Hey Mowser, Now companies are sending your gear, you’re officially recognised as being on the influencer map! Nice reward for your hard work and production frequency. Cheers
Big fan of my Zenbivvy system. I started off with a 25⁰ core quilt and sheet, but just purchased an uninsualted sheet and a 10⁰ light quilt which im keen to use this coming winter (also significantly lighter than my first system which is synthetic!). The system is very comfy and perfect for me as an active sleeper, who has always struggled sleeping in the backcountry. Totally worth looking into, despite the atrocious shipping costs from the US to Australia.
Australia 🇦🇺 I love love my zenbivy. I now have both bags 10 and 25 light bags a pillow and pad and sheet. Perfection !!and their help service is amazing!!
I’m a long time ZenBivy fan. I started with the first generation Light system. It went with me from one end of the globe to the other. For the budget conscious and those who don’t mind a bit more weight it is a great option. Upgraded last year to the UltraLight system when it was on sale for 30% off- that makes it very cost competitive. The system has been upgraded over the years with good improvements and yet the older and newer components still hook together just fine. That allows me to mix and match components and my previous investment s are not made obsolete- not something one often encounters. I’m one who can’t tolerate a bag- I move too much and can’t stand the constriction. I have a summer Nemo pad I like but did get the new ZenBivy pad with the UL 10 deg quilt but saved a few ounces by getting the 25 deg sheet. I find the ZenBivy pad to be very comfortable. Like the review said, if you prefer another pad, no problem. Pads are possibly the most subjective part of a sleep system anyway- that and pillows. I find myself at the stage in life where I can afford lighter gear and I had to think hard about the extra ounces but like almost every reviewer has said, the pillow is very comfortable. I’m not a fan of the bag/inflation sack as it’s sorta heavy and short on volume. The Nemo pump sack fits and works much better. Plus I pack the pad, inflation device and pillow in a small HMG pod- lighter and packs in my pack better. I have the ZenBivy dry bag, and it is a great piece of gear, but don’t use it; opting for a dyneema dry bag to save weight and better pack ability. Most importantly the system works great for me, I get great sleep and wake up refreshed for another challenging day. For those who can manage with an 1/8” foam pad and balled up stinky clothes for a pillow, more power to you. 😊
another ZB owner, bought the 25⁰ quilt XL and UL as well as the new ZB rectangular sleeping pad just released taking for Overland in mid. Feb - anyways the owner of ZB in another review said to make sure you inflate the ZB sleeping pads more then you would a normal pad - they work being infated firm so when you lay on it the dimples work as intended
We are twinsies! I also own 2 ZenBivy quilts. I bought the new ultralight (same as yours) for winter Overland earlier this year - wasn’t quite as warm as I had hoped (I’m a female). Glad we were in huts and not camping. My 25F quilt gets a lot of use. I sleep so well. I bought the new pillowcase and put my favorite pillow in it. I have the old mattress with vertical baffles and can’t justify upgrading - no real difference in weight and mattress also very comfortable.
I have used ZenBivy Light Bed -12C for about 3 years (~100 nights) now and it's still my favorite sleep system! Best part is that I can combine my other quilts with it during Finnish winter time. My current coldness record is -26C with ZB Light Bed + Therma-a-Rest Vesper -6C. When I use Vesper as the inner quilt, Zen Bivy will block drafts for both quilts.
I went for the WM TerraLite, because as an active side sleeper I planned to toss and turn within this spacious bag. But when it's cold I'm so tucked in the closed collar and hood, that I cannot really move without also turning the bag itself, which leads to move the compressed bits to the top, so I feel the cold. I didn't try regular quilts below ~15°C because I am wary of the drafts. Now, I am more and more intrigued to update to the ZenBivy...
I so would like a Zenbivy system but I just afford one so I looked for something that would do a similar job for less. So have you looked at the Big Agnes Anvil Horn sleeping bag. I think it's the perfect design taking the best of a sleeping bag and a quilt. Yes it's bulky and heavy in comparison but that's easily overcome with just lighter fabrics and a higher fill power. What I'm getting at is the Big Agnes Anvil Horn design which I truly believe is the best of both worlds. I love super light quilts for the summer but for the winter I prefer and even more sealed in feel. Obviously I've not tried the Zenbivy system, maybe one day. Love your vids, Cheers from the UK
from what i can tell, the zen bivy looks like a fine sleep system. they are certainly good promoters of their products. for what it's worth, i take zero notice of reviewers that receive gear for free, and as you would know mowser, many youtubers have been given a zen bivy system. i myself have an big agnes anvil horn 0 bag (-18 c), which i think is actually a much better system than bags, quilts or the zen bivy. excellent for tassie conditions. they never caught on though. maybe big agnes should have given a stack away to youtubers to review ??
Maybe. But as I said, I was literally about to invest when they reached out. Haven’t seen big Agnes bags in store but will now keep an eye out and check them out.
I do take notice of youtubers who get gear for free, if I find them objective in other videos. They are not being paid or obliged to say anything good.
There are more than just Mummy bags that narrow from the hips. Look at Semirectangular or Rectangular styles. But most people are sizing the sleeping bags too narrow, making them feel locked in, for me, there is a simple test, if you can cross your arms out in front of you when inside the bag, as many people mainly focus on the length only As one that is 6ft+, some standard 90cm width bags feel tight. Also depends if you are one that is spread eagle, arms and legs everywhere... then some quilts can be nicer for them.
I think any of these heavy systems are fine for general backpacking but for long distance backpacking I will stick with my 20 degree Zpacks quilt, 18oz and plenty warm. I have no desire to deal with all this nonsense. I must add I don’t have any trouble sleeping so I don’t need any special equipment.
@mtadams2009 i don't see how this is a "heavy" system. Its 900fp down and the regular 25f quilt is 19 oz. Sure if you bring the sheet you add weight but it adds warmth.
Well, the whole system is the sheet and the quilt. Only the quilt would have more drafts an probably not the same temp rating. 25 f option weight 24.2 oz for a 5.10 person Pajak 4z is a very wide sleeping bag for the same temp (a bit lower actually) and it weights just 1 oz more. Malachowski SUL 400 is a bit more expensive and a bit narrower but it weights 18.5 oz being a complete sleeping bag. I wouldnt call ZB ultralight heavy but it's a luxury comfortable item and its not ultralight either
@@mowsertas I’m starting a certificate 3 in tourism starting in February at Drysdale tastafe in Hobart.. can you give me any tips on becoming a tour guide on the overland track? As That would be my end goal for sure!
@@ZiggyYates-z9l worth applying for jobs with the various guiding companies out there. We are coming right into peak season now so certainly doesn't hurt to send in your resume. You'll probably do Wilderness first aid with your Cert III but it may be worth getting at very least an up to date workplace first aid if you want to apply now. If you want to apply after you finish, then read up on every aspect of the Overland track starting now. Read about the history of the area, the geology, the flora, the fauna etc. There's heaps online as well as lots of books. Lots of second had book shops have good book. I did used to like to carry various pocket books with me as a guide. eg. 'wildflowers of tasmania'. These may still be available. It's great if you can identify plants, animals, landmarks to guests. As well as being able to tell various stories of the track from history. A great book to read about all the stories is Mountain Stories: Volume 1 and Volume 2. geographica.net.au/product/mountain-stories-volume-1/?srsltid=AfmBOoptcX9MUrHwrHb1rA2-Xr25ouyA3jsPW-rB62neWhK4rMkXR_3S Reading all of this stuff can really put your knowledge on another level and guests will absolutely love it. In the mean time, get out when you can and practice your learning. Good luck with it!
@ I appreciate all over that information! I will definitely be reading those books.. one other thing.. have you ever seen a kangaroo apple tree alone the overland track I’m very interested in tasting and hopefully letting my future guests enjoy them as well! Appreciate your work again!
@@ZiggyYates-z9l might be worth considering a cer4 in outdoor recreation or something similar too. Gives a lot of handy group facilitation skills, risk planning and trip planning (plus some great electives) and if you tack on wilderness first aid as mowser suggested, you'd have a great set of skills for guiding.
Hey Mowser,
Now companies are sending your gear, you’re officially recognised as being on the influencer map! Nice reward for your hard work and production frequency.
Cheers
Thanks so much! Appreciate the kind words as always 🙏
As someone who sleeps under a weighted blanket, the tightness of a mummy bag is feature, not a bug
Big fan of my Zenbivvy system. I started off with a 25⁰ core quilt and sheet, but just purchased an uninsualted sheet and a 10⁰ light quilt which im keen to use this coming winter (also significantly lighter than my first system which is synthetic!).
The system is very comfy and perfect for me as an active sleeper, who has always struggled sleeping in the backcountry. Totally worth looking into, despite the atrocious shipping costs from the US to Australia.
So fantastically presented man!
Editing and your storytelling are brilliant!
Australia 🇦🇺 I love love my zenbivy. I now have both bags 10 and 25 light bags a pillow and pad and sheet. Perfection !!and their help service is amazing!!
I’m a long time ZenBivy fan. I started with the first generation Light system. It went with me from one end of the globe to the other. For the budget conscious and those who don’t mind a bit more weight it is a great option. Upgraded last year to the UltraLight system when it was on sale for 30% off- that makes it very cost competitive. The system has been upgraded over the years with good improvements and yet the older and newer components still hook together just fine. That allows me to mix and match components and my previous investment s are not made obsolete- not something one often encounters. I’m one who can’t tolerate a bag- I move too much and can’t stand the constriction. I have a summer Nemo pad I like but did get the new ZenBivy pad with the UL 10 deg quilt but saved a few ounces by getting the 25 deg sheet. I find the ZenBivy pad to be very comfortable. Like the review said, if you prefer another pad, no problem. Pads are possibly the most subjective part of a sleep system anyway- that and pillows. I find myself at the stage in life where I can afford lighter gear and I had to think hard about the extra ounces but like almost every reviewer has said, the pillow is very comfortable. I’m not a fan of the bag/inflation sack as it’s sorta heavy and short on volume. The Nemo pump sack fits and works much better. Plus I pack the pad, inflation device and pillow in a small HMG pod- lighter and packs in my pack better. I have the ZenBivy dry bag, and it is a great piece of gear, but don’t use it; opting for a dyneema dry bag to save weight and better pack ability. Most importantly the system works great for me, I get great sleep and wake up refreshed for another challenging day. For those who can manage with an 1/8” foam pad and balled up stinky clothes for a pillow, more power to you. 😊
Fantastic analysis! It’s great to hear that you’ve found a system that works so well for you! Thanks!
another ZB owner, bought the 25⁰ quilt XL and UL as well as the new ZB rectangular sleeping pad just released taking for Overland in mid. Feb - anyways the owner of ZB in another review said to make sure you inflate the ZB sleeping pads more then you would a normal pad - they work being infated firm so when you lay on it the dimples work as intended
We are twinsies! I also own 2 ZenBivy quilts. I bought the new ultralight (same as yours) for winter Overland earlier this year - wasn’t quite as warm as I had hoped (I’m a female). Glad we were in huts and not camping. My 25F quilt gets a lot of use. I sleep so well. I bought the new pillowcase and put my favorite pillow in it. I have the old mattress with vertical baffles and can’t justify upgrading - no real difference in weight and mattress also very comfortable.
So good! I’m loving this whole system!
I have used ZenBivy Light Bed -12C for about 3 years (~100 nights) now and it's still my favorite sleep system! Best part is that I can combine my other quilts with it during Finnish winter time. My current coldness record is -26C with ZB Light Bed + Therma-a-Rest Vesper -6C. When I use Vesper as the inner quilt, Zen Bivy will block drafts for both quilts.
Thanks for sharing! That’s a great setup! Will have to take mine in my next trip to see my Finnish friends 🇫🇮
I like my zenbivy. Had the -4c for over a year now. Generally always comfortable.
Nice. 😊
I went for the WM TerraLite, because as an active side sleeper I planned to toss and turn within this spacious bag. But when it's cold I'm so tucked in the closed collar and hood, that I cannot really move without also turning the bag itself, which leads to move the compressed bits to the top, so I feel the cold. I didn't try regular quilts below ~15°C because I am wary of the drafts. Now, I am more and more intrigued to update to the ZenBivy...
I so would like a Zenbivy system but I just afford one so I looked for something that would do a similar job for less.
So have you looked at the Big Agnes Anvil Horn sleeping bag. I think it's the perfect design taking the best of a sleeping bag and a quilt. Yes it's bulky and heavy in comparison but that's easily overcome with just lighter fabrics and a higher fill power.
What I'm getting at is the Big Agnes Anvil Horn design which I truly believe is the best of both worlds.
I love super light quilts for the summer but for the winter I prefer and even more sealed in feel.
Obviously I've not tried the Zenbivy system, maybe one day.
Love your vids, Cheers from the UK
@@camping_guru_uk they have much more affordable options
from what i can tell, the zen bivy looks like a fine sleep system.
they are certainly good promoters of their products.
for what it's worth, i take zero notice of reviewers that receive gear for free, and as you would know mowser, many youtubers have been given a zen bivy system.
i myself have an big agnes anvil horn 0 bag (-18 c), which i think is actually a much better system than bags, quilts or the zen bivy.
excellent for tassie conditions. they never caught on though. maybe big agnes should have given a stack away to youtubers to review ??
Maybe. But as I said, I was literally about to invest when they reached out. Haven’t seen big Agnes bags in store but will now keep an eye out and check them out.
I do take notice of youtubers who get gear for free, if I find them objective in other videos. They are not being paid or obliged to say anything good.
@@antine1279 I suppose we all have different ways of looking at things 👍🏻
Being quite curvy a mummy bags is so restrictive to me. Love my Zen Bivy light.....a bit bulky but worth it to me.
The ultralight didn't exist when I bought the light.
Yep, definitely a lot more room!
There are more than just Mummy bags that narrow from the hips. Look at Semirectangular or Rectangular styles.
But most people are sizing the sleeping bags too narrow, making them feel locked in, for me, there is a simple test, if you can cross your arms out in front of you when inside the bag, as many people mainly focus on the length only
As one that is 6ft+, some standard 90cm width bags feel tight.
Also depends if you are one that is spread eagle, arms and legs everywhere... then some quilts can be nicer for them.
I think any of these heavy systems are fine for general backpacking but for long distance backpacking I will stick with my 20 degree Zpacks quilt, 18oz and plenty warm. I have no desire to deal with all this nonsense. I must add I don’t have any trouble sleeping so I don’t need any special equipment.
@mtadams2009 i don't see how this is a "heavy" system. Its 900fp down and the regular 25f quilt is 19 oz. Sure if you bring the sheet you add weight but it adds warmth.
Well, the whole system is the sheet and the quilt. Only the quilt would have more drafts an probably not the same temp rating.
25 f option weight 24.2 oz for a 5.10 person
Pajak 4z is a very wide sleeping bag for the same temp (a bit lower actually) and it weights just 1 oz more.
Malachowski SUL 400 is a bit more expensive and a bit narrower but it weights 18.5 oz being a complete sleeping bag.
I wouldnt call ZB ultralight heavy but it's a luxury comfortable item and its not ultralight either
@@truepaulesko What you mean is it isn't minimal.
glad i sleep fine in a sleeping bag.
It’s a gimmick for weekenders. Just get a bigger/wider mummy bag. I think zenbivy gives out more systems than it actually sells.
I don’t understand why you don’t have more subscribers
One of those great mysteries 🤔
@@mowsertas I’m starting a certificate 3 in tourism starting in February at Drysdale tastafe in Hobart.. can you give me any tips on becoming a tour guide on the overland track? As That would be my end goal for sure!
@@ZiggyYates-z9l worth applying for jobs with the various guiding companies out there. We are coming right into peak season now so certainly doesn't hurt to send in your resume. You'll probably do Wilderness first aid with your Cert III but it may be worth getting at very least an up to date workplace first aid if you want to apply now.
If you want to apply after you finish, then read up on every aspect of the Overland track starting now. Read about the history of the area, the geology, the flora, the fauna etc. There's heaps online as well as lots of books. Lots of second had book shops have good book.
I did used to like to carry various pocket books with me as a guide. eg. 'wildflowers of tasmania'. These may still be available. It's great if you can identify plants, animals, landmarks to guests. As well as being able to tell various stories of the track from history.
A great book to read about all the stories is Mountain Stories: Volume 1 and Volume 2. geographica.net.au/product/mountain-stories-volume-1/?srsltid=AfmBOoptcX9MUrHwrHb1rA2-Xr25ouyA3jsPW-rB62neWhK4rMkXR_3S Reading all of this stuff can really put your knowledge on another level and guests will absolutely love it. In the mean time, get out when you can and practice your learning. Good luck with it!
@ I appreciate all over that information! I will definitely be reading those books.. one other thing.. have you ever seen a kangaroo apple tree alone the overland track I’m very interested in tasting and hopefully letting my future guests enjoy them as well!
Appreciate your work again!
@@ZiggyYates-z9l might be worth considering a cer4 in outdoor recreation or something similar too. Gives a lot of handy group facilitation skills, risk planning and trip planning (plus some great electives) and if you tack on wilderness first aid as mowser suggested, you'd have a great set of skills for guiding.