Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Snugpak
Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack
Best for: Best for lightweight, minimalist stealth camping.
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 Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack is noticeably taller inside (1'8" peak height versus 10"), giving you more headroom to move around.
The Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack and the Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy 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
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
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 | Snugpak Stratosphere Bivy Sack | Sierra Designs Backcountry Bivy |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Bivy, Backpacking | Bivy, Backpacking |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 4 Season | 4 Season |
| Est. Price | $249 | $170 |
| Weight | 2.5 Lbs | 0.9 Lbs |
| Floor Area | 18.9 ft² | 16.7 ft² |
| Peak Height | 20 | 10 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 39.3 W X 12 L | — |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | — |
| Floor Fabric | 210t Nylon With 8000 Millimeter Waterproof Polyurethane Coating | 30D Nylon Ripstop |
| Rainfly Fabric | 50D Nylon Rip Stop With 5000 Millimeter Waterproof Polyurethane Coating | — |
| Packed Size | 12.91 X 5.2 X 5.08 Inches | 11.69 X 7.05 X 3.94 Inches |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 1 Min |
| Warranty | 1 Year | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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