Camino de Santiago, poncho or mackintosh
Whatever season you have decided to make the pilgrimage to Compostela and whatever route you plan to follow, you need to consider a garment that will protect you from the rain. The decision is which of the two main options to take into account for the pilgrimage. Camino de Santiago, poncho or mackintosh.
The poncho
The probability of encountering at least one day of rain. during the Camino a Santiago is so high that a waterproof poncho has been specially designed for pilgrims.
They have a built-in rear extension that is used to cover the backpack and protect approximately halfway up the thighs.
The disadvantage of these ponchos is that, due to their size, they are somewhat uncomfortable and can reduce mobility. Also, if you want to have access to your backpack, you need to take it off first.
When choosing the poncho that suits you best, you have to evaluate the following aspects:
Materials
The best materials for the poncho are PVC, nylon, ultrathin and polyethylene. Each one of them, with its own characteristics of resistance, weight.
Durability
Depending on the material selected for the poncho, you will be able to use it for a longer period of time. In order to last longer, the material should be more resistant. The recommendation is that the poncho is made of PVC, as it can be used many times due to its resistance.
Waterproof
This is a fundamental aspect when purchasing the poncho, as it must be completely waterproof, even the seams must be of the same material in order to prevent water from seeping through.
There are waterproof materials of different quality, so you should be sure about the material of the poncho before you buy it. In addition, there are some models that have a hood, which is useful for keeping water out.
Design
Ponchos come in many designs, from basic ones with just a hole for the head, to ones for the arms and head. Others incorporate a hood to protect the head from the rain.
There are more complex ones that use drawstrings in order to adjust the poncho, at the hood and waist. Other designs can be adjusted at the sleeves to prevent water from passing through. In addition, ponchos are available in different colours. Ponchos are available in a variety of colours and patterns.
The mackintosh
Another option is the use of a rain jacket, which is generally smaller in size, and can be supplemented with a waterproof case to cover the backpack.
The disadvantage of this option is that there will be a gap between the back and the cover. So, if the rain on the Camino de Santiago is strong, water can seep in and the rucksack will end up wet.
Some types of backpacks are fitted with locking points to prevent this. Another option that can be applied is the use of a waterproofing spray on the inside of the rucksack, in the event of rainfall during the Camino de Santiago.
Before purchasing a rain jacket, you need to consider a number of criteria in order to ensure you make a wise purchase:
Weight
The rain jacket has to be so light that it is not a problem when walking. It would be undesirable to add to the weight you have to carry, because in addition to the weight you have to carry, it would be undesirable to add another weight due to the rain jacket.
Waterproof
Waterproofness or water resistance refers to the ability of the rain jacket to withstand a column of water per mm. The suggested minimum is 1000 mm, the higher the number, the more waterproof it is.
Hood
The hood is a very important part of the selection of the rain jacket. Make sure you can close it around your face in order to keep the water out.
Fastenings and seams
The zips and seams must be as waterproof as the rain jacket. It is not suitable to protect yourself from the water in the whole, to get wet with the water that comes through the seams.
Breathability
Breathability refers to the garment's ability to wick moisture away from underneath. The rain jacket you choose should be sufficiently breathable.
Alternative to poncho and mackintosh
An alternative, outside from poncho and mackintosh, used by many pilgrims is to take an umbrella with them. However, in the case of a pilgrimage windy rain on the Camino de Santiago, protection won't be much. Also, if you carry an umbrella you will always have to use one hand and you will not be able to cover your backpack completely.
Conclusion
You already know that in order to undertake your Road to Santiago you should consider carrying poncho or mackintosh in your luggage, as it is very likely that you will have to spend some parts of the route in the rain.
With the information obtained you will be able to decide on one of these garments and, once you have decided, evaluate their main characteristics in order to choose the model that best suits your needs.
