For something completely different, and more in the HTFU category of camping equipment :
Old East German army surplus tent quarters :
Not overly lightweight, but they are tough as nails, made of a heavy canvas material and serve a multitude of purposes. Just big enough for 1 person as a tent (6 foot x 6 foot), but they can be buttoned together to form 2, 3, or 4 man tents with just enough room to squeeze in.
They can also be configured as a rain poncho to wear whilst walking about or riding, as this has a closeable head-flap and draw cords built in to close up the poncho around your waist. They are quite good at keeping the frost out - as they were issued for field use in Eastern Europe. Totally 100% windproof as well.
Bit difficult to find these days though - Id recommend US suppliers, but be careful with postage rates if you do find a 'bargain'.
Bit on the bulky side compared to the plastic 'hootchies' that we are issued with in the Australian army. The german models roll up and are strapped to the outside of the tiny backpack, so the whole package of backpack + tent is compact and easy to wear on the move. The backpack that usually comes with them is lined with a heavy vinyl material, and can be submerged completely whilst keeping the contents 90% dry (bit of water does leak in through the flap during a river crossing .. I know this the hard way)
I do remember one particularly bad night in the border ranges, pitching a hootchie on a 25% slope of pure mud in torrential rain, and having to 'sleep' with my webbing on tied to a tree so I didnt roll down the hill during the night. I didnt exactly sleep properly that night, but I was still half dry when it came time to stand to. Hmmm ... Fact is, if it is raining, then you are going to get wet at some stage, most important thing is to have a reserve of dry clothes stashed away deep in your pack.
