Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Sierra Designs
Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy
Best for: Lightweight minimalist shelter for backcountry adventures.
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 10"), 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 Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy also has a price edge — $129 less at $169 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
Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy
- Large U-shaped entry
- Integrated bug netting
- Tapered weight-saving cut
- Heavy footbox condensation
- Leaky non-sealed zippers
Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent
- Low wind-shedding profile
- 5000mm waterproof fly
- Roomy 94-inch length
- Zero sitting headroom
- Requires 14+ stakes
Full Specs
| Spec | Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy | Snugpak Ionosphere Bivy Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Bivy, Backpacking | Bivy, Backpacking |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 4 Season | 4 Season |
| Est. Price | $170 | $299 |
| Weight | 0.9 Lbs | 3.9 Lbs |
| Min Trail Weight | — | 2.64 Lbs |
| Floor Area | 16.7 ft² | 22.9 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | — | No Vestibule |
| Peak Height | 10 | 31 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | — | 94 X 35 In |
| Pole Material | — | Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | 30D Nylon Ripstop | — |
| Rainfly Fabric | — | 210t Polyester Rip Stop With 5000mm Waterproof Polyurethane |
| Packed Size | 11.69 X 7.05 X 3.94 Inches | 19.17 X 5.79 X 5.51 Inches |
| Setup Time | 1 Min | 5 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty | Limited Lifetime |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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