Description A value-oriented bivy choice for use where exposure to wet conditions is minimal: inside a tent, a snowcave, or in the desert. Conduit SL(TM)/nylon ripstop laminate upper is water-resistant, windpr...
Summary: This is part of my ultra light gear.
I have 3 kits for every season.
A Ultralight
A Midweight
A Heavyweight
The bag is great for my purpose.
It weighs only about a pound.
It packs down to about the size of two fists.
Keep in mind using a bivy takes knowledge.
A expert, no matter how cold will never cover the face with a bivy. Covering the mouth and nose within the bivy causes the bivy to be soaked from the humidity from the mouth. Over a liter of water is breathed out during the night.
I used it over 3 nights in weather 15 degrees F on top of snow, sometimes snowing. About 600 feet above sea level. Keep the know from accumulating, because snow will prevent the bag from breathing.
I was dry. No condensation on the inside of the bivy. All down sleeping bags will absorb and retain some body moisture. My bag was no exception. Synthetic bags have come a long way and is recommended for prolonged stays. Synthetics absorb far less water and dry much faster. Its highly recommended for use with bivys longer then 3 days.
The conduit proved to be great for ultralight backpacking, but its not as strong as a three layer Gortex, which weighs much more. I tore the conduit when my sleeping bag zipper got tangled in it and I had to tear it lose. It was easily repaired with a McNett Goretex repair kit, almost good as new.
The side zippers are welcomed additions to modern bivys. Its great for ventilating as well as entry/exit.
One bad thing... the volume inside the bivy is a bit small. A 20 degree bag with a winter mat just fits inside. Anything larger would be snug.
I recommend using this with a poncho tarp to cover the face. A poncho in a A frame configuration would work great.
Customer Service: Never had a problem with returning/exchanging damaged/defective goods with MH.
Similar Products Used: I also have Outdoor Research's Advanced Bivy, which is much heavier.
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Summary: I have only used this bivy twice in the 2 years I've owned it. First time was in a light/misty rain storm- my bag got soaked, but not from the rain, from my own perspiration. Second time was in a tent, in winter; bag was frozen due to cold temps and perspiration. Since I have a down bag, this becomes problematic.
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Reviewed by: Romania(Unregistered User)
,
Backpacker
, from Phoenix, AZ
Price Paid:
$105.00
at REI
Summary: I have been using this bivy for a little over a year. This basic design is perfect for most of the conditions I find in Arizona, but in wetter conditions I have been rigging a simple tarp to protect my head and face from the wind and rain. I have had no problems with the durablity of this bag. With the exception of some condinsation at times, the bivy has kept me dry in the worst downpours. If you are looking for a lightweight bare bones bivy that is reliable, this is it. If you are looking for complete protection from wet and bugs you may consider a bivy with a closure around the face (i.e. OR's Advanced Bivy)
Similar Products Used: O.R. Advanced Bivy, TNF (unknown model)
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Reviewed by: soupyelodea(Unregistered User)
,
Backpacker
, from Santa Fe, NM, USA
Price Paid:
$50.00
at Local Pro-deal
Summary: I use this bivy along with a Mountain Hardwear bag upgrade and an REI mummy bag. It's a terrific combination. The Conduit SL really keeps the chill off in the winter and breathes well with one notable exception: the sides. After a night out in sub-freezing temperatures, the bivy transports most moisture out but I still had ice buildup around the zipper and on the opposite side. The stackable zipper option is a cool feature but it requires you to buy Mountain Hardwear bags to really get the full use of.
I wouldn't hesitate to use this in place of a tent during the warmer months. Very compact and about as light as a loaf of bread.
Customer Service: N/A
Similar Products Used: generic tarp
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