Poncho

Poncho for winter bathing and winter sports

A poncho for winter bathing and winter sports makes changing and taking breaks in the cold much more comfortable. Whether you enjoy winter swimming, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) or skiing, a poncho provides shelter, warmth and privacy when you change clothes or simply want to stay warm before and after your activity.

In this category, you’ll find many models for both children and adults, ranging from lightweight summer ponchos to thick, lined versions for the coldest days. Focus on fit, material and how warm you want your poncho to be so you get the right one for your needs.

How to choose the right poncho

The most important thing is that the poncho is long and roomy enough for you to change clothes underneath while still allowing plenty of movement to take off or put on your wetsuit, swimwear or base layer. Also, think about whether you’ll mainly use it by the water, in the snow, or for both.

Use these points to choose the right one:

• Size and length – choose a poncho that typically reaches just below the knee, giving you room to change as well as good coverage against the wind.
• Material – terry and cotton absorb water well and feel comfortable against the skin, while softshell and technical outer fabrics offer better wind and water resistance.
• Warmth level – thick, lined ponchos and models with fleece are ideal for winter bathing and freezing temperatures, while lighter designs work well for summer and transitional seasons.
• Mobility – wide arm openings and a roomy fit make it easier to change quickly without feeling restricted.
• Durability – sturdy zips, strong seams and robust outer fabrics are an advantage if you’ll use the poncho frequently around saltwater, sand or snow.
• Details – a hood, pockets for cold hands, inner pockets for your phone and keys, and possibly a full-length zip can make it even more practical.

Also consider how quickly the poncho dries. Quick-drying materials are handy if you use it several times a day or when travelling, where it often needs to be packed away.

Use your poncho all year – from ice water to beach

For winter bathing, a thick, insulating poncho keeps you warm right after getting out of the water, preventing you from getting chilled in the wind. It serves as a mobile changing room, letting you put on dry layers in shelter, even when the temperature is below 5 °C.

When surfing, doing SUP or kitesurfing, a poncho makes it easy to change your wetsuit on the beach, even when it’s windy and cool. Here, mobility and good absorbency are important so you can quickly get the water off your skin. For skiing and snowboarding, a warm poncho is perfect for breaks and changing by the car or cabin, allowing you to avoid standing around freezing in your base layer.

Choose the poncho that fits your activities and seasons and make changing and breaks much more comfortable – whether it’s an ice dip in January or a trip to the beach in July.