Test Review: Vaude Hiking Backpack Poncho

At last a hiking rain cape with decent length and good looks. Even the sleeves reach to the hands. No annoying long zip either.

This backpack poncho makes rainy hikes are fun again. Strictly speaking it is a rain cape, not a poncho. It is closed on the sides and has long sleeves to keep you dry on rainy tours even with a large backpack.

Design

This waterproof and windproof rain cape is made of breathable Cerplex Active material. It feels soft to the touch and on the skin.

This garment is designed for use with a backpack, even a large one. The back can be expanded to protect your rucksack. When not used with a backpack and zipped away, this extension fold can fill up with water in heavy rain or when swimming. Be aware of that.

For more walking safety and weather protection, the length can be adjusted and secured between the legs to keep the wind from blowing it around.

The protective hood is adjustable to meet your needs. This cape packs into its own small pouch pocket to save space.

In combination with a pair of rain pants or waterproof gaiters, you'll even stay dry during torrential rains. The material is bluesign certified. It is resource saving and environmentally friendly manufactured.

Features

• Zip-off back for large backpacks
• Zipped front pocket
• Attached, adjustable hood
• Cut: Loose Fit
• Season: Year-round
• Main fabric: 100% Polyamide
  
• Coating: 100% Polyurethane
• Weight: 431 g

Summary

We like the long design and soft material. If you carry a backpack most of the time, this hiking cape is great.

Suggestion

We would suggest VAUDE should also make a model without the backpack extension. That would make an amazing rain coat for everyday use due to its low weight, long length and style.