I don't see why pvc wouldn't work as well, but it's not flexible so the design would have to be very well executed. Not sure what configuration that you are planning. Have you looked at the tubing (hose) in the plumbing section that is sold by the foot? While it's not specifically marketed for ponding, we have some black rubber tubing that I believe is 1.25 that has been in use outdoors for 12 years with no leakage issues. It reminds me of the hose used for auto cooling systems and it's quite flexible. We have replaced the clamps several times in that time period because they get rusty and can't be loosened if needed. The price was amazingly low and in this case I don't think that more expensive provides that much higher quality.