Poncho Origins and Uses

Colorful Andean ponchos displayed at Mercado Artesanal de Pisac.

Ponchos have been worn by Native peoples since pre-Hispanic times.

Ponchos have been used since pre-Hispanic times in many American regions.

Ponchos are a large fabric sheet with a hole for head.

Many ponchos have attached hoods to protect wearers from wind or rain.

Traditional ponchos differ by region across South America and Mexico.

Argentina’s Salta province has a famous poncho design shown on its flag.

U.S. military began using waterproof ponchos regularly in the 1850s.

Ponchos improved in World War II with lighter fabrics and drawstring hoods.

Military and hikers use ponchos to make shelters and sleeping mats.

Mapuche ponchos once traded for horses and kilos of yerba mate.

Clint Eastwood’s poncho created a memorable Western film character look.

Ponchos blend warm tradition with practical and fashion uses today.