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The Hyperlight Mountain Gear Splash Bivy offers ultralight, durable, and versatile shelter for thru hikers, fastpackers, and backpackers. With waterproof Dyneema construction and breathable eVent upper, it ensures comfort and protection in diverse conditions.
Review: Hyperlight Mountain Gear Splash Bivy – A Minimalist’s Dream for Fastpacking and Thru Hiking
The Hyperlight Mountain Gear Splash Bivy is designed for adventurers who prioritize high mileage days over leisurely camp activities. With a price tag of $250.00, this ultralight bivy aims to provide essential protection and comfort for those who seek to travel light and fast. In this review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, and suitability for various outdoor activities such as thru hiking, fastpacking, and backpacking.
Photo: Hyperlight Mountain Gear
Key Features and Specifications
The Splash Bivy is engineered with the minimalist in mind. Here are some of its standout features:
- Ultralight Design: Weighing in at a mere 5.4 ounces, the Splash Bivy is exceptionally lightweight, making it an ideal choice for ultralight backpackers and fastpackers. Its compact design allows it to be easily packed and carried without adding significant weight to your load.
- Durable Construction: Crafted from 100% waterproof Dyneema Composite Fabrics, the Splash Bivy offers robust protection against the elements. The floor is made from 1.0 oz/yd² Dyneema Composite Fabric with a waterproof rating of 20,000 mm, ensuring you stay dry even in wet conditions.
- Breathable Upper: The upper part of the bivy is constructed from a highly breathable 0.8 oz/yd² Dyneema Composite Fabric with eVent membrane, which helps to minimize condensation inside the bivy. This breathable fabric ensures a comfortable sleeping environment by allowing moisture to escape while keeping rain and wind out.
- Zippered Entry: The Splash Bivy features a full-length zipper that runs along the side, making it easy to get in and out of the bivy. The zipper is also waterproof, adding an extra layer of protection against the elements.
- Versatile Use: Designed to be used on its own on dry nights or paired with an 8 x 10 Flat Tarp or Mid 1 Tarp in wet conditions, the Splash Bivy offers versatility for different weather scenarios. This adaptability makes it a reliable choice for various climates and terrains.
Performance in the Field
To truly understand the value of the Hyperlight Mountain Gear Splash Bivy, it’s essential to consider its performance in real-world conditions. Here’s how it fares in different aspects:
Weather Protection
The Splash Bivy excels in providing basic yet effective protection from the elements. The waterproof Dyneema Composite Fabric floor ensures that moisture from the ground doesn’t seep in, while the breathable eVent upper prevents condensation buildup, keeping you dry and comfortable. When paired with a tarp, it offers comprehensive protection against rain and wind, making it a versatile shelter option for thru hikers and fastpackers.
Breathability and Comfort
One of the standout features of the Splash Bivy is its breathability. The eVent membrane upper allows moisture to escape, significantly reducing condensation issues commonly associated with bivy sacks. This feature is particularly beneficial for those camping in humid or variable weather conditions. The spacious interior provides enough room to accommodate a sleeping pad and a lightweight sleeping bag, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep.
Ease of Use
Setting up the Splash Bivy is straightforward, thanks to its simple design. The full-length zipper makes it easy to enter and exit the bivy, even in the middle of the night. The lightweight and compact nature of the bivy means it can be quickly deployed or packed away, ideal for those who need to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time.
Durability
Hyperlight Mountain Gear is known for its high-quality, durable products, and the Splash Bivy is no exception. The Dyneema Composite Fabric used in its construction is not only waterproof but also highly resistant to abrasion and tears. This durability ensures that the bivy can withstand the rigors of long-distance hiking and fastpacking trips.
Versatility
The ability to use the Splash Bivy on its own during dry nights or pair it with a tarp in wet conditions makes it a versatile addition to any ultralight sleep system. This flexibility allows hikers to adapt to changing weather conditions without carrying multiple pieces of heavy gear.
Who Is the Splash Bivy For?
The Splash Bivy is specifically designed for thru hikers, fastpackers, and backpackers who value high mileage days over extended periods of camp time. It is ideal for those who:
- Seek Ultralight Gear: At just 5.4 ounces, the Splash Bivy is perfect for those who want to minimize their pack weight.
- Travel in Varied Weather Conditions: Its waterproof and breathable construction makes it suitable for use in a wide range of climates.
- Prefer Versatile Shelters: The ability to use the bivy alone or with a tarp adds to its versatility.
Conclusion
The Hyperlight Mountain Gear Splash Bivy stands out as a top choice for ultralight enthusiasts who prioritize performance, durability, and versatility. Its lightweight design, coupled with its excellent weather protection and breathability, makes it a reliable companion for thru hikers, fastpackers, and backpackers aiming for high mileage days. At $250.00, it represents a worthwhile investment for those looking to enhance their outdoor sleep system with a minimalist yet highly functional shelter.
In summary, the Splash Bivy offers a perfect blend of protection, comfort, and portability, making it an excellent addition to any ultralight backpacking kit. Whether you’re tackling long-distance trails or embarking on fastpacking adventures, this bivy is designed to meet the demands of serious hikers who don’t want to compromise on quality or performance.
Get the Hyperlight Mountain Gear Splash Bivy
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