, these overgarments can be folded down to a small pack size using a compression strap and, combined with a poncho liner, can also be used as a summer sleeping bag. Ponchos are especially popular when cycling, as their size allows them to be easily pulled over the handlebars, providing moisture protection for your hands as well. Most ponchos come with a hood and can be worn equally by men and women. In the outdoor sector, however, it’s not only ponchos that are highly valued. Additional protection from wet conditions is provided by suitable overtrousers made of nylon or other synthetic fabrics that reliably repel moisture and are worn as the outermost clothing layer. For optimal waterproofing and to prevent any moisture from entering, the trousers should be equipped with high-quality leg closures. Like ponchos or rain jackets, these trousers are usually constructed with multiple layers and membranes to ensure an optimal body climate.

Expert tip: How to turn your poncho into a clothes dryer

In an emergency, you can dry your clothing by squatting down and lighting a candle or a piece of Esbit under your poncho. Be careful so that nothing starts to smolder! The warmth that builds up under the poncho is enough to warm you up somewhat and to dry your clothing a little.

Questions: Ponchos

Headscarves are not about warmth. In fact, the opposite is true: the control center of your thinking needs to be protected from heat without the headgear weighing too much. At the same time, this additional piece of fabric proves its worth in some variants as protection against wind, dust and sand. It is no coincidence that male desert dwellers in the oriental regions of our planet consistently rely on the “kufiya”, which is also known as a “Palestinian scarf”, “bandana” or “shemagh”. Arab and Turkish people use headscarves almost as a standard form of headgear.

If you don’t have your own pack cover, a larger poncho is recommended, as it will also protect your backpack from rain without any problems. Gaiters are the ideal complement to a poncho, as they protect the areas below the knees from rain and moisture.

Is a poncho suitable as a tent replacement?

If you are not planning to spend the night outdoors but can’t rule it out either, a poncho is the ideal companion. Make sure that the respective model is equipped with grommets so you can guy out the poncho.