How to buy raincoats: coats, ponchos and rain suits from sellers
First decide what the raincoat is for
A disposable polyethylene poncho for a festival and a raincoat for daily outdoor work are different things, though both are called a “raincoat”. The first lasts one or two outings, the second has to last a whole rainy season and not make you sweat.
The main kinds are a cape-style coat, a poncho, a suit of jacket and trousers, and a cycling cape with an extended back. For walking and standing in the rain, a cape or poncho is usually enough. If you move around, work with your hands or ride a bike, a suit is better, since the wind lifts the skirts of a poncho.
Material and seams: what to look at
A PVC raincoat is thick and reliable, but heavy and poor at breathing. Polyethylene is light and cheap, but tears. Polyurethane-coated nylon folds up compactly. Membrane models cost more, but barely create a “greenhouse effect”.
Ask whether the seams are taped: in cheap ones they are just stitched, and water seeps through the needle holes. Also look for an adjustable hood, a length below the knees, and press studs or a zip with a flap.
What to put in your request
- Type — coat, poncho, suit or a cycling cape;
- For whom — man, woman or child (for a child's one, write the age or height);
- Material — PVC, coated nylon, membrane or disposable polyethylene;
- Size — S/M/L and height; if buying a size up for growth, say so;
- Colour — yellow or orange is better for being seen on the road;
- Quantity — for a group or staff, bulk is usually cheaper per piece;
- Logo — whether printing is needed and where;
- City and budget — if you wish, price per piece.
Example: “I need 50 disposable polyethylene ponchos for a tour group, transparent, one adult size. Courier delivery to Ottawa, budget up to $0.84 per piece.”
How to compare offers
Offers are easy to compare only when they are about the same thing. Check the material, thickness, taped seams and size. For an order with a logo, ask what the printing costs, whether there is a minimum run and how many days production takes.
On BlaBlaPrice sellers answer your request in the chat, see where their offer stands and compete on terms, so the price often turns out better. The best-value offer is shown first, with seller reviews beside it. Contacts stay hidden until you choose a seller. See how it works on the “How it works” page.
Common mistakes
People take one size for everyone by eye, but a raincoat worn over a jacket should be roomier. They buy disposable ponchos for work, and they tear within an hour. They forget visibility: a dark raincoat is dangerous on the road at dusk, and reflective strips or separate high-visibility vests help.
If you are equipping a crew, also look at work clothing and work footwear.
