This bivy lives in the bottom of my ski and mountaineering backpacks, at the ready for when things go wrong. I appreciate it's small size and light weight - just what you're looking for in an emergency bivy. I've utilized it once in the field on a planned bivy, and it was quite snug for two. We had sub-freezing temps and were sleeping on snow, and we did generate quite a bit of condensation, so I think I'll likely utilize it in a different configuration next time. Otherwise, it did what it needed to do, and I'll keep bringing it in the bottom of my pack for when something goes wrong. I am a member of the Ortovox team and have been given this product to test and use.

As a guide, this is a day-in-day out piece of gear for me. It's small enough to keep in the bottom of my pack as real live-saving emergency shelter. The fact that it holds two people really enhances the warmth factor - aside from a fire, there's no better way to warm someone in the backcountry than to snuggle up with another warm body. The fabric is durable enough that you won't worry about actually using it when you need it. This is so much better than a disposable emergency shelter.Plus, you can actually use this as a bivvy sack for planned nights out where weight is a limiting factor. It's not what I'd choose for a summer backpacking trip in the rainy season, but as a quick and light shelter to seal the heat in on a cold night, it's a fantastic choice, ... MoreAs a guide, this is a day-in-day out piece of gear for me. It's small enough to keep in the bottom of my pack as real live-saving emergency shelter. The fact that it holds two people really enhances the warmth factor - aside from a fire, there's no better way to warm someone in the backcountry than to snuggle up with another warm body. The fabric is durable enough that you won't worry about actually using it when you need it. This is so much better than a disposable emergency shelter.Plus, you can actually use this as a bivvy sack for planned nights out where weight is a limiting factor. It's not what I'd choose for a summer backpacking trip in the rainy season, but as a quick and light shelter to seal the heat in on a cold night, it's a fantastic choice, especially if you can double up with a partner.

I work as a ski guide and avalanche forecaster throughout the winter. I carry the Ortovox Bivy in my pack everyday. I use it for a rescue sled, guides tarp, and potential bivy sack/emergency tool all combined. I have practiced with it several times at guides trainings, as it does take some practice to use. It is lightweight, packs pretty small, and fits into my pack. It's a versatile tool to add to your kit.