Outdoor Research Helium Bivy Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack
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 Stratosphere Bivy Sack
Best for: Best for lightweight, minimalist stealth camping.
Our Take
Both are bivy tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
The Outdoor Research Helium Bivy and the Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack are remarkably well-matched, both scoring 7.4 overall.
The biggest gap is space and comfort, where the Outdoor Research Helium Bivy holds a clear advantage.
The Outdoor Research Helium Bivy also has a price edge — $24 less at $225 versus $249.
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
Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack
- Two-pole hooped head area
- Fast 2-minute setup time
- Compact 1.5-liter pack size
- Poor breathability
- Heavy for bivy
Full Specs
| Spec | Outdoor Research Helium Bivy | Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Bivy, Backpacking | Bivy, Backpacking |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 4 Season |
| Est. Price | $225 | $249 |
| Weight | 15.8 Oz | 2.5 Lbs |
| Min Trail Weight | 14.5oz | — |
| Floor Area | 14.0 ft² | 18.9 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | None | — |
| Peak Height | 20 | 20 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 82 X 26 | 39.3 W X 12 L |
| Pole Material | Shockcorded Delrin® Pole | Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | 100% Nylon 40D With TPU Lamination Floor | 210t Nylon With 8000 Millimeter Waterproof Polyurethane Coating |
| Rainfly Fabric | — | 50D Nylon Rip Stop With 5000 Millimeter Waterproof Polyurethane Coating |
| Packed Size | 3.5 X 12.25 | 12.91 X 5.2 X 5.08 Inches |
| Setup Time | 2 Mins | 5 Mins |
| Warranty | Infinite Guarantee (Limited Lifetime) | 1 Year |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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