In addition to Tarptent, Six Moon Designs, Lightheart Gear, ZPacks are probably the best known of the small or "cotttage" tent manufacturers who give excellent service and produce high quality lightweight tents. Most of the solo offerings from these companies weigh less than 2 pounds--many 1.5 lbs.--and have more space inside than solo tents made by the big-time gear makers. Of course if you have the budget for cuben fiber, you can get a roomy solo tent weighing less than one pound.

There are two types of bivies: the waterproof, stand-alone type, and the durable water repellent (DWR) type designed to be used under a tarp. The first type is about the same weight as a lightweight tent and is prone to condensation inside because it's waterproof. It's also almost impossible to get in and out of while it's raining without getting the inside wet. The DWR type is much lighter but is not waterproof; it's designed to repel splash and the occasional gust of horizontal rain that can occur when under a tarp.

It used to be that the waterproof, stand-alone bivy was the lightest thing around, but not since the advent of silicone-impregnated nylon (silnylon) tents. Now the stand-alone bivy is often the heavier. It's mainly used by climbers who often don't have space to pitch a tent.


Edited by OregonMouse (04/08/13 04:51 PM)
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May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view--E. Abbey