5 TO CHOOSE FROM...
Decathlon Forclaz Waterproof Trekking Bag Cover £40
More of a protective shell for your sleeping bag than a bivvy, Decathlon’s offering is nonetheless waterproof, breathable and tough. The face opening can be cinched with a cord, but not closed entirely, so this bag is best suited to use with a tarp or as a protective cover when sleeping in a bothy or cave. ■ Weight: 400g
■ Length: 225cm
■ Width: 70cm (shoulder) ■ Packed size: 18x25cm Highlander Hawk Bivvy Bag £76
A standard-looking bivvy bag, the Hawk has some useful features. The panel over the face is supported by a wire frame to keep it in shape and both a solid waterproof panel and a mesh ventilation panel are provided – simply zip one out and attach the other in its place. The fabric has a HH rating of 5k and feels reassuringly tough.
■ Weight: 810g
■ Length: 250cm
■ Width: 90cm (shoulder) ■ Packed size: 12x29cm Alpkit Elan £110
The Elan has two crisscrossing poles to lift the canopy over the face. There’s no pole at the foot end, but a webbing loop allows it to be tied to a tree or trekking pole, lifting the footbox off your feet. There are mesh ventilation panels, storage pockets, and the 10k HH and 6.5k MVTR figures are good enough for all but the most challenging conditions. ■ Weight: 900g
■ Length: 225cm
■ Width: 77cm (shoulder) ■ Height: 45cm
■ Packed size: 11x39cm Outdoor Research Helium Bivy £225
This lightweight shelter can be used with or without the pole, for space/weight saving. The Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse fabric is highly waterproof and breathable (although specific figures aren’t given), while the clamshell opening (with mesh panel) makes it easy to access.
■ Weight: 448g/400g with/without pole ■ Length: 208cm
■ Width: 66cm (shoulder) ■ Height: 50cm
■ Packed size: 9x31cm Rab Ridge Raider Bivi £350
The Ridge Raider uses a hooped pole to create head space and another short, upright pole at the foot end, so it’s spacious. With an HH of 15k and an MVTR of 20k the Pertex Shield Air fabric offers impressive waterproofing and breathability. The zipped entry provides easy access and has a mosquito mesh door. ■ Weight: 890g
■ Length: 240cm
■ Width: 80cm (shoulder) ■ Height: 60cm
■ Packed size: 15x32cm