Be prepared for the rain. |
Choosing a raingear depends on your budget, expected terrain and climate. It ranges from low end poncho to high end breathable rain jacket and the unconventional umbrella. The temperature in tropical Malaysia and Singapore does not fall below 20° even when it rains at the lowlands. At higher altitude, the temperature seldom falls below 15° during the day. It is common to find trekkers continuing without any raingear when it rains. However, it is recommended to have some form of protection against the rain and the cold wind especially for treks to the hills and mountains.
Poncho
Cheap and provide excellent ventilation from its side opening which is important for humid and tropical climate. It is usually made out of water-proof plastic such as PVC. They are usually large and spacious enough to cover your backpack. Although suitable for treks on flat terrain, it can be cumbersome if the treks involve steep climbs. Poncho may also be used for constructing basha at the campsite.
Breathable rain jacket
Breathable fabric like Gore-tex is designed to allow water vapor from the evaporation of perspiration to escape while preventing liquid water from going through the fabric. Gore-tex jacket are generally very expensive and there are other membrane and fabric that is designed based on the same mechanism. However, breathable rain jacket are still the most expensive common raingear that you can find. Note that these fabric works well in cool or dry climate but does not work as well in the humid tropical rainforest. You will still be wet from perspiration but it still more comfortable than wearing non-breathable rain jacket.
Non-breathable rain coat
These jackets are mainly made out of waterproof PVC. Although they are very effective in keeping out the water, they also keep your perspiration trapped within. They can be very uncomfortable after a while the fabric sticks to your sweat-covered skin. Although cheap, they are generally not recommended for use on a trek.
Water-resistant jacket
Water-resistant jacket or windbreakers are designed to keep out the wind rather than rain water. These are mostly made out of woven polyester fabric. They may be able to keep out light drizzle but rainwater will quickly penetrate through the fabric in a heavy downpour. Nevertheless, they are still good for retaining some heat during the downpour.
Umbrella
Where there is no canopy cover and the trail is wide and non-technical, umbrella works best. Umbrella is also great for moving around at the campsite. Having a small umbrella is recommended for treks in Malaysia and Singapore. This works best in combination with a wind-breaker to keep out the cold wind when it rains heavily.
