Jeanne from Washington
Member
- Time of past OR future Camino
- Camino Frances April 2020
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I'm looking for a recommendation for a poncho. I found out that my new awesome rain jacket and backpack cover are not going to work. We have been having heavy rain here and the backpack cover does not do an adequate job of keeping my backpack dry.
Last week I went to REI and I talked to a lady who had finished the Camino last fall. She recommended an REI women's poncho. She assured me she had worn it and it was fabulous. It was one size. This women was tiny and petite. I'm not. I questioned her about the size, I should have tried it on, LOL. When I opened it up, on a rainy hike a few days later, it barely covered my backpack.
I'm 5'8" and not petite, lol. I would like to hear your recommendations if you please. Thanks in advance.
My husband and I really liked the Altus poncho as well, plus it comes in different sizes (according to height).I stand by the ALTUS poncho. However, one of my walkers used this poncho and liked it fine.
She cut off the clear plastic bit.
Amazon.com : TRIWONDER Reflective Backpack Rain Poncho Hiking Raincoat Rain Cape for Outdoor Backpacking Travel Camping : Sports & Outdoors
Amazon.com : TRIWONDER Reflective Backpack Rain Poncho Hiking Raincoat Rain Cape for Outdoor Backpacking Travel Camping : Sports & Outdoorswww.amazon.com
I hadn't either, but apparently REI does have one.I never heard of a women's poncho.
I stand by the ALTUS poncho. However, one of my walkers used this poncho and liked it fine.
She cut off the clear plastic bit.
Amazon.com : TRIWONDER Reflective Backpack Rain Poncho Hiking Raincoat Rain Cape for Outdoor Backpacking Travel Camping : Sports & Outdoors
Amazon.com : TRIWONDER Reflective Backpack Rain Poncho Hiking Raincoat Rain Cape for Outdoor Backpacking Travel Camping : Sports & Outdoorswww.amazon.com
I stand by the ALTUS poncho. However, one of my walkers used this poncho and liked it fine.
She cut off the clear plastic bit.
Amazon.com : TRIWONDER Reflective Backpack Rain Poncho Hiking Raincoat Rain Cape for Outdoor Backpacking Travel Camping : Sports & Outdoors
Amazon.com : TRIWONDER Reflective Backpack Rain Poncho Hiking Raincoat Rain Cape for Outdoor Backpacking Travel Camping : Sports & Outdoorswww.amazon.com
How do you manage when it's windy? Doesn't it blow around and lift up? Do your legs get wet? They certainly look easier to put on and off when it's showeryThe Frogg Toggs Ultalite poncho is made from breathable material and performs very well. Jill and both used them on Camino Ingles, every day with frequent rains. I now use this $15.00 poncho instead of my Zpacks poncho, which was 10x the Frogg Toggs cost.
According to the listing on Amazon, 16.75 ounces (475 grams)That looks like a good cheap alternative to the Altus, Annie. Do you know how much it weighs?
How do you manage when it's windy? Doesn't it blow around and lift up? Do your legs get wet? They certainly look easier to put on and off when it's showery
Hi Dave @davebuggThe Frogg Toggs Ultalite poncho is made from breathable material and performs very well. Jill and both used them on Camino Ingles, every day with frequent rains. I now use this $15.00 poncho instead of my Zpacks poncho, which was 10x the Frogg Toggs cost.
No more than the Altus. And a good poncho is worth it’s weight in gold. Believe me you don’t want some flimsy thing that’s just gonna blow around. Plus it can be used for an extra blanket if it’s cold in an albergue. In fact I slept under nothing but my Altus poncho when one of my walkers forgot her sleeping bag and I was toasty warm. That and the fact that it can just hang off the back of your pack and it’s so simple to get on and off makes the Altus my first choice forever.Woah! That poncho weighs a ton! Well not a ton, but it's super heavy!
Another option is the Packa. They are pretty spendy, but right now they have some mislabeled Packas on sale.
Only $65 including shipping in the US.
Contact us
If you want to place an order, please contact me via email to thepacka@etcmail.com If you have lots of questions after reading my website, a phone call is fine. 706 276 2351 However, I don't...www.thepacka.com
I'm looking for a recommendation for a poncho. I found out that my new awesome rain jacket and backpack cover are not going to work. We have been having heavy rain here and the backpack cover does not do an adequate job of keeping my backpack dry.
Last week I went to REI and I talked to a lady who had finished the Camino last fall. She recommended an REI women's poncho. She assured me she had worn it and it was fabulous. It was one size. This women was tiny and petite. I'm not. I questioned her about the size, I should have tried it on, LOL. When I opened it up, on a rainy hike a few days later, it barely covered my backpack.
I'm 5'8" and not petite, lol. I would like to hear your recommendations if you please. Thanks in advance.
Which ever you get make sure it has sleeves and a ‘hump’ so it goes over you and your rucksack. Then you can cope with wind and rain and no flapping or wet arms. Buen CaminoI'm looking for a recommendation for a poncho. I found out that my new awesome rain jacket and backpack cover are not going to work. We have been having heavy rain here and the backpack cover does not do an adequate job of keeping my backpack dry.
Last week I went to REI and I talked to a lady who had finished the Camino last fall. She recommended an REI women's poncho. She assured me she had worn it and it was fabulous. It was one size. This women was tiny and petite. I'm not. I questioned her about the size, I should have tried it on, LOL. When I opened it up, on a rainy hike a few days later, it barely covered my backpack.
I'm 5'8" and not petite, lol. I would like to hear your recommendations if you please. Thanks in advance.
Hi Dave @davebugg
I’m reading your comments and hoping you and your wife found the Froggs Toggs Ultralite poncho completely ‘Waterproof” ? I opened the link and although it mostly refers to it as ‘waterproof ‘. Towards the end of the link - the poncho is described as ‘water resistant ‘. Did it keep you dry ?
I was also looking at the packa poncho but the international freight charges were too much for me .
I also have a ‘tarp ‘ ultra sil poncho by ‘sea to summit’ that was a pain in gusty conditions. The wind got under the poncho and forced the snaps apart.
I also started my caminos with an Altus poncho which I haven’t worn for a few years as it was not keeping me dry. I bought a bottle of nikwax to re-proof rain jackets, ponchos etc. I’m going to see if I can make it waterproof again by treating it.
The Froggs toggs link gave me hope of a cheap poncho and looks light and easy to use.
This is copied from your link above. Would that be a typo? ‘Water resistant ‘
Description
The Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 Waterproof Breathable Poncho is packable and water-resistant. The poncho features an integrated, adjustable hood with cord locks. Side snaps are also included on the poncho to allow for a secure but breathable fit. A stuff sack is provided with purchase for easy toting. Perfect for hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, watching the game on a rainy day and any other outdoor activity.
Your description of ‘blowing in the wind’ with continually holding onto the poncho and snaps coming apart is equivalent to my Sea to summit ultra sil tarp poncho experience. Trying to get it on in the wind took me ages (at the time alone ).I had the REI poncho but the first time I used it in a trial rain storm the seams let the rain through after about two hours. So I returned it and bought the Frog Toggs.
Frogg Toggs kept me and my pack dry but it did blow around on the camino so we also used a light weight rope (our clothes line) to tie down. Since then I have sewn extra velco on the poncho as the snaps do not hold in the wind. It wasn't ideal but it did keep me relatively dry. If you are using poles though your arms get wet and after a few hours of Biblical rains the moisture crawls up your arms. Basically our one really wet, windy day on the Camino in late October after five hours of down pour every fancy waterproof item we had eventually gave up the ghost.
Later, explaining the popping snaps to Tom Andreotti who had same type. He had overcome to snaps popping by ‘super glue’ . We would probably never want to use it as a tarp
Thanks for your detail Dave.When working at reviving your Altus, given the age, think about first using the nikwax wash to remove any soaps, dirt or other residue. Then use the waterproofing DWR product. I find that allowing a thorough dry time for an application, I see better results for older gear if I double the number of applications.
The Frogg Toggs is not water resistant, the material of the FT is both waterproof and breathable, so that use of 'water resistant' is weird.
Both Jill and I, and our backpacks stayed dry. On two days of the Ingles, there was a fairly hard wind, and we stayed dry during those conditions as well. I've used ponchos while backpacking for a number of years now. Using the Frogg Toggs specifically, I have used it for the mileage equivalent of two Camino Frances. It performs very well.
I am puzzled by comments about traditional ponchos like the Frogg Toggs or the zPacks or the US military issue, etc being unwieldy or unusable in winds, because when worn correctly and properly configured to use when it is windy, it is every bit as controllable as the rain-jacket/poncho hybrids, like an Altus-style.
Having used both the hybrids and the traditional, my preference toward the traditional stems from my preference to NOT have long, non-breathable sleeves, and also the weight and compactness. I find that while both hybrids and traditional both are much easier to deploy than rain jackets, a traditional poncho is slightly easier and takes less manipulation to put on, or to remove and to store in a side pocket of my backpack.
Caution: Personal Preference Process of Purchase Story Ahead. Your mileage may vary.
While I was working with Jill to get her prepared and outfitted for Camino Ingles last October, I had her try out both my Altus and my Frogg Toggs during the months or pre-Camino prep and planning. In our high hilly terrain where we live, high winds are a common part of life, and heavy breezes are the norm with intermittent calms. Jill had a a perfect situation for deciding which style or rain-gear she preferred to use, Jacket, or Poncho, or Hybrid.
Jill rejected the rain jacket/pants option after using it on a 15 mile walk during intermittent rain in moderate temperatures. I had her use the most highly breathable and lightweight jackets available (Zpacks). She did not like how hot and condensation-wet she got.
But most of all, she became irritated by the process of putting on and then taking of the rain gear. In the intermittent rain during that 5.5 hour walk, she did not like the need to repeatedly stop and remove her pack in order to put the jacket on, and then the same process to take it off (sometimes the pants, too)
And she became really cranky at me, as she watched me grab my poncho from its side pocket and slip it on in a matter of 15 seconds, with just a slight pause, while were walking.
For slip-on rain-gear, the choice was not as straight forward for her. At first she seemed to prefer the hybrid, but then found that, like me, she did not like long sleeves and the length. While the longer length was a fixable size issue, and the sleeves could be trimmed down and modified, Jill simply found she preferred the traditional poncho better.
I'm also a lover of Frogg Togg's Ultralites, of both the Poncho and rain suit, and have often sung their praises on the forum. For those who are concerned about the ponchos flapping in the wind, tie a piece of bungee type cord around your waist. The price is awesome and even wearing the rainsuit have never felt wet or hot and sweaty.The Frogg Toggs Ultalite poncho is made from breathable material and performs very well. Jill and both used them on Camino Ingles, every day with frequent rains. I now use this $15.00 poncho instead of my Zpacks poncho, which was 10x the Frogg Toggs cost.
I stand by the ALTUS poncho
My husband and I really liked the Altus poncho
Another vote for the Altus
Which ever you get make sure it has sleeves and a ‘hump’ so it goes over you and your rucksack
Tie a bunge type cord around your waist in high wind. All true ponchos have the same issue no matter the brand.How do you manage when it's windy? Doesn't it blow around and lift up? Do your legs get wet? They certainly look easier to put on and off when it's showery
Thanks for your detail Dave.
Great to get your wife’s perspective.
I gather Jill liking the traditional poncho meant ? Which one?
Sounds like the Frogg toggs is waterproof from the replies but crazy in the wind like the sea to summit. However there is less of it (Frogg Toggs) material I mean. The ties would control it I think.
How do you manage when it's windy? Doesn't it blow around and lift up? Do your legs get wet? They certainly look easier to put on and off when it's showery
I'm looking for a recommendation for a poncho. I found out that my new awesome rain jacket and backpack cover are not going to work. We have been having heavy rain here and the backpack cover does not do an adequate job of keeping my backpack dry.
Last week I went to REI and I talked to a lady who had finished the Camino last fall. She recommended an REI women's poncho. She assured me she had worn it and it was fabulous. It was one size. This women was tiny and petite. I'm not. I questioned her about the size, I should have tried it on, LOL. When I opened it up, on a rainy hike a few days later, it barely covered my backpack.
I'm 5'8" and not petite, lol. I would like to hear your recommendations if you please. Thanks in advance.
Where did you buy it, and what brand is it?I am also 5'8". I bought a "ponchetta" while in Sarria, Spain (Oct 2018). VERY lightweight and totally water and windproof. Basically a jacket as wide as a poncho. Two sleeves, a full zipper at the front as well as Velcro fasteners. Definitely closed on the sides. Cape and extra plastic for the backpack. "Cape de Pluie" No pit zips or pockets. In the picture I just slipped it off over my backpack by unzipping and taking my arms out of the sleeves: https://flic.kr/p/2hm9b1X
I bought it in Sarria in Spain. I am trying to find the exact version of the "Cape de Pluie" (make: elementerre) on the internet, but so far no luck. This is the closest I can find: https://www.decathlon.ca/fr/manteau...tre-montagne-forclaz-75-litres-p-m-rouge.htmlWhere did you buy it, and what brand is it?
Is the Altus poncho not sold in the US? I can't seem to find a retailer...I stand by the ALTUS poncho. However, one of my walkers used this poncho and liked it fine.
She cut off the clear plastic bit.
Amazon.com : TRIWONDER Reflective Backpack Rain Poncho Hiking Raincoat Rain Cape for Outdoor Backpacking Travel Camping : Sports & Outdoors
Amazon.com : TRIWONDER Reflective Backpack Rain Poncho Hiking Raincoat Rain Cape for Outdoor Backpacking Travel Camping : Sports & Outdoorswww.amazon.com
I found it. They sell it at Caminoteca. But it looks like they only have it in black.I bought it in Sarria in Spain. I am trying to find the exact version of the "Cape de Pluie" (make: elementerre) on the internet, but so far no luck. This is the closest I can find: https://www.decathlon.ca/fr/manteau...tre-montagne-forclaz-75-litres-p-m-rouge.html
Using the hybrid type of raincoat/poncho like the one I posted above solves the wind and sleeves problem. Rain pants or kilt can be added.I stopped using a poncho years ago - high winds, soaked pants & sleeves
I have an Altus which I swear by! But a couple of weeks ago during the very heavy rain that we had in Sydney i wore an Ikea 11 buck poncho and surprise surprise it kept me perfectly dry!I'm looking for a recommendation for a poncho. I found out that my new awesome rain jacket and backpack cover are not going to work. We have been having heavy rain here and the backpack cover does not do an adequate job of keeping my backpack dry.
Last week I went to REI and I talked to a lady who had finished the Camino last fall. She recommended an REI women's poncho. She assured me she had worn it and it was fabulous. It was one size. This women was tiny and petite. I'm not. I questioned her about the size, I should have tried it on, LOL. When I opened it up, on a rainy hike a few days later, it barely covered my backpack.
I'm 5'8" and not petite, lol. I would like to hear your recommendations if you please. Thanks in advance.
Is the Altus poncho not sold in the US? I can't seem to find a retailer...
I used an Altus poncho, but have mixed feelings about it. While it kept the rain from soaking me from the outside, it did not breathe and did not have any ventilation flaps, so I found myself damp from sweating. And it was a very cool year when I walked. Very cold some days, so perhaps it was a problem of putting it on over several layers. I thought it would be nice if the sleeves didn't have elastic at the wrist as even that could provide a bit of airflow.
I found it. They sell it at Caminoteca. But it looks like they only have it in black.
Elementerre rain poncho - Pelerin L/XL black
High quality rain poncho with sleeves only for 35 euroswww.caminoteca.com
I have some friends who will be starting from Pamplona at the end of April. I think that I'll recommend that they wait until they get to Pamplona to buy their rain gear at Caminoteca.I think it is VERY cheap if you buy it in Europe. Otherwise you will have to pay import duty.
I like the idea of the Velcro and will see about it for my poncho. Thanks!I had the REI poncho but the first time I used it in a trial rain storm the seams let the rain through after about two hours. So I returned it and bought the Frog Toggs.
Frogg Toggs kept me and my pack dry but it did blow around on the camino so we also used a light weight rope (our clothes line) to tie down. Since then I have sewn extra velco on the poncho as the snaps do not hold in the wind. It wasn't ideal but it did keep me relatively dry. If you are using poles though your arms get wet and after a few hours of Biblical rains the moisture crawls up your arms. Basically our one really wet, windy day on the Camino in late October after five hours of down pour every fancy waterproof item we had eventually gave up the ghost.
Maybe they can still find the red one for you. Internet doesn't always have everything that is available locally. Buen Camino!!I have some friends who will be starting from Pamplona at the end of April. I think that I'll recommend that they wait until they get to Pamplona to buy their rain gear at Caminoteca.
I just wish that it came in another color, since black isn't very visible on rainy days.
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