Hi all,
I’m trying to iron out my shelter selection for the PCT. I’m currently the owner of a cuben Solomid XL and I’m wondering whether to pair it with the MLD Solo Innernet or the MLD Superlight Bivy.
The advantages of the bivy as I can see them are:
- Keeps me away from wind / dew / bugs / thing that go bump in the night when cowboy camping (I’ve never done this before so I’m perhaps paranoid!)
- I imagine it will give me a little more internal space in quite a tight shelter
- Easier than setting up an internal net – definitely pursuing minimal fuss after long days of walking
- Will protect my bag from rain entering through the porch (I understand this is more of a Solomid problem than with Duomid)
- Slightly lighter (4.75oz for the bivy in large, cuben;Â 7.5oz for the Solo innernet)
The advantages of the Solo Innernet appear to be
- Can still pitch independently of the tarp (but with less wind protection and more fuss)
- Room to sit up, so less claustrophobic
- Better on warmer nights
- Less trouble with condensation
Alternatively, I could think about moving from the Solomid XL to a Duomid, which would give me more vestibule space and so might be a more comfortable fit for the inner net. However, I’m 6’2 and hear mixed thing as about the available length-way space in the Duomid.
I could also back to the drawing board and look at the Hexamid etc.? The MLD Mids are more often available second hand in the UK though, and tend to be well suited to conditions here as well as (seemingly) the big US trails.
I guess overall, I’m looking for the best combo in terms of enjoying the stars in peace from bugs and having enough space and protection when I need to hide from the elements.
As always, your advice would be very much appreciated!
