SOL Escape Bivvy in Freezing Conditions - Honest Review - Econo Challenge

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How long can someone stay warm in SOL Escape Bivvy in freezing conditions? We decided to put this compact piece of gear to the test during an unusually cold spring evening in Canada. No tent. No tarp. Just the bivy sack, a bushcraft camp cot and the clothes on my back in minus 2-degree weather. You will enjoy this video series if you hike, backpack, trek, paddle, kayak, climb, pedal, wilderness camp, or love it all!
The Amazing Camp Bed is available from our website - www.amazingwil...
Capacity: 1 person
Weight: 290 g / 10.2 oz
Sleep Area: 200 cm x 74 cm / 79 in x 29 in
Material: 100% ripstop nylon
Weight Limit: 136 kg / 300 lbs
Email: econochallenge@live.com
Facebook - / econochallenge
Instagram - www.instagram....
#econochallenge
Amazing Wilderness Products
Other videos featuring the Amazing Wilderness Camp Cot -
Raised Bed Shelter - • Amazing Wilderness Cam...
Simple Camp Cot Frame - • Bushcraft Camp Cot Fra...
Other ways to combine the Amazing Wilderness Camp Cot and the SOL Escape Bivvy Sack - • SOL Escape Bivvy and A...
Special thanks to Forestwalker111 for joining me on the weekend adventure.
Forestwalker111’s Channel - / forestwalker111

Опубликовано:

6 окт 2024

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Комментарии : 370

@majikhat 7 лет назад

You can skip to 5:30 for the beginning of the test or better is 6:27 for the beginning of the review.

@EconoChallenge 7 лет назад

Very good point made here

@DanielSnedden 7 лет назад

Thanks for saving me some time.

@jonboal4365 5 лет назад

Thx m8

@s.campbell6394 3 года назад

I just enjoy watching Jeeps videos, the bivvy bag review is secondary.

@551taylor 5 лет назад

Every little helps, if you remember the limitations. Impermeable materials can stop rain and wind, but moisture from you will condense on the inside, which could soak your clothes and actually freeze under extreme conditions. Remember too that the wind-chill factor reduces the ambient temperature by many degrees, so a wind shield always helps too. One way to keep warmer is to put one emergency bivvi bag inside another, and fill the space between them with dry leaves or grass. In the forces we trained using large refuse bags, which were cheap and light, and could double up as dry-sacks for our kit.

@preparedmind101 8 лет назад

I use it as a a liner inside a sleeping bag if it's going to be really cold. For that, it's great. Last time I had to use it I just threw a Grabber all weather blanket over the hammock so each side touched the ground. That stopped the convective breeze from going under the hammock and I was fine. Have never used an underquilt.

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

That is a really great tip. Thank you!

@louisehiker9246 9 лет назад

I have an Escape Bivy and can vouch it is very breathable. I have used it as an outer bag for cold damp weather and as a bag liner during drier weather. It has performed well, for many backpacking outings, winter camping, and one canoe camping trip. I accidentally got the Emergency Bivy at first and was soaked pretty quickly. The Escape breathes amazingly well, in comparison. I only have one complaint and that is the size, as already mentioned. I am only 5'4" and find it claustrophobic as an over bag. I cannot imagine how larger folks cope. The zipper broke my last trip, so having nothing to lose, I sliced it open (except for a foot box area) so I can use it as a "top quilt" instead and have more room for my down bag. I have not tested that yet, so it will be interesting to see how that works out. I have heard there will be a larger one available and that will be great, especially if the adapted one I made fails.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

Louise Hiker I agree with you on the claustrophobic feeling in the Escape Bivvy. Interesting idea you have and I am also curious to hear how it works as a top quilt. It should still provide just as much heat reflection just not as much heat retention I am guessing.

@Forestwalker111 9 лет назад

What a great weekend buddy! I'm really grateful to you for arranging this the trip! A real great memory was created. Thanks so much my friend. Great video! Be well Craig

@Aikibiker1 2 года назад

The SOL escape bivvies seem like they would work best in the classic "car stuck in a blizzard scenario" where you have your vehicle for shelter and use the bivy to sleep in at night. Especially if you paired the bivy with a blanket or lighter sleeping bag.

@narutobroken 5 месяцев назад

That’s what I use mine for.

@Roarmeister2 6 лет назад

For comparison sake: the Escape Bivy (used above) has a 31" width; the Escape Pro has a 31" width; the Escape Lite Bivy has a 32" width; the Escape Emergency Bivy has a 36" width but it is polyethene and not breathable; my new 2Go Systems Trifecta has a 35.4" width. All but the Emergency Bivy are aluminized Tyvek but the Trifecta can also be used as a tarp since it has a full-length zipper, is larger, and has 9 tie outs. For $5 more you can get a bigger bivy bag that has far more versatility but with a 7 oz. penalty. I made my decision after testing it - the Trifecta is in my EDC backpack.

@Forestwalker111 9 лет назад

On a side note, kind of you Jeep, to think I was still asleep when the sun came up. Not the case. Mazda kicks its guest out at 5:50am! Lol!!! Again a big thank you buddy, that was an awesome trip in a beautiful area! I'm glad we went and I'm looking forward to going back more prepared. Be well, and folks.... He doesn't really snore! :) C

@blewers 6 лет назад

Thank you for actually testing the gear you are reviewing. Very much appreciated. Well done!

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

You are very welcome.

@mharrigfeld 8 лет назад

I have a video where I modified my SOL Bivvy to allow room for folks that move around a lot in their sleep or for larger sized people. I like to use it like you did in conjunction with another bag to add reflection and wind protection. It really shines when it's used as part of an overall system. Thanks for sharing your test.

@MstrRo 6 лет назад

Good thing you had a back-up plan or you could have been SOL.

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

That made me laugh. Thank you I needed that.

@1o1s1s1i1e 9 лет назад

The only gear worth having is personally tested gear. Well done Jeep! The SOL Bivvy looks like it would keep the dew off your sleeping bag as well. My doctor started me on 21 days of 100 mg of Doxycycline for Lyme's disease yesterday. As you know my health has been failing. The aches and pains which I thought was just back related might be due in part to Lyme's. The fever, chills, epic night sweats, and overall fatigue finally sent me to my doctor. Stay vigilant out there, this is crippling stuff! Nice to see you and Craig out on an adventure. Sincerely, Ossie

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

Ossie Weinert I am hoping you have finally discovered the cure and are not truly on the road to recovery!!!!

@ajtaylor560 9 лет назад

Ossie Weinert Tick bite?

@1o1s1s1i1e 9 лет назад

A J Taylor Yup! No rash, but mighty sick!

@ajtaylor560 9 лет назад

Ossie Weinert The reason I asked is I got a bad one last weekend and have a huge rash and itchy skin where it was attached, not the target style. It was a regular wood tick not a deer tick so don't know about Lyme's. Anyway that's my story, sorry to hear about your bite. A family acquaintance is completely crippled from on that was diagnosed wrong for 3 yrs. Dangerous insects. Get well.

@1o1s1s1i1e 9 лет назад

A J Taylor I would keep a close eye on that bite, and to be on the safe side, see your doctor as soon as possible! Sincerely, Ossie

@EricOther 9 лет назад

I've often wondered about these SOL bags. Thanks for testing it out for us.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

illbilly The regular SOL Bivvy failed for Forestwalker111 because it ripped easily. The Escape version is more durable and is the one I would suggest you try.

@EricOther 9 лет назад

Thanks. Good information.

@carlbernsen1290 5 лет назад

Good informative video! Unless the wool bivvy was about three inches thick there’s no way it would be warm enough, even if it was pure wool. Wool isn’t magic, it works like any other insulation, by trapping tiny pockets of air. Don’t forget, sheep generate a lot of heat from their digestion of grass; if they didn’t, they’d need much thicker wool to survive cold weather. We can do the same by eating fats and oils before we sleep, which then generate extra heat at night.

@marycahill546 8 лет назад

Good to know. Thank you for trying it out for all of us.

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

Thank you for dropping in for a visit.

@fadzerhamm.f5036 8 лет назад

Now this is a real "review" , good job man ! I've used a similar bivvy sac + 10° rated sleeping bag here in Indonesia, it was raining outside, around 0° to -1° at night, got my tarp set up, no sleeping pad and the ground's pretty wet. Amazingly, it was a pretty good experience, although it starts to collect condensation in between the sleeping bag and the sac in the morning when it gets warmer.

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

+Ordinary Man With Glasses This is great info. I find that the sac collects moisture in colder conditions. I used it again with a wool blanket in below freezing conditions and noticed lots of condensation on the inside of the bivvy sac.

@fadzerhamm.f5036 8 лет назад

+EconoChallenge Yep, and the only way to dry it off effectively for me is by hanging it wide open so the wind can get rid of the moisture. Still this is a great item for a compact, light, and comfortable sleeping system. I used it as a standalone in warmer weather. Keep up the good work man, you got yourself another subscriber :)

@t.w.milburn8264 9 лет назад

Hay, Jeep & Craig; Good 2 know the limits of the gear we purchase & use. Thanks 4 the heads up on the over-nighter trip. Have a great weekend up yonder, Friends. Happy Trails From Down The Path A Piece ATB Terry God Bless

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

T.W. Milburn It was a fun night out for sure and we both learned a bunch. I am working on this combination to try and get my overall pack weight down. Every test hike a get a little closer to my goal. Thanks for dropping in for a visit.

@aylalee9767 5 лет назад

Thaaaanks!

@tangojoe9694 9 лет назад

Though I am not going to out trekking around in those conditions it's great to see you guys out in the real world testing out the gear.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

Tango Joe It is the only way to test your gear. The backyard just does not give you the feedback you need to fix / improve / adjust or replace. Before anyone goes on the 10 day Econo Challenge they have to take all their gear out for at least a weekend test hike in similar conditions and terrain as the area we are going to explore. Time and time again it has proven the best way to figure out what you are forgetting and what needs to be fixed or adjusted before the big hike.

@justbanter8727 9 лет назад

I am so glad I found you again! last time I saw one of your Videos was the 'Amazing Wilderness Camp / Hammock Chair ' You are my greatest inspiration - very informative & never a dull moment, thank you (from the UK)

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

Dr_ nincompoop Well well. Welcome back. You have some catching up to do my friend. LOL Thank you for your kind words.

@ecoheliguy 7 лет назад

Typical mistake, the Sleeping bag rating is based on dry stale air (zero wind, no dew) and not wearing clothing. If your wearing clothing, especial anything that was worn that day and not 100% dry will make you freeze. Anyone who jumps in a sleeping bag with clothes on is going to have a cold sleep period. (experience from camping in the rockies at -20c, and along the west coast)

@Thalanox 6 лет назад

I never knew how they rated temperatures for sleeping bags. Thanks for the info.

@shmodzilla 5 лет назад

I actually just scrolled through all these videos to see if anyone else actually knew this about NOT wearing your clothes into the bag. I have found though in diffiicult conditions, if your coat is basically dry like nornal to use it bunched up on me at the mouth of my sleeping bag. That creats warmth of course but a large breathable area for moisture to get out.

@shmodzilla 5 лет назад

Bill Randall i do the same thing with my camping hammock. There are pouches under it and putting all my loose clothes in iy makes a huge difference because the air flow. It probably makes the difference i can use it another 30 to 40 degrees lower comfortably.

@rchristie5401 5 лет назад

I live above 56th parallel and always carry a pair of dry wool socks, long johns and a light sweater. Along with a 1 man Pup tent to keep the dew and the rain off. a -15deg Jones bag. A small hot water bottle, a ground mat. no matter where i pack into. you are correct about how to sleep in a Bag in good weather and dryness is paramount. Nothing can rattle people more than to go to sleep in 60 deg weather at 10 at night and to be awoken at 3AM in the middle of a Spring snow storm.

@shmodzilla 5 лет назад

@Bill Randall I do it all the fuckin time.

@brynlayton9032 7 лет назад

Sleeping in a nylon shell jacket will promote moisture. Sleeping on a cot will lose heat underneath you. Having the right rated sleeping bag and a proper mat is all you need.

@dwaynerobertson383 4 года назад

I believe that is exactly what they are intended for; use in conjunction with a sleeping bag, or some additional liner. I haven't used the SOL Survival Blanket, yet (bought one for the glove box and one in the kit), and I didn't know about the bivy until I had purchased this pair. I'll be getting two of those next! It seems like in a survival situation, without a sleeping bag, you will survive miserably. With a sleeping bag you will survive comfortably. Fair assessment? Thanks for doing this honest review, and sharing it!!

@skeeterbone 3 года назад

A bivvy is not a replacement for sleeping. It is designed to be used as a water and wind resistant shell for your sleeping bag. That being said, I wish the SOL Escape Bivvy was a bit wider at the shoulder and feet. Great video gentleman.

@EconoChallenge 2 года назад

I agree. It is just a little tight.

@bruceforster3709 8 лет назад

I have an SOL BIVVY. GREAT INFO. Thank you both!!!

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

+Bruce Forster Glad you liked it and you are welcome.

@docg8979 6 лет назад

red glow..... evil chuckle..... priceless

@alexanderweaver4838 6 лет назад

Great review on the SOL Bivy. I love my SOL Breathable Bivy and like you use it over my sleeping bag. I live in Virginia and have camped in the mountains using this system, however, my bag is an inexpensive Farland (synthetic stuffing) rated at 35 degrees. So far there have been no issues being cold and even down into the high 20's. I've used the SOL just as a sleeping bag in my hammock using a Snugpak Underblanket and stayed quite warm. There were two occasions I had to place a Snugpak jungle blanket over me when the temp dropped into the low 30's. My sleep outfit is a synthetic pair of long johns, long sleeve shirt, beanie, a $1 pair of wool mittens from Dollar Tree and a fresh pair of wool Cabin Socks from Dick's. I pack a smaller SOL Bivy as well (in a first aid kit).

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

Did you find that moisture builds up in your sleeping bag on multi day trips?

@Skymouth 7 лет назад

I have that in my bug out bag and it's now nice to know that additional prep is needed if it's to be used effectively!

@EconoChallenge 7 лет назад

Ah that makes me feel great. Thank you so much for sharing.

@ManLand 8 лет назад

Now that is testing put to the test...I appreciate that point on the SOL Bivvy...you can bet I will try to add that to my kit but not as a stand alone.

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

+Man Land (Midnight121) Glad to help my friend.

@ryanstlouis6430 5 лет назад

good review. From my personal experience I slept in my bag with the bivvy over top as well. However in the morning my sleeping bag was a bit damp because of condensation. I was very warm overnight but if I had to stay another night it would of been in a damp sleeping bag...

@carlbernsen1290 5 лет назад

That’s a good point. The body gives off water vapour all night, which condenses in the outer part of the bag where it meets a cold layer, even in a breathable bivvy. Next night, if it’s not dried properly, which is difficult in cold, damp weather, the insulation is reduced by the trapped moisture and gets worse and worse each night. One way round that is to use a waterproof ‘fuzzy’ liner which traps the moisture without feeling wet itself, and dries out quickly.

@alfonsocalventeiglesias1398 Год назад

I always use it as a bivvy bag, which means a bag you put on you sleeping bag to get warmer and more protected from rain and wind.

@EconoChallenge Год назад

Did you notice any moisture buildup in your sleeping bag when you did that?

@alfonsocalventeiglesias1398 Год назад

@@EconoChallenge no, never!

@KennethKramm 9 лет назад

Very interesting results. I've used my SOL Escape Bivvy as a sleeping bag alternative in east Texas turning the fall, winter and spring .... since it rarely freezes where I live. During the summer it is usually too hot to sleep in anything but unaware on top of a sleeping pad ....

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

KennethKramm Give me the cold for sleeping. When it gets that hot I can hardly handle being in a tent let alone in a sleeping bag or even a bag liner!

@RDPproject 9 лет назад

EconoChallenge Same...I really dont like being out camping during summer at all.

@83JustSomeGuy 7 лет назад

Camping in the summer in Texas is the absolute worst. Even in a hammock with potential breeze going underneath it is still brutal. Eighty degrees at night is blah.

@azclaimjumper 4 года назад

Thank you for taking your time, effort, & equipment to do this test. It's answered my #1 question. I've wondered if I can put the bivy around the outside of my air mattress & my sleeping bag. I'm 5'3" & it looks like I'm now going to pull the buy trigger. I've wanted a backup plan in case my tent gets blown down by ferocisouly strong gusty winds. I do believe the bivy with MEeee, my Sleeping Bag, & air mattress inside would be able to get through the night if my tent failed to provide shelter during a strong wind storm. Yes, I KNOW about layering clothing to maintain core body temperature & the need to #1 keep the head/brain @98.6º with insulated head/neck/face gear. Keep your brain @ its core temperature & your body will continue to circulated 98.6º blood to extremities.

@EconoChallenge 3 года назад

It might be a bit tight if you try to put your sleeping pad inside the bivvy. But your idea would certainly work if you slept inside the bivvy on top of your sleeping pad.

@azclaimjumper 3 года назад

@@EconoChallenge Thank you, I've been thinking that is the most likely route for MEeee; Sleeping bag with MEeee in it, inside the Escape Bivy & all on top of my air mattress. I definitely don't want the Bivy compressing the Down of my sleeping bag.

@wolf1066 9 лет назад

Excellent test and review. On the strength of this I've subscribed to your channel *and* added the SOL Escape Bivvy to my "To Buy" list to add to my day pack. Great to know it'll increase the effectiveness of my sleeping bag on really cold nights. Your mate at the end of the video looked like he'd just come back from beating Robin Hood in a quarterstaff fight and dumping him in the river.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

Wolf NZ Outdoors LOL you made my day with this comment. Thank you for my smile.

@wolf1066 9 лет назад

EconoChallenge You're most welcome. It was, seriously, a damned fine test and review and it answered my default question when looking at *any* product: "yeah, but is it any good?" ATB, Wolf.

@johnnyquest5727 4 года назад

I know it's an older review but it's popular so I'd like to comment. This test totally misses the point of a "survival bivy." It's actually, somewhat irresponsible. The real question is not about relative comfort ("am I cold?") but: Would you have SURVIVED the night or DIED of hypothermia? Another good question: Would you have gotten frostbite in this thing? Bottom line . . . before you go on any operation, you have to check weather and terrain. If you're in a place and time of year where the temperature drops very low at night, you absolutely MUST take enough "warm gear" to survive an emergency overnighter. That means thick woolen blankets or even better, a sleeping bag. Do not rely on an "escape bivy" alone unless temperatures are in the range it can handle comfortably.

@dravenbarlow7328 5 лет назад

i camped out for the month of january here in tennessee and it got down to around 7 degrees and there was 1 foot of snow on the ground i had bought a 0 degree mummy and i had to go get another one and put one down inside the other in order to stay warm it was magical i was warm and toasty all night

@Yetibiker11 8 лет назад

some people have told me it works fine around the 35 degree mark but I have to agree I froze during a backpacking hike out on the CDT in 2014 late April and needed an additional liner to help out and it was colllllllld

@BornRandy62 9 лет назад

I have plans to order in the 2 person SOL Bivy for use as part of my snow bank vehicle kit. I carry extra warm clothing in the vehicle in case I have to over night in side my vehicle during a snow storm. I include a large candle in the kit to make light and heat that I can hold inside of the Bivy for entertainment light and heat purposes. the 2 person sized bivy will let you wear all of your bulky clothing inside without stress testing a seam.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

Randy J All I have to add is make sure it is the breathable version. Otherwise it is a great idea.

@wcresponder 7 лет назад

Have you tried Blizzard survival products? They are quilted mylar blankets or sleep tube or bivy. They also do jackets and light blankets.

@EconoChallenge 7 лет назад

Blizzard is a new name for me. I will look them up.

@LiveWildcrew 8 лет назад

Nice comparision. Testing out gear is not only great for making a video but further refining your own kit. Heading out in the Ontario Wilderness this weekend. Should have similar temps to this video. Testing out a new insulation for the hammock.

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

+LiveWild I have learned a lot from the discipline of testing gear before i need to rely on it. Perhaps the channel has me do it more often but i think it is an excellent habit for keeping yourself safe in the wild. Enjoy your weekend out. I am heading to the big city ... basically the complete opposite of what you are doing.

@NJHeart2Heart 7 лет назад

Excellent real life test!

@EconoChallenge 7 лет назад

That is the only way to do a review. These unboxing videos I watch don't really give me much more than what I can read for myself. You have to take it out and use it more than a few times before you will be able to give anyone really good information.

@ajtaylor560 9 лет назад

Well this was interesting, epic fail of the wool blanket and hammock which was to be expected and epic fail of the SOL Bivy on it's own!! Good lessons learned for all of us. Hammocks are cold even in warmer weather they seem to be chilly to the back so I was expecting that to be cold. Did you have any condensation issues with the Bivy. I hate it when my bag gets damp because of lack of breathability. Really good stuff in this video.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

A J Taylor The SOL Escape Bivvy advertises that it is breathable! I was not hot enough to perspire but I did not notice any dampness in the morning. Great question ... Thank you my friend.

@lakrabid 6 лет назад

Mylar type blankets or bags meant as a temporary measure. In freezing temperatures the Mylar type stuff will make you sweat and then freeze you. If you hold it close to your skin you will feel heat but when you touch it you feel cool. Difference in reflecting heat and conducting heat. Also it is best with polyester clothing and not thick layers. Inside or outside of a sleeping bag is good for a day or two of winter. For extended cold weather the Mylar would be good inside a sleeping bag as a vapor barrier so your sleeping bag does not accumulate moisture and stay wet and lose its insulating properties.

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

Man, your timing on this comment is golden. I just got back from an overnight in minus 6-celsius conditions with this bivvy over a light down sleeping bag that I used in the same way you might use a top quilt. I was very warm. In the morning I found the outside of the sleeping bag was frozen to the inside of the bivvy bag. Now this version in breathable and is supposed to manage moisture better than the cheaper version. But it would not be good for more than one night out in the cold.

@lakrabid 6 лет назад

I like good timing:) I have also been reading about open cell foam clothing. A guy named Perry Peacock from WildernessInnovations made foam clothing for himself and has been able to sleep outside with no protection straight on the snow in up to -40 degrees. No reason why I am looking at winter camping stuff now. I live in dried up fire ridden Southern California... I see all these bushcraft channels and people lighting fires, making super shelters etc. and I just kinda wanna cry inside lol. Just a tiny bit of jealousy.

@M1ST3RHYDE 5 лет назад

Thanks for the video, I'm looking into getting one to add to my 30deg bag just in case and I really appreciate your efforts for the sake of Science.

@jacqueline7118 9 лет назад

Excellent test and information! I have one of these in my pack and have used it over my -18c down winter bag at -20c and it worked great. I would only use it as a bag alone in summer, then I think it would be sufficient. I do think though that in the winter it may make the difference in actual survival if lost in the woods, you wouldn't be warm but would probably live through the night especially if the conditions weren't great for a fire.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

Jacqueline Schwartz That is my impression so far as well. Still I would like to try it out this winter and see what it can do.

@scoutingfreegermany 9 лет назад

Great review and test! Thanks a lot! Cheers, Marc

@titaniumquarrion9838 7 лет назад

The test was actually completely pointless....

@polishpicl 9 лет назад

Excellant video ,,I learned my lesson too..same way u did..doubling up was the trick.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

polishpicl Ya it worked out really well. I am glad you shared. Thanks man!!

@TinManisbugginout 8 лет назад

I'm wondering is the clod air flowing underneath you might have partially contributed to your chill, and if maybe pushing leaves up along the sides might have helped...

@SimbaOS 8 лет назад

You're definitely right. Filling the gap underneath the improvised bed would have prevent a heat convection.

@ronward5698 4 года назад

You gotta find what works for you. I gave up on wool years back. Never kept we warm.

@PackRat0331 8 лет назад

You actually stay warmer in sleeping bags by minimizing the amount of clothing you have on. It allows your body heat to move around he bag and reflected back to your body. Survival 101.

@forgenorth1444 7 лет назад

I keep seeing people say that but it seems to defy logic, and in my experience doesn't seem to work. Have you noticed that it's true for you?

@benworkman177 5 лет назад

YeeGadz !!!!! I have been struggling with the problem of staying warm when staying overnight and yet staying mobile to travel as swiftly as possible in order to get home when my transportation is limited to foot power. At my age (74) I NEED comfortable warm sleep in addition to adequate caloric intake, water, a pair of trekking poles and quickly erected shelter. I see no alternative to a sleeping bag and an over sized bivy in my kit and some hand and body warmers. As much as I would like to keep my GHBag to under 10 lbs. and small in size, I see the necessity of including a sleeping bag or wool blanket as well as an over sized bivy. Add a mylar tube tent and one should be able to stay warm and get a comfortable sleep.

@EconoChallenge 5 лет назад

I am still stuck on the part where the bag is under 10 lbs. That is a dream for me. I was happy when I managed to gut under 40 lbs not 10. Amazing.

@benworkman177 5 лет назад

@@EconoChallenge 10 lbs may nudge close to 20 lbs if I incorporate a sleeping bag which I think I must do to keep from freezing my petunias off. Note: I do not include any cooking gear as my rations are simply life boat rations for 3 days and the fold-able stove and fire tabs are for keeping warm not cooking.

@Woodenarrows 9 лет назад

Good video. I have a SOL bag and have thought of the combination too but have never actually done it. Guess I'll keep it and try a paring with it and my sleeping bag(s) later this year. So far I've only used a liner with my sleeping bags which does help but I don't think my liner (silk) would work as well as the SOL paring.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

***** I have silk bag liner for summer and a fleece liner for the fall. When it comes to increasing the warmth of the bag the bivvy did a much better job.

@MrGeforcerFX 4 года назад

they say you can go without a thermal bag if it's around 50F, i have done 40 and was still fine. I would say the bivvy would be okay for a ohh crap moment in conjunction with some fire. Compared to the survival blanket from SOL the heat reflection is lower. I would rather haul two survival blankets and some string then have the as an emergency shelter, nevr tested it with another sleeping bag though.

@FSBushcraft 9 лет назад

Great video Bro and great Info on the bivy, was wondering how they would work now I know....Thanks for sharing

@TheGoatMumbler 8 лет назад

Excellent real world testing. Thanks.

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

+TheGoatMumbler Testing yourself is the only way you figure out what you don`t know.

@Nerding4Nature 9 лет назад

I was eyeing that up at MEC yesterday. Decided against it, but good to know it works decently.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

+The Last Grownup in the Woods You will see it in action again very soon. I was out in freezing conditions again and it saved me from retreating to the truck. LOL

@neilcastell6951 9 лет назад

a couple of those chemical hand warmers would be a good addition if it got any colder,

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

neil castell A few years back one of the guys tried the heat n click heating pads to try and warm up the sleeping bag before he used it. Turns out it was hot enough to melt a few of the attachment points inside his sleeping pad. When he tried to lie down the attachment points popped causing a hug balloon to form where the heating pad was sitting. It ruined the Thermarest pad.

@neilcastell6951 9 лет назад

the ones i have dont get that hot, but its a good point to be aware of.

@forgenorth1444 7 лет назад

+neil castell also those consume oxygen, don't use them in an enclosed space if you're going to be in it.

@blackoak4978 6 лет назад

Having used just a simple reflective blanket, with a cheap sleeping bag, before on a really cold and rainy May 2-4 weekend, I would have been 100% confident that that bivy plus sleeping bag would be comfy. Only questions I would have are, did it make noise as you moved around, and did it cause much condensation

@SpartanJohns 9 лет назад

Ha! I waited for your video to come out after Craig's and then I missed it. Loved the video! That is how you test gear! Can't say it enough: Great video!

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

SpartanJohns I sent you a video link in a private message. Have you seen it yet?

@SpartanJohns 9 лет назад

EconoChallenge I have not received any private messages from you. I even checked just now. Nothing. Could you send it again? I will let you know as soon as I receive it.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

SpartanJohns I just sent another private message to your channel with the link. Let me know if you get it.

@mynameisprivate158 5 лет назад

yea but probably any item that keeps the wind from blowing thru your sleeping bag would help keep you just as warm.

@BorealBushcraftCanada 9 лет назад

Great test! Interesting product! Cheers! Pat

@davestelling 7 лет назад

Enjoyed this entire presentation... Looks like you fellas had a great trip! Cheers... ~D.S.

@EconoChallenge 7 лет назад

Thank you!

@kennethspeed2019 9 лет назад

Thank you both very much for a very informative video!

@Thalanox 6 лет назад

I thought bivy bags were supposed to be an outside "tent" layer. Something to put your sleeping bag inside of instead of a tent. Not just something to slide yourself into with your hiking clothes.

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

You are correct. That is exactly how "real" bivy bags work. However, this is being marketed as a lightweight emergency bivvy bag. Something to through in your backpack to have handy if you ever get stuck out in the wild on an overnight unexpectedly.

@kullcraven 9 лет назад

I have to keep my opinions on wool to myself. altho i freeze in the summer with out a fire with a wool blanket. I have not tried the bivy. thanks for the test man.

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

Kullcraven Bushcraft If you can get some insulation between the reflective layer and your body these survival blankets really add a lot of cold protection for their size.

@forgenorth1444 7 лет назад

I think a lot of people are under the impression that you can take a single wool layer and be warm at sub freezing temperatures, but that's obviously not true. Historically they were always layered in bedrolls for when it's actually cold. In the summer they work pretty good on their own.

@charlesadamski_197 7 лет назад

Great test. Thank you for sharing it with us.

@EconoChallenge 7 лет назад

Thank you for dropping in for a visit.

@alexarcano 8 лет назад

Great informative video, forestwalker111 probably could have used a bit more insulation under his hammock, I have used a Mylar backed foam sleep mat in mine, with the old Czech sleep system but not tried it at -3!

@Forestwalker111 8 лет назад

No probably about it brother Alex! Definitely!!! lol An underquilt or a good R value pad was called for. I had hoped to get along with the wool bivvy bag, which I hold would have worked had mine been real wool. I was duped into buying a small bolt of synthetic and got burned, er...frozen, as a result. Lol I am looking at a sleep pad for the next time up there! Lol Cheers brother and Be well Craig

@alexarcano 8 лет назад

+Forestwalker111 yup, heard good things about the Italian army officers blanket, but I don't know from personal experience. If you are mostly clothed the Czech bedroll/sleep system is good to maybe +2C if a mat of some sort underneath is used, but the damn thing weighs about 8lb on its own and really needs another liner of some sort. Btw I believe the phrase you were looking for is 'split from stem to stern.' 😉 though I don't know where the saying comes from. Sounds nautical. Probably. Maybe. Heck, it's just a guess. Good luck on your next one, coming to you from sunny Scotland, where it reached the heady heights of 4C here last night, and 13C during the day!

@mux1978 6 лет назад

I used mine last weekend for the first time in -20c. This bivvy does not breath very well in those temperatures. My sleeping bag was very wet on the surface in the morning, not a good thing when you are using an expensive down bag. I used it last fall around the same temp, +3c and it was fine.

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

Good to know. So when you drop below freezing it must have more of a challenge "breathing". I have since discovered a similar problem when trying to use it in below freezing conditions.

@CanadianImpaler 6 лет назад

Young Gandalf at the end!

@chrishardeen1017 8 лет назад

nice video guys, just bought 2 bivvy . have not tested it as yet

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

+Big City Ready 2017 Thank you for your kind words. I think you will be impressed with how they work if combined with some other system like a blanket or sleeping bag. On there own they will not keep you warm in freezing conditions.

@BushmanofYukon 9 лет назад

Good one! I like your sleeping arrangement pal :D

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

BushmanofYukon Sometime is feels good to be able to do that without waking up to one big bug bite welt.

@BushmanofYukon 9 лет назад

EconoChallenge Or a chunk missing from Mr. Grizz ;o)

@amrasurvival5580 8 лет назад

great review and test just subbed thanks for the video

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

+Amra Survival Awesome

@sillllverback 5 лет назад

Love the idea of this sol bivy. Also, what Is the name of that Very warm Jackets your wearing the video?

@EconoChallenge 5 лет назад

The windbreaker / rain jacket is made by Columbia. They call it "Omni-heat" technology. The idea is the inside of the jacket reflects radiated heat back to the body. I really can not tell you if it is any better than any other windbreaker without omni-heat at keeping you warm. Great at cutting out wind and keeping water off of you. That is about all I can say about it.

@WhatsUpWithSheila 6 лет назад

Good test!...thank you

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

Thank you for dropping in for a visit.

@hobbexp 9 лет назад

fun to see, cool test :)

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

hobbexp Thanks for dropping in for a visit my friend. Good to see you.

@AvoidingChores 9 лет назад

Good stuff, just catching up on older uploads

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

+Jim Cyr Good to see you in the comments my friend. Thanks.

@deborahdurham991 7 лет назад

Thank you guys for doing this. Maybe two of those bib you sacks together would be better . Cost ?

@EconoChallenge 7 лет назад

I tried a bag liner and that helps a lot when it comes to loosing heat through conduction.

@keithlapere7650 8 лет назад

In a situation where it is cold weather. To get the full effect of warmth, is to strip down naked. As being in your clothes, it traps the heat which cannot distribute the heat as well as your clothes being off. Just a suggestion.

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

+Keith Lapere When I got into the cot at first I just had the bivvy. There was no way I could have stripped off clothing at that point. The heat was being reflected back but I was still loosing heat from conduction. This bivvy sac is cold to the touch. It really needed an insulating layer to trap warmed air around my body. When I got up and added the sleeping bag that is when this system really performed. I had to strip down to my base layer to keep from perspiring at these temps.

@keithlapere7650 8 лет назад

gotcha!

@thomasnugent7602 5 лет назад

Very good. Thank you very much

@EconoChallenge 5 лет назад

You are welcome.

@scouttroop291 7 лет назад

try with a down bag you will love it

@EconoChallenge 7 лет назад

I would love a down bag.

@THENEWWRANGLER 8 лет назад

Hello From Vancouver, I was noticing that sleeping bag you have, it looks like a very good light weight option, where could I find a mont bell like that in Canada, thanks for your great videos, oh i got my amazing wilderness camp chair in the mail and it is awesome.

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

+THENEWWRANGLER I ordered mine online a few years ago. This is the closest version - www.montbell.us/products/disp.php?cat_id=3214&p_id=2321183 It is an awesome bag for me because I like the warmth of a mummy bag but don`t like how confining it can be. This one offers mummy comfort and you can still move around in it. Love it.

@christianrussell9900 6 лет назад

Great review, thank you!

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

Thank you for watching and leaving us a comment.

@tedsamuels3203 3 года назад

Minus 1......yes , it must be great ....Even the trees stay warm look how green ?

@cyrilagnew7651 2 года назад

The therma rest....the Cdn military use thr same thing

@BlueLakeRV 6 лет назад

Nice Video. I looked up that #3 bag and it is rated for 30, not zero. And I wonder what kind of results you would get sleeping inside in the bivy inside the bag with maybe a light tarp tossed on top for dew if needed.

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

30 ferinhight is just below zero or freezing in celsius. Normally I try to remember to make that distinction when I talk about the temp. Sorry about that. We are broadcasting from Canada and we are using the celsius tempurature scale. I don't have the gear to try and stay out in zero ferinhight. That is crazy cold for me.

@Roarmeister2 6 лет назад

I'm closer in size to Craig (ForestWalker) and getting a sleeping bag and myself into the SOL bivy sack is impossible for me. I would definitely bust the seams. The bivy sack INSIDE my bag to be used as a liner might work but probably snug tight as well.

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

I have seen someone add a strip of tyvek to make this bivvy bigger in a video on RU-vid. Would that help?

@Roarmeister2 6 лет назад

I think I saw the same video. SOL should simply make the bivy bag bigger in the first place.

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

Agreed. It is even a little tight for my liking.

@Roarmeister2 6 лет назад

I tried the same test a few weeks ago but with just a 2Go Systems Trifecta bivy which is much bigger and I put on a wool anorak at 2:30am. No long undies. It got down to 4°C. I got chilled enough to have to urinate 2x but I made it through the night and slept well. Next step will be to use it at 0° or lower with my 0° down bag inside. I'm still waiting for that weather. :)

@davidweirauch849 7 лет назад

Have the, frog, version escape bivvy, and like you on the real cold nights, you need a sleeping bag. Does that mean it's a bust; not by a long shot. Just like you can do a lot with a nail, it works best with a hammer.

@EconoChallenge 7 лет назад

Exactly. Great point!

@a.j.garrett9639 7 лет назад

Great informative video. Can you please tell me what the camp cot is that you have the 2 sticks/poles going through and you are lying on?

@EconoChallenge 7 лет назад

I called it the Amazing Wilderness Camp Cot. The final version of this cot can be used in a raised bed shelter, simple camp cot, hammock or camp chair. I make and sell them to those who are interested. Send me an email to econochallenge@live.com if you want to learn more.

@lakrabid 6 лет назад

Yea wool blankets are not all they are cracked up to be. Lots of misconceptions abounding concerning them but some bushcraft stick the the script and will not bash them. I think that bivvy is best kept for the car and not very cold temperatures as you will be frozen in condensation before long. Limited but still useful. Mylar blankets are overrated as much as wool blankets. I am glad you kept it honest because bad advice could lead to someone freezing to death.

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

I think it has something to do with laying out cash and then not wanting to admit the purchase was a mistake. Since you spent the money you want it to live up to the hype. I have taken more than a little criticism for giving my honest opinion good and bad about products others have raved about. The ThermaCELL Mosquito Area Repellent Appliance is a fantastic example.

@lakrabid 6 лет назад

Keep doing what you are doing. I appreciate the honesty. Tell the complainers to... Well you know what to tell them lmao

@TomsBackwoods 9 лет назад

If the bivey does not pass moister then it must get trapped in the bag. May not be a good option for longer trips I'm guessing. Down bags might be a further risk of condensation as well.....what do you think Jeep?

@EconoChallenge 9 лет назад

TomsBackwoods The SOL Emergency Bivvy is definitely guilty of moisture build up and it happens fast. The SOL Escape Bivvy is advertised to be breathable. In theory some moisture can escape. I did not find that my sleeping bag was any more damp than any other time I have slept in it in these temperatures. It certainly performed better than the Emergency Bivvy. If it was much warmer and I was perspiring more I would not need the extra protection of the Escape Bivvy. The sleeping bag I was using in this video is stuffed with synthetic fibres.

@TheEpicDartfish 3 года назад

I slept with a liner and the bivvy and it left me cold. I started sweating due to lack of breathability (My head was out). I used the Tac Bivvy brand though.

@cwoods1132 4 года назад

It's fairly green for negative temperatures... birds chirping...

@EconoChallenge 4 года назад

Looks can be deceiving. That's why something like this could be very handy for your pack. The weather can surprise.

@cwoods1132 4 года назад

Celsius, maybe.

@EconoChallenge 4 года назад

Yes the temperatures mentioned are in Celsius.

@happyknife8785 7 лет назад

Do Americans realise when they say "zero degree rated sleeping bag" that it is celsius not fahrenheit? Because they always talk in fahrenheit and then 2 seconds later refer to their 'zero degree bag' when really its a 32deg bag for them.

@EconoChallenge 7 лет назад

It would have been very helpful it the USA had switched when we did. I get lots of questions for American viewers when I am out in zero degree weather and they say it does not look that cold.

@RA-go5qk 6 лет назад

I was wondering about that. Thanks!

@lostinkansasonasunnyday305 6 лет назад

Bags sold in the USA are almost always rated in Fahrenheit.

@837haja 3 года назад

Awww man, I thought it was some type of survival burger, nice video :(

@billandrews 6 лет назад

Just as layering is the way to stay warm when donning your clothes for cold temperatures, it also is the way to go with sleeping bags. Rather than one cold weather bag, you should double up two bags rated for warmer temperatures: A larger traditional rectangular bag, and a mummy bag inside that one. I've added the SOL Escape Bivi rather than a second mummy bag. The SOL is so light and small compared to the mummy bag, it is a good alternative. I also use an inner liner bag with my sleeping bag, made of satin. However, if you're facing colder temps you can and should go for a fleece inner bag. I'm told Silk is very warm too, so you might want to try silk before you get the more bulky fleece bag.

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

I now have a bag liner to go with this system. If I am using the bivvy bag on it's own I appreciate something to help manage the moisture that will build up inside the bivvy. Even this breathable version gets some moisture buildup on the inside the the bag. You are right about layering! Especially when dealing with the transitional weather of spring and fall. Essential.

@mikepriest1952 2 года назад

Works much better with thermal pad under you. Ground and air will suck the heat out of you

@EconoChallenge 2 года назад

So so true.

@tangledline 8 лет назад

if you are ever caught in conditions...Bigger fire....and add leaves into that Bivvy! (worse gets to worse...cuddle up!) :)

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

Excellent suggestion

@-kris-3024 8 лет назад

love your vids keep it up. peace

@EconoChallenge 8 лет назад

+-Kris- Thank you.

@fabiancarter6428 6 лет назад

Thanks for the review. Just wondering if there were any problems with condensation? Cheers.

@EconoChallenge 6 лет назад

Yes. Not as bad as the emergency bivvy. But you will notice some condensation. In freezing conditions my bag or bag liner will freeze to the inside of the this bivvy,

@MstrRo1 4 года назад

@@EconoChallenge I understand this was a test and that if there was precipitation expected, you would done things differently but I am wondering, how many degrees of warmth it would add if used on the inside of the sleeping bag, more like a vapor barrier? Then wear some fleece to give some separation between you and the reflective inner surface of the SOL. My guess is that it would add about -6.667°C of warmth.