The U.S. G.I. military poncho liner, or “woobie,” has long been regarded by soldiers as an indispensable piece of kit—essential for making it through a watch, or the entire night, in relative comfort—but an overly simplistic design limits its utility. So, oftentimes, users have sought out seamstresses to modify their cherished woobies into more adaptable designs.
That’s no longer necessary given the patented Swagman Roll Poncho from Helikon-Tex. A modern take on the perennial classic, it incorporates several simple upgrades that promise far more versatility than a simple blanket. Like the woobie, it can be attached to the underside of a G.I. poncho—in this case, by simply passing sewn-in toggles at each corner through the outer layer’s corresponding grommets—but, unlike the woobie, it features a head hole with a built-in drawstring hood and a perimeter YKK zipper that facilitates its use as a light parka or sleeping bag, respectively.
Other features include an admin pouch and a large, YKK-zippered pocket on the front into which the entire poncho can be stuffed. The Swagman Roll Poncho measures 57"x 78", and its DWR-treated WindPack nylon and Climashield Apex insulation ensure both moisture resistance and heat retention while resulting in a modest weight of 1 lb., 10 ozs., and a compact size of 7"x12" when stuffed into the included storage sack.
Whether for emergency use in a vehicle, as backup during tree-stand hunts or ball games, or as essential gear in a bug-out or get-home bag, the Swagman Roll Poncho could just be the last word in woobies. A wide range of 18 colors is available, including orange, black, four shades of green and five camouflage patterns.
MSRP is $130. For more information, visit helikon-tex.us.
