The Borah Gear Side zip bivy is an ultralight bug bivy — the most minimal form of solo shelter, built to keep out insects and dew rather than sustained rain. Its breathable Argon nylon shell lets water vapor escape, reducing the condensation buildup common with coated fabrics, while the side-entry zipper makes getting in and out easier than a top-entry design. In the standard Argon90 version it weighs just 176 g, measures 213 × 76 cm, and includes full bug netting across the entry, fitting users up to 185 cm tall.
For thru-hikers chasing a low base weight, this is about as light as solo shelter gear gets — often paired with a separate tarp for rain protection, or used alone on clear nights. The trade-off for that weight is the lack of full waterproofing: a bug bivy alone won't keep you dry in sustained rain, so most users treat it as insect and dew protection rather than a standalone weatherproof shelter. For solo hikers prioritizing pack volume and weight over all-conditions coverage, it is a sound three-season choice.