If you’ve never owned a military poncho, let us tell you something: You’re missing out. The military poncho wasn’t made for your average spring drizzle; it was created to help troops survive in hostile environments. These rain deterrents are heavy-duty and more high-tech than you may realize. Thanks to the plentiful military surplus poncho stores online nowadays, you don’t have to enlist to get one! Read next: From Green Army Men to LEGO: A Brief History of U.S. Military Toys

Top 5 Military Poncho Options You Should Buy

Looking for the perfect military poncho for sale? You’ll find a ton of websites out there selling military ponchos, and there are even some websites that are entirely dedicated to just selling ponchos. With so many options, it can be hard to determine what the best military poncho for you is. If you’re looking for something that can withstand a monsoon and still make you look good afterward, we’ve got you covered with our ultimate list of the five best military poncho options that covers all different types.

1. M4 Tactical Poncho - MIRA Safety

Price: $249.95The M4 Tactical Military Poncho from MIRA has everything you need and a few things you definitely want. To start off, it offers more than just protection from rain; it’s proven to protect the skin from CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) threats in both gas and liquid forms. It’s lightweight, clocking in at just under 1.5 lbs., and offers a 15-year shelf life for all you preppers looking for a long-lasting military poncho. With three color options, three sizing options, and tear-resistant polyamide material, you can look great in the field and feel great knowing that you’re protected. Did we mention that this poncho currently has a perfect five-star rating on MIRA Safety’s website? This isn’t a budget option, but it’s absolutely a worthwhile investment.

2. Exxel Outdoor Kelty Fieldcraft Poncho - U.S. Patriot

Price: $350.00Looking for an option that’s more than just a military rain poncho? The Exxel Outdoor Kelty Fieldcraft Poncho is the one for you. The price may seem absurd, but once you read about all the utility that it has to offer, you’ll realize how much of a bargain that price really is. This poncho can double as a hammock, stretcher, or a shelter. On the hammock side, it comes with webbing, rope, and carabiners. For the stretcher function, it includes four easy-carry handles. It’s definitely a heavy-duty military poncho, so it isn’t on the light side. But trust us when we say this is the tactical military poncho you never knew you needed.The best part? This one is made in the U.S.A., and 100% of its materials are sourced here, too.

3. GI Type Military Rip-Stop Poncho - Rothco

Price: $49.99This is the first budget military poncho on our list. It may not come with all the bells and whistles of those in higher price ranges, but it’ll sure get the job done.The rip-stop fabric is made to be strong yet lightweight, and there are two snap closures on each side of the poncho to keep you from unwanted dampness. This poncho can also double as an emergency shelter, a tarp, or a ground cover, thanks to its multi-functional corners.

4. GI Portuguese M64 Lizard Poncho - Army Navy Sales

Price: $199.99This military surplus poncho is no joke. It’s an unissued model that was used by Portuguese armed forces in some of the rainiest areas of Africa. It offers a rubberized interior and has arm snap closures to keep you dry and ready for action.This poncho can also be used as a shelter half if you find yourself in need of a roof!

5. Leaf Ghillie Poncho - Helikon-Tex

Price: $72.90The Leaf Ghillie Poncho is a new military poncho offering from tactical clothing shop Helikon-Tex, which gets its name from the popular military clothing material gore-tex. You may find a couple military gore-tex ponchos scattered across their site, but the Leaf Ghillie Poncho is optimized for camouflage. This option is damp-proof, has a gear-compatible and rollable front, and has been stitched over with extra cording for more utility. This is a great, basic option on the cheaper side for a military rain poncho that offers concealment from prey.

How To Wear a Military Poncho & Poncho Care Tips

If you’re a newcomer to the world of military ponchos, we have a few tips for you about wearing them and some notes regarding upkeep. A poncho is essentially a rain cape – a cloak to keep you dry and unaffected by the elements. Because military ponchos are often worn by service members in the midst of important duty, they’re created without arm holes to allow for more freedom of movement. The poncho just drapes over your arms, and there are often plastic or metal clasps/buttons around the sides close to the bottom that you can use to keep it in place. Most military ponchos also have a drawstring hood; be sure to pull the drawstring tight if you’re facing a particularly sideways or windy downpour. If you’re planning to use your poncho as a shelter, tarp, or ground cover, or if you’re in a muddy environment, upkeep and proper cleaning methods will be essential to maintain the efficacy of your military poncho. Do not put your poncho in a washing machine or a dryer. This will immediately and irrevocably damage the material and cordage on your poncho. Similarly, do not dry-clean, hot-press, or iron your poncho, as these will have the same adverse effect. Instead, you should hand-wash your poncho in warm water with mild soap or detergent. You can use a soft-bristled brush to clean off any stubborn dirt you see. Then, simply rinse it and hang it until it’s completely dry. It’s time for you to go out and enjoy an awesome, new military poncho. If you take proper care of it, it’ll take care of you for a long time! More like this:The Best 15 Military Watches of 2022 You Can Buy Right Now