SOL Escape Bivy and Down Top Quilt Combo?

**MBennett** · 03-08-2015, 22:03

I was wondering if anyone has used a bivy like the SOL escape bivy with a down TQ. The SOL Escape Bivy is a metalized olefin material that is water resistant and a wind-proof breathable bivy. I bought one for use with my cheap synthetic sleeping bag a long time ago for cold, windy weather. It seemed to work great for it, but I'm afraid that it may be overkill with my new 2.5" loft overstuffed down UQ, (namely the JrB Sierra Sniveller). I didn't know if anyone else has had any experience with the like??? I'm new to down TQs,

**genixia** · 03-08-2015, 22:58

I own one, but haven't needed to use it.

I suspect it would be noisy and annoying, although it might have its uses. One thing to be aware of, is that it will only breathe well if it is warm, ie inside the down. If it is cold, ie outside the down, then it will act as a cold condensing surface and the resulting condensation could find its way back into the down, thus reducing the down's effectiveness. Metallized bivvies are designed to reflect radiant heat, and they can do that at a distance. If I were to use one outside my quilts, I would configure it like a hammock sock over my ridgeline. It would reflect some radiant heat and help to block wind, creating a microcosm much like a hammock sock or tarp and underquilt protector combination do. Probably good for about 10 degrees extra warmth. I would ensure that it was well ventilated though

**Brain3278** · 03-10-2015, 07:57

I've thought of getting the double bivy, but yeah I'm worried it would be noisy and moisture would probably be an issue. I figure with a decent sleeping bag and the SOL bivy would be a good lightweight addition to the emergency car pack.

**MBennett** · 03-10-2015, 10:19

The SOL Escape bivy is not anything close to the cheap "survival blanket" Mylar ones. These are spun olefin material, (Tyvek), with a metalized coating on the inside. The coating is a dull matte silver instead of shiny. They are extremely soft and plyable and have no crinkly sound. It's quieter than my silnylon tarp.

These are also designed to be extremely breathable, with videos demonstrating someone placing steam from a kettle inside, without any sign of condensation The vid showed a side by side comparison to the lesser Mylar bivys which had considerable condensation. I've used it fine with a synthetic sleeping bad in the hammock, but I was just wondering if anyone else has used these exact bivys with down with any issues. I know down has many drawbacks with moisture and was curious if the breathable aspect of this would be enough to keep the down dry.

**Brain3278** · 03-10-2015, 10:28

Wow, interesting. Thanks for the additional info.

**ironfish77** · 03-10-2015, 10:39

I have not used my Super Deluxe Sol Bivvy, it is just hanging in with the Emergency Kit, taking up space. I keep meaning to try it out, just so I will know if it works when needed.

**Brain3278** · 03-10-2015, 13:06

How much did the Super Deluxe Sol Bivvy run? will it fit two people?

Could be a good option to go over a ridge line and under the hammock (pea pod style). It would get it off your face. Wonder how cold you could go with a setup like that.