In contrast to a classic rain jacket, the rain poncho is knitted quite simply: it is a thin cape with a hood that is waterproof. It may not be a fashionable eye-catcher, but that’s not the way to go when riding a bike. Rather, the cape serves the purpose of keeping the body as dry as possible when it rains. Or storms. To make this possible, a rain poncho is generously cut – and often only available in a unisex size (for adults). This means that it not only covers the upper body and legs while on the bike, but also offers space underneath for a backpack. Nevertheless, you should not buy indiscriminately, but make your purchasing decision carefully. We have summarized for you why this is so.
If you want to buy a bicycle rain poncho, you should pay attention to the following (purchase) criteria in advance:
1. Bicycle rain poncho from Lowland Outdoor
With a water column of 7000 millimeters, this bicycle rain poncho is guaranteed to be waterproof. Made from nylon, the model has taped seams and has been cut to protect not only the upper body and legs from rain, but also the arms – by slipping the material over the handlebars. The integrated hood including cord stopper also offers enough space for a bicycle helmet (according to the manufacturer).
2. Bicycle rain poncho City 100 from Btwin
Although the seams on this model from Decathlon are supposed to be 100 percent waterproof, the bicycle rain poncho only keeps its wearer dry for two hours – according to the manufacturer. This makes it more suitable for short rides through a shower than for long bike rides. The City 100 model, which is available in three different sizes (for adults), is also cheaper to purchase and also offers space for a helmet.
3. Bicycle rain poncho with viewing window from Vaude
This waterproof and windproof bicycle rain poncho and hood is available in five sizes and five colors. It is made of 100 percent polyamide (coating: 100% polyurethane) and does not use environmentally harmful fluorocarbons (PFC). The model can be conveniently stored in the included neck pouch and is therefore ready for use at any time. The circumferential reflector strip is particularly practical here for greater visibility in the dark.
Rainwear manufacturers may label them as waterproof, water-resistant or water-repellent. But what is the difference and when does a poncho really keep the body dry? In fact, only waterproof rain ponchos do not let a drop through, while waterproof and water-repellent clothing protects against moisture for a short period of time. If you get caught in a shower, you will most likely get wet. In addition, there is the water column. It indicates how long the material does not allow moisture to pass through. This so-called water resistance is measured in millimeters – that is, from a value of 1300, fabric is considered waterproof. In plain language this means: the higher the number, the tighter the rain poncho is for the bike. However, since this is not mandatory information for manufacturers, you can also use other clues, such as the material. For example, if the rain poncho is made of PVC, the water column can be up to 3000 millimeters.
Even if the materials are very durable, you should always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. You can find out whether and how hot a rain poncho can be washed from the sewn-in label. It is best to use a special ecological detergent for functional clothing. It is also advisable to treat the material with a waterproofing spray after each wash to maintain its waterproofness. In any case, avoid using a dryer and let the poncho air dry, but not in direct sunlight.
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