ENO SingleNest Review

The Eno SingleNest is a lightweight, compact, and cozy hammock that's best suited for one person. The latest iteration features a softer FreeWave fabric that feels better next to your skin and also breathes better in the heat. It's super easy to setup, we just wish you didn't have to purchase suspension straps separately.

Comfort

There's a reason that Eno is synonymous with top-of-the-line hammock designs, and the SingleNest is just another example of a simple construction that provides ample comfort for one person. The latest iteration includes fast-drying FreeWave fabric along with 6 extra inches of space that is not only more comfortable than its predecessors, but also increases breathability, a detail we appreciated while testing in triple digit temperatures in Yosemite Valley.

The hammock body is also longer to provide more comfort for taller folks that would appreciate the 9 1/2" length which allows for various body positions, whether you want to curl up or stretch out. Because the hammock is a single and more affordable model, it doesn't include a spreader bar for a “flat lay”, and after some extended lounge time, we couldn't help but notice some discomfort from our shoulders turning in. During longer lounging sessions, we enjoyed placing a foam pad between our backside and the hammock, which would alleviate some pressure on our shoulders. That said, the crinkle free and breathable fabric kept our testers (ranging from 5'5" to 6'2") comfortable and relaxed during hot summer afternoons.

Previous Next

Ease of Setup

The SingleNest is one of the easiest hammocks designs to setup, so long as you remembered to purchase the suspension straps separately. Simply remove the hammock from the integrated stuff sack before attaching the carabiners to pre-rigged suspension straps around two trees. We appreciate the ease of setup that didn't require us to pour over instructions before we could enjoy a relaxing afternoon. The updated design also includes specialty carabiners with a side release buckles, along with larger cord lock on each gathered end to create a simple setup while also increasing the safety of the design.

Beyond the suspension straps not being included in the design, and so long as you have access to appropriately spaced trees, there's absolutely no frustrating components to this setup, the SingleNest is about as easy as it gets.

Previous Next

Durability and Protection

Although not the most high quality design that we've tested, the SingleNest is quite durable. The triple-stitched seams are perfect for maintaining structure without sacrificing comfort. And after extensive testing, we're happy to report no issues with durability, no rips, tears, or any unraveling of the thick seams. We can also appreciate the 400 pound weight limit despite the single person setup, we even put this to the test by toss a couple of friends into the hammock to see if the stitching or the gathered ends would fail.

The anodized 7075 aluminum carabiners provide peace of mind above the ground, creating a safer hang without a cumbersome setup. The 70-denier (or thickness measurement of the fabric) nylon taffeta is more sustainable and blue-sign approved without sacrificing quality. While the SingleNest is a more affordable and simple hammock design, it includes thoughtful details that maintain the quality of the design and make it a perfect choice for anyone seeking some afternoon solitude.

Versatility

The SingleNest is a lightweight and compact design that favors simplicity and comfort for one person rather than versatility. The stuff sack that is sewn into the hammock design is a great way to store your phone, a small book, lip chap, car keys, however, it isn't sturdy enough to hold an open beverage. The lightweight and packable design increases its versatility as you can basically take it anywhere. From the beach to a high alpine lake, this is a great choice for those seeking afternoon relaxation and solitude.

While the design is simple, not even including suspension straps, Eno advertises that it is compatible with every Eno hammock strap, stand, bug net, rain tarp, and insulation system, which are of course also sold separately. While you can technically turn the SingleNest into a backcountry shelter system, we think there are more comfortable options available. We'd rather take advantage of the lightweight, compact, and simple setup when we want to walk a little farther to escape the crowds and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

Weight

Weighing only 16 ounces, and packing down into a compact size, the simple SingleNest receives high marks in this metric. The lightweight and packable (single person) design further increases the versatility of this hammock since you won't think twice about tossing it into your daypack. The slippery fabric allow the hammock to easily compress into the integrated stuff sack while the a loop of webbing with buckles help to contain the hammock inside. The loop of webbing also makes it easy to clip the hammock to a pack.

After carrying this hammock between various shady trees during a heatwave in Yosemite Valley, we can guarantee that you won't even notice the additional ounces in your pack. We think you'll love the simple and packable design of the SingleNest.

Should You Buy the ENO SingleNest?

If you're after a simple, lightweight, and compact hammock design that provides ample comfort through a spacious design built for one person, the SingleNest is tough to beat. We love the triple-stitched seams and aluminum carabiner that increase the durability while the extra 6 inches of space and the FreeWave fabric boost the comfort and breathability of the latest iteration. While it doesn't include a ton of bells and whistles, we think you'll appreciate the simplicity and the affordability of this time-tested hammock design.

What Other Hammocks Should You Consider?

The Eno SingleNest is an excellent hammock design that provides ample comfort for one person thanks to the updated fabric that increases softness next to skin along with breathability. If you'd something even softer, check out the Kammok Roo Double, it's has some of the most comfortable fabric that we've tested. Want enough space to share with your sweetheart, check out the ENO DoubleNest, the design is quite similar, but includes ample space for two. And if you need something more affordable, check out the Wise Owl Outfitters Kit.