Passionate outdoor enthusiasts helping Australians stay dry since 2024
Poncho.au was born from a soggy afternoon on the Overland Track in Tasmania. Our founder, caught in an unexpected downpour with inadequate rain gear, spent the next three hours trudging through mud while water seeped through every seam of a poorly-designed poncho. That miserable experience sparked a mission: to help fellow Australians avoid the same fate by providing honest, thoroughly researched information about rain protection.
What started as a simple blog documenting personal experiences with various ponchos and rain gear has grown into Australia's most comprehensive resource for rain protection. We've tested dozens of products across every climate zone our diverse country offers—from the tropical downpours of Far North Queensland to the horizontal rain of the Roaring Forties in Tasmania, and everything in between.
Our team understands that choosing the right poncho isn't just about staying dry. It's about finding gear that matches your specific needs, whether you're a weekend bushwalker tackling the Grampians, a festival-goer braving Splendour in the Grass, or a commuter cycling through Melbourne's famously unpredictable weather. We've been in all these situations ourselves, and we bring that real-world experience to every guide and recommendation we publish.
We believe everyone deserves access to honest, unbiased information about rain gear. The outdoor equipment industry is filled with marketing jargon and inflated claims. Terms like "ultra-waterproof" and "extreme breathability" are thrown around without context, leaving consumers confused about what they actually need.
Our mission is to cut through the noise. We explain waterproof ratings in plain English, test products in real Australian conditions, and provide recommendations based on actual performance—not manufacturer claims. When we say a poncho can handle heavy rain, it's because we've worn it through a proper downpour, not because we read it on the packaging.
We're also committed to helping you make sustainable choices. The outdoor industry generates significant waste through disposable products and fast fashion. We advocate for quality pieces that last years with proper care, and we're always transparent about the environmental impact of different materials and manufacturing processes.
Our small but dedicated team brings together diverse expertise in outdoor recreation, textile technology, and consumer advocacy. Each team member contributes unique perspectives shaped by their own adventures across Australia's varied landscapes.
Founder & Lead Reviewer
Former outdoor education instructor with 15 years of bushwalking experience across Australia. James has completed the Larapinta Trail, Overland Track, and numerous sections of the Great Dividing Trail. He oversees all product testing and ensures our reviews reflect real-world performance.
Technical Editor
With a background in textile engineering, Sarah brings scientific rigour to our reviews. She translates complex specifications like hydrostatic head measurements and MVTR ratings into practical advice that helps readers understand what the numbers actually mean for their comfort and protection.
Gear Tester & Photographer
An avid trail runner and festival enthusiast, David tests products in active scenarios that push gear to its limits. From running through tropical storms in the Daintree to dancing in the mud at Falls Festival, he ensures our reviews cover the full spectrum of Australian outdoor experiences.
Every product we feature undergoes rigorous real-world testing. We don't rely solely on manufacturer specifications or laboratory results. Instead, we wear ponchos on actual hikes, expose them to genuine weather conditions, and evaluate their performance over extended periods.
Our testing protocol includes assessment of waterproofing under various rain intensities, breathability during physical activity, packability and weight verification, durability after repeated use and washing, and ease of use in real-world scenarios. We also consider factors specific to Australian conditions, such as UV resistance and performance in high humidity.
We maintain complete editorial independence. While we participate in the Amazon Associates program to support our operations, this never influences our recommendations. We've given negative reviews to products from major brands and praised budget options when they deliver genuine value. Our readers' trust is our most valuable asset, and we protect it fiercely.
We love hearing from our readers. Whether you have questions about a specific product, suggestions for future content, or stories about your own adventures in the rain, we'd love to connect. Visit our contact page to reach out, or follow our latest guides on the blog.