How to keep yourself Dry

[robbiethepiper]

EVERY pipe band that I know of in the UK issues "Bandspec" capes. They are cheap, light. roll up into a small belt pouch and are proof against a monsoon!.....Robbie

[Riverkilt]

Its Mr. Antony's Ultimate for me. Headed out with it today, ready for the Arizona summer thunderboomers.



And a traditional wool Inverness Cape is still on my wish list.

And, wool trench coats are good in cold weather - too much in summer though.

[AKScott]

I think the main take home here for all of us is to lay the tank flat and let it dry before hanging should it get soaked.

Thanks for the Mister Antony link. I am wondering if the ultimate might be suitable for other field uses. Does anyone know how much noise the all cotton ultimate makes walking in uderbrush in the rain? My current oil cloth duster tends to make rattling noises when it smacks against bushes.

[EagleJCS]

Actually, Tobus, the standard rain cape isn't any heavier than a good backpacking poncho - not the 'emergency' ponchos that come in a little pocket/pouch, but a good one that could be used as a ground cloth or emergency shelter. I have one with grommets on the corners that rolls up into a 3" dia. cylinder about 6" long. Fits quite nicely in my daypack and weighs less than my full water bottle. I agree that a wool Inverness cape or a normal overcoat is too much for regular hiking.

I've been in a downpour at a Highland Games that absolutely drenched folks that weren't prepared (guess who stayed - relatively - dry). It's kinda funny to see people walking around in the rain with little rivulets running off of each pleat of a soaked kilt!