Limited Protection but Why? - Helikon-Tex Poncho US Surplus Model Real Review

Подписаться 639 тыс.

Просмотров 103 тыс.

50% 1

This is the Helikon-Tex US Model Poncho which is part of their Military Surplus Line. Unfortunately this product has some serious problems and can only be recommended for VERY short individuals.
The quality is great but you'll be left scratching your head when you see just how short it is.
...
100% Agenda Free :
This channel is Agenda Free and is fully supported by the viewers.
Support TOGR through Patreon : / togr
or
Support TOGR through RU-vid : / @theoutdoorgearreview
...
Helikon-Tex Poncho U.S. Model, Surplus Line
What it is : This is a lightweight poncho made by Helikon-Tex that I have been testing out for roughly 6 months now.
Agenda Free Link Helikon : www.helikon-tex.us/poncho-u-s...
Agenda Free Link Amazon : www.amazon.com/Helikon-Tex-Wa...
Cost : $35
Colors : Black, two shades of green, and two woodland camo versions.
Sizes : One Size Fits All
Dimensions : 82.5 x 57” - That’s 82.5” long which unbuttoned and unfolded. When in poncho mode, it’s only around 40” long
Stored - 5.5” x 8.6”
Materials : Polyester
Features :
Hood with cord adjuster
Taped seams
Press studs and metal eyelets at the edges
Can be stabilized via dedicated cord
Surplus Line : This basically means that this poncho and the company’s other items that are part of this line are modeled after well known military surplus items. In this case, this poncho is modeled after the US Military poncho.
Modeled is the key word there.
Review Pros :
Good quality for a military “style” poncho. Better quality than most cheap ponchos that you can find in stores and online at sites like walmart or amazon.
I’ve experienced no leaking with this poncho and I have been out in the middle of tropical storms that have come through the area. Longest duration has been in the rain for roughly 2 hours with no issues.
It’s simple - quick to deploy
Fair Price - if purchased from an honest dealer - more on that in a moment.
Smaller hood and neck hole allow for less water / rain to get into the poncho
Can be used with the Swagman Roll as a sort of poncho liner.
Light weight
Compact
Storage included and it is big enough to easily hold the poncho. No issues with getting it out or putting it back in.
Review Cons :
I mentioned that this is part of the Surplus line and that it is modeled after the old US Military Poncho. Again, Modeled is the key word there as it is loosely modeled after the military variant.
This poncho is smaller in size - for a poncho it is rather short and the taller you are, the less protection that it will give your lower body. It’s about 4” shorter length and width than a military poncho
it will not mate to original military accessories such as the military poncho liner correctly.
If using this as a shelter, it is again due to the dimensions being rather small. It’s difficult to get good protection with it as it’s not as long nor as wide as a typical poncho.
The hood and head hole are smaller - if you have a big head it will be a tight fit.
These are made from Polyester whereas the military version was nylon. Polyester isn’t as strong as nylon and is generally a less expensive material. Civilian grade, not military - Because its not military grade, it is small and lighter in weight.
Small Size : Going back to the size, I would pay extra close attention to those measurements to see if this is going to work for you as this isn’t a large poncho by any means.
Cost : The retail price for this poncho is very fair for what it is but there are secondary sellers who are basically ripping people off. Take some sellers on Amazon, I’ve seen these ponchos being sold for as much as $70….this is not worth $70. This is a polyester poncho - it’s worth no more than around $40.
Side Snaps : I’ve had no issues with these but you have to be careful with them. They are fragile and there are plenty of reports of these being damage and destroyed rather easily.
Summary :
For the retail price, this poncho has served me well and I have no problem with recommending it. I would look passed the whole Surplus Line that Helikon has going on; that’s more marketing gimmick than anything else.
Pay attention to the measurements; will the smaller poncho work for you?
Also, watch the prices; don’t pay more than what this poncho is worth unless you really want it.
...
Web Site : www.theoutdoorgearreview.com
Come Join Us on Facebook, Twitter Instagram :
Facebook : / 281509538652229
Twitter : / outdoorgearrev
Instagram : / theoutdoorgearreview

Наука

Опубликовано:

27 июл 2024

Ссылка:

Скачать:

Готовим ссылку...

Добавить в:

Мой плейлист

Посмотреть позже

Комментарии : 358

@garyscott5746 2 года назад

I'm quite short and like this poncho, it defo helps when on the trail as it doesn't snag as much as the bigger ones, it's small enough to keep in your jacket pocket and I carry a 2nd one in the rucksack to clip together for shelter. For me £29 for one it's certainly a very good buy and once clipped together make a very good sized shelter

@jjdogbutte 2 года назад

It’s often hard to find gear that actually fits us shorter people, since I don’t like tripping while wearing a too long poncho. It works great in my hunting pack along with a swagman for quick insulation.

@kke 2 года назад

Yes, you look very short in your profile picture! :)

@WisconsinEric 2 года назад

It is hard to find clothes/gear that fits normal height guys that stand 6'2" and are thin from avoiding soy. Most clothing is sized for short soylent eaters.

@andreichiorean4450 2 года назад

awwwwww

@jjdogbutte 2 года назад

@@kke LOL It’s an old picture! He’s was big enough last year to help me haul a bull caribou to a freighter canoe!

@mycoolD 4 месяца назад

Hello ...I'm trying to visualize how the roll and poncho attach , I have the roll and am considering the poncho . How often do you combine them or would you go back and pick one over the other ?

@peterborchers410 2 года назад

It's not always bad when a poncho isn't that long. When hiking in the mountains, you run the risk of constantly stepping on the poncho if it is too long.

@banshee107 2 года назад

100% I had to shorten up my poncho bush bashing through steeper inclines and descents on my last hike in the fall.

@donnydread7631 2 года назад

Yes, but they were originally designed to fit over a large ruck sack, this is where current products on the market literally fall short. 🙏🏻

@lucasyup 2 года назад

@Frontline Owl Huh??? Umm I've worn out countless pairs of jungle boots humpin an Alice ruck in the Army and we definitely wore the poncho over the ruck.....everybody did, why wouldn't you?

@egatoki 2 года назад

can wear any belt or rope on the poncho that can help not dragging poncho

@garyhochstetler7082 Год назад

@@egatoki How is wearing a belt going to make it shorter

@RejectedYouth98 2 года назад

I am 6'0" and this poncho fits me well and is serving me for more than 2 years now. You don't trip. I used some water repellent spray on the outside. My Karrimor Sabre45 fits perfectly under it even with the side pockets and filled to the brim. If its pouring you should be prepared with gaiters anyway.

@gregp8220 2 года назад

What you have there is your standard poncho. I’ve worked outside for over 25 years and always wore a poncho. From my experience you don’t want a poncho to go all the way down to your feet. You’ll be tripping over it all night long.

@Sk0lzky Год назад

There are nice solutions where you can kinda tuck it up on the inside and there's a button to hold it secured. It's a particularly good feature on the back in case of backpacking - this way you can either wear the poncho alone without tripping but have one less piece of gear to worry about and you don't have to take the backpack off to put the rainbag over it

@garyhochstetler7082 Год назад

A poncho is meant for 2/3 coverage. If you want full coverage you wear pants. A full length poncho in the woods would be a nightmare. Personally, I’d rather it be too short than too long.

@jonathananderson2642 2 года назад

I'm a military vet, and the length serves it's purpose. It's not meant to go closer to the ground. The poncho is not meant to give 100% protection, but to shed the rain off of your upper body. Everything else you mentioned is correct, but the length is accurate. Taller people will not have as much protection, and that's how it is in the military. Vital parts of your body are protected, and that's the only purpose. Your feet are another issue, but not determined by the poncho. It's meant to cover your upper body and gear on your back, and that's it. We're you in the military? is my question. That poncho length does meet military standards, and that's it. Your feet health is met by your chang of socks and hygiene. Boot covers and gators will assist greatly, and that's what's meant to compensate for the length of the poncho.

@8chohgee135 2 года назад

exactly right

@Frindleeguy 7 месяцев назад

'and that's how it is in the military'. No truer words. At 6'5" everything sucked 😂

@jackvoss5841 4 месяца назад

I’ve found that a poncho is the dumbest designed garment ever invented. You WILL get wet wearing this rain gear. Not wearing it saves time. Courtesy of Half Vast Flying

@poolee77 7 дней назад

@@jackvoss5841you’ll get wet in any rain gear. I’ve wetted out our goretex top and bottoms in training. It just makes it suck a little less.

@wardschenck2115 2 года назад

boy i wish you had come out with this video a year ago when I bought the Helikon-Tex poncho. because I agree with everything you said and, while i don't hate it, it is not what i was looking for. thank you for doing what you do!

@emilyp.4100 2 года назад

I am 5’9” and it fits perfectly. It is designed to work in conjunction with their Swagman roll, it sort of buckles together providing either an improvised sleeping system or warmer outershell, with Swagman trapping body heat and poncho being the waterproof part (Swagman in itself is water-resistant but not water-proof). The best part of this poncho is that it can also work as tarp, albeit a small one, lol :D.

@adamnoman4658 2 года назад

Kudos for very useful, unbiased, intelligent assessments of products you have actual used in the field. Something of a rarity in YT reviews of any kind! Best in 2022.

@stevenkeithley4336 2 года назад

Hope you and the family are doing well Luke. Love the videos keep em coming bud, looking forward to the next one.👍

@paulcartmel1373 2 года назад

I love your brutal honesty. I watch all your reviews and love them.

@gud2go50 2 года назад

I agree 100%. I bought 3 of these from Amazon in different colors thinking they would be like my 2 military issue ponchos. No way José. I use these ponchos in my car for emergency knock about rain gear only in a pinch. The head holes barley fit my head and for using them as a tarp, forget about it. I went back to my military surplus ponchos instead, when I am camping or backpacking. I would never trust my life to these ponchos, like I have with my military issue ones. I carry a military issue poncho and have used it as a tarp on many occasions in severe rain, wind, and snow, both when I was in the Marine Corps and as a retiree. I never had a problem with the original military issue. Great honest review Luke. Thanks.

@HeatGeek1 2 года назад

Luke as always this was a great review. I Especially appreciate you mentioning your height because it helps me put what I see on the screen in context. I've never heard you reference your height before and I've wondered about that as I'm a taller guy. I know you're diligent in your reviews and keep other body sizes in mind in your review videos but it still helps me to know your height as well. I suggest mentioning your height more consistently. Thanks for all the fabulous work you do.

@chriscabbage1019 2 года назад

6'2" ....ill pass on that one 🤣 love the content as always. Much love from the UK 🇬🇧

@Merlmabase 2 года назад

Another helpful and thorough review. Thanks Luke!

@lorkainenkingg8497 2 года назад

I use this poncho primarily as shelter (I live in the desert), but when I expect to use it as a poncho, I am also wearing my hunters muck boots and tru spec trousers, so I am generally well protected. I am 5'9". I also use it with the swagman roll if I'm using a "ranger burrito" configuration. Great poncho, and great points in your video!

@CowboyCree63 2 года назад

I'm 5'8", and I have NEVER had a poncho reach any lower on my legs than the one your showing here. Personally, I'd think a poncho that reaches my feet would be just too damn big, I don't want to wear a tarp, and if I'm worried about my feet getting wet, then either I wear waterproof boots, or I don't go out in the rain...it's that simple

@gen3kali877 2 года назад

I was scratching my head as well. I am 5’11” and never had poncho longer than just below my knees. The expectation is you’re going to wear rain pants.

@kurtrussell5228 2 года назад

I agree, i was confused with this review......

@johnz.591 2 года назад

Word

@egatoki 2 года назад

can wear belt on the poncho. or any rope

@nutthrower4415 2 года назад

Got one for you Luke, seen this here on RU-vid, about a Biwaksack. Never heard of them before, a military item. Anyway thought I’d throw it out there for ya, great channel, never miss one. Thanks

@ForeIndication 2 года назад

Perfect timing I have been looking at these and their matching liners, ty.

@mccoyburgess844 2 года назад

Thanks for a clear, thorough report. Especially the length versus your height. Good information for someone, me, who is 6’+. Have not considered snaps and material strength until now. And, you still emphasized several pros for it. Thank you. By the way, I thought I was subscribed. I am now. Watched one of your stealth camping vids. Lots of good info there. Keep up the good work.

@bazman2306 2 года назад

Thank you Luke for your detailed veiw on this poncho, i especially like that you are taking into account much bigger/ taller people when talking about items and what may work for one person will be terrible for bigger/ taller people..... (and this how reviews should be - great for 5'6" terrible for 6' plus) - as always much appreciated brother.

@treksntarps 2 года назад

Spot on . Great honest review . All the best 👍

@wolffo999 Год назад

it does fit perfectly with the mil-tec poncho liner

@PresidentDwayneEMDHComacho 2 года назад

Appreciate your reviews alot, just recently purchased a navy surplus goretex parka and pants never issued for 100 bucks on ebay thanks to your recommending them in previous videos

@thebrizzy 2 года назад

In my opinion, it’s better to have a shorter poncho paired with gaiters so that you can walk over obstacles easier. Second, polyester doesn’t soak up water like nylon and though it may not be as durable as nylon it’s negligible. A thorn ripping poly would rip nylon as well. As long as it’s ripstop fabric and you carry duct tape you’re good. 7 feet length is enough for a rain shelter if it’s low to the ground.

@zippitydoodah5693 2 года назад

Well put. Agreed.

@FugMan4 2 года назад

Great video Luke. Thanks for your good work. Love your videos bro.

@crazymachinima1 2 года назад

I've had this poncho and used it for 2 years with no problems. I'm a short dude (170 cm) so the size fits perfectly, backpack or no backpack, the protection is very decent and never once tripped over it (forests here are full of snags so that's an achievement). I use it as a groundsheet with a dedicated tarp over my head and the material handled it flawlessly so far. The head opening problem is legit but never occurred to me, guess I'm not big brained.

@zippitydoodah5693 2 года назад

I've had mine for 3 years now. I'm 5'7" tall and i would not mind it being a bit shorter. Maybe in your geographical area having a poncho that touches the ground is workable. It is not in mine. My woods are covered in vines, boulders, rocks and a longer poncho would snag, drag, and not last very long on the bottom edge in the saw briars, cat briars, and blackberry bushes that are everywhere here. You stay on those manicured trails and thin woods of yours and you'll be fine in your military poncho. I still have my OG woobie but I ditched my military poncho after snagging it one too many times. TO each their own.

@fireside9503 2 года назад

Great review. Look forward to the next adventure!

@anthonysarabia5058 2 года назад

Thanks for the review. I was considering this product. I am 6'0 Ft tall. You helped make up my mid. I will look for a model that better suits me.

@kerrir1955 2 года назад

Could you do a review of an actual military poncho and do a side by side comparison of a cheap nock off version? That would be interesting.

@donnydread7631 2 года назад

Agree!!! I would like to know what companies made, or still make the heavier nylon and rubber military versions. 🙏🏻

@zulvalor7266 2 года назад

Yes please do this!

@danff52 2 года назад

Another excellent and informative post!

@mariastevens6406 2 года назад

I was literally just researching differences between this and the true USGI one as your vid popped up. Trying to find another surplus woodland one to join to my issued one for shelter. Thanks for this, Luke. Think I'll keep hunting for a surplus one.

@MAXCOBRALAZERFACE Год назад

Excellent review.. Thank you 👍🏻

@hikingdawn8640 2 года назад

My family and I are HUGE fans of your channel!! Thank you for being there and being OUT THERE-in ALL elements!! What is a reliable, honest and reasonable source for authentic military surplus items??

@paulfollo8172 2 года назад

Good review. Useful info. Thanks

@papajeff5486 2 года назад

Luke, I think you’re right. It’s a bit small. I’m 5’10”, so, it’ll be even smaller on me. AND I like the head/neck opening to be comfortably big, for breath ability, letting the body heat and transpiration outside. I also like to use it as a tarp and/or a ground sheet. Thanks, Luke, SAH. Texas

@milesmoyers 9 месяцев назад

Appreciate your review!

@schneeds1234 2 года назад

35mph winds.. sideways rain.. and my roof started leaking.. thank goodness I had this!! Threw it on!! Got my ladder and tarp.. and went on the roof.. laid the tarp down.. secured it.. boom!! I was dry... and stopped my roof from leaking more!! The poncho dried fast!! I'm so glad I got this!! Well worth it!

@paulfisher4293 2 года назад

As usual, a good straight talking review 👍

@perfectweather 2 года назад

I bought a cheap backpacking poncho four years ago for $12. I use it every summer during the rainy season in Florida. It works great and it’s over sized.

@IAMGWH1 2 года назад

What’s the name of that poncho & where did you buy it? I’m also in Florida

@perfectweather 2 года назад

@@IAMGWH1 the company was called blue field

@violetadams9253 2 года назад

I just brought one but haven't tried it yet so appreciate your review . I am short so that's Cool it is suited for shorties . God Bless

@floyd2386 2 года назад

Thanks for the review. I've been eyeing this poncho for a while and while the length wouldn't be a problem as I'm kind of short, I have a shockingly large cranium that probably won't fit through the head hole.

@chrisandsamlivingthedream 2 года назад

I’ve got one same .. it’s perfect .don’t want it longer .. cheers buddy cheers Chris & Sam

@chrismoore600 2 года назад

Add the swag man and the poncho makes a great ranger roll sleep system. Outstanding job Luke thanks.

@luxetveritas4141 2 года назад

Terrific review - how it should be done; no waffle. Many thanks. Blessings, from England.

@johnniemagallanes3141 2 года назад

Every time I consider buying a outdoor product I always check this channel for a review on it to see if it holds true. For example I wanted to buy the bushcraft fire plug and seeing how you proved them wrong on their claims was a major factor in my decision. Thank you luke!!

@user-yn1vf8wy1l Год назад

Nice video and introduction!

@aksting 2 года назад

I would get the U.S. military poncho and venerable poncho liner. You can't go wrong there.

@joepublic573 2 года назад

i have one. i like it. (though to be fair, I've not had any others) i agree it's not super big (but had no idea it was simply "modelled" on the usa one). used it as a tarp shelter on an 2-day walk. held up ok, but was not super windy, rainy or anything. worked ok during a rain/sleet shower and covered my backpack, but left legs etc exposed. hey-ho. still throw it in my day bag when going out, since it's small and easy to carry and it's better to be dry than wet (even if partly)

@johanedenberg3533 2 года назад

I have that one myself. And I like that it's not bigger. Since I am only 169 cm I step on the poncho if it's longer. My Swedish M90 pants I always wear are well impregnated that they become dry very quickly anyway. 😁 Love your channel Luke 🙂 /Johan, Stockholm, Sweden

@leswilliamson3587 2 года назад

Great video thank you man!

@RatelLaw 2 года назад

Thank you for sharing your research

@11bayrat 2 года назад

I hope to see more poncho reviews thanks for sharing

@snowjoe43 10 месяцев назад

Good review !

@winterfar2814 2 года назад

Another good review.

@user-do6zh9jb8l 11 месяцев назад

hi from Japan. what a nice clip! liked it.😊 i meant to buy it as a military product, but turns out not. though i found out the fact, i still like it for its cheap price and lighter weight. after it gets tear down, new poncho would be the real one. i want to see your review for the real us military poncho next time.

@ferebeefamily 2 года назад

Thank you for the information. You save us money Luke.

@bayouflats5054 2 года назад

Thanks for great review. As I’m 5’3” and shrinking from old age, it just might be perfect for me. 🥴😂😂

@ladywolverine1828 2 года назад

Hot damn! At 4ft 8 in tall. Finally a poncho that would work for me, Shootdang! Thank you for sharing.

@WilliamStout27 2 года назад

Thanks for the info.

@neemancallender9092 2 года назад

great review I really like the Mil-Tec ponchos for similar prices

@stevestormssr5492 2 года назад

It should be said, that the size of the hood is designed to accommodate a helmet when styled after a military design. I wish the manufacturers would stop this and design them more for civilian use which seldom require such a large hood!

@TheIamyourmother 2 года назад

Seems odd that they would leave the hood big enough for a helmet, but not make the neck opening big enough to slip over one. I'm extra interested in this due to the helmet compatibility, but having to remove the helmet to put it on is a downside.

@donnydread7631 2 года назад

I personally like a larger hood because it fits better over a boonie hat.

@marko9912 Год назад

I wouldn't particularly want a longer poncho. I'm 5"11 and it works fine. If there's bad weather forecast I'd take waterproof legs anyway. With this poncho you'd probably be fine with just a pair of gaiters for the lower legs. NO issues with the head hole. I was carrying my dog under it one day in a sling bag and no problem tucking my head in to check on her. It's good for using as a tent footprint and emergency raincoat to save carrying one when there's enough with camping gear as it is. Highly recommend this poncho, and the Swagman Roll too. Get both you'll be happy with the purchase.

@dr.honeypot6268 2 года назад

Honestly to me Being 5'7" I would still consider that a full coverage poncho. As it is meant to be paired with boots which would solve feet protection and as for hands they are suppose to be slightly exposed so the material doesn't get in the way while doing work, you can always pull your arms in and have full upper body protection from head to below the knee but if it was too much longer people would trip over the excess material. Its suppose to be an emergency shelter if needed and if you measure it in Plow point configuration Diagonally it drastically increases size of cover.

@SuketchiSan 2 года назад

Thanks for the review. I've been wanting to replace my surplus poncho with a black one. It was either going to be the Helicon Tex or one made by fire force. I'll go with the fire force.

@bobmcelroy7289 2 года назад

Sounds like it might be a good choice for kids! Think Scouts, backpacker kids etc. As for adults, not so much. Great review! Thanks

@THENEWWRANGLER 2 года назад

I only roll with the wilderness innovation ponchos because they can be hammocks, chairs, and everything else this poncho can do. I find the wilderness innovation stuff to be incredibly high quality

@joshavery4814 2 года назад

More size options too.

@THENEWWRANGLER 2 года назад

@@joshavery4814 Yeah they do have a few different size options for sure

@1594simonsays 27 дней назад

They don't want the mass populace to have the inside scoop and have higher quality gear

@greekveteran2715 2 года назад

It works, it comes in many camouflage patterns/colours. It's lightweight,easy to carry and versatile (it wroks as a tarp and works with the Swangmanrol liner, which is another wonderful product of that company. Price is good, nothing wrong with the product.

@susantompkins8810 2 года назад

Great review! Interesting product. But what is that blue jacket you are wearing? That looks very good and comfortable too!

@PlayaSinNombre 2 года назад

I recently purchased one of the surplus ponchos. It’ll be interesting to see how it compares with this.

@AquaTech225 11 месяцев назад

The Wilderness innovations poncho is the way to go. Different weight an types of materials an patterns or solids. Ultra light weight or 50-60% dyneema blend fabric. 12 webbing tie outs around it. To make a tent/tarp out of it. All the double sided metal snaps like the US poncho. Built in dyneema cord to be turned into a instant hammock. Can have optional sleeve extensions added to it. Can have an optional hoodie like pocket added to it. The poncho liner he sells has multiple colors/patters. Can choose the weight of the Apex insulation it’s made with. Has the head hole. To actually wear it under the poncho. Double sided steel snaps to match the snaps on the poncho. Also has built in bungee cords an the bottom of the front an back so it can be snapped to the poncho u see it when it’s set up as a hammock. An the ends can be cinched in with the built in cord. To become a full length hammock underquilt. Also sells a bugnet that slides over it. And a top quilt if needed And a ultralight tarp or can use a second poncho. An best of all. Sewn on tag. MADE IN THE USA. not some Chinese thrown together poncho. But something bombproof in quality. Own a bunch of his gear. Few ponchos liners an things. An been way past impressed with all of it.

@johnschmalbach8243 2 года назад

They can meet the measurements for a couple reasons. First and foremost it's pretty much on par with every other civilian maker poncho you're going to find out there; USGI, Arcturus etc. Second it was designed specifically to work with the Swagman roll so if they went true military size there would be compatibility issues. Also, while perhaps a coincidence, if your terrain has a lot of elevation changes a shorter poncho is actually a blessing because you don't have to worry about stepping in it.

@anti_fu_yt 2 года назад

thank you saved me a purchase.

@bobjoncas2814 2 года назад

..good one, good info, keep safe...

@a45456565 10 месяцев назад

Thank you Luke😺👍

@markswishereatsstuff2500 Год назад

I sent mine back to Amazon and bought the Snugpak Patrol Poncho with sleeves instead. I keep my Frogg Toggs poncho in the car for emergencies.

@johnschmalbach8243 2 года назад

Upon more thinking of my time in the Army I believe Luke missed an important point and that this poncho actually gives fine protection. A Military issue poncho is designed to keep a soldier covered when wearing their Ruck sack and the rest of their gear (helmet, plate carrier, LBE, etc) *under* the poncho. That means you need extra length because the Poncho is going to "ride up" *a lot.* Heck with just a helmet on your pocho "rides up" well over an inch. I would suspect a civilian with a day pack, or civilian backpacking pack, would have the same coverage with this poncho because there is so much less "riding up" as they are going to be carrying so much less gear under it. The full purpose of a piece of kit needs to be addressed . That said the poncho actually lines up fairly decently with the tieouts of their 3x3 Supertarp as well. You can make a fine Baker style tent with the tarp in an Adirondack configuration and the poncho then added length wise on the "beak" side. Probably a coincidence but its a nice feature.

@20alroco 5 месяцев назад

As a 6' tall human, ive always preferred a poncho that stops around my knees. If it were any longer it would be prone to snag, and become a tripping hazard.

@InimitaPaul 2 года назад

I bought the Onewind winter version a few months back and I’d be reluctant to take in out in anything but summer tbh, I’m a cold sleeper naturally so bare that in mind but that thing was COLD!

@gregsmall5939 2 года назад

U.S. GI poncho dimensions are 88 x 60 inches. The Helikons are about on par with German or Belgian NATO ponchos size wise.

@8chohgee135 2 года назад

Negative. I have mine in front of me now with a FatMax 30'. Mine measures at 80" x 64" - USGI. Who issued you yours and where?

@poolee77 7 дней назад

@@8chohgee135depends on the supplier and the year. There has been variance in size over the years. Especially between M81 and UCP issued ones.

@8chohgee135 6 дней назад

@@poolee77 That sounds reasonable. I don't pretend to have one from every manufacturer to every win the government contract, or for every year they've been issued. But this coment got me off my lazy butt and out to the shed where I dug out every poncho I have ever owned ( _save one lost to the Youghiogheny River back in '91_ ). Results: USGI issued to me in 1989 - 86"x63" USGI surplus bought 1995 - 86"x64" Helikon Tex. - 85"x57" WalMart RealTree Camo - 87"x57"

@blackboardbloke Год назад

As well as the Helikon-Tex version being smaller, it's only about 3.5 ounces (100g) lighter than the real deal. I've had 2 genuine surplus USGI woodland camo ponchos since 2013 when I replaced my old 1970s vintage British Army 58 pattern ponchos as the waterproof backing and taped seams were flaking and detaching. I can't remember what vintage the USGI ones are, but they were unmarked and are still in great condition. Another plus is that any NATO country's military will almost certainly pair up with another NATO country's issue as they're a standard size with standard stud/snap spacing. I made up a Baker style tent with the two USGI ponchos in half pyramids, supported on trekking pole with one of my old 58s studded to both in the centre forming a door/awning. True military spec ponchos will last you decades, if not a lifetime.

@williammaurer9450 2 года назад

I think you popped some people's balloons. You're my go to guy for real deal honest reviews of camping and hiking equipment. Thx much!

@jillcooper6371 2 года назад

I have a big ole poncho I got at Aldi... It's lined with a fleece blanket lining.

@PenDragonsPig 2 года назад

The jacket yer wearing looks very ok.

@fritztheblitz1061 2 года назад

Nice Video, thank you. I use it for cycling. When I ride with my bike to the work. I use it in combination with rain pants. In that way it works well. Greetings

@mattwalker4544 2 года назад

Nice work, would it be possible to do a comparison to an actual military spec poncho fully illustrating the length diffs? Thanks, love your work!

@deepfish4432 2 года назад

Ordered !😉

@eyeofthetiger4184 2 года назад

G'day Luke, not bad for the dough IMO. I'm a 6 footer and use my poncho to double as a pack rain cover, so you lose coverage there too. But with WP over trousers, no probs either way. I wouldn't particularly like to use any poncho as a stand alone shelter, but very handy to compliment a tarp set up. Not a bad way to collect rainwater also. Cheers Duke.

@Berniewojewski 2 года назад

Good review. Thanks Luke. Any thoughts on the Helikon Tex haversack?

@kenmckittrick7876 2 года назад

I'm 5'7" so it would be a good fit for me, but yes it's smaller than a USGI one. Good review.

@f5tornado2002 2 года назад

so i might grab 2 or 3 lol i liked the review

@onecoolguy4526 2 года назад

The arcturus poncho is ripstop nylon, and it's bigger as well. It also folds up smaller

@marcomcdowell8861 2 года назад

I'm 5'3 so this'll work fine for the rainy season. I use my issued poncho for camping. I'm going to guess that HT made short ponchos for stomping around the bush and not getting snagged or tripping. Anything longer I'd use in town or doing work in the yard. I made the mistake of using a poncho in the field to cover myself and pack and I kept stepping on the bottom and falling. A shorter version would've been better. I'm not concerned about dry legs, just torso and pack.

@wio2189 2 года назад

This seems like a pretty nice product for the price for humid and rainy conditions. For more money a Gatewood Cape or MLD poncho tarp would be superior but at $30ish this is a good deal. I like the size, it is made for hiking and you wouldn't want anything below your knees. As long as the lap area is covered, this works in humid and rainy conditions. If it's cray cold or windy, waterproof pants are superior but for the Appalachian trail for example, this should work fine while providing good ventilation.

@jeffreyphillips9303 2 года назад

I have the Gatewood Cape and IMO it sucks as a poncho but make a great shelter. I had to do a lot of seem sealing to use it as a poncho and it fits like crap..

@ronaldcobbley9668 2 года назад

Makes a great tarp cover for bad weather too

@Eric-ew8jt 2 года назад

Savotta makes an outstanding poncho, they have 2 sizes plus the corners have webbing loops, so much better to make a shelter with and not worrying about tearing out grommets. Thanks cool hand

@rogibaer 2 года назад

I think the length is fine. As long as it's just past the knees; gaiters take care of the rest... What I don't like, is how tight the Swagman is as a sleeping bag. If that was wider; then so would the Poncho have to be... A lot of people have commented on this. If they fix it, I'll buy a Swagman... and would happily update to a wider Poncho to fit it...

@Christian-qs3pi 2 года назад

Welcome to the ‘Military’. That’s just how things are in the ‘Military’ sometimes. Its a standard issue bit of kit ,made protect the upper body when raining/adverse weather and to provide a shelter from it in the form of a small Tarp. I suggest If one wants more than those very basic reasons,that they buy a ‘civilian’ produced one instead. I served 18 years as an Infantry Soldier in all kinds of extreme weather and mine served me just fine.

@dmtnw4480 2 года назад

My father had one when I was younger we all (7 children) argued to be able to wear it so we all had to take turns, we liked it best in winter we would use while shoveling snow while it was snowing and windy we did not the wind as much, that's how his fit us while we were younger but he was shorter than we were LOL