Do you REALLY need a bivy with a poncho tarp?

Anything less than an 8×10(or 9×9) could be cramped when pitched in storm mode.

You can't even sit up in an 8×10 if you have it in a tight a-frame or flying diamond.

Another thing to consider, a cat tarp makes for a less floppy/flapping pitch, but at the cost of flexibility. People tend to only pitch cat tarps in a-frame mode, but sometimes a flying diamond, half pyramid or other pitch may be more appropriate for the site location.

I'm split on which I prefer:-(

"I looked at the Emphiany, it certainly is a work of art, but comes at a price. I figured my JRB quilt, while heavier, still replaces a down sweater, but then u have to add in a bivy or a slightly larger tarp. I don't see a clear weight winner between the two, but I've never dealt with VPL-type stuff, and if I don't have to get used to it, I guess I won't.

8 x 10 would be a monstrously wonderful tarp, but I'm wondering if I can get away w/ smaller."

My Nano tarp plus Marmott Essence are (5.1 + 6.7) = 11.8 oz

Generally I would rather hike in rain with the jacket, and wet pants are not a big deal. But when in the cold freezing rain alternating with snow, the poncho wins hands down unless traveling is brushy terrain.

Now if Ron Moak were to make a cuben Gatewood cape, I would probably snap it up in a heartbeat.