Hiking in the rain can be great fun if you have a poncho with you. Keep one in your pack at all times in case of a sudden downpour. It is beautifully relaxing to sit in the rain inside your poncho and listen to the raindrops as they fall onto the fabric, form little puddles and then roll off.

Please note that many hiking ponchos are actually rain capes with sleeves. They are closed on the side and look more like oversized cagoules or anoraks.

• Fashionable and practical
• T-shape with long or short sleeves
• Closed sides keep the rain and wind out.
• Swimming is easy with arms out at the sleeves and the leg strap fastened.

 Sizing

Longer is better, look for lots of length and width. Ponchos and walking capes should reach below your knees. Measure from top of your shoulders down your front and back, as far as you want it to drape. Get a generous front zip vent for cooling when you get hot.

 Front Pocket

Ponchos don't have a long leaky row of boring buttons like many rain coats. That makes them less bulky and thus more fun to wear.

Instead, some ponchos have a useful roomy kangaroo-style front pocket into which you can pack it and stow easily in your luggage or daypack. You can also pull out the waist straps from inside the pocket and wear it as a fanny pack around your waist.

During a heavy downpour, or when swimming, some water may get into these pockets which usually down have drain holes. Bear that in mind when you put something like a mobile phone in there.

For short walks in the rain the waterproof front pocket may be all you need to carry a snack or such. For longer trips you may want a backpack which will stay dry underneath your poncho.

 Dry Backpack

Some hiking ponchos have an extension for your backpack that folds out when needed. They are specially designed with flaps that can be extended to cover you and your backpack.

The bottom edge of the poncho may have a shock cord fitted to enable the poncho to be snugged around the bottom of a backpack and tied off around the wearer's waist for security in windy conditions.

The one drawback for the fashion conscious hiker is that hiking ponchos can look a bit unattractive if worn over your backpack. You will end up looking like a hunchback. Oh well, a small price to pay.

 Hoods make all the difference

Some ponchos, especially those made to ward off rain, have hoods attached. Correct use of the hood makes all difference whether you get wet or stay dry.

Make sure the hood has a good fit. In heavy rain you may want to tie it closely around your face. If the hood is too big you won't see much then.

Look out for a cinch cord to hold the hood to your head so it won't shift around and cover your face.

You can also keep it down and tie it round your neck for better visibility, but that lets some water run down the inside of your poncho and get your clothes wet.