Ponchos are really "cool" now, especially for men. A few influential designers send a quirky and practical article of clothing down the runway, high-fashion magazines enthusiastically push it, a celebrity is photographed wearing it, and whoosh, a new controversial trend is born.

For many adventure sports and other wet fun activities these ponchos and rain capes are essential. Always keep one or two with you so you can join the fun or keep the weather at bay.

 Shopping Tips

There is often some confusion about the difference between rain capes and ponchos. Sometimes these terms are used for garments that are neither.

 Cycling Capes

• Practical rainwear for cyclists.
• Short and wide bell-shape, longer on the front to cover handlebars.
• No sleeves, some have attachments for handlebars.
• Closed sides can hinder hand signals. Some have open sides but let more rain in.
• The better ones have clear plastic windows on the side of the hood for better visibility.
• Not suitable for swimming.

 Fashion Rain Capes

These often pack away in tiny backs as they are very lightweight. Always carry one with you and you look good in the rain.


• Elegant rainwear.
• Long and bell-shaped to cover you and any bags.
• Closed sides to keep the rain and wind out.
• No sleeves, some have arm slits on the front.
• Not suitable for swimming.

 Hiking Ponchos

Please note that many hiking ponchos are actually rain capes with sleeves. They are closed on the side and look more like oversized cagoules or anoraks.


• Fasionable and practical
• T-shape with long or short sleeves
• Closed sides to keep the rain and wind out.
• Swimming is easy with arms out at the sleeves and the leg strap fastened.

 Utility Army Ponchos

The conventional poncho, commonly associated with the Americas, has spread worldwide, as traditional clothing, fashion statement, or as a raincoat for wandering and adventure sports.


• Rugged and practical
• Square shape, folded in half
• Open sides for good ventilation, can be closed with buttons or zips.
• No sleeves, hands can push out the sides.
• Swimming is easy with arms outside and the waistband tied.

 Sun Ponchos

When lycra swim shirts feel to tight or too hot, use a sun poncho instead. It is loose fitting and airy. Great fun for splashing around in the water, but not for fast swimming.


• Practical for sun protection in tropical climates.
• Breathable, but not really waterproof
• T-shape with long or short sleeves
• Suitable for swimming with leg strap to avoid them going over your head.

 Front Pocket

Ponchos don't have a long leaky row of boring buttons like many rain coats. That makes them less bulky and thus more fun to wear.

Instead, some ponchos have a useful roomy kangaroo-style front pocket into which you can pack it and stow easily in your luggage or daypack. You can also pull out the waist straps from inside the pocket and wear it as a fanny pack around your waist.

During a heavy downpour, or when swimming, some water may get into these pockets which usually down have drain holes. Bear that in mind when you put something like a mobile phone in there.

 Sizing

Longer is better, look for lots of length and width. Ponchos and walking capes should reach below your knees. Measure from top of your shoulders down your front and back, as far as you want it to drape.

 Hoods make all the difference

Some ponchos, especially those made to ward off rain, have hoods attached. Correct use of the hood makes all difference whether you get wet or stay dry.

Make sure the hood has a good fit. In heavy rain you may want to tie it closely around your face. If the hood is too big you won't see much then.

Look out for a cinch cord to hold the hood to your head so it won't shift around and cover your face.

You can also keep it down abd tie it round your neck for better visibility, but that lets some water run down the inside of your poncho and get your clothes wet.