Bivanorak

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The Bivanorak is a super versatile and very interesting piece of kit. It combines features that allow it to work as a waterproof poncho, tarp shelter or bivy bag depending on what you need.

Hilleberg says:

Originally developed as a survival tool for Swedish air force pilots, our patented Bivanorak is a bivy bag/sleeping bag cover, rain garment, portable windbreak, and emergency shelter, all in one – and all in a 575 g/20 oz package. The Bivanorak is made from a lightweight, tough, polyurethane-coated waterproof breathable fabric and has fully taped seams.

Bivy Bag/Sleeping Bag Cover

The Bivanorak is cut long and wide to provide room for both a sleeping bag and pad in bivy bag mode. Its lower hem and cuffs have draw cords (those in the cuffs are elastic) which can be secured shut to keep warmth in and rain and snow out, and its long front zipper makes entry and exit easy. The large hood will easily accommodate the hood of a sleeping bag, yet it can be cinched tightly around your face. Combine a Hilleberg Bivanorak and Tarp to create a highly effective – and incredibly lightweight – shelter system.

Windbreak/Shelter

Pull it out of your pack and climb in. The wind- and waterproof material, adjustable cuffs and hem, and generous hood make for a roomy, comfortable temporary refuge! It’s a versatile alternative to our Windsack as safety equipment for one person.

Rain Garment

The Bivanorak is worn anorak style and can be adjusted to a variety of lengths. Simply pull the bottom hem up inside the body of the Bivanorak and tighten the draw cord around your waist or tuck the extra fabric under your pack’s hip belt. There is even enough room to carry a backpack underneath! Pair it with rain pants or chaps and you have superb wet weather protection. Its single size and easy adjustability allow both the tallest and smallest person to use the Bivanorak.

Our Verdict

Hilleberg’s Bivanorak is an interesting piece of kit that will polarise people. The versatility of it is key as it functions effectively as a simple waterproof poncho, can be used as a tarp shelter and as a bivy bag or sleeping bag cover. It can be worn as your sole shell layer over your clothes and pack in different ways to give you the coverage and breathability depending on the conditions. It works really well as a bivy bag style shelter with various points that cinch to keep out the elements and still allow easy access when required. It can also be used as a more basic tarp style shelter to keep the wind or rain off during breaks or at camp.

One of the most important aspects of the Bivanorak is that it is made with Hillebergs usual top quality materials and dessigned to perform in a wide range of conditions. The material is quality and the construction is spot on too so durability is not an issue. The versatility is key and will be the reason it appeals (or puts people off) and if you use it often enough to get the most out of it it can be one of those piece of kit that you can’t be without.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

(Unfortunately, we are only able to ship Hilleberg products within the UK & EU)

Features

• For 1 person
• An innovative, multi-purpose piece of equipment that is indispensable for nearly every outdoor activity
• Multi-use: Bivy bag/sleeping bag cover, windbreak/shelter, rain garment

Specifications

• Weight: 544g
• Size: 240 cm/94 in long, 86 cm/33 in wide
• Fabric: Ripstop nylon with PU waterproof (3000 mm/30 kPa) & breathable coating

Help & advice:

• Hydrostatic Head