ust Clear, Reusable Pocket Poncho with Nylon Carry Bag and Dependable Polyethylene Construction for Shielding from Unexpected Outdoor Elements

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Ponchos are a great project for beginner crocheters. They typically use basic stitches, and the construction is relatively straightforward. Don’t let the “one-size-fits-all” idea entice you. Just like different ponchos are tougher than others, you need to think about more than your body when choosing a rain poncho. One big problem with these cheap waterproof ponchos is that they are not designed to last more than 1 or 2 times which is not good for the environment. The issue with using them for hiking is that they have no breathability and are incredibly flimsy much like a plastic bag you carry shopping in.

Ponchos are usually made of waterproof materials such as PVC, PU coated nylon, breathable laminates Sil-Poly and more. Before you decide on what style you’re going to go for there are a few things to consider: Material Let’s not be silly, when you are looking for a waterproof poncho you want something to protect you from the rain and would expect it to keep you dry. When looking at descriptions, you should read carefully as water resistance and waterproof are not quite the same thing. Look for things like sealed seams and a hydrostatic head rating that will tell you how much water pressure they can withstand. You can always maintain your poncho with waterproof treatments, but for the most part, you can rely on them to deflect the rain pretty well. Breathability Nylon is very similar to polyester in its properties in that thin strands are woven together to create a durable and lightweight fabric ideal for outdoor clothing. While the strands of nylon are waterproof (they don’t hold moisture) a fabric made from woven fibers will need some kind of treatment to make it fully waterproof. PU stands for polyurethane which is a type of plastic that will bond with synthetic fibers to create a waterproof layer. Ripstop Nylon is basically a special type of weave which makes the fabric extra resistant to tears and if there is a puncture it won’t easily turn into a gaping hole. PVC So, if you can crochet a square or a rectangle, know basic crochet stitches, and can sew simple seams, you’ll find plenty of beginner-friendly crochet poncho patterns in this list. Crochet Techniques to KnowThe Patrol poncho is made from Snugpaks exclusive Paratex Dry material which is 100% waterproof and has a hydrostatic head in excess of 5000mm. Paratex Dry has a hydrophilic polyurethane coating and is only ever used with sealed seam systems to give you the best rain cover from your poncho.

Polyester fabrics are not waterproof on their own as they are woven from individual strands and we all know that water can get through even the smallest gaps.Waterproof ponchos made from polyester will be treated or coated with a DWR (durable water repellent) which seals all the gaps in the fabric to create a watertight layer. That being said, a fabric with a higher dernier ratingwill have more strands of polyester and a tighter weave which inevitably increases its water resistance.One main benefit of polyester clothing is that it is incredibly fast drying so if it did get soaked through it would be dry in no time. PU Coated Nylon Despite the relatively straightforward function of the poncho, there are a variety of products to choose from to meet your specific needs. The Arcturus Lightweight Ripstop Nylon Rain Poncho brings the best of all worlds together into a single product, and can fill almost any role needed at a reasonable price. But if you don’t really need the multifunctionality of the Arcturus or similar rain shells, then the Frogg Toggs Ultra Lite2 is almost certainly the way to go. What to consider when buying a rain poncho Ponchos are also very versatile; they can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Ponchos are great for keeping warm during the cooler months, and perfect for layering. What is a Crochet Poncho?

Arthur McMahon — Lead Editor

Stylish? We can’t say so. Fully covered? Very. The 7 Best Rain Ponchos of 2023 Rain Poncho Comparison Table These free knit poncho patterns would make great knit gifts for the holiday season. Many of these patterns are unisex, so you can make these patterns for men as well. Even if you're new to knitting, there's an easy knit poncho for beginners or two on this list. You'll be sure to find something you can manage and be very proud of. Also can be converted into a ground sheet or sunshade as has eyelets on the hem of the garment for attaching to tent poles.

Depending on what you will be wearing your poncho for you may want to consider getting one which has multi-uses which include;- Unlike traditional fitted sweaters, most ponchos require minimal shaping, fewer pieces, and less seaming. And since most ponchos are loose and flowy, they’re very easy to customize when it comes to length and width. (You can get away with slight differences in gauge.) The fundamental job of a poncho is to protect the wearer from rain, so that was the starting point for inclusion in this list. Durability and functionality were also considered, but were weighted differently depending on the category (e.g., the best disposable poncho didn’t have to impress me with multifunctional capabilities, while the best lightweight poncho didn’t have to be the most durable).We don’t particularly love the word “disposable”, especially when it comes to a plastic product, but one can’t deny the one-use nature of ponchos for many people. VERDICT: The Lightweight Ripstop Nylon Rain Poncho from Arcturus is super lightweight and secure. You don’t have to struggle with press studs or super wide sleeves, but that does make venting a little more difficult. Considering the price, this is an absolute bargain and so much more versatile than a raincoat.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is the world’s third-most widely produced synthetic plastic polymer [PVC] and comes in many, many different forms including the cheapest and possibly most waterproof poncho. The disposable poncho that feels a bit like a bin bag with a hood on is made from a single piece of material that is 100% waterproof.

A disposable rain poncho is essentially a sheet of waterproof material with a hood. It’s functional and provides ample protection, but isn’t designed to do much else. You can get a few uses out of these, which may be all you need, but eventually, it’ll tear as it’s not made to last. Basic Many crocheters love ponchos because they’re simpler to make than a sweater, and offer a lot of options for personalization. You can make a poncho in any color or stitch pattern you like, and they can be as straightforward or detailed as you want. Choose one of the simpler patterns on this list, and you can crochet while visiting with friends, waiting in the car, or watching TV. This is the section where we break down all the different factors we used to base our opinions as well as what to look for when choosing a waterproof hiking poncho. Waterproofing Serious hikers plan for any number of contingencies, including getting caught out in the middle of nowhere during a surprise downpour. And while any waterproof poncho is better than nothing, some are better designed if you plan to keep moving in the rain.