Stephen:

I own one of the Gen 1 Ecotats. Nice but of kit but, like anything that tries to do many things at once, it is a compromise. Huge in poncho mode, awkward to put on in greatcoat/anorak mode, and hot as heck in bivy mode. If you put in the mosquito screen for "hot" mode, you can not have it like that when it rains - you will get wet. And you MUST practice with it beforehand in order to get good at using it - there are more buttons, snaps, pockets and zippers than you can believe.

Having said al of that, I still use mine, as I have found no better item like it. It is built like Fort Knox, and will still give great service even after many abuses. If you are in the service and in the field, get one. If you are in an A status unit, ask your supply people if they can get out one - they are in the System, and have an NSN number.

Hope this helps!

.....CLIFF