Protective clothing
Waterproof and weatherproof: these are the characteristics of a good bicycle rain poncho
With a suitably cut rain poncho you can stay dry even while cycling
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A waterproof jacket ensures that the upper body stays dry on rainy days. However, anyone who regularly travels by bike knows that their legs also need to be protected during the journey – 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 cycling is not an option either. Rather, the purpose of the cape is to keep 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). As a result, it not only covers the upper body and legs on the bike, but also offers space underneath for a backpack. Nevertheless, you should not buy it randomly, but make your purchase decision wisely. We have summarized why this is so for you.
The most important purchase criteria for rain ponchos
If you want to get 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 to prevent water from penetrating.
- 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. Accordingly, think about sufficient freedom of movement and space for a helmet. In addition, normal ponchos do not reach over the legs and are less suitable for bicycles. Therefore, pay attention to the desired length.
- Security and accessories: If you ride a lot of bicycles 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 stowing away or strap it around your waist at the same time.
From cheap to expensive: rain ponchos in comparison
1. Lowland Outdoor bicycle rain poncho
With a water column of 7000 millimeters it is this bicycle rain poncho guaranteed waterproof. The model made of nylon has welded seams and was cut in such a way that it not only protects the upper body and legs from rain, but also the arms – by sliding the material over the handlebars. The integrated hood including cord stopper (according to the manufacturer) also offers enough space for a bicycle helmet.
2. Bicycle rain poncho City 100 from Btwin
Although the seams on this one Decathlon model Should be 100 percent waterproof, the bicycle rain poncho keeps its wearer dry for only two hours – according to the manufacturer. This makes it more suitable for short trips through a shower than for long bike tours. The City 100 model, which is available in three different sizes (for adults), is also cheaper to buy and also offers space for a helmet.
3. Bicycle rain poncho with viewing window from Awha
This waterproof Bicycle rain poncho with viewing window and hood is available in two sizes and two colors. It consists of 100 percent polyester fabric (with PU coating) and has a water column of 4000 millimeters. The model can be conveniently stowed in the supplied neck pouch and is therefore always ready for use. The all-round reflective strip for more visibility in the dark is particularly practical here.
Water column: what is it and how do you interpret it?
Rainwear manufacturers can 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, there is a high chance you will get wet. There is also the water column. It indicates how long the material does not let moisture through. This so-called watertightness is given in millimeters – i.e. from a value of 1300 fabric is considered watertight. In plain language this means: the higher the number, the denser it is Rain poncho for the bike. However, since it is not a mandatory information for the manufacturer, you can also use other clues as a guide, such as the material. For example, if the rain poncho is made of PVC, the water column can be up to 3000 millimeters.
Caring for and cleaning the rain poncho properly: this is how it works
Even if the materials are very hard-wearing, you should always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. You can see from the sewn label whether and how hot a rain poncho can be washed. It is best to use an ecological one Special detergent for functional clothing, it is also advisable to treat the material with an impregnation spray after each wash – in order to maintain the water resistance. In any case, do without a dryer and let the poncho dry in the air, but not in direct sunlight.
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