TF Gear Airflo Inflatable Bivvy

TECH SPEC
Super-tough puncture-resistant air poles
All season protection - fully waterproof
Available in one and two-man versions
Built-in groundsheet
Width: 290cm • Depth: 260cm • Height: 143cm • Weight: 11kg

TFG Gear Airflo Bivvy. So you think all bivvies are much the same? Well, think again! 

The new TF Gear Airflo uses ‘air poles’ instead of traditional metal poles to form its shape and, when fully pumped up, it looks very much like a conventional peaked pram hood shelter. To inflate it just lay the bivvy flat on the ground, secure it via its 10 pegging points, connect the stirrup pump (supplied) to the concealed side-fitted inflation valves and then, starting at the front valve, give it some welly.

The Airflo has two chunky main air poles (front and rear) which arch across its width, with shorter connecting tubes running along the roof’s centre to provide rock-solid stability. Don’t fret about punctures. The tubes are resilient, and covered in a hard wearing material. It also has a superb built-in heavy-duty groundsheet – so no entry to creepy crawlies – and zero water ingress. The groundsheet feels tough enough to not be easily ripped or damaged when used over stones or gravel. 

The shelter’s front has both mesh and solid infill panels and a roll-up door, while its external peak is fitted with four Velcro rod-holders – a nice touch.

THE VERDICT
The Airflo shelter is sufficiently different to raise eyebrows among a few die-hard carpers. However, it’s almost certainly the way forward in terms of ease and convenience. It’s rock solid when erected, and offers plenty of internal space. I particularly liked the door’s Velcro floor fitting which makes it completely impervious to rain, even when facing it head-on. A word of warning, though – don’t be overly enthusiastic with the stirrup pump, as our test sample wasn’t the strongest we’ve used.

Thom Airs

PAY AROUND
£279.99