Bivis

The Bivouac or Bivi is a minimalist form of shelter that enables the cyclist, biker, mountaineer, backpacker or climber to sleep out in the mountains and remain warm, dry and out of the elements. It is often used as an alternative to a tent because it is so much smaller and lighter, or even where there is not enough room to pitch a tent. Bivis come with or without a pole. Obviously the pole adds weight but does give the user a more comfortable living space in which to read or sleep.

The Vaude Biwak I is a classic flat envelope style bivi. It weighs just 310g and has a pack size of 10 x 25cm. In bright Orange it doubles as an emergency bag for an injured party member or for getting out of bad weather quickly. Ideal for sleeping in on summer nights or in a bothy. It will also add extra insulation to your sleeping and protect it against the elements.

Bivis with poles are like small tents. They give the user some headroom and make the whole experience more pleasurable. The Vaude bivi comes in 2 sizes, the Bivi II can be a better option if you need to secure your kit or keep it inside with you during the night as it has a bigger footprint, 80 x 220 cm. Bivis are generally single skin and as such need to be well ventilated. So look out for mesh inserts that increase airflow. The Vaude Bivi II does have a mesh inner and a flysheet made from 20D Polyamid RS PU/silicone. These can be used together or independently. These will keep out the sun, rain or insects. There are mesh vents at both ends. At 1.24kg it can be pegged and guyed, uses 2 Aluminium 7001 T6 featherlite 8 mm poles to form the head canopy and pitches up to become a very small and convenient living space.