21st Century Thneeds

Those of you who watched The Lorax as a child may remember that a "thneed" is a multi-purpose garment that can be whatever you need it to be. Well, apparently there are at least two European garments in existence, both of which are highly praised, that function as survivalist thneeds. The first is the Fjellduk, by Helsport. The second is the Bivanorak, by Hilleberg. I do not have any personal experience with either, but they receive high praise and are worthy of serious consideration for both your BOB and general outdoor use. Basically, they both function as lightweight & waterproof ponchos, shelters and tarps.

Image 1 above is of the Helsport Fjellduk. Here is the description given on the Helsport website:

"Helsport Fjellduk is a convenient multi-use product used in different ways depending on the situation. Whether you are surprised by extreme weather or light camping, the Helsport Fellduk will have a function. The hoody and arms are detachable and can be zipped off/on, depending on needs. It can be partly used as a poncho, sleeping bag, windsack and as a tarp. Helsport Fjellduk comes in different colors/patterns and thickness. Helsport Fjellduk is delivered with a compression bag and red emergency flag."

Well, Christ on a cracker. I've seen better translations. And this garment looks strange. It has funky euro-camo. And, I already have rain gear and a poncho and a bivy sack. And, I can't find a price on this and it's only available in Europa. But what the hey, I still think it's cool.

Image 2 above is of the Hilleberg Bivanorak. It costs US$175. Per the Hilleberg website:

"An innovative, multi-purpose piece of equipment that is indispensable for nearly every outdoor activity.

Shelter Profile

Originally developed as a survival tool for Swedish air force pilots, our patented Bivanorak is a bivy bag/sleeping bag cover, rain garment, portable windbreak, and emergency shelter, all in one – and all in a 580 g/1 lb 4 oz package. The Bivanorak is made from a lightweight, tough, polyurethane-coated waterproof breathable fabric and has fully taped seams.

Bivy Bag/Sleeping Bag Cover

The Bivanorak is cut long and wide to provide room for both a sleeping bag and pad in bivy bag mode. Its lower hem and cuffs have draw cords (those in the cuffs are elastic) which can be secured shut to keep warmth in and rain and snow out, and its long front zipper makes entry and exit easy. The large hood will easily accommodate the hood of a sleeping bag, yet it can be cinched tightly around your face. Combine a Hilleberg Bivanorak and Tarp to create a highly effective – and incredibly lightweight – shelter system.

Rain Garment

The Bivanorak is worn anorak style and can be adjusted to a variety of lengths. Simply pull the bottom hem up inside the body of the Bivanorak and tighten the draw cord around your waist or tuck the extra fabric under your pack’s hip belt. There is even enough room to carry a backpack underneath! Pair it with rain pants or chaps and you have superb wet weather protection. Its single size and easy adjustability allow both the tallest and smallest person to use the Bivanorak.

Windbreak/Shelter

Pull it out of your pack and climb in. The wind and waterproof material, adjustable cuffs and hem, and generous hood make for a roomy, comfortable temporary refuge! It’s a versatile alternative to our Windsack as safety equipment for one person. A Bivanorak makes any spot perfect for a lunch break while ski touring!"

I think it sounds cool. And useful. Look around online and you'll hear people raving about it.