I like the idea of draft free sleeping, so I bought a Zenbivy sheet and attached loops to the side of my quilt with tenacious tape. It works great, doesn't weigh that much and my sleep got so much better due to less drafts. The full sheet feels like a real bed and removes the plastic feel of my sleeping pad. - 2mm cord - 8 patches - The loops need to be inside the edge of the quilt by at least 25 cm (=9.84 inch) - Attach the loops 35cm from the top of the quilt, spaced at 22 cm (=8.66 inch)
I really hope that I can rig that sheet up to my perfectly comfortable (4.6R Value 20oz) and affordable ($75) paria xl recharge with the paria 15 degree quilt ($150) that I have been using for the past 5 years!
Do you use a none zenbivvy quilt? The way you said you attached hoops to your quilt makes me think you are using a different quilt. If so can you tell us or show us how you did it? Because I just bought a nemo tensor extreme and a UGQ outlaw 0 degree bag but I want to pair that system with a zenbivvy sheet.
My wife and I have the lite beds in the 10f and we were able to buy narrower pads because an overlooked benefit of the sheet is that it cradles your arms preventing them from slipping off. Gotta factor that into the weight savings calculations plus I was able to merge the two into a puffy plush dream monster by simply connecting the loops on the inner meeting seams with some cut up pieces of rubberized gear ties. Bypassed having to permanently disfugure our quilts to achieve something similar with tape or other adhesives. I can't fathom how you'd do that with a revelation with fewer connection points along the perimeter without tape or sewing. Another plus for biv, marvelous for couples.
Thanks for the review. I bought the ZB half sheet, put it over my 25” Uber lite pad and attached 8 DCF patches with loops(zpack) to my EE 20*. Took it on the pct this year for the whole season and it worked and continues to work great. Price of half sheet and DCF patches at the time was under $100.
Do you have a video showing the patches and hoops? I'm wanting to do the same thing with my ugq quilt. I just bought a nemo tensor extreme and the egq outlaw and will plan on buying a zenbivvy sheet but I want my quilt to buckle into the sheet like you are talking about.
I’m glad you raised the issue of the country of manufacture. Products made in the USA, or in Europe, are not necessarily more expensive than products made in Asia, despite much higher labor costs.
I also have the same quilt you have, $460, a Thermarest Xtherm pad bought used for $150, and a Sea-to Summit pillow for $60. Total $670 and completely satisfied.
I found the perfect solution for me: I bought the Sheet only and I have sewed the loops for the sheet to my existing 6 years old down quilt. Works very well and costs me like nothing more than the Sheet.
Darwin, I am heavy and bony, and the zenbivy ul sleeping pad is the absolute goat for side sleeping. You just need to pump that bad boi up beyond max air capacity. I found that it keeps me warmer and relieves pressure points. There shouldn’t be any reason that you are feeling the ground when turning.
Just went through this exact same process with the same comparable gear. What I ended up doing is keeping only the UL sheet and putting some Zpacks stackable loops on my Enigma. Pair it with my pad and my pillow and I get a much better system at only 2.7 ounces more allowing me to move more freely without the drafts. I’m 6’5” and 260, straps just aren’t enough.
I switched to Zen Bivy about 2 years ago. Love the hood mostly to keep my pillow in place. For that reason the uninsulated hood is optimal for me. It is not available on the ultra light, but the fast foot box on the other quilts is amazing as well. another thing you did not touch on is their compression sacks. They have a 1 way valve that lets you really crank down on them and make these quilts super small for fitting in your pack with very little effort. I just got an ultralight 25. I dont like it AS much, but it is still great, and helps me get my pack under target weight when I know I need to carry extra water or food. I also really appreciate their al a cart purchasing, and their customer service is extremely good.
Good and fair review. Full disclosure, I've owned a ZenBivy quilt and sheet for close to 5 years, and I love it. I can't speak to the mattress or pillow, but the sheet and quilt combo on a Nemo Tensor XL have given me the best sleep I've had in the backcountry in in 40+ years of camping. I'd buy it again without question. That said, I'm not an ultralight hiker and I understand your critiques of the system in that regard.
Great example of why gear has a personal preference dimension. Having been a ZenBivy user for several years, and upgrading to the UL version I find it simply fantastic for me. Best sleep ever. Too bad Darwin didn’t try the pillow but if what he uses works great for him that’s fine. I thought long and hard about the weight of the pillow but tried it because the air pillows I’ve tried are not comfortable at all. Love this pillow, better than the one I have at home. As for the hood, it has to be below freezing to use it, it does keep the pillow in place and that contributes to the overall sleep experience for me. The pad; I really like the new one and find it very comfortable- I’m also a side sleeper who moves around a lot. I did upgrade while it was on sale and that makes the price more reasonable in my opinion- the list price is a bit steep but I sleep so well and that has value.
I get to call Oregon my home and it truly makes me happy to hear you speak highly of our beloved mountain. I'm glad you see the beauty in it like I do.
Good for you for reviewing this product well. Your passion is showing and it blows those day packers opinions wide open. They’re YES MEN, keep this up Darwin! See ya out there, on the Collegiate Loop now 👍🏼
People get so caught up in new gear when frankly the old gear still works great. My system sleep/tent system is over 5+ years old and still works great! I use a Thermarest NeoAir Xlite 2” pad with a silk Cacoon liner and a 20° UGQ quilt. When sleeping on rock slabs where coldness might seep up I will use my Thermarest Z Lite Sol (cut in 1/2) closed Foam Pad under the air pad for additional warmth. In addition I prefer a freestanding tent, Marmot Tungsten 1P UL, which is warmer and almost eliminates condensation issues. With the vestibule doors closed on most nights at temps in the 20°-40° range I don’t need an insulated hoody or beanie and will occasionally wear a beanie to bed when the temps get below 20°. Works great for me and at a fraction of the cost. Can’t imagine replacing this system given the ridiculous cost of gear today! Buy quality, take care of it, when needed take advantage of the warranties, and quit looking to update something that doesn’t need replacing. I take pride in the fact my old gear still works great!
Appreciate the review & comparisons. My goto for many years has been a WM Summerlite 30F sleeping bag, 19oz, $505 and Zlite Sol CCF pad at 15oz, $60. Total 34oz (2lb 2oz), $565. I recently posted a video on other Big 3/4 systems. More recently I'm using 1/8" pad &/or Reflectix as a pad. My priority is simplicity.
Thanks for a great review, Darwin. I’ve been using the ZenBivy system for about 6 years. I’ve got both the 10 and 25 degree quilts and an uninsulated sheet. I tried a traditional quilt and didn’t like the drafts when I tossed and turned. The side baffles are what continue to sell the ZB for me. I use a ThermARest pad and Sea To Summit pillow. My ZenBivy is one of my favorite 3 pieces of gear.
The idea of a sheet keeping the quilt in place looks like it might be a winning idea. However, the whole system looks a bit overly *busy* to me. I still can't bring myself to pack a pillow with me when I've been getting by pretty well with a DCF packing pod stuffed with my puffy jacket, covered with my Buff..... 0 additional grams 😉
Then don’t, that’s the beauty of the system. You can buy as much or as little of it as you want. I personally didn’t get the pillow or mattress, as I’m a stomach sleeper and the pillow is too tall for me to be comfortable, and I already had a Nemo pad
Side sleeper here, but don’t hit the ground as mentioned, just gotta give the pad one or two more puffs so it holds better. That makes the pad more stiff but I think it’s better for my body/back to be more stiff than on the softer side. Also the waffle baffles are the way to go for pressure relief as a side sleeper, other pads will make my arms/shoulders go numb. I’m 6’2 and weigh 175pounds, Eastern Sierra weekend warrior, weight, qualify and simplicity are my big 3. I wouldn’t mind trying just the sheet out and sewing some loops onto my current quilt to make it work. I use a Sea to Summit Either Lite XT pad in women’s long, as women’s has a bit better R-value than the men’s yet smaller and lighter because of the shape, don’t need the square or wider top half as a side sleeper. Super comfy pad. Have a customer EE 20f quilt, 950 fill. Still exploring pillow combinations, but seems that the small Therms Rest Compressible pillow is the winner, a bit heavy and big but worth it, I throw my pants and ass pad under the head area of my sleeping pad to raise my head a bit higher.
I got the light sheet on sale and use magnetic clips from Amazon that fit the sheet hooks, then attach the magnets to my quilt. Works like a charm, and only adds about 3.5 oz to my kit.
I just returned from two back to back trips in Wyoming using the zen bivy 10 degree UL quilt and sheet system. I used it in conjunction with the newest Nemo Tensor insulated pad and stayed very warm despite below freezing temps, thunderstorms, snow and hail. I agree that I often put my pillow on top of the hood for comfort reasons. My biggest complaint was the white color. I know it seems silly, but I dealt with a lot of dirt, debris and muddy conditions for several days and the white quilt ended up showing everything. Even small dirt and sand on my tent floor would stick with static to the white quilt despite shaking it out in the fresh air each morning. Ideally, I could set up and take down my camp in dry conditions, but nothing about either of my trips into the Tetons and the Wind River Range was ideal. No matter how careful I was, the quilt showed more dirt and use than I've ever noticed on my other quilts. I've already made arrangements to have it cleaned by eClean, just because I don't want to store it dirty. I wish Zen Bivy would've used a different color for the quilt or provided a choice. As for performance, I was very pleased.
Since my army days 40÷ years ago, I have used a sleeping bag. Wore out my Kelty 20 degree bag will be replacing. Purchased a big agnes rapide at the beginning of last summer very comfortable for a 6'4", 250 side sleeper.
I have the ultralight mattress and I like it as a back sleeper. The quilted pattern is the most comfortable for me. If you are a side sleeper, you have to blow it up all the way to not hit the ground.
Sounds like you can get sheet to use with the other parts of your sleep system that you like. I like the innovative DIY options to make it work. DIY is satisfying.
I use the zenbivy quilt, occasionally the sheet on colder nights. Hate their pad, use the sea to summit ether something. And a thermarest compression pillow. And I’ve never had better sleep in the back country. It’s a mix and match for me
I agree on the pad for sure I went for the Exped Ultra 5R wide pad. The ultra light sheet and the light quilt are what I got from zenbivy. I also went for the same Sea To Summit pillow.
I toss and turn a lot, and for that, the Zenbivvy sheet with the quilt is far superior to anything else I have used over the years. It gives me a sense of freedom and cosiness, I find uniquely comfortable. I also turn the hood backwards over the sleeping pad as I don't need it. I agree the pillow seems overkill, and I will stick with the pillow I already have. As I already had the Nemo Tensor with an R 5.4 value, I didn't buy the Zenbivy pad. All in all, my combination works just fine.
I have always been curious about this. I well sleep similar to your setup. I really did enjoy the quality/ cost perspective versus Domestic and Foreign manufacturing. That was a solid review. Thanks, Dude!
Hey Guys. I have never used a zen bivy sheet so I can't say for sure. But i THINK just adding ultra light bivy similar to an MLD super light gives maybe even better draft/warmth performance than then zen bivy sheet. Its around 6 to 7 ounces but is also multiuse. It gives you bug protection, warm, and the ability to cowboy camp with bug protection if the nights are nice. At the same time, I use it instead of an inner net under a pyramid shelter or tarp. Anyway, I like the idea of a zenbivy because I see the benifits of using a regular ultralight bivy, so I like the product. I just think people should consider a full bivy as well.
I’ve used the Zenbivy system (sheet and quilt) and I love it. I love the hood because it’s not as constrictive as a sleeping bag. It’s very versatile. That said, I love my Revelation quilt and wouldn’t say the Zenbivy system is so much better. Can’t wait to try out their ultralight pad. I’ve been using the same pad as you’re using and while it’s light, it keeps me warm, the comfort is meh. I have sore hips, which is something I don’t have with the BA Rapide SL or S2M Ether light for instance. They’re not as warm though which is why I’m still looking for comfortable alternatives that also keep me warm.
I have to say I really like my ZenBivy set up. I just sleep a lot better which is worth a lot to me. I have the light bed system and got it on sale so it was pretty cheap but also not as light as the UL system. I only bought the sheet and quilt and used my existing REI pad and trekology pillow. Love it so much. But I’m also not thru hiking.
Love my UGQ Bandit 20 deg & use use one pad strap. My favorite piece of gear - great to crawl into at night after a long day on the trail. Has never let me down over 4+ years of use. Also use the X-Lite - no complaints but I have to be a little particular in how much I inflate it.
Personally, im careful to avoid the hype and things that are made to fund totalitarian regimes in China, Vietnam or Russia. Sea2Summit pad is comfortable and made in Taiwan. All US cottage brand quilts are great
To be fair, my WM sleeping bag is hella expensive, so I am probably north of that 800.00 mark in my sleep system, but that’s just it, my 25 degree WM Terralyte + ZPacks medium stuff sack with fleece lining (pillow) + Big Agnes Rapide SL is lighter then this system.. What’s nice though is my WM bag can be fully unzipped to be an over quilt, or fully zipped to be a SemiRec sleeping bag..best of both worlds and I have had it comfortably down to 15 degrees. Plus it is lighter than this ZB thing that the other guys keep gushing over. I love both the “in the field thoughts of the moment” interjected into your overall review, a very well done and articulate review!!!!
I own 3 systems and I am also a bony side sleeper. The Zenbivy pads need to be inflated very tight to 1) keep your hips and shoulders from touching the ground and being uncomfortable 2) get the insulation value rating on the pad That said, they are just hands down more comfortable which if you value that over a few ounces then that is the value.
I totally agree with you on every point for 3 season trekking. I use the Insulated Nemo Tensor pad. It works for my bony hips, and the first gen "OV" blow up pillow for years now. Works for me. BTW, interesting to hear about your Tri background. I raced back in the day when Lance A. and Mark Allen were competing. Worked, lived, and played in Boulder.
For transparency did you return the product to zenbivy or sell it? If you’re keeping it or selling it how is that not considered somekind of sponsorship / compensation?
Main benefit of the hood imo is keeping your pillow in place and just sleeping on top of the hood. I went for the full core sheet with the light bed but if i was going ultralight then the zenbivy sheet+diy quilt conversion seems ideal. I've never seen great things about the pads beyond the r value and i agree the pillow is overkill. Another thing is that I'd never recommend buying at full price they are constantly going on 20-30% off sales.
My first reaction is, "Well there's no way I'd pay that much for a backpacking sleep system." Then I remembered that I'm saving up for a Superior Gear insulated hammock, which combined with my top quilt probably gets pretty close to that. So I guess I would. lol
Send me that large pillow. It was sold out so I got the regular and wish it was bigger. I am not a thru hiker and sleep on my trips is top priority for me. Finally found comfort with my UL 25 zenbivy and my Light 10 Zenbivy - over a Big Agnes Rapide SL mattress. I can toss and turn (normal for me) and not get drafts. I need a big pillow - and the height from the Zenbivy pillow works for me. I have an enigma quilt and a sleeping bag and always grab one of the Zenbivy sets.
I’ve used a ton of sleeping bags, quilts, and all sorts of sleep systems but Zenbivy has been the best by far. For me personally at least. That includes on SAR missions, backpacking trips and car camping trips.
A pillows primary function is comfort, so that's what look at first, and I find the ZB pillow to be much more comfortable than the Sea to Summit aeros. It also looks line they sent you the large pillow? It comes in a more reasonable 'regular' size too.
Great video. I love my UGQ quilt. Always though the pricing from Zenbivy was a bit on the high end. If someone wants a sheet take a super lightweight liner and put it over the pad. And if you want to go a step further get some silicone magnetic cable ties and MacGyver your own Zenbivy version.
My wife has the 20 degree zenbivy light bed with the insulated hood. She really likes it. Doesn’t get cold anymore. She uses it with a thermarest neo air 25” pad.
I have the ultralight sheet and pillow system being a side sleeper and needing that extra pillow height is perfect. Like Darwin I go with a different pad but any way you slice and dice all these quilts and sleep systems you’re still paying a premium price. You have to choose what works best for you.
I didn't even bother to hear what he says. I own this bivy system. I've hiked for 50+ years. This is my favorite piece of gear. My God it's comfortable and that's all that matters to me. How well did I sleep....great!
I purchased the UL 25degree quilt and the insulated sheet recently when they had the Labor Day sale. I bought the UL pad when it was on sale as well. I HATED using traditional quilts and I really enjoyed the zenbivy system but I still would only use a traditional Western Mountaineering Alpinlite for temps around or below freezing. I don’t think the zenbivy is all hype at all but I do think it’s overpriced at the regular retail price.
Great review. The fabrics and down on the ZenBivy quilt are higher quality than enlightened equipment. They are also PFC free which is better for you and the environment and use gold coated dwr down which will have better moisture resistance.
I think I have a pretty unique sleep system. I use a rumpl down blanket, that I got from Sierra for 70$ a seatosummit comfort light si, and a smartwool sleeping bag liner. And sts pillow like Darwin's. As a side sleeper, the si versions of sleep pads with the added foam really help with my boney shoulders and hips. It's worth the weight imo. 😅
I love the Thermarest neo Air . I have Same problem with the hips . I have the same pillow also It's perfect for any traveling really. But , I still turn my mummy bags upside down .. and lay on the cold zipper all night .
I'll be real, my Nemo setup has suited me wonderfully and I paid hundreds less. I have definitely shaved a lot of weight from my starting gear, going from near 40 lbs before water to around 20 lbs before water, but the comforts that my more traditional setup give me are worth every ounce to me.
Definitely true that it's all subjective. I could tell immediately with your pre-existing system that you wouldn't be impressed with this. I think you're in the minority of folks who actually enjoy the horizontal baffle structure and air pillow. The quilted pattern is vastly superior in comfort imo. I'm also a turner and side/stomach sleeper and you do bottom out but only if the pad isn't fully inflated. A 4" loft would've been better so you could let a little air out and make it even more comfortable. I don't get the pillow either but the topper was done for comfort more-so than heat retention. The bladder gives it loft, the topper provides more cushion. And the light system is a little heavier than the UL but a decent amount cheaper. I think if you're just starting out backpacking the investment into the light system is one of the best opportunities for a decent night's sleep in the backcountry.
It's true that comfort is so subjective. On the sleeping pad specifically, I sleep on my back and the quilted pattern is much less comfortable than the horizontal baffle for me. It's great that there are so many options to fit individual needs these days, everyone can build a setup that is uniquely comfortable to them!
@@stickybeats Makes sense! Horizontal on average is more comfortable for back sleepers. Or at the least more tolerable for folks that don't toss that much.
hey darwin , my version of a sheet is , imho, the best period cuz it is sooo versitale. I use a 1 of 2 bag liners . 1 is a cotton/silk mix , very soft lite n well,,,, silky.( Sea 2 Summit ).. the other is the S2S Thermolite Reactor. these 2 r very diff from each other but i LUV BOTH !! so what i do is slip the bag liner over the pad. i strart at the FOOT of the pad so that thhe valve is at the OPEN end of the bag liner !!! Y, cuz IF i want adjust air pressure in pad 4 whatever reaso i can do so with NO issue. my bags/quilts r EE Convert's, a winter & a summer ( if im goig artic 😅 i put the winter into the summer.... that on temp setting so 2 speak, if i put summer into winter thats a diff setting too. But the bag lineer over the pad is VERY comfy 😊❤!!! the liners r versatile 2 cuz i can sleep in or on them. !!! i can sit out of my tent & b in my linner for that bit of xtra warmth ( & bug defense ) !!!! it keps my pad in clean shape 2 !!!! my bags havee pad straps so een as a tosser n turner side sleeper i feaar no drafty voids !!!!!!! my pad is " rated " w a R of 6.5. So, Zen can sell to packer yuppies, i'll stick 2 my own multi sytem !!!!❤😂😅😊. and do u have any idea just how many line options out there ????? holy cow !! andnot just from S2S !!!! the brand Cocoon has there own line up as well as others. look for a liner ur pad will fit into ,duh😅 !. square or mummy,, the liner length does not have to 100% cover the pad either ! especially if u use socks at nite 😊. so u pick pad. u pick bag/s, u pick liner/s, u pick pillow or none, ...... man thats diversity if ever there was !!!! u have budget option also but still SAME set up !!!! eat ur hat Zen !!!!😅😂🎉😊 well ATB Darwin !! hope that put some kick in ur soup lol !!!!!😊
20D for any sleeping pad is a deal breaker for me. I wish so badly there were more options for thicker fabric pads, I would happily carry the extra weight for piece of mind. Seems so silly to buy an ultralight pad and also carry a foam pad to put underneath just in case. Xtherm has a 70D bottom and isn't much heavier, why not a 50D all around pad that's way more puncture resistant? Doesn't exist as far as I can tell.
I got the core sheet and light convertible 40 degree quilt, I paid $240. With my tensor pad I'm at 4.375 lb. I'm not an ultralighter, so for me, this thing rules. I am allergic to down.
I bought the ‘light bed’ in 21 on a sale. It works AWESOME. I even bought 2 of the UL sheet to pair w my other quilts( have added loops & such to attach the sheet to other quilts YET)highly recommended. But.. 800$? No I paid maybe 340on sale.( it was not the Ul, they only had light then)
It's so interesting to me that you dislike the baffling pattern of this pad. It's very similar to the baffling of the REI Helix, which my partner uses. It's the first pad we have gotten her that she can get a good night's sleep on, and she is a side sleeper. Typically these pads are able to better accommodate the pressure points caused by aide sleepers. I suppose everyone is a bit different though
@@TronForlox considering I work in the outdoor retail space and regularly outfit people on sleeping pads, yeah I do find it interesting that a side sleeper doesn't like a quilted baffle pattern. Every side sleep I've sold a pad to has vastly preferred the quilted baffle pads (tested among a variety of baffle patterns). So much so that sleeping position is the first aspect of a customer's sleep that I ask them about. But yeah, trolling is fun and I took the bait. Have wonderful day
I have the same issues as Darwin. I have two waffel patterned sleeping pads, one from Ali and one SeaToSummit. The problem for me is when I lie on the side, the hip goes into the ground. I didn't know this was a problem with the pattern.
@@jaysonmoore5166 I'm a side sleeper. I also prefer the sideways baffles on the Xlite. tried quilted baffles and had the same issues as Darwin. So there are at least 2 of us.
As someone not from the US, I super do not care at all if something was made in the US or not. I have not found that "made in the USA" means more quality in general, especially for the price. USA makes some really good stuff and some not so good stuff, same as other countries.
I 100% agree. That wasn’t the point of bringing it up. I was simply pointing out that things that are made in the US cost more to manufacture typically. Therefore products made in the US are usually much more expensive than things made in other countries like Vietnam. So only a 6 or 11 dollar difference, doesn’t make much sense.
I think it looks like a nice system and generally speaking I‘m big fan of companies trying to think outside the box. And if they have a good idea, well they can ask for a markup in price. As for the ZenBivy system however I‘m not convinced that it‘s really that much better and I‘m not convinced enought to potentially risk almost a grand for it.
Great video, great thoughts. I picked one up during the Labor Day sale. No pads available but I see they had one to send you??!! Francine is drowning out any trips this weekend but I should get something done next weekend. I do tend to toss and turn and wake up cold in the middle of the night so maybe it helps.
Regards to your pillow, I have been using the same pillow many years, not quite as many nights, but I have had to replace it 4 times due to leaks/ material break down. I was wondering have you had the same problem or am I doing something wrong? Good review and I agree with your conclusion.
I use a myog apex quilt, torso foam pad and flex air litesmith pillow. Less than 2 pounds and $200 for the set up. Jank and not that comfy but it works. 😂😂😂
Never tried it because I’ve never understood the draw. I think it’s designed to sell to would-be backpackers who like the idea of taking their bed with them and don’t think an extra pound means much.
I've learned as an expat, that camping and hiking equipment, not made in the US, isn't marketed for the US. It's available, but these are homegrown companies that start off catering to their countries of origin and their particular environments and tastes. The States has wildly diverse terrain, weather and seasonal patterns that the majority of countries don't, so the gear is designed to accomodate. Besides, importing things from the US, will literally increase the price for many things to equal or exceed the price of the domestic gear.
Ya you’re a little too much ultralight thru hiker to love a zen bivy system. I get it it’s more bulk and weight. But the sleep you get from it is so luxurious for backcountry
I like the idea of draft free sleeping, so I bought a Zenbivy sheet and attached loops to the side of my quilt with tenacious tape. It works great, doesn't weigh that much and my sleep got so much better due to less drafts. The full sheet feels like a real bed and removes the plastic feel of my sleeping pad.
- 2mm cord
- 8 patches
- The loops need to be inside the edge of the quilt by at least 25 cm (=9.84 inch)
- Attach the loops 35cm from the top of the quilt, spaced at 22 cm (=8.66 inch)
@medimalismus Any issues with the fit of the sheet on your pad as opposed to using the Zenbivy pad? If not, what pad are you using?
I really hope that I can rig that sheet up to my perfectly comfortable (4.6R Value 20oz) and affordable ($75) paria xl recharge with the paria 15 degree quilt ($150) that I have been using for the past 5 years!
@@JohnConstantine646I have a zen bivy system and use a Big Agnes Rapides wide pad.
@@mathewu9772 thank you!
Do you use a none zenbivvy quilt? The way you said you attached hoops to your quilt makes me think you are using a different quilt. If so can you tell us or show us how you did it? Because I just bought a nemo tensor extreme and a UGQ outlaw 0 degree bag but I want to pair that system with a zenbivvy sheet.
My wife and I have the lite beds in the 10f and we were able to buy narrower pads because an overlooked benefit of the sheet is that it cradles your arms preventing them from slipping off. Gotta factor that into the weight savings calculations plus I was able to merge the two into a puffy plush dream monster by simply connecting the loops on the inner meeting seams with some cut up pieces of rubberized gear ties. Bypassed having to permanently disfugure our quilts to achieve something similar with tape or other adhesives. I can't fathom how you'd do that with a revelation with fewer connection points along the perimeter without tape or sewing. Another plus for biv, marvelous for couples.
Thanks for the review. I bought the ZB half sheet, put it over my 25” Uber lite pad and attached 8 DCF patches with loops(zpack) to my EE 20*. Took it on the pct this year for the whole season and it worked and continues to work great. Price of half sheet and DCF patches at the time was under $100.
Do you have a video showing the patches and hoops? I'm wanting to do the same thing with my ugq quilt. I just bought a nemo tensor extreme and the egq outlaw and will plan on buying a zenbivvy sheet but I want my quilt to buckle into the sheet like you are talking about.
Why are so many other youtuber using it? Agressive marketing and free gear!
Because it is the most freaking comfortable sleep you’ll ever get on trail. Period. That’s why.
Yep, zenbivy and outdoor vitals. Not saying it's bad gear but, man, it's a lot
I’m glad you raised the issue of the country of manufacture. Products made in the USA, or in Europe, are not necessarily more expensive than products made in Asia, despite much higher labor costs.
I also have the same quilt you have, $460, a Thermarest Xtherm pad bought used for $150, and a Sea-to Summit pillow for $60. Total $670 and completely satisfied.
I found the perfect solution for me: I bought the Sheet only and I have sewed the loops for the sheet to my existing 6 years old down quilt. Works very well and costs me like nothing more than the Sheet.
I had thought about it. Where do you get the loop?
@@zzww9483 I have used Shock Cord, it works very well
Darwin, I am heavy and bony, and the zenbivy ul sleeping pad is the absolute goat for side sleeping. You just need to pump that bad boi up beyond max air capacity. I found that it keeps me warmer and relieves pressure points. There shouldn’t be any reason that you are feeling the ground when turning.
Just went through this exact same process with the same comparable gear. What I ended up doing is keeping only the UL sheet and putting some Zpacks stackable loops on my Enigma. Pair it with my pad and my pillow and I get a much better system at only 2.7 ounces more allowing me to move more freely without the drafts. I’m 6’5” and 260, straps just aren’t enough.
I was actually thinking about doing the same. May I ask which loops you have used as zpacks is offering several different type of loops. Thanks.
I switched to Zen Bivy about 2 years ago. Love the hood mostly to keep my pillow in place. For that reason the uninsulated hood is optimal for me. It is not available on the ultra light, but the fast foot box on the other quilts is amazing as well. another thing you did not touch on is their compression sacks. They have a 1 way valve that lets you really crank down on them and make these quilts super small for fitting in your pack with very little effort. I just got an ultralight 25. I dont like it AS much, but it is still great, and helps me get my pack under target weight when I know I need to carry extra water or food. I also really appreciate their al a cart purchasing, and their customer service is extremely good.
Good and fair review. Full disclosure, I've owned a ZenBivy quilt and sheet for close to 5 years, and I love it. I can't speak to the mattress or pillow, but the sheet and quilt combo on a Nemo Tensor XL have given me the best sleep I've had in the backcountry in in 40+ years of camping. I'd buy it again without question. That said, I'm not an ultralight hiker and I understand your critiques of the system in that regard.
Great example of why gear has a personal preference dimension. Having been a ZenBivy user for several years, and upgrading to the UL version I find it simply fantastic for me. Best sleep ever. Too bad Darwin didn’t try the pillow but if what he uses works great for him that’s fine. I thought long and hard about the weight of the pillow but tried it because the air pillows I’ve tried are not comfortable at all. Love this pillow, better than the one I have at home. As for the hood, it has to be below freezing to use it, it does keep the pillow in place and that contributes to the overall sleep experience for me. The pad; I really like the new one and find it very comfortable- I’m also a side sleeper who moves around a lot. I did upgrade while it was on sale and that makes the price more reasonable in my opinion- the list price is a bit steep but I sleep so well and that has value.
I get to call Oregon my home and it truly makes me happy to hear you speak highly of our beloved mountain. I'm glad you see the beauty in it like I do.
Good for you for reviewing this product well. Your passion is showing and it blows those day packers opinions wide open. They’re YES MEN, keep this up Darwin! See ya out there, on the Collegiate Loop now 👍🏼
Ahhhhhh I literally just tried mine last night in the chilly British country side. Loved it!
People get so caught up in new gear when frankly the old gear still works great. My system sleep/tent system is over 5+ years old and still works great! I use a Thermarest NeoAir Xlite 2” pad with a silk Cacoon liner and a 20° UGQ quilt. When sleeping on rock slabs where coldness might seep up I will use my Thermarest Z Lite Sol (cut in 1/2) closed Foam Pad under the air pad for additional warmth. In addition I prefer a freestanding tent, Marmot Tungsten 1P UL, which is warmer and almost eliminates condensation issues. With the vestibule doors closed on most nights at temps in the 20°-40° range I don’t need an insulated hoody or beanie and will occasionally wear a beanie to bed when the temps get below 20°. Works great for me and at a fraction of the cost. Can’t imagine replacing this system given the ridiculous cost of gear today! Buy quality, take care of it, when needed take advantage of the warranties, and quit looking to update something that doesn’t need replacing. I take pride in the fact my old gear still works great!
I have to say I like sleeping bags. I'd happily sleep in one all the time.
The Sea to Summit Pillows are the bomb.
Always appreciate the honest reviews darwin!
Appreciate the review & comparisons.
My goto for many years has been a WM Summerlite 30F sleeping bag, 19oz, $505 and Zlite Sol CCF pad at 15oz, $60. Total 34oz (2lb 2oz), $565. I recently posted a video on other Big 3/4 systems. More recently I'm using 1/8" pad &/or Reflectix as a pad. My priority is simplicity.
Thanks for a great review, Darwin. I’ve been using the ZenBivy system for about 6 years. I’ve got both the 10 and 25 degree quilts and an uninsulated sheet. I tried a traditional quilt and didn’t like the drafts when I tossed and turned. The side baffles are what continue to sell the ZB for me. I use a ThermARest pad and Sea To Summit pillow. My ZenBivy is one of my favorite 3 pieces of gear.
My Zenbivy has changed my whole backcountry experience!
The idea of a sheet keeping the quilt in place looks like it might be a winning idea. However, the whole system looks a bit overly *busy* to me. I still can't bring myself to pack a pillow with me when I've been getting by pretty well with a DCF packing pod stuffed with my puffy jacket, covered with my Buff..... 0 additional grams 😉
Then don’t, that’s the beauty of the system. You can buy as much or as little of it as you want. I personally didn’t get the pillow or mattress, as I’m a stomach sleeper and the pillow is too tall for me to be comfortable, and I already had a Nemo pad
Yeah I skipped the pillow and even went heavier with the 10° zippered system, (I go out in Alaska backcountry) and it's a dream honestly I love it!!
Side sleeper here, but don’t hit the ground as mentioned, just gotta give the pad one or two more puffs so it holds better. That makes the pad more stiff but I think it’s better for my body/back to be more stiff than on the softer side. Also the waffle baffles are the way to go for pressure relief as a side sleeper, other pads will make my arms/shoulders go numb. I’m 6’2 and weigh 175pounds, Eastern Sierra weekend warrior, weight, qualify and simplicity are my big 3. I wouldn’t mind trying just the sheet out and sewing some loops onto my current quilt to make it work. I use a Sea to Summit Either Lite XT pad in women’s long, as women’s has a bit better R-value than the men’s yet smaller and lighter because of the shape, don’t need the square or wider top half as a side sleeper. Super comfy pad. Have a customer EE 20f quilt, 950 fill. Still exploring pillow combinations, but seems that the small Therms Rest Compressible pillow is the winner, a bit heavy and big but worth it, I throw my pants and ass pad under the head area of my sleeping pad to raise my head a bit higher.
I got the light sheet on sale and use magnetic clips from Amazon that fit the sheet hooks, then attach the magnets to my quilt. Works like a charm, and only adds about 3.5 oz to my kit.
I just returned from two back to back trips in Wyoming using the zen bivy 10 degree UL quilt and sheet system. I used it in conjunction with the newest Nemo Tensor insulated pad and stayed very warm despite below freezing temps, thunderstorms, snow and hail. I agree that I often put my pillow on top of the hood for comfort reasons. My biggest complaint was the white color. I know it seems silly, but I dealt with a lot of dirt, debris and muddy conditions for several days and the white quilt ended up showing everything. Even small dirt and sand on my tent floor would stick with static to the white quilt despite shaking it out in the fresh air each morning. Ideally, I could set up and take down my camp in dry conditions, but nothing about either of my trips into the Tetons and the Wind River Range was ideal. No matter how careful I was, the quilt showed more dirt and use than I've ever noticed on my other quilts. I've already made arrangements to have it cleaned by eClean, just because I don't want to store it dirty. I wish Zen Bivy would've used a different color for the quilt or provided a choice. As for performance, I was very pleased.
Since my army days 40÷ years ago, I have used a sleeping bag. Wore out my Kelty 20 degree bag will be replacing. Purchased a big agnes rapide at the beginning of last summer very comfortable for a 6'4", 250 side sleeper.
I have the ultralight mattress and I like it as a back sleeper. The quilted pattern is the most comfortable for me. If you are a side sleeper, you have to blow it up all the way to not hit the ground.
Sounds like you can get sheet to use with the other parts of your sleep system that you like. I like the innovative DIY options to make it work. DIY is satisfying.
I use the zenbivy quilt, occasionally the sheet on colder nights. Hate their pad, use the sea to summit ether something. And a thermarest compression pillow. And I’ve never had better sleep in the back country. It’s a mix and match for me
I agree on the pad for sure I went for the Exped Ultra 5R wide pad. The ultra light sheet and the light quilt are what I got from zenbivy. I also went for the same Sea To Summit pillow.
I toss and turn a lot, and for that, the Zenbivvy sheet with the quilt is far superior to anything else I have used over the years. It gives me a sense of freedom and cosiness, I find uniquely comfortable. I also turn the hood backwards over the sleeping pad as I don't need it. I agree the pillow seems overkill, and I will stick with the pillow I already have. As I already had the Nemo Tensor with an R 5.4 value, I didn't buy the Zenbivy pad. All in all, my combination works just fine.
I have always been curious about this. I well sleep similar to your setup. I really did enjoy the quality/ cost perspective versus Domestic and Foreign manufacturing. That was a solid review. Thanks, Dude!
Really good down to earth review Darwin, you make so much good sense to us- thanks for this! 🌱🍄👍
Hey Guys. I have never used a zen bivy sheet so I can't say for sure. But i THINK just adding ultra light bivy similar to an MLD super light gives maybe even better draft/warmth performance than then zen bivy sheet. Its around 6 to 7 ounces but is also multiuse. It gives you bug protection, warm, and the ability to cowboy camp with bug protection if the nights are nice. At the same time, I use it instead of an inner net under a pyramid shelter or tarp.
Anyway, I like the idea of a zenbivy because I see the benifits of using a regular ultralight bivy, so I like the product. I just think people should consider a full bivy as well.
I’ve used the Zenbivy system (sheet and quilt) and I love it. I love the hood because it’s not as constrictive as a sleeping bag. It’s very versatile. That said, I love my Revelation quilt and wouldn’t say the Zenbivy system is so much better.
Can’t wait to try out their ultralight pad. I’ve been using the same pad as you’re using and while it’s light, it keeps me warm, the comfort is meh. I have sore hips, which is something I don’t have with the BA Rapide SL or S2M Ether light for instance. They’re not as warm though which is why I’m still looking for comfortable alternatives that also keep me warm.
I have to say I really like my ZenBivy set up. I just sleep a lot better which is worth a lot to me. I have the light bed system and got it on sale so it was pretty cheap but also not as light as the UL system. I only bought the sheet and quilt and used my existing REI pad and trekology pillow. Love it so much. But I’m also not thru hiking.
Love my UGQ Bandit 20 deg & use use one pad strap. My favorite piece of gear - great to crawl into at night after a long day on the trail. Has never let me down over 4+ years of use. Also use the X-Lite - no complaints but I have to be a little particular in how much I inflate it.
Personally, im careful to avoid the hype and things that are made to fund totalitarian regimes in China, Vietnam or Russia. Sea2Summit pad is comfortable and made in Taiwan. All US cottage brand quilts are great
Great summary and conclusion.
I use an Outdoor Vitals pillow, a UGQ XL Bandit 20 degree custom quilt, and a thermarest regular wide sleeping pad with a 1/8” foam pad underneath.
To be fair, my WM sleeping bag is hella expensive, so I am probably north of that 800.00 mark in my sleep system, but that’s just it, my 25 degree WM Terralyte + ZPacks medium stuff sack with fleece lining (pillow) + Big Agnes Rapide SL is lighter then this system.. What’s nice though is my WM bag can be fully unzipped to be an over quilt, or fully zipped to be a SemiRec sleeping bag..best of both worlds and I have had it comfortably down to 15 degrees. Plus it is lighter than this ZB thing that the other guys keep gushing over. I love both the “in the field thoughts of the moment” interjected into your overall review, a very well done and articulate review!!!!
I own 3 systems and I am also a bony side sleeper. The Zenbivy pads need to be inflated very tight to 1) keep your hips and shoulders from touching the ground and being uncomfortable 2) get the insulation value rating on the pad
That said, they are just hands down more comfortable which if you value that over a few ounces then that is the value.
I totally agree with you on every point for 3 season trekking. I use the Insulated Nemo Tensor pad. It works for my bony hips, and the first gen "OV" blow up pillow for years now. Works for me.
BTW, interesting to hear about your Tri background. I raced back in the day when Lance A. and Mark Allen were competing. Worked, lived, and played in Boulder.
For transparency did you return the product to zenbivy or sell it? If you’re keeping it or selling it how is that not considered somekind of sponsorship / compensation?
Main benefit of the hood imo is keeping your pillow in place and just sleeping on top of the hood. I went for the full core sheet with the light bed but if i was going ultralight then the zenbivy sheet+diy quilt conversion seems ideal. I've never seen great things about the pads beyond the r value and i agree the pillow is overkill.
Another thing is that I'd never recommend buying at full price they are constantly going on 20-30% off sales.
My first reaction is, "Well there's no way I'd pay that much for a backpacking sleep system." Then I remembered that I'm saving up for a Superior Gear insulated hammock, which combined with my top quilt probably gets pretty close to that. So I guess I would. lol
Send me that large pillow. It was sold out so I got the regular and wish it was bigger. I am not a thru hiker and sleep on my trips is top priority for me. Finally found comfort with my UL 25 zenbivy and my Light 10 Zenbivy - over a Big Agnes Rapide SL mattress. I can toss and turn (normal for me) and not get drafts. I need a big pillow - and the height from the Zenbivy pillow works for me. I have an enigma quilt and a sleeping bag and always grab one of the Zenbivy sets.
It would be interesting to compare also the packing volume of your system and the Zenbivy. I think it takes much more space in the backpack.
I’ve used a ton of sleeping bags, quilts, and all sorts of sleep systems but Zenbivy has been the best by far. For me personally at least. That includes on SAR missions, backpacking trips and car camping trips.
A pillows primary function is comfort, so that's what look at first, and I find the ZB pillow to be much more comfortable than the Sea to Summit aeros. It also looks line they sent you the large pillow? It comes in a more reasonable 'regular' size too.
Great video. I love my UGQ quilt. Always though the pricing from Zenbivy was a bit on the high end. If someone wants a sheet take a super lightweight liner and put it over the pad. And if you want to go a step further get some silicone magnetic cable ties and MacGyver your own Zenbivy version.
My wife has the 20 degree zenbivy light bed with the insulated hood. She really likes it. Doesn’t get cold anymore. She uses it with a thermarest neo air 25” pad.
10 degree
Love my non ultralight Zenbivy quilt and sheet, as a curvy girl I feel so restricted in a sleeping bag.
they should make a double version. less weight per person
I have the ultralight sheet and pillow system being a side sleeper and needing that extra pillow height is perfect. Like Darwin I go with a different pad but any way you slice and dice all these quilts and sleep systems you’re still paying a premium price. You have to choose what works best for you.
I have the XL synthetic quilt $119 ? and the regular sheet. I really liked it. I had my own mattress. i cannot use down because of allergies.
I didn't even bother to hear what he says.
I own this bivy system. I've hiked for 50+ years.
This is my favorite piece of gear. My God it's comfortable and that's all that matters to me. How well did I sleep....great!
I purchased the UL 25degree quilt and the insulated sheet recently when they had the Labor Day sale. I bought the UL pad when it was on sale as well. I HATED using traditional quilts and I really enjoyed the zenbivy system but I still would only use a traditional Western Mountaineering Alpinlite for temps around or below freezing. I don’t think the zenbivy is all hype at all but I do think it’s overpriced at the regular retail price.
Setting this system must be difficult when you’re in darkness?
Great review. The fabrics and down on the ZenBivy quilt are higher quality than enlightened equipment. They are also PFC free which is better for you and the environment and use gold coated dwr down which will have better moisture resistance.
How? The fill power in the Zenbivy is less, the fabrics are 1 to 1, and EE is fully PFC free with DWR coatings on all their fabrics.
Good one.
I think I have a pretty unique sleep system.
I use a rumpl down blanket, that I got from Sierra for 70$ a seatosummit comfort light si, and a smartwool sleeping bag liner. And sts pillow like Darwin's.
As a side sleeper, the si versions of sleep pads with the added foam really help with my boney shoulders and hips. It's worth the weight imo. 😅
Thanks for the info. Why haven't any of the US quilt companies come out with a matching sheet?
I love the Thermarest neo Air . I have Same problem with the hips . I have the same pillow also It's perfect for any traveling really. But , I still turn my mummy bags upside down .. and lay on the cold zipper all night .
I'll be real, my Nemo setup has suited me wonderfully and I paid hundreds less. I have definitely shaved a lot of weight from my starting gear, going from near 40 lbs before water to around 20 lbs before water, but the comforts that my more traditional setup give me are worth every ounce to me.
Definitely true that it's all subjective. I could tell immediately with your pre-existing system that you wouldn't be impressed with this. I think you're in the minority of folks who actually enjoy the horizontal baffle structure and air pillow. The quilted pattern is vastly superior in comfort imo. I'm also a turner and side/stomach sleeper and you do bottom out but only if the pad isn't fully inflated. A 4" loft would've been better so you could let a little air out and make it even more comfortable. I don't get the pillow either but the topper was done for comfort more-so than heat retention. The bladder gives it loft, the topper provides more cushion. And the light system is a little heavier than the UL but a decent amount cheaper. I think if you're just starting out backpacking the investment into the light system is one of the best opportunities for a decent night's sleep in the backcountry.
It's true that comfort is so subjective. On the sleeping pad specifically, I sleep on my back and the quilted pattern is much less comfortable than the horizontal baffle for me. It's great that there are so many options to fit individual needs these days, everyone can build a setup that is uniquely comfortable to them!
@@stickybeats Makes sense! Horizontal on average is more comfortable for back sleepers. Or at the least more tolerable for folks that don't toss that much.
hey darwin ,
my version of a sheet is , imho, the best period cuz it is sooo versitale. I use a 1 of 2 bag liners . 1 is a cotton/silk mix , very soft lite n well,,,, silky.( Sea 2 Summit ).. the other is the S2S Thermolite Reactor. these 2 r very diff from each other but i LUV BOTH !! so what i do is slip the bag liner over the pad. i strart at the FOOT of the pad so that thhe valve is at the OPEN end of the bag liner !!! Y, cuz IF i want adjust air pressure in pad 4 whatever reaso i can do so with NO issue. my bags/quilts r EE Convert's, a winter & a summer ( if im goig artic 😅 i put the winter into the summer.... that on temp setting so 2 speak, if i put summer into winter thats a diff setting too. But the bag lineer over the pad is VERY comfy 😊❤!!! the liners r versatile 2 cuz i can sleep in or on them. !!! i can sit out of my tent & b in my linner for that bit of xtra warmth ( & bug defense ) !!!! it keps my pad in clean shape 2 !!!! my bags havee pad straps so een as a tosser n turner side sleeper i feaar no drafty voids !!!!!!! my pad is " rated " w a R of 6.5. So, Zen can sell to packer yuppies, i'll stick 2 my own multi sytem !!!!❤😂😅😊. and do u have any idea just how many line options out there ????? holy cow !! andnot just from S2S !!!! the brand Cocoon has there own line up as well as others. look for a liner ur pad will fit into ,duh😅 !. square or mummy,, the liner length does not have to 100% cover the pad either ! especially if u use socks at nite 😊. so u pick pad. u pick bag/s, u pick liner/s, u pick pillow or none, ...... man thats diversity if ever there was !!!! u have budget option also but still SAME set up !!!! eat ur hat Zen !!!!😅😂🎉😊
well ATB Darwin !! hope that put some kick in ur soup lol !!!!!😊
Great video. Always love your mannerisms and enunciation. They really make the video a Darwin video.
20D for any sleeping pad is a deal breaker for me. I wish so badly there were more options for thicker fabric pads, I would happily carry the extra weight for piece of mind. Seems so silly to buy an ultralight pad and also carry a foam pad to put underneath just in case. Xtherm has a 70D bottom and isn't much heavier, why not a 50D all around pad that's way more puncture resistant? Doesn't exist as far as I can tell.
The guys going back and forth with justinoutdoors in that comment 😂
great vid
I got the core sheet and light convertible 40 degree quilt, I paid $240. With my tensor pad I'm at 4.375 lb. I'm not an ultralighter, so for me, this thing rules. I am allergic to down.
I bought the ‘light bed’ in 21 on a sale. It works AWESOME. I even bought 2 of the UL sheet to pair w my other quilts( have added loops & such to attach the sheet to other quilts YET)highly recommended. But.. 800$? No I paid maybe 340on sale.( it was not the Ul, they only had light then)
It's so interesting to me that you dislike the baffling pattern of this pad. It's very similar to the baffling of the REI Helix, which my partner uses. It's the first pad we have gotten her that she can get a good night's sleep on, and she is a side sleeper. Typically these pads are able to better accommodate the pressure points caused by aide sleepers. I suppose everyone is a bit different though
Oh so it’s interesting to you that different people like different things. Cool story.
@@TronForlox considering I work in the outdoor retail space and regularly outfit people on sleeping pads, yeah I do find it interesting that a side sleeper doesn't like a quilted baffle pattern. Every side sleep I've sold a pad to has vastly preferred the quilted baffle pads (tested among a variety of baffle patterns). So much so that sleeping position is the first aspect of a customer's sleep that I ask them about. But yeah, trolling is fun and I took the bait. Have wonderful day
I have the same issues as Darwin. I have two waffel patterned sleeping pads, one from Ali and one SeaToSummit.
The problem for me is when I lie on the side, the hip goes into the ground. I didn't know this was a problem with the pattern.
@@jaysonmoore5166 I'm a side sleeper. I also prefer the sideways baffles on the Xlite. tried quilted baffles and had the same issues as Darwin. So there are at least 2 of us.
As someone not from the US, I super do not care at all if something was made in the US or not.
I have not found that "made in the USA" means more quality in general, especially for the price.
USA makes some really good stuff and some not so good stuff, same as other countries.
I 100% agree. That wasn’t the point of bringing it up. I was simply pointing out that things that are made in the US cost more to manufacture typically. Therefore products made in the US are usually much more expensive than things made in other countries like Vietnam. So only a 6 or 11 dollar difference, doesn’t make much sense.
I think it looks like a nice system and generally speaking I‘m big fan of companies trying to think outside the box. And if they have a good idea, well they can ask for a markup in price. As for the ZenBivy system however I‘m not convinced that it‘s really that much better and I‘m not convinced enought to potentially risk almost a grand for it.
I agree with everything you said about UGQ! 😂😂
Look into the history of UGQ… not exactly a model company without any controversy.
Great video, great thoughts. I picked one up during the Labor Day sale. No pads available but I see they had one to send you??!! Francine is drowning out any trips this weekend but I should get something done next weekend. I do tend to toss and turn and wake up cold in the middle of the night so maybe it helps.
Regards to your pillow, I have been using the same pillow many years, not quite as many nights, but I have had to replace it 4 times due to leaks/ material break down. I was wondering have you had the same problem or am I doing something wrong?
Good review and I agree with your conclusion.
I cherish my Sponge Bob woobie and even if you offered $1000 I wouldn't give it up because the memories also keep me comfy.
I put my entire sleep system inside a large silk sheet. This keeps me from sliding off.
how does the zenbivy perform on sloped or uneven ground? no such thing as flat ground in elk territory.
I have one of the original Zenbivy systems
Can your EE quilt really get down to a lower temperature?
Is it comfort rated?
Nice review but I’d have loved to have seen (them all) packed and get an idea of the volumes involved.
I use a myog apex quilt, torso foam pad and flex air litesmith pillow. Less than 2 pounds and $200 for the set up. Jank and not that comfy but it works. 😂😂😂
What is that tent you have? Looks like it might be the Z-packs Duplex zipper version .. and using the flex kit?
Crazy it made in Vietnam labour so cheap material so cheap and the down so cheap … how can they charge that
What shirt/jacket are you wearing in this video?
Is this the first video with a Darwin sponsor commercial? Onyx? Keep going do well have success, you earned it
LOL that is more than my mattress and box spring at home
Never tried it because I’ve never understood the draw. I think it’s designed to sell to would-be backpackers who like the idea of taking their bed with them and don’t think an extra pound means much.
Because sporting gears became a fucking raxket😮
Can't you just combine Zenbivy UL sheet + quilt w/ Neoair XLite and UL pillow to shave weight and increase comfort?
Yes
Why? They are being paid to that’s why. 😊
Hey meester, you like my ultralight sheet?
I've learned as an expat, that camping and hiking equipment, not made in the US, isn't marketed for the US. It's available, but these are homegrown companies that start off catering to their countries of origin and their particular environments and tastes. The States has wildly diverse terrain, weather and seasonal patterns that the majority of countries don't, so the gear is designed to accomodate. Besides, importing things from the US, will literally increase the price for many things to equal or exceed the price of the domestic gear.
Because they wanna fleece you for every penny they can
Made in the USA? SOLD!
I love marketing; creating a need at a much higher price point to make a profit when your existing system is just fine. FOMA… Sorry not biting!
Ya you’re a little too much ultralight thru hiker to love a zen bivy system. I get it it’s more bulk and weight. But the sleep you get from it is so luxurious for backcountry
But it's called the Ultralight Bed 🤷♂️ 😅
@@DarwinOnthetrail ok let’s ask Micheal to put “ish” after the UL name.