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Rain Poncho

How to choose the best rain poncho for hiking
The numerous waterproof materials used for rain ponchos are highlighted below:

Breathable Laminates
Breathable Laminates are also referred to as waterproof, breathable fabrics as they are composed of a mix of several nylon exteriors and a varying mixture or combination of layers. The underlying layers are composed of several plastics and fabrics that let vapor to pass outwards, yet remain watertight from the outside in.

Sil-Nylon and Sil-Poly
Both Sil-Nylon and Sil-Poly are relatively inexpensive, but convenient choices. They are simple fabrics, and that is why they are very affordable. Polyester or nylon is inundated with silicon to create a waterproof, durable fabric.

Cuben Fiber
Cuben Fiber is a material that is composed of a sandwich of fibers and plastic Mylar. Rain ponchos made from this material are not only incredibly lightweight but also waterproof.

Best Rain Poncho

However, it is going to cost you a small fortune. Another drawback is that it is susceptible to puncturing.

PU Coated Nylon
PU Coated Nylon is another waterproof material that is used in making rain ponchos. Ponchos that come with PU Coated Nylon have nylon fabric on the exterior – which provides excellent wear resistance and superb durability – and polyurethane on the inside, which is waterproof.

Rain ponchos made with PU Coated Nylon may feel somewhat clammy and sticky in humid weather, and this makes them a poor option at such times.

Sil-Nylon
Sil-Nylon is a combination of silicone and nylon. It is a synthetic fabric used in the production of lightweight outdoor gear; this material is created by imposing a thick woven nylon fabric with liquid silicone from two sides. The silicone significantly enhances the tear strength of the product; this material is water-resistant and not breathable. However, they are available in diverse colors depending on the preference of the user. Among various variants are crisp sil-nylon which is renowned for its light texture, brittleness, and noisiness. Some types of sil-nylon are created from the stronger 66 nylon and utilized for the production of hot air balloons and parachutes.

PVC
PVC is another fabric that can be used as a standalone material or as a layering material for rain ponchos. Some of the best rain ponchos out there are made from PVC. Even though they are very cheap, they still work and can easily be repaired using duct tape.

What to look for in a rain poncho
rain poncho

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You should not go out there and purchase a rain poncho or go online to order one without having specifications or a checklist that you can follow. This will prevent you from making bad decisions when the time comes for you to buy your rain poncho:

1: Resistance
This has to do with your preference, though the best rain poncho should be windproof and waterproof to last you several days if you are an avid outdoor camper or outdoorsman. This factor must not be ignored as you need to have a rain poncho that helps you avoid being drenched by the rain when you are hiking.

2: Material
This should be the first thing to check. You should get a rain poncho that is made of a lightweight and breathable fabric or material. If you always camp out, your gear needs to be durable at all times.

3: Design
You should also pay attention to the design of the rain poncho you wish to purchase. There are several rain ponchos out there with varying designs and colors; however, you need to consider the outdoor activities you will be involved in before going for a particular design.

4: Durability
It is highly crucial for you to check the zippers, Velcro, clasps, seams, strings, etc. on your preferred rain poncho.

5: Features
There are various features that each rain poncho has, you need to be careful about your selection as your choice should also be based on the fact that the features of the rain poncho you are about to purchase can meet your specific needs.

Benefits of using rain ponchos
There are several waterproof options for backpackers, and they include umbrellas, coats, etc. So, what makes a rain poncho an excellent choice for backpackers? This is because:

Ponchos are easy to repair and are inexpensive
Rain ponchos are airy and flowy, thus significantly minimizing sweat inside the gear
Ponchos are much cooler to wear when hiking in summer than jackets
Rain ponchos can be thrown over your backpack and your body, thereby protecting your gear from the elements
You do not have to take off your bag before throwing on the rain poncho while you hike
Other advantages of using rain poncho are as follows:

1: Water-resistant
Wearing a rain poncho leaves you dry, even when you’re trekking in the rain. A good rain poncho comes with a hood and pockets that are exclusively designed to keep water out, thus ensuring that your gadgets or other important stuff are kept from getting wet.

2: Flexibility
If there is one outdoor material that has practicality and flexibility, it is a rain poncho. Not only can you make use of the cloak as a cover, but you can also use it as a makeshift hammock, mat or tent.

3: Lightweight and breathable
Rain ponchos are usually made of lightweight and breathable materials. This means you will be able to move along the trail or climb hills without feeling like you’re wearing a bulky jacket.

4: Convenience
Camping and hiking outdoors call for the use of both hands to hold other important stuff. You will not have this freedom when you hold an umbrella or a soaked jacket.

This is what makes a rain poncho an excellent alternative when camping outdoors or hiking in the woods. (Article written by AllOutdoorsGuide.com)