im in Kansas so maybe my experience with ponchos is different. but about a week ago I wore one in some nasty wind/rain where the rain was going horizontal and I was regretting not having some goggles or something, but the poncho kept my torso relatively dry/warm but my arms were exposed and by the end of my 7 mile commute that had 50+ mph head winds my arms were cold. but on the non windy days in the rain the poncho has been good and if ya get flying at a good clip you might think your superman with the poncho flapping in the wind behind ya. but ive started lookin for a better rain jacket I still have the poncho for the emergency rain gear but id like something alittle better for future rides.