User Review: Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest Hammock

Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest Hammock
Above: The current SingleNest Hammock, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed December 1, 2008 by Frazier

Rating:
Design: Hammock
Sleeps: 1
Ease of Setup: Very easy
Weight: 18 ounces
Price Paid: $50

Great for motorcycle camping if you have the space to pack it.

I consider a hammock to be a high-priority, optional item when motorcycle camping. After packing my essential gear and clothes, I can usually find a little more space to pack this hammock. It compresses down to the size of a softball.

When I arrive at my destination, I select a campsite with at least two trees positioned about 10 to 12 feet apart so that I can set up my hammock. As soon as I get my tent and dining area set up, I set up the hammock and then relax with a book and a cool drink. This hammock seems perfect for casual lounging (I do not know about low-impact, overnight sleeping).

In the past, I used an economy fishnet hammock. After several years, I decided to move up to a more comfortable hammock and have not regretted my decision at all. The ENO single nest is very comfortable (does not leave fish net marks on your arms), fast drying if it gets wet, compressible, and strong (it reportedly holds up to 400 pounds). I have not tested the weight limit but can testify that it holds my 250-pound frame with no problem at all.

To set up the hammock, you will also need a set of ropes or straps (not included). At first I tried a couple of ropes but quickly decided to purchase the ENO straps. I use the standard Slap Strap that is 7’6” long and 1” wide ($20). ENO also makes the Slap Strap Pro that is 9’6” long and .75” wide ($25). These straps pack small and make it very easy to set up the hammock.

Learning how to set up the hammock for maximum comfort may take a few trial and error efforts. Straps should be “lassoed” around each tree about 5 to 6 feet from the ground. The best height depends upon the distance between the trees. More distance requires a higher strap placement. The hammock should be attached to the straps so that it hangs down in the center with the lowest point about waist high.

I get into my hammock on my tiptoes. My body weight will make it stretch a little so that I hang comfortably about 2-feet above the ground. For maximum comfort, I position my feet over the edge on one side and position by body and head near the opposite edge. In effect I am lying across the width of the hammock. This position allows me to lie almost prone and avoids the confined banana wrap feeling. Sometimes, I sit in it with my legs hanging off one edge down to the ground. The opposite edge makes a nice back for my hanging chair.

I have also purchased a ENO double nest for car camping. It is much wider, presumably for two people and requires a little more packing space. Otherwise it seems identical to the single nest. I do not think I will ever try getting two people into it but younger couples may appreciate this feature.

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