Just a thought - Is the poncho now going to be rain gear and shelter? It's possible that if you need one, you may need the other, and the poncho can't be both at the same time
Actually, it can be - the Gatewood Shelter
http://www.hikelight.com/six-moon-designs-gatewood-cape.htmlI have no personal experience with this rig, but one of these days.... I have used a standard poncho for both rain gear and shelter and it can require rapid contortions.
NICE!! I don't think I'm that limber.
I'm reminded of an episode of Man Vs Wild (I know! I know!) when BG tried to make a shelter and fire in freezing conditions - (Iceland, maybe?) high cold winds, rain... can't remember the details, but it was totally a staged lab experiment. The point was that he needed to be wearing his rain gear while making his shelter and fire, and he failed on all. It's an episode that's stuck with me since backpackboy and I were caught in a similar situation a few years ago. (Not as bad, but just as urgent as a parent.) Two ponchos or one and a tarp for me now.... One to wear and one to build a shelter out of. Know your environment, I guess.