Adventure Medical Kits SOL Bivvy Review

First Thoughts on the Adventure Medical Kits SOL Bivvy

The Adventure Medical Kits SOL Bivvy, specifically the XL version, promises to be a compact and lightweight emergency shelter. Designed by Adventure Medical Kits, this bivvy aims to keep you warm and dry in unexpected situations with its reflective material, waterproof construction, and included survival tools. As someone with over a decade of experience in outdoor and tactical gear, I’m always looking for reliable and practical solutions for survival situations and the SOL Bivvy immediately grabbed my attention.

I was looking for an ultralight shelter solution that I could easily stash in my hiking pack or bug-out bag. It needed to be more than just a tarp; I wanted something that could provide real warmth and protection from the elements. My initial impression was that this could be a simple and effective solution.

Upon unboxing, the SOL Bivvy felt remarkably lightweight and compact. The bright orange color is immediately noticeable, which is reassuring for emergency situations. The material felt durable enough for its intended use, although it’s definitely not a heavy-duty tent fabric. My first thought was, “This is incredibly small, but hopefully, it delivers on its promises.”

Compared to heavier emergency shelters like the Snugpak Stratosphere or even a basic backpacking tent, the SOL Bivvy prioritized weight and packability above all else. I chose this primarily for its minimalist design and focus on essential survival features. I was curious to see how it would perform in real-world conditions.

Honestly, I was both excited and slightly skeptical. The tiny package made me wonder if it could truly provide adequate shelter for two people. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Adventure Medical Kits SOL Bivvy to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Adventure Medical Kits SOL Bivvy during a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was expected to be mild, but mountain weather is always unpredictable. I wanted to have an emergency shelter readily available.

The first night, temperatures dropped lower than forecasted, with some light rain rolling through. I decided to test out the bivvy. It was fairly easy to slip into and it definitely trapped body heat. The material, though thin, did a decent job of blocking the wind and keeping out the moisture.

Getting inside was a little awkward due to its size, but once inside, it was surprisingly comfortable for a single person. There was no room to move and condensation was definitely a factor. After using it the first time, the seams held up, and I was satisfied.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use during hiking and camping trips, the SOL Bivvy has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it primarily as an emergency shelter and haven’t subjected it to extreme conditions. However, it shows no significant signs of wear and tear.

The material has proven to be more resilient than I initially anticipated. I’ve been careful to avoid sharp objects and abrasive surfaces. Cleaning is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth and allow it to air dry. The seams are still intact, and the reflective coating hasn’t shown any degradation.

Compared to carrying a full-sized emergency blanket, the SOL Bivvy is a massive improvement in terms of warmth retention and protection from the elements. While a traditional tent provides superior comfort and space, the SOL Bivvy excels as a lightweight and packable emergency solution. It outperforms expectations for its intended purpose.

Breaking Down the Features of Adventure Medical Kits SOL Bivvy

Specifications

• The SOL Bivvy XL is designed to shelter two people. This XL size is crucial for anyone needing a bit of extra room, or wanting to share it.
• It is made of a waterproof and windproof material that reflects 90% of body heat. This reflective technology is key to staying warm in a survival situation.
• The bright orange color enhances visibility in emergency situations. Its high-visibility ensures you are easily spotted by rescue teams.
• It includes a rescue whistle for signaling and a tinder cord for starting fires. The included survival tools add an extra layer of preparedness.
• It has a bivvy series and is part of the SOL model line. This specifies the type of shelter and model within the Adventure Medical Kits range.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the bivvy’s effectiveness as an emergency shelter. The reflective material maximizes heat retention, while the waterproof construction keeps you dry. The bright color and included whistle increase your chances of being rescued.

Performance & Functionality

The SOL Bivvy performs its job of providing emergency shelter remarkably well. It’s not designed for long-term comfort. It’s designed for survival.

The main strength is its ability to trap body heat and block wind and rain. It far exceeds the performance of a standard emergency blanket. The main weakness is its limited space. It’s really only suitable for short-term use.

It absolutely meets expectations for an emergency bivvy. It’s not a replacement for a tent, but it’s a lifesaver in unexpected situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is surprisingly good for its price point. The material feels durable enough for emergency use, and the seams are well-sealed. The weight is incredibly light.

It’s relatively user-friendly. There’s no complicated setup required. It’s essentially a waterproof sleeping bag. The primary learning curve is simply getting used to the confined space.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the SOL Bivvy should last for many years of occasional use. It’s not designed for heavy-duty use, but it can withstand typical emergency situations.

Maintenance is minimal. Just wipe it down with a damp cloth and air dry it after each use. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures to prolong its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The SOL Bivvy comes with a rescue whistle and tinder cord. These are integrated into the design.

There aren’t many customization options available. You could potentially add a small repair kit for patching any tears, but that’s about it. It is compatible with any standard sleeping bag liner, which can increase warmth and comfort. Adding a small inflatable pillow could also improve comfort during extended use.

Pros and Cons of Adventure Medical Kits SOL Bivvy

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Who Should Buy Adventure Medical Kits SOL Bivvy?

Perfect for: Hikers, backpackers, survivalists, preppers, and anyone who spends time in the outdoors and needs a lightweight emergency shelter. Also ideal for inclusion in vehicle emergency kits.

Who should skip this product? Those looking for a comfortable, long-term shelter solution. This is strictly an emergency shelter. Anyone needing ample space or breathability should opt for a traditional tent.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A lightweight sleeping bag liner to increase warmth and reduce condensation. Also, a small repair kit for patching any tears.

Conclusion on Adventure Medical Kits SOL Bivvy

The Adventure Medical Kits SOL Bivvy is an excellent addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s gear list. It provides a reliable and effective emergency shelter in a remarkably lightweight and compact package. It’s not a luxurious camping experience.

The price is certainly justified for the peace of mind it provides. The reflective material, waterproof construction, and included survival tools make it a worthwhile investment.

I would absolutely recommend the Adventure Medical Kits SOL Bivvy to anyone who prioritizes preparedness and packability. It’s a must-have for anyone venturing into the wilderness.

Don’t leave home without it; add the SOL Bivvy to your pack and be prepared for the unexpected!

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