Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy Review

First Impressions of Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy

The Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy promised something that had eluded me for years: true ultralight, minimalist shelter that actually worked. I’d spent countless nights swatting mosquitos in cowboy camps, and shivering in condensation-soaked tarps. Big Agnes advertised a simple, insect-proof, and breathable bivy, and I was eager to see if it could deliver.

My adventures often take me off the beaten path, where weight and packability are paramount. I needed a solo shelter that could protect me from bugs and light rain without weighing me down like a traditional tent. My initial foray into minimalist shelters led me to consider other options like the Outdoor Research Helium Bivy, known for its waterproofness, and the Sea to Summit Escapist Ultra-Mesh Bug Tent, which is pure insect protection.

However, the Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy seemed to strike a better balance between weather resistance, insect protection, and ease of entry. Unboxing it revealed a featherlight package, and I was immediately impressed by the fine mesh and seemingly durable floor material. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism – could something this lightweight truly stand up to the rigors of the backcountry?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy was a solo backpacking trip in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The weather forecast predicted clear skies, but I knew mountain weather can be unpredictable. I set up the bivy near a small alpine lake, a notorious mosquito haven.

Setting up was incredibly simple: I just unrolled it, inserted the single pole at the head, and staked out the three corners. The mesh provided excellent ventilation, and I was immediately grateful for the bug protection as mosquitos swarmed outside. There was a brief shower overnight, and the shallow bathtub floor kept me dry from splash-back.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy has become a staple in my ultralight kit. I’ve used it on everything from desert backpacking trips to humid forest camps. The mesh has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of tears or snags.

The floor material, while lightweight, has proven surprisingly durable. I always use a footprint or groundsheet to protect it from abrasion, but even without, it has resisted punctures and tears. Maintenance is simple: I just shake out any debris and wipe down the floor with a damp cloth. Compared to my previous experiences with heavier, more complex tents, the Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy has exceeded my expectations in terms of weight, packability, and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy

Specifications

• The Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy is designed as a high-performance, four-season solo shelter. Its minimalist design focuses on weight savings and packability.
• It features a single-pole design for increased headroom. This single pole makes it easy to setup and adds much needed space around the head.
• The bivy has a top third that zips open, creating an extra-large entry. The zippered top section is crucial for easy entry and exit, preventing that claustrophobic feeling.
• A shallow bathtub floor is designed for protection and structural support. It’s important to note that this is a shallow bathtub floor and is NOT fully waterproof.
• The Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy has a window at the head with two closure options, mesh layer for ventilation or zip coated layer closed for full protection. This feature is a nice addition as it allows you to stay fully enclosed while maintaining ventilation or zipping closed for additional weather protection.
• Finally, three stakeout loops keep the structure stationary. Three stake out loops are the bare minimum but provide secure anchor points.

Performance & Functionality

The Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy performs exceptionally well for its intended purpose: providing lightweight insect protection and minimal weather resistance. Its strengths lie in its simplicity and packability. The large zippered entry makes it easy to get in and out, and the mesh provides excellent ventilation, minimizing condensation.

The shallow bathtub floor offers some protection from splashback and ground moisture, but it’s not a substitute for a fully waterproof tent. One area for improvement would be the inclusion of a few more stakeout loops for added stability in windy conditions. Overall, the bivy meets expectations as a minimalist shelter, but its limitations should be considered.

Design & Ergonomics

The Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy’s design is focused on simplicity and weight savings. The materials used are lightweight and packable, but still feel reasonably durable. The bivy is easy to set up and take down, and the large zippered entry is a welcome feature.

The single-pole design provides adequate headroom, but it’s not as spacious as a traditional tent. There is a slight learning curve to efficiently pack the bivy back into its stuff sack, but with practice, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy is constructed from lightweight materials, so it’s important to handle it with care. The mesh is relatively durable, but it’s susceptible to punctures from sharp objects. The floor material is also lightweight, so using a groundsheet is highly recommended.

Maintenance is simple: just shake out any debris and wipe down the floor with a damp cloth. With proper care, the Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy should last for many years of use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy is a minimalist shelter, so it doesn’t come with a lot of accessories. A stuff sack is included for storage and transport. There aren’t many customization options for the bivy itself, but you can use it with a variety of accessories to enhance its performance.

A groundsheet or footprint is highly recommended to protect the floor material. You can also use a lightweight tarp to provide additional weather protection. The Big Agnes website sells a compatible footprint.

Pros and Cons of Big Agnes Three Wire Mesh Bivy