Outside of Helly Hansen style rain gear, I have found wind driven rains can be problematic for rain jackets as well. Thank you to whoever suggested taking photos while unpacking the boxes - it wasn’t easy to Tetris everything back in. The bulk of the storm passed overhead in a matter of minutes, but the trailing drizzle hung around for the rest of the afternoon. If you live in areas that are prone to rain or hurricanes, this is a must have for the car, boat, bug-out bag, or your emergency prep box.

A little weight can be saved (1oz/28g) if you remove one cord lock on the poncho hood and consolidate the draw cord into a single cord lock. While the poncho will provide some protection, a ponch just doesn't provide the option of zipping up pit vents and mesh pockets. Take a look at other EDC/PREPARED reviews such as the Lifeline 30-Piece First Aid Kit and the Gerber Shard everyday carry (EDC) pocket tool.Originated by Native American peoples in South America, today’s ponchos are both fashionable and functional.

If you’re constantly hiking with heavy loads in lots of rain, you may want a jacket that breathes better and is more durable.Read our About page for more information, and check out our gear reviews, trip reports, and outdoor guides. If I'm needing poles at the same time, I can happily walk one pole in one hand and umbrella in the other. It's not open at all on the sides - there are slots on the sides to poke your arms out, but your arms would get pretty wet if you used poles. I don't get the impression the poncho can withstand the abrasion due to the shoulder straps and hip belt of a pack.