Time to double up on relaxing outdoors with the DoubleNest Hammock from Eagles Nest Outfitters. A hammock built for two, the unit we tested was actually the Insect Shield model, which includes a treatment to keep annoying bugs at bay.
At only 21 ounces, the nylon DoubleNest Hammock is designed to support two people. It’s 9 feet, four inches long by 6 feet, two inches wide when set up, and packs down into a 4″ x 5″ stuff sack attached to the side. Actual setup only takes about two minutes, once suitable trees (or posts, in our case) are located. While plenty of optional accessories are available, you’ll at least need some straps. ENO was kind enough to provide a pair of their Atlas Hammock Suspension System straps, rated at 400 pounds, along with their Guardian Bug Net, to ensure no mosquitoes had a chance to intrude.
Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest with Insect Shield hammock, Mrs. Outsider, and FelixWe’d already been thinking about a hammock for the backyard, so when ENO offered the DoubleNest for review, we decided to set up a semi-permanent testing location. (By my estimate, we should need at least four hours per week to really get a feel for it) So we sunk a pair of 8 foot posts 30 inches deep, about 11 feet apart in a prime location. This gives us some flexibility in how we set it up, but the final position came down to making sure it was low enough for the dogs to hop in and out. (Just because the DoubleNest is intended for two, doesn’t mean it has to be two humans). If you’ve been thinking that setting up a hammock was difficult, trust me on this one – ENO makes it all very simple. Even I could do it. The Atlas straps just wrap around a suitable tree or post, and have plenty of looped attachment points, so you can get just the right height. Adding the Guardian Bug Net is as easy as disconnecting one end of the hammock, and pulling the Guardian over it. It cinches at either end, and an included light rope suspends it over you. There’s a convenient zipper in the middle for getting in and out. Once you swing around and get cozy inside, you’ll likely think the same thing I did – “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest with Insect Shield hammock, and optional Guardian Bug GuardIt probably goes without saying that few things are more relaxing than gently swaying in the breeze while watching clouds go by. Or checking your eyelids for leaks. And the Insect Shield treatment did a great job of keeping bugs off us. For a peaceful snooze, the Guardian provided extra peace of mind too. What we learned from the folks at ENO was that in warmer climes, some campers are skipping a tent altogether, and using a hammock instead. It’s also an excellent option for bicycle touring, as the hammock itself takes up so little space, and carries a fraction of the weight penalty that a tent does. Of course, you need to have someplace to hang it. With the various strap kits, any two points 10-15 feet apart are ideal. ENO offers a surprising amount of accessories too, and not just different straps. There are different quilts for cold weather camping, all sorts of tarps and flys, and even pillows. For those that want to turn the hammock into more of a lifestyle than just outdoor gear, there are Twilights (strings of LED lights), a speaker system, and even kits for hanging them indoors.
ENO is a company that I wasn’t overly familiar with before this review. But they have a truly outstanding product line, and it’s obvious that they listen to their customers. In addition to hammocks and accessories, they offer nylon grocery bags, tote bags, a guitar case, and more. All made with the same durable nylon and attention to detail. I’m looking forward to spending more time in the DoubleNest. Who doesn’t need some relaxation? eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com
– Brian (with Mrs. Outsider and Felix)
Disclosure of Material Connection: We received the ENO DoubleNest Hammock with Insect Shield and accessories free from Eagles Nest Outfitters, in consideration for review publication