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Lightweight, Bombproof Weather Protection for Solo Adventures
Outdoor Research says:
The Helium Bivy is the ultimate lightweight shelter for the solo adventurer, whether logging miles while fastpacking, bikepacking down the coast, or setting personal bests during long days on the wall.
Made with bluesign® approved Pertex® Shield NetPlus® fabric from 100% recycled nylon, the Helium UL Bivy is newly updated for 2026 to deliver durable, lightweight performance with a fully seam-taped design and waterproof PU-coated floor for reliable weather protection. Dual passive ventilation flaps improve airflow and reduce condensation, while a high-volume toe box adds comfort through the night. A clamshell opening, single DAC aluminium pole, and six stakes/stake loops make setup quick and efficient in any terrain.
Designed to move light and fast when weight and performance matter the most, the Helium Bivy is a protective, breathable cocoon perfect for solo adventures.
*Not included: Sleeping bag, pad, and pillows (shown for display only) do not come with your OR Bivy purchase.
Our Verdict
The Outdoor Research Helium UL Bivy has long been a staple in the brand’s lineup and carries real heritage. It is widely regarded as one of the benchmark lightweight bivies, and that reputation feels justified. At 530g for the bivy and pole combined, it delivers serious weather protection in a compact package.
The Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse upper feels robust for its weight, and the 40D floor inspires confidence on mixed ground. The single-pole lifts the fabric away from the face, creating usable headroom and making the clamshell zip entry far more practical than that of traditional flat bivies. Internal space at 208.3 cm in length is sufficient for most mats, though it remains a focused sleep system rather than a place to sit up and organise kit.
Breathability is good for a waterproof bivy, but ventilation management is important in damp conditions, I always opt for a synthetic bag when bivying.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Ultralight
- Fully Seam-Taped
- Durable
- No-See-Um Mesh
- Fabric Updated
- Single-Pole System
- Reflective Logo and Trims
- Four Stake Loops (S24 Update)
- One Guy Line Loop
- High Volume Toe End
- Clamshell Opening
- Two Internal Fly Fasteners
- Dimensions: 208.3 cm x 66.0 cm x 48 cm / 82.0 in x 26.0 in x 19.0 in (foot box tapers)
Specifications
- Bivy weighs: 454g
- Poles weigh: 76g
- Total weight: 530g (excludes pegs & bags)
- Pegs x4 weigh: 44
Material & Construction
- bluesign® approved Pertex® Shield Diamond Fuse 2.5L 100% Nylon 30D Ripstop Upper
- 100% Nylon 40D with TPU lamination floor
- bluesign® approved 100% Polyester Mesh
