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GORP Tested: Bivouac Sacks
The North Face Climbers Bivy

The North Face Climbers Bivy is the only sack we tested that's 100 percent Gore-Tex top and bottom, which effectively eliminated the condensation problem common to other bivy sacks that use coated nylon on their bottom half. The Climbers Bivy is cut trim, but not so tight as the L.L. Bean.

Sacked out in the North Face Climbers Bivy Sack
Sacked out in the North Face Climbers Bivy Sack

Numerous zippers make a half horseshoe, going from the right hip up to the left side of the head. A double storm flap covers most of the zipper, but reverts to a single flap at the head, where it leaks. Another serious problem: no mosquito netting.

Nevertheless, Ron and Nick made this bivy one of their top three picks, although neither was willing to cough up the $325 to purchase it.

Weight: 1 lb, 8 oz.
Price: $325
Weatherproofness: 3
Claustrophobia factor: 3
Comparative Ratings Chart

For more information: Call The North Face at (800) 447-2333 or visit http://www.thenorthface.com.


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Article © Paul Cleveland, 2000. Photo © Paul Cleveland, 2000.



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