Disposable single-use rain ponchos
They are very cheap and can be bought easily. However the quality usually matches the price. The feel is like that of a garbage bag’s if you can be more careful in using it, you may actually salvage it for use a second time. However it is not really advisable as it may break on your second use. Disposable rain ponchos are more like an emergency rain ponchos. The HAGAN Pro Disposable Rain Ponchos may be an exception because it is made 50% thicker than most disposable rain ponchos in the market, you can probably still use for a second time if you take care of it properly.
Reusable rain ponchos
The quality is way better than the single use rain ponchos. You can reuse it for a long time when properly cared for. We particularly like the Revival Reusable Rain Poncho, it has four steel grommets for easy tie down, this also prevents the poncho from slipping thus keeping it away from punctures and rips.
Multi-purpose rain ponchos
Could be used as a rain poncho, emergency shelter and waterproof ground tarp. The Arcturus Lightweight Ripstop Nylon Poncho is a great example of a multi-purpose rain poncho, it can also be used as a tarp, emergency shelter or a ground cover when needed. At only 5 ounces, this multi-purpose rain poncho comes in a heavy duty bag that can also be repurposed for keeping valuables on unexpected rains.
Military rain ponchos
Usually significantly heavier than regular multi-use rain ponchos. They are heavy duty ponchos that are also multi-purpose.