Originally submitted at REI
Leave the heavy tent behind! With its waterproof, breathable design and meticulous details, the REI Minimalist Bivy sack is perfect for use in snow caves and as an ultralight shelter .
Buy the larger one
By Alexinawe from Redding, CA on 5/31/2011
Pros: Lightweight, Packs Small, Easy To SetupCons: Too Cramped
Best Uses: Backpacking, Mountaineering, Hiking
Describe Yourself: Avid Adventurer
Was this a gift?: No
First of all, buy the larger one. I bought this online and the specs said it had an 82in length. I haven't measured it but when I lay down in it, I fill the bag.. I'm 69 inches tall and 145lbs with a 30 inch waist.. And there's no hood btw, so if you're in the rain, you have to fold over the hood (one "clasp" included, should have had at least two or three). Then when you do that, you're really fitting in snug and you don't have any room. I've found that if you encounter rain, the best thing to do is clasp the "hood" and then roll the bivy on it's side, that way rain won't come in and you can breathe through the vent. It's actually pretty comfortable.
There is some extra space on the sides of the bivy, maybe for your boots, a change of clothes for the morning, not much else. You're going to have to find something else for your bag/gear.
Waterproofing is good, didn't notice any leaks. About the condensation thing, if you lay like I do, mouth facing the bug vent, the moisture from your breath will escape. To the people saying that their bags are soaked.. I'd wager your sleeping bag is rated too low for your conditions (remember the bivy adds extra warmth too) and you are probably sweating in your sleep. Try picking up a "woobie" aka wet weather poncho liner from your local military store and use it while laying on top of your opened bag). You'll sleep much better in warmer weather and you can use it to line your sleeping bag in colder weather.
All in all the bivy is good for the money, but I would highly recommend going for the larger sack even if you're average or shorter height than me. The extra space/room will be worth it, believe me. if you have more money, invest in something better, but if you don't want to spend too much, get this one, it's worth it.
There is some extra space on the sides of the bivy, maybe for your boots, a change of clothes for the morning, not much else. You're going to have to find something else for your bag/gear.
Waterproofing is good, didn't notice any leaks. About the condensation thing, if you lay like I do, mouth facing the bug vent, the moisture from your breath will escape. To the people saying that their bags are soaked.. I'd wager your sleeping bag is rated too low for your conditions (remember the bivy adds extra warmth too) and you are probably sweating in your sleep. Try picking up a "woobie" aka wet weather poncho liner from your local military store and use it while laying on top of your opened bag). You'll sleep much better in warmer weather and you can use it to line your sleeping bag in colder weather.
All in all the bivy is good for the money, but I would highly recommend going for the larger sack even if you're average or shorter height than me. The extra space/room will be worth it, believe me. if you have more money, invest in something better, but if you don't want to spend too much, get this one, it's worth it.
(legalese)
