Bug Bivies: Outdoor Research v. Integral Designs v. Other?

Although there are lighter options, between the two I'd definately go with the Integral Designs BugaBivy simply because of the side zip entry. I could never figure out how to get into the OR bug bivy with its clamshell design.

Keep in mind that the ID BugaBivy is right-zip only AFAIK, but this OK for left-zip bags–just not as convenient.

Anybody seen The North Face Bug Bivy?

What would be better between that and ID's or OR's?

Best,
Aaron

Take a look at the Six Moon Designs 7oz. Meteor Bivy. You can either make your own using their directions or buy it from their website like I did. I have been using it since August in the North Georgia Mountains.

As long as you're looking at SMD stuff, look at their bug shelter. It's designed to work with the Gatewood cape, but works stand-alone too with a single pole and 0 – 4 stakes to optionally hold the corners in place on the ground plus 1 stake to hold up the pole.

I like this better than the MLD bug shelter because I can sit up comfortably in the SMD. And as I now have a Gatewood cape it's a total win.

One issue with the SMD shelter as a "bivy" however is that it doesn't have a very high bathtub floor — still, I think it's enough.

http://sixmoondesigns.com/shop/shopexd.asp?id=55

Do yourself a favor and look at Alpinlite's web site– great stuff, great prices and great service. They make a great bug tent that might work really well.