Like the North Face Bivy Sack, the Wild Things is made entirely of waterproof/breathable fabric. The similarities end there. Primarily, the Wild Things is, at $199, a much better value than the $325 North Face version. No doubt part of the savings is due to the Wild-Tex fabric, which, as far as we could tell, works like Gore-Tex but costs far less.

Wild Things All Simpa-Tex Bivy Sack

Other features include removable mosquito netting and a 22-inch Spectra tie-in loop that lets you stay anchored without actually bringing the end of the rope (which wicks water straight into your sleeping bag) inside the bivy sack. This is a nice extra that will be appreciated by anyone camped on a sloping ledge perched thousands of feet above the ground.

The only thing we didn't like about this sack was the zippers, which can completely detach when opened all the way and are difficult to recouple in the dark or cold. Minor details aside, the test crew found the Wild Things Bivy to be one of the best-made sacks with the best value.

Weight: 1 lb, 13 oz.
Price: $199
Weatherproofness: 3
Claustrophobia factor: 3
Comparative Ratings Chart

For more information: Call Wild Things at (603) 356-6907 or visit http://www.wildthingsgear.com.

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