Black Diamond Bipod Bivy

We’ve read the reviews across the web for the Black Diamond Bipod Bivy and summarize the results below:

Universal Ranking

PeakScore: 82 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4.4 stars 
Expert Rating: 3.4 stars

Number of Ratings Reviewed: 19

Pros & Cons

Reasons to buy:

User Reviews

  • Good condensation control.
  • Sturdy even in strong wind.
  • Offers more warmth than many other bivies.
  • The pole keeps the mesh away from the face and keeps mosquitoes off.

Expert Reviews

  • Plenty of space to keep gear inside and safe from the elements.
  • The taped seams perform really well to keep moisture out.
  • Easy to regulate temperature and ventilation with the many vents, but during bad weather the vents can let in moisture if left open.
  • Quite spacious at the top because of the pole that keeps it propped up.

Reasons NOT to buy:

User Reviews

  • Can compress insulation in the legs if using very warm sleeping bags and pads with a lot of stuffing.
  • Can be difficult to get out of.
  • A bit too small for side-sleeping.
  • Seams to do not come factory sealed.

Expert Reviews

  • Not very easy to pitch, especially in a storm, and particularly difficult while wearing gloves.
  • Getting in and out of the bivy requires opening the top and side, which can easily let in rain and snow.
  • Heavy and bulky, especially compared to other models at similar prices.
  • Could be improved by having an internal stash pocket.

Summary:

The Black Diamond Bipod Bivy is warm, sturdy, and very weatherproof, and you can feel secure when hunkering down in even the most unpleasant weather. Although the headspace in this bivy is generous because of the pole, the footpace can be a bit tight, especially when using highly insulated sleeping bags or pads, or when side sleeping. The Bipod is also not the most packable or lightest option on the market, although this could be because of its generous headspace and durability.

Multimedia:

Note: User and expert rankings were reviewed across the web. Some expert reviews include these: 1, 2.