The Spanish word “poncho” likely came from the Quechua word “punchu” or similar words in other languages spoken nearby. While other cultures to the North may have adopted this look (eg, the more famous Mexican Poncho!), a visit to the hills around Cusco and the Sacred Valley makes it abundantly clear that the poncho is as native to Peru as the alpaca. 

This Mayu Poncho in River and Slate (coming soon) were inspired by the Peruvian Paso horse riding tradition as well as the Gaucho cowboys of Argentina. It suits even the coldest climates, after centuries of refinement in the harsh Andean highlands.