Let me get this straight…
$140 for a poncho that isn’t waterproof?
Why does this even exist?
Today Luke is reviewing the Hazard 4 Poncho Villa Soft-Shell Poncho.
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Agenda Free Link : https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AJ5FQF0
Price : Retail is $140. On Amazon the older black version can be found for $94
Weight : 2.3 lbs.
2020 Version : What you see here is the previous gen. of the Poncho Villa; there is a 2020 version and it isn’t all that much different. In the end, the main points in this review will apply to the new version.
Colors : Black, Coyote, OD Green (The colors have been refreshed for 2020 and are slightly different than the old version. I have the old version)
Waterpoof : No! Water Resistant
Material :
(86% polyester, 14% spandex; liner is 100% polyester)
fully-taped seams throughout
Expanded Size
79.5″ L x 53.5″ W (201.9 x 135.9 cm)
Folded Size : 13″ L x 11.2″ W x 2.2″ D (33 x 28.5 x 5.5 cm)
Features :
Our thoroughly modernized version of the classic military poncho has more in common with technical sport jackets than the old vinyl camping stand-by that usually comes to mind.
The poncho can be stuffed into its own front pocket for storage. It even has a vent for drying!
Water-resistant breathable softshell
Modernized version of the classic military poncho.
100% waterproof fully-taped seams throughout.
Can be stuffed into its own front pocket for storage.
Size: One size fits most.
Review Pros :
Excellent design.
Very good quality.
Breathable
Can be stowed in its own pocket
Touch
Quiet
Suitable for light to moderate rain, snow, mist and light pressure type of conditions.
Can fit over packs/bags/chest-packs
Front and back velcro panels for agency i.d.
Velcro panels on the shoulders and head-back
Hood with brim section fits over head-wear
Hood-cinchers for front and back-of-head adjust
Zipper front to chin for full rain-coverage of throat
Large perimeter grommets for hanging as tent/tarp
Side snaps for closing edges in severe weather
Fully covers the torso and most of legs; some of arms.
Allows access to pockets and chest bags
Can become a SMALL make-shift tent in an emergency
Two ponchos combine for a larger tent – I don’t have two of these and haven’t been able to test this out.
Easy to put on
Easy to take off.
Cool looking
Easy to clean
Review Cons :
Heavy and with enough exposure to rain, it will get heavier as water soaks through
Not suitable for long duration, heavy rain events. This will eventually wet through. Waterproof only under light pressure. In truth I shouldn’t count this as a con as the poncho performs exactly has Hazard 4 has designed for it to but you do need to be aware that this is not a waterproof poncho. Water resistant, not waterproof.
Expensive especially consider its performance.
Stowing this into the chest pocket can take time and patience. Not super easy to do. no instructions on how to refold it back up
Takes up a lot of space inside of your pack for a poncho
For warmer weather conditions, this is going to warmer than most ponchos thanks to the materials.
Summary :
Do I recommend this poncho; for the most part I don’t but ultimately it depends.
I like the looks of the poncho but the performance of this poncho is very limited considering it’s limited water resistance. In my opinion, in the snow is where this really shines and that is what I would recommend it for. While it is water resistant it isn’t a waterproof poncho; consider that for a moment, $140 for a poncho which isn’t waterproof!
For snow adventures, yes. For rain conditions, no.
If you want something to wear that block minor amounts of rain and looks cool; then yes.
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