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Combining the better features of a parka and poncho, the Parcho provides versatile, comfortable protection for the hiker and backpack over a wide range of rain conditions, from cold and windy to warm and still. Size is adjustable to fit both your body and your pack. High to low ventilation options, combined with proper clothing management, obviates the need for heavy waterproof-breathable fabrics. Medium size weighs a mere 7 1/2 oz., and rolls up to the size of a large hotdog roll. Unique cape-like arms cover hands while allowing 1) full use of hands outside, and 2) full access inside to shoulder straps, hip belt, zipper and pockets. There is even room inside to remove the pack, adjust clothing, and put on the pack. Large interior pockets provide dry storage for extra clothing, maps, etc. Hood volume is adjustable. Covers to just above knees, or adjust to your needs. You live comfortably in the tarp-like Parcho, not encased in a parka clamped down by pack straps. Pack stays dry!
Sew
yourself for ~$40 & 10-15 hours:
Contact www.questoutfitters.com,800-359-6931or
www.seattlefabrics.com, 206-525-0670.
Putting on Parcho: Facing wind, flip the Parcho over your head and onto the pack; put on Hood to help locate sleeves, if needed. Lifting arms to sides pushes hands out of sleeves or into the straps.
Clothing: Wear minimum clothing to reduce sweating, and to provide warmth directly to the inside surface of the Parcho which minimizes condensation; ideally, hike on the slightly cool side for better hiking energy/efficiency. Adjust clothing as conditions change, even down to no shirt when hot. During temporarily colder conditions, warm arms & hands inside the main body. Rear Velcro adjusts hood volume to your head and/or hat; side Velcros clamp hood to your chin in high winds. Parcho can provide an extra layer of warmth in cold weather.
Ventilation: In cold,
windy rain there is sufficient ventilation, even when closed up. As conditions
trend toward warm & still, reduce clothing and progressively open up. That
is, loosen chin Velcros & drawstring on hood, open zip as much as needed,
remove hood, remove hands from Parcho arms, and ultimately, hold open the front
with your hands. In warm rains stay dry and comfortable by removing excess clothing
under Parka when hot, all the way down to shoes & shorts if necessary. To
cover pack only, pull the Parcho off shoulders, onto the top of the pack and
zip the Parcho up between the pack and your back.
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