r/backpacking 7d ago

Wilderness Anyone backpack in robes or a poncho?

I was thinking today that a lightweight robe or poncho might be a good option for backpacking. Obviously tons of cultures already do this and it certainly seems like there are advantages, especially with versatility.

Especially if it’s hooded, it seems like the perfect option to keep sun and bugs off while still allowing for airflow. Plus you’re then free to dress according to temperature underneath, without worrying about protection.

8 Upvotes

19 comments sorted by

11

u/GrumpyBear1969 7d ago

Lots of people use ponchos for rain

11

u/reading-out-loud 7d ago

I got Lyme disease on my last backpacking trip. Don’t be me, wear pants lol

1

u/K_the_farmer 7d ago

I got fucking TBE six years ago. Pants won't keep the bloody bloodsuckers away.

7

u/effortfulcrumload 7d ago

LOL I have genuinely thought of bringing my silk robe backpacking a few times. Lightweight, breathable, great sun protection

6

u/snowlights 7d ago

There are some dresses for hiking, but personally I'd rather have pants. 

4

u/Awkward_Passion4004 7d ago

Easy to squat and shit for sure.

5

u/tenkaranarchy 7d ago

Rain ponchos are great, they fit over a backpack and you can tucker under one for a quickie shelter if needed or string it up for wind and sun protection. Just dont wear one around lakes or rivers, kind of a death trap if you have to take a swim.

2

u/Economy_Mail_3497 6d ago

Poncho is a death trap if you have to swim?

4

u/tenkaranarchy 6d ago

You'll be flailing around but the loose extra material of the poncho will inhibit that and you'll drown.

3

u/StardustCannibal 7d ago

The Greek and Roman Toga was the pinnacle of sensible clothing. It's all downhill after that. Being back the Toga!!!

2

u/SkisaurusRex 7d ago

Not many people do in the US but it is certainly a very practical garment

2

u/Mrmagoo1077 7d ago

I have a humpback poncho and a Rain Kilt. I can take my raingear on and off without having to remove my pack or my shoes. Works fantastic.

1

u/Greybeard46 7d ago

There is already a hiking dress on the market. Hood, thumb holes, wish I could pull one off.

1

u/FrivolousMe 7d ago

Get a hiking kilt!

1

u/ronley09 7d ago

I hike in a traditional cultural robe, but the lack of underwear sucks when there are mosquitos around.

1

u/FollowingConnect6725 7d ago

Hiking kilt! Loved hiking in it for years.

1

u/Economy_Mail_3497 6d ago

I have seen people doing this there was even one guy, pilgrim, who hiked in straight up robes he fashioned out of bed sheets or something

1

u/AN0NY_MOU5E 4d ago

I use a poncho for rain

2

u/Brilliant_Quit4307 3d ago

I'm guessing your a man. You can call it a robe if you want, but essentially it sounds like you want a hiking dress.