Salathe

I have had this bivy for two years and slept in it about 35 nights. This is my primary shelter for 3 season Sierra backcountry trips. The best feature is the large 32" opening flap and the no-see-um netting. Most often I have the flap open to the waist and the bug net zipped. The Tegraltex top works great (although I wouldn't want to spend an extended rainy period in any bivy). No problems with condesation or leaks, even after heavy thunderstorms. I have managed to get several pin-hole leaks in the bottom by camping on pine litter without a ground cloth. The holes were easily fixed with seamgrip. If you can't stand having the fabric very close to your face, you probably won't like the Salathe or any other bivy without a hoop structure.

It's the only true bivy I have used so I can't compare it to others. I can say that I have been very pleased with it as a primary shelter for light alpine climbs and also as a secondary shelter for winter climbs. Plenty of space and several zippers for adequate ventilation.

Tegraltex works great, very little condensation! Spacy yet packs reasonably small. Excellent ventilation possibilities. This sack is definitely suitable for both summer and winter bivouacs.

I have had this for about two years and have used it on some climbing trips. I have been pleased with it so far. It is super comfortable and very adjustable. It can be used in warm weather as you can only zip up the mosquito netting and leave the waterproof section open to vent. In bad weather you can zip up the storm flap very tightly and only leave a small vent to breath out of. It is on the heavy side but that is to be expected given all the features that this bivy sack offers. I have the long and have enough room to throw all my stuff in their with me while I sleep. It is very easy to get into unlike 90% of other bivys I have tried and the flexible wire keeps the fabric off of your face. It takes some practice and getting used to but once you get the hang of it this bivy works very well. I don't bring a tent anymore. For the most part I use this bivy as my primary shelter but always bring a poncho/tarp and some stakes just in case the weather gets seriously bad. I'm confident I could survive a night of horrific mountain weather in this bivy though. I would only use the tarp if I was out in bad weather for multiple days, which isn't often.