A Once In A Five Year Product
Avid has pitched their new EXO+ Bivvy System as ‘the ultimate shelter for those who want a super quick set-up without a single compromise on comfort’. Having just spent a few nights inside one, we have to agree—it’s sensational!
Roughly speaking, once every five years, we’re treated to something very special when it comes to tackle design. Early-’90s: the Nash Titan and Fox Microns. Mid-90s: the System Box. Late 90s: the Shimano Big Pit Baitrunner. Mid-00s: Daiwa’s Basia. Late-00s: the Spomb. And now we can add Avid’s brand-new EXO+ Bivvy System to that list impressive list. Five years in the making, and this bivvy system is overflowing with innovation. A new central boss design; the most innovative pole set-up; increased coverage from the adjustable peak—and there’s a lot more…
Wow! You guys really are singing the EXO+’s praises! Tell me more about the pole set-up?
Honestly, Avid has nailed it with this bivvy! Yes, it’s a similar shape and design to a Tempest and Frontier, but that’s where it finishes. Anyway, more on that later. These rather neat poles we’re harping on about feature self-locating elbows, so unlike other shelters where you have to ensure the two poles are aligned, these simply click into place. Imagine opening and locking the rear legs on a guest chair—that motion and ‘clicking’ sound—and you won’t be far off. These elbows also feature retaining fixing points for the vapour peak.
What’s the vapour peak?
This is another massive difference between the EXO+ and its competitors. You can increase coverage from the adjustable peak, giving you maximum coverage without the need for an additional skull cap or peak. It does come supplied with a Storm Cap, mind, which increases protection and coverage even further, along with adding insulation.
The central boss looks neat…
It certainly is, hence why Avid has slapped a patent on it. Just like that new locking leg design, the boss—which is at the heart of the bivvy—is so simple to use. Fan open the legs and then click in the two front poles. To break down, lift the catch, and the front two poles will be released.
Sounds great, but how reliable is that material?
A 20,000 hydrostatic head rating puts it into a very elite group of bivvies which offer such protection. And what’s more, Avid has treated this material on the inside with a black-out EX, making it super dark and cool in there. And talking of avoiding the sizzling heat, there are four camo mozzie vents in total—one on either side and two at the rear for maximum airflow. You also get solid infill panels featuring two door options: Solid and Camo Mozzy Mesh.
That door looks rather big…
Yes, even the door is unique on the EXO+! It’s what Avid calls an ‘XL Door’, which gives you limitless door options for maximum protection without compromising your view. The main door up or down; just the right or left side open; the whole front rolled back, and many more—you just set it to the weather conditions of the day.
Why does the groundsheet look like it’s had a chunk bitten out of it?!
Good observations! This is another great example of Avid’s designers showing off their eye for detail. The supplied heavy-duty groundsheet has a letterbox-style flap sewn in, so during the winter (or at any time when it’s wet and muddy), when you’re walking in and out of the bivvy, you can fold it back until you’re settled. Then simply put it back to have a full-size groundsheet minus all the mud!
They really have thought of everything!
Hang on, there’s more! You’ll find two internal mesh storage pockets at the front of the bivvy, which sounds minor but are super handy. The webbing adjusters on each pole allows for maximum fabric and shelter tension regardless of terrain. It comes supplied with two heavy-duty Avid Cam Lock storm poles and a full mozzie front comes as standard. You even get a bespoke carry bag, which features an independent zipped peg pocket, storm pole holster, groundsheet pocket and inner bivvy clips inside the bag!
Surely the price of this is going to be through the roof?!
Nope—you’re way off! To purchase the complete EXO+ Bivvy System—which includes full infill, mozzie mesh infill, groundsheet and Storm cap—it’ll set you back £499.99! Yes, £500 is a lot of money, but compare what you’re getting against comparable models, and this wins—hands down!
1. EXO+ PVC Door
The PVC Door provides valuable protection without compromising your view. Compatible with all EXO+ shelters and it can be rolled up and left in situ. £59.99
2. EXO+ Inner Dome
An inner dome is heavenly! This simple toggles in and then provides unrivalled protection from bugs and insects. The large door has zip configuration. £119.99
