And now a defense of the rectangular pattern!

My last flight a few days ago went from calm air (I was flying hands free) to a big fat 90 degree crosswind for landing in about forty minutes or so. The change was quick enough that the AWOS couldn't keep up with it.

Anyhow, I knew something was up - the air just felt different - and extended my pattern out to the typical rectangle (ish). So when the air is poopy or at an angle, the rectangle gives one a bit more time to adjust.

But in calmer winds I'll stick to my half circle.