It depends. How long is your commute? Do you change at work or wear your work clothes on the bike? I have a short commute, but I wear waterproof boots for the ride and change shoes at work. Other than that, I wear rain gear. I've not used a poncho -- I wear a raincoat, but I love my full-zip waterproof pants. They are really easy to take off at the office. I did have a small problem with the seams, but I assume that is because they weren't made (or purchased) for riding. I use them camping and for winter sports. I bought some waterproof seam tape, and it worked great.