Rain Ponchos with Sleeves

A rain poncho with sleeves keeps you and your clothes dry on the bike or on a wet walk, and it goes on over your coat in seconds. This page explains the types and what to look for. Gløde does not sell rain ponchos yet; we make heated clothing to wear underneath.

Which rain poncho suits you?

Type	Good for	Keep in mind
Disposable poncho	A festival, a match or one unexpected shower	Thin and tears easily; usually done after a day or two
Rain cape without sleeves	Cycling with the cape over the handlebars; quick on and off	Your arms get wet, and it can flap in a side wind
Reusable poncho with sleeves	Daily cycling and walking in rain and wind	Sleeves keep your arms dry and hold the poncho closer to your body
Long poncho for seated use	A mobility scooter, wheelchair or rollator; covers your lap and legs	Check that it stays clear of the wheels

What to look for

• Cuffs that close: elastic or an adjustable strap at the wrist stops rain running up your arms on the handlebars.
• Thumb loops or a front strap: they hold the front over the handlebars so it covers your knees.
• Length: long enough to cover your thighs when you sit on the bike, but not so long that it gets under your feet.
• Room for a backpack: extra length or a fold-out panel at the back goes over a rucksack.
• Hood with a peak: it should turn with your head, so you can look over your shoulder.
• Reflective details: they help others see you in the dark on winter evenings.

Staying warm under your rain poncho

A poncho keeps you dry, but adds little warmth. The layer underneath does that.

• Heated clothing for cycling: how a heated vest under your coat keeps you warm on the bike, e-bike or scooter.
• How to keep warm in a wheelchair: warm layers that work when you sit outside for longer.
• Warm dog walking clothes: what to wear under your rain gear on long winter walks.
• What jacket to wear at what temperature: helps you choose the coat that goes under your poncho.

Frequently asked questions

Is a poncho better than a rain jacket on the bike?

It depends on your ride. A poncho hangs loose, so more air moves underneath, and it covers your legs and backpack too. A rain jacket stays put in strong wind. Getting on and off the bike is easy with both, as long as the poncho is not too long at the front.

Why choose a poncho with sleeves instead of a cape?

A cape without sleeves is quick to throw on, but your arms get wet and the wind can catch it. Sleeves keep your arms dry and hold the poncho closer to your body, so it flaps less and feels more like a coat.

Can I wear a rain poncho over a backpack?

Yes, if it is cut for it. Look for extra length at the back or a panel that folds out. Without that, the backpack lifts the back of the poncho, and rain can reach your lower back and the saddle.

Does a rain poncho work on a mobility scooter or in a wheelchair?

Yes. Ponchos made for seated use are longer at the front, so they cover your lap and knees, and shorter or open at the back. Check that the poncho stays clear of the wheels and the controls.