Ponchos are really "cool" now, especially for men. A few influential designers send a quirky and practical article of clothing down the runway, high-fashion magazines enthusiastically push it, a celebrity is photographed wearing it, and whoosh, a new controversial trend is born.

There is often some confusion about the difference between rain capes and ponchos. Sometimes these terms are used for garments that are neither. We intend to clarify this here.

Ponchos for Swimmers?

For many adventure sports and other wet fun activities ponchos and rain capes are essential. They are useful for swimmers in many ways, like on the beach, lake side, or even in a swimming pool if you forgot your swimwear. Make sure you always have one in your swimming kit bag, so you can join the fun or keep the weather at bay.

Portable Changing Room

Your poncho is useful as portable changing room. No more wiggling around with a small towel in the wind. A poncho won't fall down at an untoward moment.

Beach Shelter

Long ponchos cover you completely and provide shelter from sun and rain. When you sit down, pull the poncho over your legs and feet to be completely covered. The inside will warm up soon and you have a cosy shelter. Full coverage means no more awkward rain pants and jackets. Not so good on windy days as they may flap about. When sitting down tuck it under your legs and backside.

Spare Swimsuit

If you travel light or decide to go for a spontaneous swim you can wear your poncho instead of a swimsuit, or on top of your clothes for extra warmth.

It is surprisingly easy to swim in a poncho; just make sure it doesn't go over your head. Some ponchos usually have a strap that connects the front and back between your legs. Others may have a waist band.

It may balloon and float up for a moment when you get into the water, but that can be managed if you keep the neck opening loose.

Hiking ponchos usually have a strap that connects the front and back between your legs to keep them from riding up in wind or water. The back can be buttoned to the front and thus should stay in place when you run or swim.

Rainwear

Ponchos are perfect for travelling in rainy weather without the inconvenience of complicated rainwear. They are easy to put on and take off. You'll probably get caught in an occasional rain shower every now and then. So be prepared for unexpected downpours with a lightweight rain poncho. By carrying this one light weight garment, you can eliminate rain jacket and pants from your pack. If you really want ventilation through your rain gear try a poncho. It'll keep you dry when you need it.

Waterproof Carrier Bag

After all the fun on the beach you can use a poncho as big bag to carry any wet clothes and other stuff. Make sure you pack it in a way that nothing can fall out.

Our sons would rather get soaking wet than force their arms into rain jacket sleeves or struggle with zips, buttons and ties. It also left their school backpacks unprotected.

We got them comfy ponchos instead. They can put them on in seconds, so that they are covered with their school bags and any school projects they bring home. They really enjoy wearing their ponchos because of the soft fabric and ease of use.

Now their friends have ponchos too and they spend more time outdoors, even in the rain. Often they come home in wet clothes from playing in the garden or on the beach, but at least they keep warm, wrapped up in their ponchos.

Afterwards they have a bath or shower in their clothes to rinse them and then hang them out to dry. For them it's just a fun bathroom party.

Marc and Jennifer, Vancouver, Canada