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Ultralight, waterproof, and breathable bivy made from recycled Pertex Shield NetPlus —ideal for fast, minimalist alpine and mountain missions.
Ultralight, waterproof, and breathable bivy made from recycled Pertex Shield NetPlus —ideal for fast, minimalist alpine and mountain missions.
Outdoor Research

Outdoor Research Helium UL Bivy Light Pewter

£233.75 £275.00 15% off
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Pre-Order

With Pre-Order, you can purchase the latest items added to our store in advance of them arriving with us.

Your Pre-Order is prioritised (at no additional charge); meaning that as soon as the product arrives with us, we can wrap it straight back up; ready for collection via Click & Collect or despatch to you — it often never even hits the stock room shelves!

Pre-Launch

With Pre-Launch, the date when we expect to receive the product ourselves is still a little too hazy to be confident in accepting Pre-Orders.

So, instead, you can submit your email address against the item you are interested in and we will email you as soon as stock arrives on the system.

Estimated Delivery & Collection Dates

Estimated Delivery & Collection Dates are given on Pre-Order and Pre-Launch products. They are for indication purposes only and can change at any time without notice.

The dates we provide are based on indications given by our suppliers. Whenever we get updated information from our suppliers we will endeavour to update the Estimated Delivery & Collection Dates provided on product pages.

We estimate this will be ready for despatch to you or collection via Click & Collect on Undetermined
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When you purchase this item, you will earn of rewards points to spend on your next purchase from us. You can spend your Rewards balance in-store & online.

90-day returns period

We hope that you are perfectly happy with your order from Trekitt, but we understand that sometimes you may need to return an item. We offer a 90-day returns period from the date of purchase and aim to process all returns within 48 working hours of receipt. During exceptionally busy periods, returns may take up to 7 working days to be processed.

We do not offer a free returns service. If using the DPD Returns Portal, a charge of £5 will be deducted from your refund when processed. Returns from Highlands and Islands using theDPD Returns Portalwill deduct £15.50 from the order refund. Large DPD returns will have £6 deducted from their refund. (Specifications are over 5kg, and over Length of 30cm x width of 30cm and height of 10cm). If customers are returning items using their own postal service, and our returns form, all customers are responsible for any postage costs when returning any goods (excluding warranty returns).
For your convenience, follow here to theDPD Returns Portalto submit a return or click the button below. Alternatively, to arrange return postage for your items. Please use our warehouse returns address (Returns, Unit H&J, Moreton Business Park, Hereford, HR4 8DS) when completing the Returns PDF form below.


We are not liable for delays once an order has been dispatched. However, we will always work with the courier to assist in resolving any delivery issues where possible.
If an order has not been received, customers must contact us within 14 days ofdispatchso that we can investigate and assist accordingly.

If you have returned an item using the DPD returns portal and have not received confirmation of your refund, you must contact us within 14 days of dispatching your return so we can investigate. After this period, we may be unable to investigate or raise a claim.
We do not offer a free returns service. Customers returning items using their own postal service and our returns form are responsible for any postage costs when returning goods (excluding warranty returns).
To arrange your return, please complete the Returns PDF form and send you item to our warehouse at:
Returns
Unit H&J, Moreton Business Park
Hereford
HR4 8DS
Thank you for your patience while we improve our returns service.



The Trekitt Returns Policy Includes...
A 90 day return period and the Trekitt 2-year Common Sense Guarantee.

Exemptions & Surcharges
PPE (Facemasks, Climbing Equipment etc. ), Food Goods, Accessory Cord, Socks & Underwear can only be returned if they have not been worn and/or removed from their original packaging with all swing tags still attached. If there is any sign or possibility that the goods have been used, tampered with or contaminated in any way, then we cannot accept a return on the grounds of consumer safety. Zips are typically not covered under a manufacturer's warranty.

Please take care when packaging your returning order as customers will be liable for any exceptions or surcharges incurred for incorrectly packaged returns. You will be informed via email of the value of the charges which will be deducted form your refund amount.

The above does not affect the Consumer Contract Regulations. Click here to read more.

I want to return/exchange an online order

To return an item to us, you must first:

  • Ensure the item is unused and in its original condition (including all label, tags and Boxes) and in a resellable condition
  • To arrange return postage for your items. Please use our warehouse returns address (Returns, Unit H&J, Moreton Business Park, Hereford, HR4 8DS) when completing the Returns PDF form here.
  • Appropriately package your item in protective packaging, failure to do so will invalidate your rights to a full refund or return (including footwear boxes which can be damaged in transit/customer care if not protected)
  • Please take care when packaging your returning order as customers will be liable for any exceptions or surcharges incurred for incorrectly packaged returns. You will be informed via email of the value of the charges which will be deducted form your refund amount.

Trekitt Returns,
Unit H-J,
Moreton Business Park,
Hereford,
HR4 8DS

Please ensure the service you use corresponds to the size/weight/value of the item. We regret to inform you that we cannot be held responsible for returned goods that become lost or damaged in transit. We therefore strongly recommend that you use a recorded/insured delivery service and keep a record of this and track your item. Once it has arrived at our warehouse, please wait the advised 48 hours for your refund which you will be notified of with a refund receipt sent to your account email. If you have not heard anything after this then please reach out to our Customer Support Team [email protected].

You can also return internet purchases at the Trekitt Service Centre in Hereford. To speed things along, please bring the Sales Invoice we sent via email as proof of purchase.

If you choose to receive a refund, this will be processed separately by our Customer Support Team.

You may exchange product(s) at the shop for Goods of an equal or higher value for which you will receive a new receipt.

Please note:
PPE (Facemasks, Climbing Equipment), Food Goods, Socks & Underwear can only be returned if everything is exactly as it was received. Packaging and labelling must be intact, and underwear must be unworn. If there is any sign or possibility that the goods have been used, tampered with, or contaminated in any way then we regret that we are unable to accept a return on the grounds of consumer safety.

This does not affect Consumer Contract Regulations.

If you feel that your item is defective/broken/faulty and it is still under warranty, please contact our Customer Support team ([email protected]) with as much information as possible with regards to the fault, including photos if applicable.

In return, they will supply you with a Returns Authorisation Number (RAN), a Returns Form and a FREE postage label. Please complete the returns form with as much detail as possible and include it with your item.

Download our Returns Form.

Trekitt Returns,
Unit H-J,
Moreton Business Park,
Hereford,
HR4 8DS

We cannot make any decisions before inspecting any claim. Should the item be found genuinely faulty, we aim to reach a fair and agreed solution, which may be a refund, a replacement or a professional repair.

Please note: We may need to send items to the original supplier, or a fully certified testing company. This process can take up to four weeks or longer during busy periods.

THIS BIT IS IMPORTANT! - To ensure your Warranty Return goes smoothly, please ensure all items are in a clean, dry condition and free from dirt. Any items that do not meet the above criteria will be sent back to you for health and hygiene purposes or you may be contacted asking if you would like us to clean it for you, where a cleaning charge will be applied with a minimum charge of £25.00.

Failure to follow the Warranty Returns procedure may significantly affect our ability to process your return and cause a delay in issuing your refund/replacement/repair.

You can also return internet purchases at the Trekitt Service Centre in Hereford. To speed things along, please bring the Sales Invoice we sent via email as proof of purchase.

If you choose to receive a refund, this will be processed separately by our Customer Support Team.

You may exchange product(s) at the shop for Goods of an equal or higher value for which you will receive a new receipt.

We do not offer exchanges. Instead we ask you kindly to complete a new order for the desired replacement and return the unwanted Good(s) for a refund. We acknowledge that this might seem more complicated, we can assure you it is by far the most efficient and fastest way to ensure that you receive the goods you require.

Any returns sent back requesting an exchange will be refunded in line with our returns process.

You can exchange internet purchases at the Trekitt Service Centre in Hereford, to speed things along please remember to present the sales invoice supplied by us in respect of such Goods as proof of purchase. You may exchange product(s) at the shop for Goods of an equal or higher value for which you will receive a new receipt.

Book an appointment
When will I receive my refund?

Once our Returns Team has processed your refund, you will receive a new e-receipt showing the returned item(s). After this you should expect to see your funds back in your account within 3 to 5 working days, depending on how your card provider processes refunds.

Refunds can only be made to the original payment method and are normally processed within 2 working days, however, during busy periods they can take up to 7 days.

Once our Returns Team has processed your refund, you will receive a new e-receipt showing the returned item(s). After this you should expect to see your funds back in your PayPal account that same day.

Refunds can only be made to the original payment method and are normally processed within 48 hours, however, during busy periods they can take up to 7 days.

What is the Trekitt 2-year Common Sense Guarantee?

We love this business and take great care personally selecting the products we sell. We are confident that the kit we have chosen is the best currently available.

That is why we offer our Trekitt Common Sense 2-year guarantee on every product we sell!

Therefore, if within 2-years a manufacturing fault develops in the materials or construction of a product that we have sold you, we guarantee to sort it out. We aim to reach a fair and agreed solution, which may be a refund, replacement or a professional repair.

The "common sense" bit. Please don't send us kit that has been used and abused and is completely worn out, and then expect us to replace it. Stuff does wear out, it's a fact of life, however if you feel that your purchase is genuinely faulty please get in touch with us at [email protected]

Please note:
PPE (Facemasks, Climbing Equipment), Food Goods, Socks & Underwear can only be returned if everything is exactly as it was received. Packaging and labelling must be intact, and underwear must be unworn. If there is any sign or possibility that the goods have been used, tampered with, or contaminated in any way then we regret that we are unable to accept a return on the grounds of consumer safety.

This does not affect Consumer Contract Regulations.

What does "90 Day Returns Period" mean?

We offer an 90 Day returns period provided the items are returned in the original condition that you received them, including all labels and packaging intact.

Please note:
PPE (Facemasks, Climbing Equipment), Food Goods, Socks & Underwear can only be returned if everything is exactly as it was received. Packaging and labelling must be intact, and underwear must be unworn. If there is any sign or possibility that the goods have been used, tampered with, or contaminated in any way then we regret that we are unable to accept a return on the grounds of consumer safety.

This does not affect Consumer Contract Regulations.

Consumer Contract Regulations (CCR)

What are the Consumer Contract Regulations?

Under the "Consumer Contract Regulations, you have the right to cancel an order for goods made at a distance. These rights start from the moment you place your order and ends 14 days from the day you receive your goods.

Your right to cancel

Your right to cancel an order for goods starts the moment you place your order and ends 14 days from the day you receive your goods.

This 14 day period is the time you have to decide whether to cancel, you then have a further 14 days to actually send the goods back.

Your Right to a Refund under CCR

You may get a refund within 14 days of either, the trader getting the goods back, or you providing evidence of having returned the goods (for example, a proof of postage receipt from the post office), whichever is the sooner.

A deduction can be made if the value of the goods has been reduced as a result of you handling the goods more than was necessary. The extent to which you can handle the goods is the same as it would be if you were assessing them in a shop.

Refunding the cost of delivery

The trader has to refund the basic delivery cost of getting the goods to you in the first place, so if you opted for enhanced service e.g. guaranteed next day, it only has to refund the basic cost.

Exemptions

There are some circumstances where the Consumer Contracts Regulations does not give you a right to cancel. These include CDs, DVDs or software if you've broken the seal on the wrapping, perishable items and tailor-made or personalised items. They also include goods with a seal for health protection and hygiene reasons that have been broken or tampered with, e.g. Climbing Equipment and PPE.

My goods are broken

If you feel that your item is defective/broken/faulty and it is still under warranty, please contact our Customer Support team([email protected])with as much information as possible with regards to the fault, including photos if applicable.

We want to reduce our impact on the environment as much as possible, the first step for this is reducing our waste. Therefore, please note that we will always offer a professional repair in the first instance; if the product can be repaired.

This may involve your product being sent back to our suppliers or to a professional repair company. Please note that due tovaried procedures, warranty claims and repairs can take between 2 and 4 weeks to be concluded

Consumer Contract Regulations (CCR)

What are the Consumer Contract Regulations?

Under the "Consumer Contract Regulations, you have the right to cancel an order for goods made at a distance. These rights start from the moment you place your order and ends 14 days from the day you receive your goods.

Your right to cancel

Your right to cancel an order for goods starts the moment you place your order and ends 14 days from the day you receive your goods.

This 14 day period is the time you have to decide whether to cancel, you then have a further 14 days to actually send the goods back.

Your Right to a Refund under CCR

You may get a refund within 14 days of either, the trader getting the goods back, or you providing evidence of having returned the goods (for example, a proof of postage receipt from the post office), whichever is the sooner.

A deduction can be made if the value of the goods has been reduced as a result of you handling the goods more than was necessary. The extent to which you can handle the goods is the same as it would be if you were assessing them in a shop.

Refunding the cost of delivery

The trader has to refund the basic delivery cost of getting the goods to you in the first place, so if you opted for enhanced service e.g. guaranteed next day, it only has to refund the basic cost.

Exemptions

There are some circumstances where the Consumer Contracts Regulations does not give you a right to cancel. These include CDs, DVDs or software if you've broken the seal on the wrapping, perishable items and tailor-made or personalised items. They also include goods with a seal for health protection and hygiene reasons that have been broken or tampered with, e.g. Climbing Equipment and PPE.

Outdoor Research Helium UL Bivy Light Pewter

Season:SS26

Brand:Outdoor Research

Code:322699-1564

Stormproof Shelter — When Every Gram Matters When you’re moving fast in the mountains and the weather turns without warning, the Helium UL Bivy feels like a tiny fortress you can rely on. We’ve used it everywhere from damp Welsh overnighters to hectic alpine dashes, and what stands out most is how reassuringly protective it feels for such a ridiculously low weight.

What Is the Outdoor Research Helium UL Bivy?

The Helium UL Bivy is the ultimate minimalist shelter for solo adventurers, climbers, and fastpackers who prioritise low weight, durability, and weather protection. Weighing just 510g, it’s engineered for missions where every gram counts, offering a dependable barrier against the elements without compromising breathability or comfort.

Perfect for alpine climbs, bikepacking, or lightweight backpacking trips, the Helium UL Bivy delivers the protection of a tent in a fraction of the weight and space. The 2026 updated design refines airflow and durability, providing a more spacious interior and reduced condensation — ideal for sleeping under the stars or in unpredictable mountain conditions.

What Is It Made Of?

The Main Body

At the heart of the Helium UL Bivy lies 2.5-layer Pertex Shield NetPlus fabric, a material that offers excellent waterproof protection and breathability. This fabric is made from 100% recycled nylon sourced from discarded fishing nets, helping to reduce ocean plastic waste while delivering the uncompromising performance demanded by backcountry adventurers.

The outer layer is a 30-denier recycled nylon ripstop that provides excellent durability and resistance to abrasion from rocks, gear, and repeated packing. Beneath it, a hydrophilic laminate forms a continuous waterproof barrier rated to 20,000mm, effectively blocking rain, wind, and snow while allowing internal moisture vapour to escape — keeping you dry from both the outside elements and condensation inside.

Floor

For ground protection, the bivy’s 40-denier nylon ripstop floor features a durable PU coating, ensuring a fully waterproof base even when pitched on damp or saturated terrain. Every seam is fully taped to eliminate potential leakage points, reinforcing the shelter’s integrity in sustained wet conditions.

What Are Its Features?

Lightweight Weather Protection

Weighing just 510g, the Helium UL Bivy offers full waterproof protection against rain, wind, and snow. The Pertex Shield fabric ensures breathability during warm or humid nights, preventing internal moisture build-up for a dry and comfortable sleep.

Clamshell Entry Design

A clamshell-style opening makes entry and exit smooth and intuitive while providing secure coverage once sealed. The design allows easy access without fully exposing the interior to rain or wind — an essential feature for challenging weather conditions.

Enhanced Ventilation System

The dual passive ventilation flaps increase airflow and reduce condensation inside the bivy. This system balances protection and breathability, ensuring a comfortable microclimate for overnight use in damp or humid conditions.

Spacious Toe Box

The high-volume toe box improves comfort and freedom of movement during sleep, preventing the fabric from pressing against your sleeping bag and increasing ventilation around the feet.

Lightweight Aluminium Pole Support

A single DAC aluminium pole creates a structure around the head area, lifting the fabric away from the face for better airflow and visibility. This minimalist design maximises comfort while keeping weight to an absolute minimum.

Durable Anchoring System

Equipped with four aluminium stakes, six stake loops, and a guy line loop, the Helium UL Bivy remains stable and secure even in strong winds. The streamlined structure ensures quick setup and efficient tensioning on varied terrain.

Reflective Details

Reflective logos and trims enhance visibility during low-light conditions, making the bivy easy to locate at night or in alpine environments.

Features

  • 2.5L Pertex Shield NetPlus waterproof and breathable fabric
  • Fully seam-taped construction
  • 100% recycled nylon 30D and 40D ripstop fabrics
  • Clamshell opening for easy entry
  • Dual passive ventilation flaps for improved airflow
  • High-volume toe box for comfort
  • Single DAC aluminium pole design
  • Four aluminium stakes and six stake loops
  • Reflective trims and logo
  • One guy line loop
  • Lightweight and packable at 510g
  • bluesign® approved materials
Outdoor Research Helium UL Bivy Review The first time we tested the Helium UL Bivy on a breezy ridgeline camp, what stood out immediately was just how liveable it felt for such a minimalist shelter. The DAC pole creates valuable headroom, making foul-weather nights far more comfortable. The materials feel impressively robust for the weight, and the updated interior space makes it easier to move around without brushing the walls. It delivers tent-like security at a fraction of the weight.
Does It Suffer From Condensation? Condensation is always a factor with bivies, but the Helium UL’s dual passive vents make a noticeable difference. Improved airflow helps reduce muggy build-up and supports better moisture management, keeping your sleeping bag loft drier. Careful pitching — especially lifting the head end slightly — optimises ventilation even further.
Will It Fit a Winter Bag and Mat? Yes. The Helium UL Bivy has enough internal volume for a typical winter sleeping bag and a standard-width inflatable mat. Oversized winter mats push the limits, but for most alpine and UK winter setups, it works smoothly and comfortably.




Looking for more options? Explore our full Outdoor Research Collection for ultralight shelters and performance-driven gear built for demanding mountain use. Outdoor Research Collection


FAQ

Is the Helium UL Bivy suitable for UK mountain weather?

Absolutely. The waterproof Pertex Shield fabric and fully taped seams handle persistent rain and strong winds confidently in exposed UK conditions.

How do you pitch the Helium UL Bivy effectively?

Stake the four corners, insert the single DAC pole at the head end, then fine-tune tension using the remaining loops. A slight angle to encourage airflow helps reduce condensation.

Can I use it without the pole?

Yes, though comfort is reduced. The pole lifts the fabric away from your face, improving airflow and usability. Leaving it behind is possible for minimalists, but not ideal.

How durable is the recycled 30D/40D fabric?

Very durable for its weight. The ripstop construction resists abrasion from gravel and roots, while the PU-coated base provides reliable protection on wet ground.

What sleeping mats fit best?

Regular rectangular or mummy-shaped mats fit perfectly. Wide mats work but reduce internal space, especially around the shoulders.

How do I care for the bivy?

Brush off dirt, allow it to dry fully before storage, and clean occasionally with a technical wash suitable for waterproof fabrics. Avoid harsh detergents or tumble drying.

Will small items fit inside?

Yes. There’s enough head-area space for essentials like a headlamp, phone, or map without them pressing against the fabric.

How packable is it?

Extremely packable. It compresses into a compact bundle that fits easily into side pockets or bikepacking bags.

Is it comfortable for side sleepers?

Yes. The updated interior volume and toe box design provide enough room to move without constantly brushing the walls.

Can I use it in winter conditions?

Yes — when paired with an appropriate sleeping system. The waterproof shell adds valuable protection against spindrift, frost, and cold winds.

Technical Information

Weight: 510g / 18.02oz
Fit: Standard Fit
Materials: 2.5L Pertex Shield NetPlus with Hydrophilic Laminate
Upper Material: 100% Recycled Nylon 30D Ripstop
Floor Material: 100% Nylon 40D Ripstop PU-coated
Footprint: Bluesign-Approved / Recycled Fabric

Sizing Information
Professional Opinion
Product Reviews
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