Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest Review – Lightweight and Comfortable

Explore the ENO SingleNest Hammock review, highlighting its lightweight design, durability, and comfort for solo adventurers.
Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest

Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest

Discover Lightweight Durability and Comfort with the ENO SingleNest Hammock
The ENO SingleNest Hammock is a lightweight, durable, and comfortable option for solo adventurers, offering excellent portability and ease of setup but requiring additional accessories for full weather protection.
86%

Breakdown

Comfort & Ergonomics
85%
Durability & Material Quality
90%
Portability & Weight
95%
Weather Resistance
70%
Value for Money
88%

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable
  • Durable and strong
  • Quick and easy setup
  • Comfortable and breathable

Cons

  • Requires additional accessories for weather protection
  • Single-person capacity
  • Limited storage options

Introduction

Brief Overview

The Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) SingleNest Hammock is a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, comfortable, and versatile hammock for their adventures. Designed primarily for hiking and camping, the SingleNest Hammock stands out with its compact size, ease of setup, and robust construction. This hammock is ideal for solo adventurers looking for a reliable rest option that doesn’t add significant weight to their pack. Its key features include a durable parachute nylon fabric, triple-stitched seams, and a convenient stuff sack that makes transportation a breeze.

Initial Impressions and Context of Testing

Upon unboxing the ENO SingleNest Hammock, the first thing that strikes you is its compactness. The hammock comes neatly packed in an integrated stuff sack, which also doubles as a storage pocket when the hammock is in use. The quality of the materials is immediately evident, with the parachute nylon feeling both strong and smooth to the touch.

For testing, I took the SingleNest on a weekend hiking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather conditions varied, offering a mix of sunny skies, light rain, and cool evenings, providing a comprehensive environment to evaluate the hammock’s performance. The diverse settings allowed me to assess its durability, comfort, and ease of use in real outdoor conditions.

Overall, the ENO SingleNest Hammock promises to be a reliable companion for any outdoor enthusiast, combining practicality with comfort in a thoughtfully designed package.

Technical Specifications

Key Features and Technology

The Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) SingleNest Hammock incorporates several innovative technologies and key features that enhance its performance and user experience:

  • Parachute Nylon Fabric: The hammock is made from high-quality parachute nylon, known for its strength, durability, and breathability.
  • Triple-Stitched Seams: Reinforced with triple stitching, the seams provide extra strength and durability, ensuring the hammock can handle significant weight and stress.
  • Aluminum Wiregate Carabiners: The included carabiners are lightweight yet strong, making it easy to set up and take down the hammock securely.
  • Integrated Stuff Sack: The hammock packs into a built-in stuff sack, which also serves as a convenient storage pocket when the hammock is in use.

Design and Materials

The ENO SingleNest Hammock is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind:

  • Dimensions: When unfolded, the hammock measures 9’4” x 4’7”, providing ample space for one person to relax comfortably.
  • Weight Capacity: It supports up to 400 lbs, making it suitable for a wide range of users.
  • Weight: At just 16 ounces, the hammock is exceptionally lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for hiking and camping.
  • Material: Constructed from 70-denier high tenacity nylon taffeta, the material is both durable and breathable, ensuring a comfortable rest in various weather conditions.
  • Color Options: The SingleNest comes in a variety of color combinations, allowing users to choose one that fits their personal style.

Environmental Considerations

ENO is committed to sustainability, and this is reflected in the materials and manufacturing processes used for the SingleNest Hammock:

  • Bluesign® Certified Fabric: The fabric used is Bluesign® certified, ensuring it meets high environmental and safety standards.
  • Tree-Friendly Straps: While sold separately, the ENO Atlas Straps are designed to be tree-friendly, reducing impact on bark and promoting responsible hammock camping practices.

Practical Features

The ENO SingleNest Hammock includes several practical features that enhance its usability in the field:

  • Easy Setup: The aluminum wiregate carabiners and compatible ENO suspension systems make setting up the hammock quick and easy.
  • Compact Storage: The integrated stuff sack makes packing and unpacking simple, and the compact size means it takes up minimal space in your backpack.
  • Storage Pocket: The stuff sack doubles as a storage pocket for small items like a phone, book, or water bottle when the hammock is in use.

In summary, the ENO SingleNest Hammock is a well-designed, durable, and environmentally conscious product that offers a range of features to enhance the outdoor experience for hikers, campers, and adventurers alike.

Performance Evaluation

Fabric Performance

Breathability

The ENO SingleNest Hammock excels in breathability, thanks to its parachute nylon fabric. This material allows air to flow freely, preventing overheating and ensuring a comfortable resting experience even in warm weather. During my test in the Appalachian Mountains, I found the hammock to be particularly effective in maintaining a cool and dry environment, which is essential for a restful break during a strenuous hike.

Waterproofing

While the ENO SingleNest Hammock itself is not waterproof, its quick-drying parachute nylon fabric is highly resistant to moisture. After an unexpected light rain during my trip, the hammock dried out swiftly once the rain stopped, minimizing downtime and discomfort. For complete weather protection, pairing the hammock with a rain tarp is recommended.

Durability

The durability of the ENO SingleNest Hammock is one of its standout features. The high-tenacity nylon taffeta fabric and triple-stitched seams provide exceptional strength, allowing the hammock to withstand regular use and harsh outdoor conditions. Throughout my testing, which included setting up between rough-barked trees and exposure to various elements, the hammock showed no signs of wear or damage.

Weather Resistance

Although not entirely weatherproof, the SingleNest Hammock offers decent weather resistance. It performs well in warm and cool climates alike, with the breathable fabric ensuring comfort. However, for protection against wind and rain, additional accessories such as a rainfly and underquilt are advisable. These additions help create a more versatile and weather-resistant setup.

Practical Features

Ease of Setup

The ENO SingleNest Hammock is designed for quick and easy setup. The aluminum wiregate carabiners and compatible ENO suspension systems, such as the Atlas Straps, make hanging the hammock a breeze. During my field tests, I could set up the hammock in under five minutes, which is invaluable when you’re tired and need a rest.

Portability

Weighing only 16 ounces, the SingleNest Hammock is incredibly lightweight and portable. The integrated stuff sack compresses the hammock to a compact size, making it easy to carry in any backpack. This portability is particularly beneficial for hikers who need to minimize their load without sacrificing comfort.

Storage Pocket

The built-in stuff sack doubles as a convenient storage pocket when the hammock is in use. This feature allows you to keep essentials like your phone, keys, or snacks within arm’s reach, enhancing the overall user experience. During my testing, I found this pocket to be a handy addition, providing easy access to my small belongings.

Overall Performance

The ENO SingleNest Hammock demonstrates excellent performance across various criteria. Its breathable and durable fabric, combined with easy setup and portability, make it a reliable choice for hikers and campers. While it benefits from additional weather protection accessories, the hammock alone offers a comfortable and practical solution for outdoor relaxation.

Fit and Comfort

Sizing and Fit

The ENO SingleNest Hammock is designed to comfortably accommodate a single user, with dimensions measuring 9’4” x 4’7”. This size provides ample space for most individuals to lie down and relax fully. The generous width allows for various lounging positions, whether you prefer lying flat or curling up. Despite its single-person designation, the hammock can support up to 400 lbs, offering versatility for different body types and weights. The hammock’s length and width strike a good balance, providing enough room without feeling oversized or cumbersome.

Comfort During Various Activities

Relaxation and Napping

The ENO SingleNest Hammock excels in providing comfort for relaxation and napping. The parachute nylon fabric is soft and smooth, creating a pleasant surface to rest on. During my testing, I found the hammock to be extremely comfortable for taking short naps and unwinding after a long hike. The material gently cradles your body, reducing pressure points and promoting a restful experience.

Overnight Camping

For those looking to use the hammock for overnight camping, the ENO SingleNest can be a comfortable alternative to traditional ground sleeping setups. However, adding an underquilt or sleeping pad is recommended for insulation, especially in cooler temperatures. The hammock’s design allows you to sleep comfortably off the ground, avoiding uneven surfaces and potential critters.

Reading and Lounging

The hammock is also well-suited for more leisurely activities like reading or simply lounging. The fabric’s breathability ensures you remain comfortable even during extended use. The integrated stuff sack that doubles as a storage pocket is particularly useful for keeping a book, flashlight, or other small items within easy reach.

User Experience

Easy Entry and Exit

Getting in and out of the ENO SingleNest Hammock is straightforward. The hammock’s height when properly hung allows for easy access without requiring significant effort. This ease of use is particularly appreciated after a tiring day of hiking or exploring.

Secure and Stable

The hammock’s design ensures a secure and stable experience. The triple-stitched seams and strong carabiners provide confidence that the hammock will support you safely. During my field tests, I never felt any wobbling or instability, even when adjusting my position.

Personal Anecdotes

On a recent hiking trip, I set up the ENO SingleNest Hammock by a serene lakeside. After a day of strenuous trekking, I found the hammock to be the perfect retreat. The gentle sway and the soft fabric provided an incredibly soothing experience, allowing me to relax and enjoy the sounds of nature. This personal experience underscored the hammock’s ability to enhance outdoor adventures, offering a blend of comfort and practicality that is hard to match.

In summary, the ENO SingleNest Hammock offers exceptional fit and comfort for various activities, making it an ideal choice for hikers, campers, and anyone seeking a reliable outdoor relaxation solution.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

Lightweight and Portable

One of the standout features of the ENO SingleNest Hammock is its lightweight design. Weighing just 16 ounces, it’s incredibly easy to carry, making it an ideal choice for hikers and backpackers looking to minimize their load. The integrated stuff sack compresses the hammock into a compact size, ensuring it takes up minimal space in your backpack.

Durable and Strong

The parachute nylon fabric and triple-stitched seams provide excellent durability, allowing the hammock to withstand regular use and challenging outdoor conditions. The hammock supports up to 400 lbs, making it suitable for a wide range of users.

Quick and Easy Setup

The ENO SingleNest Hammock is designed for quick and hassle-free setup. The aluminum wiregate carabiners and compatible ENO suspension systems, such as the Atlas Straps, make hanging the hammock straightforward. Even in challenging environments, the setup process takes just a few minutes.

Comfortable and Breathable

The soft, breathable parachute nylon fabric ensures a comfortable lounging experience. Whether you’re napping, reading, or simply relaxing, the hammock provides excellent comfort and ventilation, keeping you cool and dry.

Drawbacks

Requires Additional Accessories for Weather Protection

While the ENO SingleNest Hammock itself performs well in mild conditions, it lacks built-in weather protection. For use in rainy or cold conditions, additional accessories such as a rain tarp and underquilt are necessary. This adds to the overall cost and setup complexity.

Single-Person Capacity

The SingleNest Hammock is designed for one person, which might be a limitation for those looking to share their hammock experience with a partner. If you’re planning to use a hammock for two people, the ENO DoubleNest would be a better option.

Limited Storage Options

Although the integrated stuff sack doubles as a storage pocket, its capacity is limited. If you need more storage space for your gear while using the hammock, you might find this feature insufficient.

Conclusion

Overall, the ENO SingleNest Hammock offers a range of advantages that make it an excellent choice for solo adventurers. Its lightweight, durable, and comfortable design ensures a pleasant outdoor experience, although it does require additional accessories for full weather protection and might not suit those looking to lounge with a partner.

Comparative Analysis

When comparing the ENO SingleNest Hammock to the Warbonnet Original Blackbird and the Kammok Roo Single, several key differences and similarities emerge that highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each product.

ENO SingleNest vs. Warbonnet Original Blackbird

The Warbonnet Original Blackbird is known for its built-in bug net and footbox, which enhance comfort and protection in buggy environments. This makes it particularly suitable for areas with high insect activity. However, the Warbonnet is heavier and bulkier compared to the ENO SingleNest, which might be a downside for ultralight backpackers. While the SingleNest excels in portability and ease of setup, the Warbonnet offers added comfort and protection features, making it a better choice for extended trips where bug protection is essential.

ENO SingleNest vs. Kammok Roo Single

The Kammok Roo Single shares similarities with the ENO SingleNest in terms of portability and ease of setup. Both hammocks are made from durable, high-quality materials and support similar weight capacities. However, the Kammok Roo Single is slightly more expensive and offers additional features such as reinforced stress points and higher tensile strength fabric. These features provide extra durability and longevity, making the Kammok Roo Single a robust option for frequent and demanding use. On the other hand, the ENO SingleNest provides excellent value for its price, offering comfort and reliability without the higher cost.

Conclusion

In summary, the ENO SingleNest Hammock stands out for its lightweight and affordable design, making it a great choice for casual hikers and backpackers. The Warbonnet Original Blackbird and Kammok Roo Single offer additional features that cater to specific needs, such as bug protection and enhanced durability, making them suitable for more specialized uses or longer trips.

Verdict

The Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest Hammock is a top-notch choice for solo adventurers seeking a lightweight, durable, and comfortable hammock for hiking and camping. Its breathable parachute nylon fabric, compact design, and easy setup make it an excellent addition to any backpacking gear. While it requires additional accessories for complete weather protection, its overall performance and affordability offer great value for money. The SingleNest is particularly well-suited for hikers and campers looking for a reliable rest option without the bulk. For those who prioritize comfort and portability, the ENO SingleNest Hammock is a worthy investment, providing a blend of practical features and robust construction that enhances outdoor relaxation. Whether you’re napping, reading, or simply taking in the scenery, this hammock delivers a comfortable and hassle-free experience in the great outdoors.

Further reading