Outdoor Research Helium Bivy Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Outdoor Research
Outdoor Research Helium Bivy
Best for: Solo adventures, bikepacking, and ultralight thru-hiking.
Sierra Designs
Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy
Best for: Lightweight minimalist shelter for backcountry adventures.
Our Take
Both are bivy tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
The Outdoor Research Helium Bivy is noticeably taller inside (1'8" peak height versus 10"), giving you more headroom to move around.
The Outdoor Research Helium Bivy and the Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy are remarkably well-matched, both scoring 7.4 overall.
The Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy also has a price edge — $55 less at $169 versus $225.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
Outdoor Research Helium Bivy
- Sub-one-pound ultralight build
- Integrated no-see-um mesh
- High-volume tapered footbox
- Heavy condensation issues
- Cramped interior space
Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy
- Large U-shaped entry
- Integrated bug netting
- Tapered weight-saving cut
- Heavy footbox condensation
- Leaky non-sealed zippers
Full Specs
| Spec | Outdoor Research Helium Bivy | Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Bivy, Backpacking | Bivy, Backpacking |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 4 Season |
| Est. Price | $225 | $170 |
| Weight | 15.8 Oz | 0.9 Lbs |
| Min Trail Weight | 14.5oz | — |
| Floor Area | 14.0 ft² | 16.7 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | None | — |
| Peak Height | 20 | 10 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 82 X 26 | — |
| Pole Material | Shockcorded Delrin® Pole | — |
| Floor Fabric | 100% Nylon 40D With TPU Lamination Floor | 30D Nylon Ripstop |
| Packed Size | 3.5 X 12.25 | 11.69 X 7.05 X 3.94 Inches |
| Setup Time | 2 Mins | 1 Min |
| Warranty | Infinite Guarantee (Limited Lifetime) | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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