Every year I receive a handful of emails about poncho tarps. In particular, whether or not I think they represent a viable shelter and rain gear option for thru-hiking. The short answer is yes, but with some fairly large caveats.
For the handful of gearheads who are interested in the whys and wherefores of these multi-functional pieces of equipment, this article is for you. For everyone else, feel free to either check out the rest of the website, or make yourself a quadruple espresso and read on……………
Poncho Tarping on the Florida Trail | January, 2012.
What is a Poncho Tarp?
A Poncho Tarp is a lightweight, minimalist piece of backpacking equipment which, as the name suggests, doubles as both rain gear and shelter. As a bonus, it also makes for an excellent pack cover.
What experience do you have with poncho tarps?
Approximately 18,000 miles (28,968 km) and 700 nights in total, including the first 11 of the 12 Long Walks. During this trip I used a poncho tarp in a wide range of environments, including the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Southwestern Horseshoe and Pacific Northwest Trail. Additionally, over the years I have regularly taken poncho tarps on overnight rainy season excursions in Mexico’s Sierra Madre.
In regards to which models I’ve used, the lion’s share of my poncho tarping experience has been with two different tarps; namely the Integral Designs 8×5 Sil Poncho* and the Mountain Laurel Designs Pro Poncho. The latter has been my go-to option since 2010.(* Note: As per RJ in the comments section, the former Integral Designs Sil Poncho is now made by RAB).
Yours truly with the MLD model in Poncho mode | Southwestern Horseshoe, Utah, February, 2012.
What sort of hikers are suited to using poncho tarps?
The gossamer weight and multi-functional nature of poncho tarps has an undeniable appeal to ultralight hikers. Shelter and rain gear for a cumulative total of 8 oz (0.23 kg); throw in a cuben bivy and you are still talking sub-14 oz (0.40 kg). However, as my old mate Greg “Malto” Gressel is fond of saying, “everything looks good on a spreadsheet.”
The reality is that poncho tarps aren’t for everyone, and they certainly aren’t a suitable option given certain conditions (see below). Here are a few boxes you should tick if you are thinking of taking the poncho tarp plunge:
- Prior experience with using small tarps. There is no way around it, in shelter mode poncho tarps are far from palatial. If you are riding out a lengthy storm underneath one of them, you will want to make sure it is pitched tautly and in an appropriate location. There is little room for error when using small tarps in inclement conditions.
- On-Trail Vs In-Camp: Due to their spartan character, poncho tarps aren’t made for lazy days around camp. They are most suited to hikers that enjoy spending more time on trail, and less time hanging out.
- Adaptability: Due to their inherent limitations, hikers choosing to use a poncho tarp should be capable of doing big distance days when conditions dictate (e.g. Extended above tree-line sections in sketchy weather).
- No Snivelling: If you tend to be one of those hikers that moans and groans at a little discomfort, chances are a poncho tarp isn’t for you.
Mike “The Gambler” Towne using the Integral Designs SilPoncho on the Hayduke Trail | February 2012.
What model and size Poncho Tarp do you recommend?
There are quite a few cheapo poncho tarp options available online. While I suspect some of these are ok, most of them look disposable in nature; something you might take to a three-day music festival in the UK, rather than on a multi-week trip into the backcountry.
As I mentioned above, my go-to poncho has long been the Mountain Laurel Designs Pro Poncho. If you are interested in giving poncho tarps a try, I can’t recommend it highly enough. When I first used the MLD model back in 2009 I thought it was a well-made, highly functional piece of gear. Nine years and many nights in the boonies later, I still think the same, though I can now add “durable” to its list of endearing qualities.
In a nutshell, I’m a fan of the MLD Pro Poncho for the following reasons:
- Size: The 9’x5.2′ (at front) dimensions is sufficient to provide decent protection in tarp mode. For reference, I am 6’1″ (185cm), medium build, and weigh around 180 lbs (82 kg). Over the years I have ridden out plenty of storms in relative comfort under a low-pitched Pro Poncho (combined with an UL Bivy). For medium and larger-sized hikers, I wouldn’t recommend going any smaller than the MLD model. Indeed, in my opinion poncho tarps that are 8’x5′ (or smaller) should only be considered by folks that are 5’6″ or less. (Note: I made do with the 8’x5′ Integral Designs Shelter in some pretty nasty weather over the years thanks to a combination of good campsite selection, sleeping in the foetal position, and a great deal of tarping experience. That said, I can tell you for a fact that the extra coverage provided by the MLD model, makes a world of difference in when you encounter truly dodgy conditions).
- Catenary Cut: The catenary cut ridgeline is spot on. The slight curve makes for an easy and taut pitch in A-Frame, but isn’t so pronounced that there are issues pitching it in other configurations such as the Half Pyramid.
- Hood Design: The patented hoodslit design is what really sets the MLD Pro Poncho apart from other models I’ve seen and tried. In poncho mode, the drawcord/cordlock system makes it easy to adjust the hood’s volume, and the stiffened brim is big enough to keep the rain out of your eyes (Note: You will still need a cap underneath to stop the hood from drooping when the rain is really coming down). In tarp mode, the hoodslit is set into the ridgeline, and seals shut when taut. I’ve never experienced any of the pooling or drippage issues that are common with the standard round-hole / twist-and-tie-off ponchos.
All smiles on a cold, wet and misty winter ramble on the Ouachita Trail | January, 2012.
What pitches do you use with a Poncho Tarp?
I like to keep things as simple as I can when in the backcountry. Over the years, 95% of the time I’ve used just two configurations with my MLD Pro Poncho:
1. Half Pyramid – Employed in mild conditions, when there is little chance of precipitation, (6 or 7 stakes), and;
2. A-Frame – Used when medium to heavy rain and wind is on the cards. Pitched low and with the back corners pegged directly to the ground (9 stakes minimum). The A-Frame provides more protection per square foot than the Half-Pyramid, but is less roomy and comfortable.
The MLD Pro Poncho in low A-Frame with the back corners staked to the ground (Photo courtesy of MLD website).
What environments are suitable (and unsuitable) for a Poncho Tarp?
For established long distance rambles such as the Triple Crown trails, where there is little to nothing in the way of bushwhacking and two weeks straight of inclement conditions is very unlikely, I think poncho tarps are a good choice for experienced tarpers who aren’t too fussy when it comes to space and comfort .
That said, I wouldn’t think about taking a poncho tarp for extended journeys in consistently wet and windy environments (e.g. Scotland, Tasmania, South Island of NZ, etc). Same goes for routes in which there is a lot of rugged cross-country terrain or overgrown trail, in which cases, ponchos are more likely to snag on a branch or bush than a regular rain jacket.
Finally, I’d also leave the poncho tarp at home for exclusively above tree line hikes. In such exposed environments, I’ll occasionally take a larger square (8.5’x8.5′) or rectangular (9’x7′) tarp, but more often than not I’ll go with a fully-enclosed lightweight shelter such as a Mid.
MLD Pro Poncho on the Grand Enchantment Trail section of the Southwestern Horseshoe | April, 2012.
Do you always combine your Poncho Tarp with an UL Bivy?
Yes. For a weight penalty of between 4.5 to 7.5 oz, a bivy minimizes drafts, provides an extra 5 to 7 degrees of warmth for your sleep system (like a windshirt for your quilt), a sanctuary from no-see-ums / midgies / mossies during bug season, and protection for your quilt from splash back when it’s bucketing down. If you so choose, you can even leave your groundsheet at home thanks to the bivy’s waterproof (ish) bottom. Indeed, if I am using any tarp that’s smaller than 9’x7′, I will always combine it with a bivy. The two bivvies I have used in combination with my poncho tarps since 2009 have been the MLD Superlight and the Katabatic Bristlecone.
Poncho / Bivy Combo | Southeastern Serpentine Trail | South Carolina, USA, 2011.
How do you deal with the flapping when hiking with the poncho in wet and windy conditions?
I always use a bit of bungee cord around my waist, joined together at the front with a mini-cordlock. This simple and ultralight accessory weighs practically nothing and eliminates a lot of the flapping issues. If you are thinking about giving ponchos a try, some sort of makeshift belt is a must.
On a related side note, the “breezy” nature of poncho tarps in rain gear mode, is actually one of the things I like most about them. Unless you are rocking an umbrella / windshirt combo, I think ponchos are tough to beat when it comes to wet weather ventilation.
What about setting it up when it’s raining, and more specifically, making the switch from poncho to tarp mode in those conditions?
This is one of the biggest concerns hikers have about giving poncho tarps a try. However, if you have practiced the transition beforehand, have all the necessary components ready to go, and are adept at pitching your tarp quickly, it isn’t as big an issue as many hikers believe. Here is a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Campsite Selection – More than half the battle when hiking with a poncho tarp in inclement conditions is picking the right campsite. Small tarps aren’t as forgiving as tents or larger tarps. You will need to up your planning game; this particularly holds true if you are hiking through an exposed and/or above tree line section. Before setting out, identify sheltered campsite options on your maps, estimate how long it will take you to get there, and have a Plan B in case Mother Nature throws you a meteorological curveball. Above tree line riding out the mother of all storms is not where you want to be when using a poncho tarp.
2. Once you have arrived at your spot, stand under a tree, take your pack off and remove your guylines and stakes from your pack. Both these items should be easily accessible when there is a chance of precipitation (i.e. side or back pocket of backpack).
3. Take off your poncho; give it a huge shake to remove as much excess water as possible.
4. If you are cold, quickly put on your windshirt. This item is water resistant rather than waterproof, however, it will keep you warm and dry for the couple of minutes it takes to set up a poncho tarp. As with the guylines and pegs, be sure to have it easily accessible and ready to go.
5. Connect your guylines to the poncho. I use mini carabiners to connect my guylines to the poncho. It takes less than a minute or so to attach them. For a weight penalty of practically nothing, I prefer this system to messing around with knots when your hands are cold and wet. If it’s not raining or precipitation is highly unlikely, I leave the carabiners attached to the Poncho.
6. Pitch your poncho the same as you would your tarp. Some hikers will tell you that they can pitch the shelter whilst still wearing it. Forget about this idea. It takes longer, is more complicated and chances are you will get just as wet (probably more). Keep things simple. If you are proficient in pitching tarps, the entire setup can be done in less than two minutes.
7. Under Cover – Grab your pack – which has been patiently waiting under a tree, bush or groundsheet – and crawl under the poncho. Wipe off any remaining water from the inside of the shelter with a bandana.
8. Breaking Camp – Bummer. It’s still raining the following morning. Not to worry. Pack your bag so that everything is stashed away apart from the actual poncho. Once this is done, take down your shelter, disconnect the carabiners/ guylines, store them in an easily accessible baggy, give the poncho a shake, put on your pack, put on the poncho and away you go.
9. Almost forgot………….try not to get flustered irrespective of how much the elements are raging, and focus on performing each of the steps deliberately and efficiently. Over the years I’ve seen more folks than I can remember lose their poise while trying to pitch their shelter in inclement conditions. Keep cool, don’t rush, breathe steadily, and get it right the first time.
During a big storm on the Colorado Plateau in late February, 2012, the Gambler and I set up this “Double Poncho Tarp Fortress” (i.e. combo of MLD Pro Poncho and Integral Designs Sil Poncho).
Summary
Personally speaking, I like the multi-functionality, along with the weight and volume savings of a good poncho tarp. For certain types of environments and trips I think they represent a solid option. That said, they aren’t and never will be for everyone. If you are keen on trying a poncho tarp, and more importantly actually enjoying the experience, here are some final tips:
- Hikers and Chippies: Understand and accept the limitations of poncho tarps before setting out. Good hikers are like good carpenters. They never blame their tools.
- Size Matters: Choose a model that is appropriate for your size. If you’re well over 6′, and you head out into the boonies with a 8’x4′ tarp in anything but bone dry conditions, you are potentially asking for problems. This holds doubly true if you do so without a bivy. I know a lot of UL hikers get obsessed with base weight and going as low as they possibly can, but this particular point really is just common sense.
- Practice: Before setting out on a trip, practice making the transition from poncho to shelter mode. If possible, try doing it in the rain. With repetition, the transition becomes easier and quicker.
- Perspective: Chuckle in the face of discomfort, and embrace and learn from adversity. In regards to the backcountry, it has always been the challenging times that have taught me the most and made me a better hiker. Using poncho tarps successfully isn’t always easy, but when I think about it, that’s one of the things I like about them the most.
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hi,
i have been thinking of getting a MLD Poncho for quite a while now but am unsure wether i should go for the silnylon or cuben version. Which one do you use or prefer? Does the silnylon make for more pitching options due to its stretchabilitiy?
all the best!
felix
Hey Felix,
In the Pro Poncho model, I’ve only used the Silnylon versions. If I was to get a new one, I’d probably give the cuben version a try and save 3 or 4 oz. I’d stick with the same two pitches – Half Pyramid and A-Frame – that I’ve always used.
I actually own an earlier incarnation of their 5 oz Cuben fiber rain poncho as well (if memory serves it’s only 8′ long). It’s well made, but as I allude to in the article, I think for practical purposes it’s a bit too small.
Cheers,
Cam
Thank you for your answer. I guess i gotta give the Cuben Version a shot. ?
I’m wondering the same thing. On the MLD website, buried in the pitching instructions it says,
“NOTE: The Cuben Fiber version does not have the external on-the-ridgeline tie outs. Since cuben fiber fabric does not stretch is can not be stretched into as many pitch options as the SilNylon version. The most useful easy to pitch medium A-frame shape is suggested for the Cuben version.”
I like the impermeability of Cuben and that it is 4oz less, but don’t want to forgo the closed foot pitch or the Half Pyramid. Guess I can’t have it both ways.
Also, I’m not a sniveler, but do want to prepare. Anything besides the waist belt to better manage wind or catching brush?
Thanks
Ken
Hey Ken,
Thanks for the comment. In regards to pitching options, I don’t think it’s an either/or type deal. Not having personally used the cuben model myself, I dropped Ron Bell a line in regards to your message. Here is his reply:
“Yes, the half pyramid (or modified half pyramid) works well with the cuben version and is recommended. Some like the A frame, but as noted the cuben low stretch prevents the foot being slightly closed down like the Silnylon version.”
As for wind management and overgrown terrain, they definitely aren’t the poncho tarps strong suit. That said, I’ve found as long as I have my bungee cord cinched tight so the garment isn’t flapping too much either at the front or back, it generally isn’t too bad. This particularly holds true if you are carrying a small pack. Folks that have their sleeping pads or hiking poles strapped on or protruding from their packs while wearing the poncho, are going to find the going a bit tougher in such circumstances.
Cheers,
Cam
Really helpful article-
We were in the Balkan’s and only the Albanian friend with a used poncho stayed dry- I’m
Intrigued mostly bec it covered pack body head and legs whereas our rain jackets were soggy.
Thanks for this
Hi Cam,
This post is great timing for me! I was just considering testing out my mld poncho tarp this weekend. I’ve slept under it in the rain a couple of times, but have not Yet used it as rain protection. I’ll only be out for two nights that will likely be rainy and right around freezing. What do you think about leaving the raincoat at home and going with a windshirt? I’ll also have a wool half zip top and fleece hoodie, along with a bristlecone bivy. I’m also thinking palisade 30′ over sawatch 15′ quilt, but not sure about that either. Do you think this is too ambitious for a relative newbie to tarping? I’ll also probably plan to camp near shelters for some insurance, just in case. Thanks as always for your insight and help.
Hey Adam,
Thanks for the kind words. I’d been meaning to write a detailed poncho tarp article for the last few years; good to finally get it posted.
In regards to your questions, it sounds like you have all the right gear to give it a shot. As you say, if you run into problems you can always make a dash to the nearby shelter.
Yep, leave the raincoat at home, take the windshirt, fleece layers, Bristlecone and Palisade. Try getting into camp a bit earlier than usual, find an ideal spot, and do a bit of tinkering until you are content with your setup.
Best of luck!
Cheers,
Cam
Hi Cam,
great post! As a long time NZ South Island tramper I heartily agree that for south and west a tent and a good one is preferable to a tarp or poncho, bug protection justifies the choice of tent. However in the east in the rain shaddow of the Alps short trips (2 nights) a poncho is usually good for three seasons providing the site is well chosen. Open and breezy is better, wildling pine good. river valley the worst is a rule of thumb. For longer trips a 6 x 9 tarp is my choice. A good bug net is a must to cover the head the finer the better as Sand Flies can ruin a nights sleep if there is a moon. Sand Flies only bite in the light of day or moonlight.
Must congratulate you on your site, I always look forward to the new posts and the mine of info to refere to.
Hey Tony,
Thanks for the message and the kind words. You’re not wrong about the sandflies; a lightweight head net can be worth more than it’s weight in gold in your part of the world.
Cheers,
Cam
One other option is the SMD gatewood cape. It’s a poncho that pitches as a mid. Most of the same caveats apply, but it’s mid shape makes it a bit more suitable in wet and windy weather. It’s also a couple oz heavier than MLD and the like. I’ve put quite a few miles on mine and have been nothing but happy with it.
Good call. I’ve never used one myself, but I’ve seen them around for quite a few years. I think Billy Goat is a long time fan……..I suspect at least partly because he used to go out with Grandma Gatewood back in the day! 😉
Cheers,
Cam
The integral designs sil poncho is now branded as RAB. RAB bought ID a few years ago. The ID bivy and tarps continue under RAB.
Good info. I added a note above. For folks that are interested in the RAB (formerly Integral Designs) Poncho Tarp, here’s a link: https://www.mec.ca/en/product/5046-424/Silponcho-Tarp
Cheers,
Cam
Excellent summary of the pros and cons. Especially principle #9. My MLD poncho tarp is on its 7th year and has always kept me dry.
A suggestion with the mini-biners – if you attach a line-loc loop to them (for the front corners and peak) then you can keep the tarp taut without leaving the comfort of your sleeping bag when the inevitable silnyl sag kicks in.
Also – I used the new MLD bag liner as a minimalist bivy on the (low-bug) AZT. Under 3oz and kept the frost and drafts at bay very nicely.
Best, Drew
I enjoyed this article, especially find your bullet points “on-trail vs in-camp” and “no sniveling” on target. The poncho tarp is part of the adventure. How much cord or what lengths of cord do you usually bring?
Thanks for the kind words. In regards to guylines for the poncho, I normally bring three 9ft pieces for the ridgeline and body (Note: The latter is optional, but it provides more space in Half-Pyramid configuration), and eight 2 – 3ft pieces for the corners and sides.
Enjoyed the article, Cam. Good step by step breakdown. Particularly #2 – putting pack under a tree or shrub – I believe this applies to all types of shelters. Lots of folks get excited to get in their shelter when it is raining and just toss their pack on the ground and start setting up their shelter. /// You are well aware of my love for hammocks, but as we get preparations under way for the Grand Enchantment Trail, I will admit that poncho/tarps have entered the discussion in no small way ? . ~ Beardoh
Thanks for the comment. Are you thinking of leaving the hammocks at home and going the poncho tarp option for the GET?
In fact we are. I am guessing the GET will be our hardest hike to date, and not the nice strolling of the PCT and similar trails…so trying to knock some weight down to make things easier. Really tough water year for the GET with the lack of precipitation, so quite a few of long water carries. ~ Beardoh
I was a little confused because the article says, “shelter and raingear for 8oz” and also says you used the MLD Silnylong Pro Poncho. On the MLD site it lists the silnylon Pro Poncho as 12oz and the cuben Pro Poncho as 8oz.
Maybe the silnylon version weighed less back when you bought it? However, given the now 12oz weight of the silnylon Pro Poncho, plus the need to add an ounce of weight or so seam sealing it, it seems like there are more weight efficient alternatives that have much better coverage. Or am I missing something?
Thanks for the excellent overview of poncho tarps.
The 8oz model I mention is obviously in reference to the cuben version of the MLD Pro Poncho, which was not available when I last got one. Yes, the silnylon model used to weigh less (i.e. between 10 and 11 oz).
As for their being “more weight efficient alternatives”, as I mention in the article, Poncho Tarps aren’t for everyone, nor are they suitable for all conditions. However, for those with the appropriate experience and mindset, I think they represent an excellent UL option for certain trails and environments.
7’1” / 215cm
290lbs / 130kg
Do you think the MLD Pro Poncho would work for me? Any other suggestions?
KJ
I think it would probably be ok when using it as a poncho, but it would be too small for you in tarp mode in anything but fine conditions. I’d suggest going with a 8×10 tarp and a lightweight rain jacket.
Cheers,
Cam
I’ve had really good luck pitching my “round hole” poncho on top of a pre tensioned ridge line. This resolves several issues for me:
1) the ridge never sags, only the sides
2) the round hole is supported and doesn’t leak etc
3) there is no pole in the way of getting in or out
4) the time spent uncovered while pitching is much less
5) hiking poles can be left at home if you want
6) ridge is stronger & sheds snow better
7) poncho can be flipped 90 degrees & pitched “dog
house” style for a mid day lunch break
Great article! Thank you.
I am actually looking for a tarp solution not so much to sleep under it but just a tarp to hang out, prepare food etc. Maybe using it partially over my tent. I have not figured it out yet. Would the Sea to Summit poncho tarp work for that?
What is the best tarp set up for just hanging out?
Your thoughts are greatly appreciated.
After all those miles with a poncho tarp, would you still carry it now that you can get a solo tarp and rain jacket for ~ 13oz.
I understand the DCF poncho is 8 oz. But the silnylon model is 12oz. A cuben grace solo is larger, and offers more protection. Furthermore, paired with a ul rain shell is only 1 oz more than the silnylon poncho.
Now that DCF is available, does the silnylon model still make sense as I can carry a tarp and jacket for a minor weight difference?
Furthermore, if carrying a ul rain shell, the wind jacket could be left home, thus making the grace + rain shell combo possibly lighter.
This is not considering cost of course.
What advantages does a silnylon pro poncho offer over a dcf grace tarp and rain shell?
The only one I can come up with is one less item to carry. So smaller volume pack.
The DCF poncho is another story, as it would be the lightest shelter/rain gear out there. So going after the lightest pack it would make sense to me.
And then theres the challlenge/skill of using a poncho tarp. Some would say that in itself is worth carrying it.
Just food for thought.
As I mentioned in the “Triple Crown Gear list” post in 2017 (https://goo.gl/p3j6ew), if I was to do the PCT/CDT again, I would take the DCF version of the poncho tarp.
Awesome. This is all excellent data Cam. I’m about order a pro poncho in DCF after considering my options. Seems like an ideal PCT shelter/rain gear combo in the right hands. Is there any modifications or improvements you would like to see or have done to your pro poncho? For instance, I don’t see the point in having the grommets on the ridgeline tieouts. If not carrying carbon tent poles, have you ever used them? I’m considering asking Ron to leave them off if they don’t offer any advantage to someone not carrying the tent poles. Not a lot of information on this piece of kit out there. Appreciate you taking the time to write this article.
Hey Tim,
Thanks for the kind words. It has surprised me how much traffic that article has received. I never would have thought so many folks would be interested in using poncho tarps!
In regards to your questions:
1. Modifications? – Design-wise I was always pretty happy with the MLD ProPoncho. As I mentioned in the article, I think the combo of the hood, catenary cut and dimensions made it a great option for most of the hikes on that 12 Long Walks trip (both in tarp and poncho mode). However, as I said, it’s definitely not for everyone or every trip.
2. Grommets on the ridgeline tieouts – I hear what you are saying. I guess I used them when I had it pitched low and in A-frame, though I wouldn’t say they were necessary if you aren’t carrying the CF tent poles. That said, the weight saving sans grommets would be pretty minimal, and I understand why Ron includes them as part of the standard poncho package.
Cheers,
Cam
I know this is old, but what do you use for guy lines. I was thinking of Lash-it. I have the Integral Designs 8×5 Sil Poncho*. Would 6 6′ pieces be enough?
In answer to your questions: 1. Kelty TripTease; 2. In regards to guyline lengths, for the MLD ProPoncho, I carry 8′ to 9′ pieces for the ridgeline and body, and 2′ to 3′ pieces for the corners and sides.
Just recieved a Pro Poncho in silnylon. Mine measures 68″ wide tapering to 64″ 10.9oz with waist cord and stuff sack. Looks to be a well thought out piece of gear.
Congrats, this is indeed a solid item, one that’s been my default shelter for years. A couple of tips: 1. Put linelocs on the front tieouts (corners and peak). This way you can tighten the pitch from inside the tarp without getting wet when it’s raining. 2. When pitching in box-foot mode, set the rear pole fairly high ~100 cm or so. This evens the tension on the ridgeline tie-out. I tended to set my rear pole too low and one end of the tie-out began failing and had to be re-sewed. Enjoy!
Thanks for this article! I am planning on camping mostly in the Pacific NW with a TarpTent Notch when solo and a MLD Duomid when with someone else; so I’m not looking for a poncho that will replace a shelter. But I need an outer-layer rain cover, and am considering a poncho because it is simpler, more ventilated, and cheaper than a lot of rain jacket options. The fact that a poncho CAN be used as a tarp in a pinch is also appealing, in the off chance that I need it or decide to lighten things up.
All that said, would you recommend a poncho as rain gear a for wet climates? Or is it too wet? (The PNW is wet, but not Scotland- or NZ-level wet, I think.)
If the trails aren’t overgrown and it’s not blowing a gale, I think a good quality Poncho can be a functional rain gear option in wet conditions. Particularly in summer at lower elevations when it’s not that cold.
Just saw this reply, but thank you! I will be trying out a poncho this weekend in the Olympics. Not super low elevation… we’ll see how it goes.
Thank you for the great article.
Any advice on how to combine together two poncho tarps to make a one bigger shelter? Would it even work well?
Thank you.
I’ve only ever done it once (see photo in article), and that was too provide a little more in the way of “all-around” protection during a big storm on the Colorado Plateau in March. It worked well enough given the circumstances, but it’s not necessarily something I would plan to do in advance.
Hi Cam, I don’t see the ponchos on the website of Mountain Laurel Designs anymore. Maybe they have stopped making them?
Hi Bart,
Looks like you’re correct. I haven’t been in contact with Ron for a while, so I can’t speak as to the reasons. If I was to hazard a guess, I suspect the market for high-end poncho tarps is pretty small.
Cheers,
Cam
Hey Bart,
You might try calling them. They’ve customized stuff for me in the past, so maybe they’d be willing to whip you one up…
Good luck!
Best,
Adam
I asked Ron about it. He responded that the Pro Poncho “should return later in the year”. It would be good if there are more enquiries, though, so that they know the demand is still there.*
*Thanks no doubt to Cam’s excellent piece and subsequent discussions.
MLD are making ponchos again now. I think it was August 2020 they came back on sale.
The Gatewood Cape by SMD is my favourite shelter/raingear combo as it’s fully enclosed but the MLD Pro Poncho is a very close second as it’s more flexible w.r.t. different set ups like the half-mid, Flying V or A-frame.
Both are top class bits of kit provided the user understands their strengths and weaknesses.
Hi Cam, I’m thinking about making a poncho tarp similar to MLD one and I’d like to make a cat cut in the ridgeline that isn’t so big that I can’t pitch it in a half pyramid. Do you have any idea how deep the cat cut is on the MLD ridgeline since it seems to work well for you?
Hey Luke,
Thanks for the message. I can’t say I’ve ever asked Ron about the depth of the cat cut on the ProPoncho. It pitches fine in a half pyramid and wears comfortably, so the most I could tell you is that it’s minimal (not much help, I know!).
All the best,
Cam
For rain in exposed mountain conditions, check out the Packa. I have the DCF version for light or backup situations. However for multi- day rainy exposed hiking also with bush wracking, I recommend the sil-nylon version. This however does not convert to a tarp. I made my own tarp from DCF. It is 8’x10’ weighing 6 oz, including numerous 300 lb braided fishing line ties. In buggy, extreme high altitude or excessively sunny conditions I put my ultralight tent under the tarp. Each trip is different.