Protective clothing
Waterproof and weatherproof: This is what makes a good bicycle rain poncho
A waterproof jacket ensures that the upper body stays dry on rainy days. However, anyone who cycles regularly knows that their legs need to be protected while riding – for example with a weatherproof rain poncho.
In contrast to a classic rain jacket, the rain poncho is quite simply knitted: it is a thin cape with a hood that is waterproof. It may not be a fashionable eye-catcher, but that’s not what cycling is about. 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.
The most important purchasing criteria for rain ponchos
If you want to buy a bicycle rain poncho, you should pay attention to the following (purchase) criteria in advance:
- Material and workmanship: A rain poncho should meet two important criteria: It must be waterproof, recognizable by the corresponding water column, and breathable. This is made possible by appropriate materials such as polyamide, polyester or nylon. In addition, the seams should ideally be welded and not sewn or glued so that no water gets through.
- Size and length: Many models are labeled “One Size” and therefore fit (almost) every adult. However, if the rain poncho is too loose, it can slip while cycling. So make sure you have enough freedom of movement and space for a helmet. Normal ponchos also don’t extend over the legs and are less suitable for bikes. Therefore, pay attention to the desired length.
- Safety and accessories: If you cycle a lot in the dark, the rain poncho should definitely have reflective elements so that you can be seen faster and better by drivers. And so that you can always carry the model with you, it should be small and handy if possible – some manufacturers even provide a storage bag for storing it or strapping it around your waist.
From cheap to expensive: rain ponchos in comparison
1. Bicycle rain poncho from Lowland Outdoor
With a water column of 7000 millimeters guaranteed 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 one While it is supposed to be 100 percent waterproof, the bicycle rain poncho – according to the manufacturer – only keeps its wearer dry for two hours. 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 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 all-round reflector strips are particularly practical for greater visibility in the dark.
Water column: what is it and how do you interpret it?
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 allow a drop to pass 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 – i.e. fabric is considered waterproof from a value of 1300. In plain language this means: the higher the number, the denser it is . 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.
Properly care for and clean a rain poncho: this is how it works
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 an ecological one 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.
* There is more information about this .
Source: Stern
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
