Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack
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 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 Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack is noticeably taller inside (1'8" peak height versus 10"), giving you more headroom to move around.
The Sierra Designs Backcountry 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 Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy holds a clear advantage.
The Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy also has a price edge — $79 less at $169 versus $249.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
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 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 | Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy | Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Bivy, Backpacking | Bivy, Backpacking |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 4 Season | 4 Season |
| Est. Price | $170 | $249 |
| Weight | 0.9 Lbs | 2.5 Lbs |
| Floor Area | 16.7 ft² | 18.9 ft² |
| Peak Height | 10 | 20 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | — | 39.3 W X 12 L |
| Pole Material | — | Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | 30D Nylon Ripstop | 210t Nylon With 8000 Millimeter Waterproof Polyurethane Coating |
| Rainfly Fabric | — | 50D Nylon Rip Stop With 5000 Millimeter Waterproof Polyurethane Coating |
| Packed Size | 11.69 X 7.05 X 3.94 Inches | 12.91 X 5.2 X 5.08 Inches |
| Setup Time | 1 Min | 5 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty | 1 Year |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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