About this deal
When you use it in conjunction with a windshirt, do you put the windshirt on over the poncho or vice-versa? Hiking uphill in bad weather requires constant checks and balances in dealing with exterior moisture and interior ventilation.
So, I have no problem with ponchos, used them in the past and if my only choice was to purchase a poncho, I’d probably get the biggest one I could find that doesn’t drag on the ground. One thing to keep in mind is that pack rain covers are rented separately from backpacks, so be sure to get both if needed. For those of you not familiar with the Altus, people refer to it as a poncho but it really is a long raincoat with sleeves, a zipper and a hump for the backpack and you don’t need rain pants with it. This Frogg Toggs poncho meets all the criteria for durable, reliable, emergency rain gear that you’ll need. I THINK, though my memory is unlikely to be precise, that I sweat more inside the Decathlon than the Altus.
Privacy -- great emergency privacy screen when needing to do a 'nature break' and natural coverage of bushes or tall grass is scarce.
have you decided against an Altus because of someone's bad reviews, or because of not being able to get one easily? I love the Altus because of the ziplock and the arms, easy to put on without help, when it stop raining for a while unlock the zip, take out your arms and tie them around your waist still covering your backpack. However, with a poncho this is not a huge concern as you're getting plenty breathability via that design. To me the protection of you backpack with something that is impermeable is much more important than your personal protection from rain.I’ve known hikers who’ve worn garbage bags for rain protection because hey, they work, but with the Frogg Toggs you have some basic features (and comforts) that make a huge difference.