Top Rated: Macpac Bush Cocoon (8.3 / 10)
Category: Modular Tent (1. Body): Best Hooped Bivvy (Bivi, Bivvi, Bivy, etc)
The ultimate body for a flexible, modular setup
In terms of design and choice of materials, the Bush Cocoon is almost faultless. The design is both innovative and highly practical - the side entrance being a major plus. The only point of potential debate is around the vent. Could it be larger? Possibly. Should there be another at the foot? We think so, and we've passed this suggestion on to Macpac - hopefully they'll listen.
When combined with an UL "micro" tarp, the venting provided by the side opening solves most of the traditional condensation issues which plague single skinned tents and bivvies. With such a combination, one has a hybrid or partially double skinned tent, with excellent venting options, better headroom (under the tarp porch) than many solo tents - the tarp providing a superior cooking environment - as well as additional shelter for kit remaining outside the bivvy. The Bush Cocoon offers complete protection from the elements in winter and from insects and other annoyances in the summer. In the mountains, where conditions are hazardous and progress potentially life threatening (whiteouts etc), the Bush Cocoon can be deployed quickly and allow one to hunker down and wait out the danger. It's not an ultralight option, but it's tough and protective enough to use all year round, and for Scramble, Macpac's aptly named Bush Cocoon is the perfect "body" for a modular tent system.