OR Bivy Dilemma

“I am looking at getting my first bivy and have been attracted to the OR line of bivies. I plan on using this bivy for 3-seasons possibly an occasional winter trip but probably minimal. I have a tarp and plan on using it in conjunction with a bivy. I desire a bug net to minimize contact with ticks in the areas I camp. I don't plan on heading out in the rain, but don't want to go crying home to mom if I do get rained on. I currently have a synthetic sleeping bag but plan on converting to down in the very near future. The temps I plan on staying in may get to near freezing but not often, unless I plan on a winter trip.

Now with all that in mind, I am looking at the OR MicroNight Bivy but am wondering if I should just go for the Aurora and be done with it. Any input from the experienced would be much appreciated, even alternative suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks all in advance.
Dave”

“tell you what... those are both going to be good products. are you sure bivy camping is for you? you might want to borrow one and run it for a few trips before you sink a hundo+ into a bivy. it's not for everyone.”

“Actually that's some great advice. I don't know anybody who has one, but I'll look into renting one for a trip or two.

I do find myself as a fairly utilitarian person and have been able to deal with awkward/different situations in my global travels and this is one reason I'm looking at trying to lighten my load and ditching the tent.

Thanks”

“np and good luck to you

a bivy is usually a COMPONENT of a sleep system and all the parts have to work well together. the term "working well" is highly subjective... :)”

“Hammocks rock (and sway)”

“I have an OR Advanved Bivy & love it! It's kept me dry in the rain, snow and even sleet - I have zero complaints (I also should mention I have a down sleeping bag)

As has been mentioned, Bivy's aren't for everyone, but I love mine & it was the only shelter I carried with me for a few years for 3 season use.”

“Yogi is right, 80% of the bivies on ebay have been used 80% of one night. Many people I've hiked with can't use a mummy bag with hood in a real bivy--just too many things zippers between them and freedom. I use quilts which fit with bibies very well and with separate head gear and no zippers give less straight jacket uncomfort.”

“I quit wanting one after I got a 3# tent.”

“This is the easiest shelter to get in and out of. The single hoop pole provides clear space around your head and shoulders allowing you to move and to read a book. On dry evenings roll the top fabric down to waist level and enjoy bug free stargazing. In wet weather keep the top fabric partially unzipped under the protective eyebrow peak for ventilation. The EXP Unishelter is long and wider enough from hip to foot to accommodate a full length sleeping pad and fully lofted winter sleeping bag, and also has Tegraltex fabric on the foot area.
Please read our warning .


Dimensions
Length 92" (fits to 6ft 6") add US $270.00
Width 33" at shoulders tapering to 22" at foot
Girth 74" at shoulders tapering to 55" at foot
Height: 25" head height at inside top of pole
Weight: 2.5 lbs (1.14 kg) (includes 0.25 lb pole)
Packed Size: 18" long x 5" diameter

Colours: Olive Green
Yellow

I use this, but I think a bivy is best suited to winter camping. I used to use a no-tech Canadian army bivy and prefer it to a tent in winter - breakfast and dinner in a nice warm bed.

Doug”

“OOps, the photo didn't come out. You can Google Integral Designs Unishelter for a good look.”

“to further complicate the issue... I just ran across this one. It is intended for three season use.

http://www.mosquitohammock.com/bivouacsack.html”

“Big REI sale starts Friday, have an OR Alpine Bivy deal..
http://www.rei.com/product/747832”

“I have the OR Deluxe and have used as my only 3 season shelter for years. Rain, hail, wind and freeze it works GREAT.
I love watching the stars and the occasional bear.
My only complaint; you CAN NOT change clothes inside it. 8^)”

“Since you are using it conjunction with a tarp, have you taken a look at the Ptarmegian bivy produced by Titanium Goat? Weighs in at 6-7 oz and costs $90. Add a full bug hood for an extra $20. I'm very pleased with mine, with or without the tarp.
last edited: 5/06/08 1:15:57 PM”

“I have a Black Diamond bivy and very pleased with it. I also have a 3lb Black Diamond Hilight tent and it is very roomy. I'll haul the tent on inclement weather or hikes I need some privacy, but I like the bivy for everything else. On long trips every pound counts I've found. Also it packs smaller. I have a 55-60 mile solo trip planned in utah, so will take the bivy and a tarp that doubles as a poncho. Plenty of alcoves to stay in if weather gets too bad.”

“I'm thinking of getting a silnylon tarp to turn my bivy into a four season job. Any beta on prices?

Doug”