RainDek Long Parka-My Review

I got my Raindek Long Parka, by Kinetic Balance in the middle of July, and we were suffering a heat wave. So not what I was needing then! I purchased it from Custom Propel at Naidex (a disability exhibition) after being interested in the product for a while.

What is a Raindek Long Parka?

A Raindek Long Parka is a warm and waterproof cover/jacket for wheelchair user’s legs. Perfect for going out in the winter, or getting caught in the rain.

What Do I Think of the RainDek Long Parka?

I love it. Instead of needing blankets and plastic capes, it looks smart and sophisticated. The first time I wore it a stranger commented on it in a positive way, mentioning that their niece who is a wheelchair user could do with one!

Does it Keep you Warm and Dry?

Absolutely! I have certainly tested the Raindek Long Parka to extreme limits, being out in torrential rain a couple of times. And I mean torrential! It kept both my legs and my wheelchair cushion completely dry, so is definitely waterproof!

In terms of warmth, it has kept me nice and warm, much warmer than just a blanket which is what I previously used when going out. It is filled with thermolite FL-3E.

I like the fact that there is a bit that goes around the back of your legs, to keep them warm and dry. 

People often forget that when you are sitting you get colder. I particularly find my legs get colder, and soaked when it rains, as their position is at 90 degrees so act like a tray as such, collecting or absorbing all the rain that falls down.

Other Handy Points

The Parka can fold in on itself, so it can be carried easily and is ideal to hang on the back of your wheelchair. It is also very lightweight, which is positive both if you can’t tolerate heavy weights on your legs, and when carrying it around. 

There is a zip pocket at the front of the cover. The Raindek Long Parka comes with three loops to go on each zip to make it easier to open the pocket, and zip the panel up that goes around the back of your calves.

Getting it on and Off

I chose the Raindek Long Parka as I could get it on and off more independently than another style. I was surprised, it was easier than I expected it to be to zip up the panel that goes behind your calves.

There are straps you can put around the back of your wheelchair. Personally, I find mine stays in position without, but maybe essential for an active manual wheelchair user.

Size and Options

I am 6ft 1 and a L/XL fits me. I would say it comes up a bit small, so if you are debating between sizes, go for the bigger one.

It is available in several colours. I chose black to go with my coat and not stand out so much. Plus, black goes with everything!

Price and Quality

Price wise it is quite expensive at around £125. However, it is good quality, it feels well made and like it will last.

Would I Recommend the RainDek Long Parka to Others?

Yes, definitely. I am not sure how I have managed to be a wheelchair user for 13 years or so and not have one. Well, that isn’t quite true. When I was a fairly new wheelchair user my Mum bought me this awful, geriatric style full body cover. To say I was not impressed is an understatement. From the moment she produced it, I swore that I would never wear it, and I never did. I would rather get wet, or use plastic capes like you get at theme parks over my lap and legs.

I actually sold the full body cover, as it was brand new and still boxed not so long ago, the person who bought it said it was for their teenager. Who immediately I felt guilty for, that this outfit was now going to be imposed on them.

The Raindek Long Parka is not geriatric or disabling. They have clearly thought about their user and the fact that not all disabled people are old.

Hannah x

I was given a very small discount on purchasing this product for producing a blog post review. This review is my honest opinion of the product.

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