: Well, let's put it this way ... nobody in their right
: mind would open a day-hatch (or any hatches for that matter) if the
: conditions are not warranted; CONVERSELY, I only reach for my pricey and

Those lousy conditions is exactly what some wish a day hatch for. But what you're using yours for is different and equally valid.

An alternate to bring both worlds together would be to put a small hatch right on top of this ass'y. Then you get the good internal shape, the waterproof internal access, or access the hatch from above w/o removing the skirt and still get the performance.

Obviously under dire conditions, the hatch inside might get wet. If this is foreseen, maybe just inset a drybag or sealed hatch sock(the idea is a flexible pouch that accomodates stuff below as well). Then get the water proof inside hatch always (use under ok conditions) as well as an accessible but not compromising day hatch. If the unthinkable happens and the sock is punctured, you still don't compromise the yak.

-mick