Outdoor Research Helium Bivy Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Outdoor Research
Outdoor Research Helium Bivy
Best for: Solo adventures, bikepacking, and ultralight thru-hiking.
Snugpak
Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent
Best for: Best for solo stealth camping and backpacking.
Our Take
Both are bivy tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
The Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent is noticeably taller inside (2'7" peak height versus 1'8"), giving you more headroom to move around.
On scores, the Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent edges ahead — 7.9 overall versus 7.4.
The biggest gap is weather resistance, where the Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent holds a clear advantage.
The Outdoor Research Helium Bivy also has a price edge — $74 less at $225 versus $299.
For most buyers, the Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent is the stronger all-round pick — but check the full specs below before deciding.
🏆 Our pick: The Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent scores higher overall.
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
Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent
- Low wind-shedding profile
- 5000mm waterproof fly
- Roomy 94-inch length
- Zero sitting headroom
- Requires 14+ stakes
Full Specs
| Spec | Outdoor Research Helium Bivy | Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Bivy, Backpacking | Bivy, Backpacking |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 4 Season |
| Est. Price | $225 | $299 |
| Weight | 15.8 Oz | 3.9 Lbs |
| Min Trail Weight | 14.5oz | 2.64 Lbs |
| Floor Area | 14.0 ft² | 22.9 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | None | No Vestibule |
| Peak Height | 20 | 31 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 82 X 26 | 94 X 35 In |
| Pole Material | Shockcorded Delrin® Pole | Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | 100% Nylon 40D With TPU Lamination Floor | — |
| Rainfly Fabric | — | 210t Polyester Rip Stop With 5000mm Waterproof Polyurethane |
| Packed Size | 3.5 X 12.25 | 19.17 X 5.79 X 5.51 Inches |
| Setup Time | 2 Mins | 5 Mins |
| Warranty | Infinite Guarantee (Limited Lifetime) | Limited Lifetime |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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