Introduction: The Eno DoubleNest and the Hammock Lifestyle
For years, camp chairs dominated the outdoor lounging market. But the Eno DoubleNest has emerged as a compelling alternative, shifting the conversation from rigid frames to suspended comfort. As an editor at YardToolLab, we analyze dozens of outdoor products, and this hammock stands out as a portable relaxation solution. Itâs not just a piece of gear; itâs a versatile outdoor living space. Based on extensive research and owner feedback, this review breaks down exactly what works, what doesnât, and whether itâs worth your investment.
Performance: The Good, the Great, and the Slightly Annoying
Spacious for Two (And One Very Happy Camper)
The headline feature is the âDoubleNestâ name, and itâs not marketing fluff. At 6 feet 2 inches wide and 9 feet 4 inches long, this hammock genuinely fits two adults without feeling like a wrestling match. Owners consistently report that two average-sized adults can lie facing each other with room for a small cooler between them. That said, âdoubleâ doesnât mean âking size.â If both users are over 6 feet tall, it will be cozy, not cramped. For solo use, the extra width is a plus, allowing users to stretch out diagonally and sleep flat, which is the secret to hammock comfort. Owner feedback frequently notes that naps in this hammock result in less back stiffness compared to narrower models.
Durable Fabric That Survives Heavy Use
The fabric is a 70-denier high-tenacity nylon taffeta. This material feels like a parachute but acts like a tank. Owner reports indicate it withstands rough use, including being used as a swing or fort, with no fraying, loose threads, or stretched-out spots after extended abuse. The nylon dries fast, which is critical for camping in humid climates. The fabric has a slight âslickâ feel that helps it slide against tree bark without snagging, a smart design touch noted in independent reviews.
Easy to Set Up (If You Have the Right Straps)
Hereâs where we hit the first real con. The hammock itself is dead simple: it comes with two carabiners attached to rope loops. You clip those to a tree, and youâre done. But those rope loops are just loops. To actually hang it, you need suspension straps (sold separately). The Eno Atlas Straps are a common recommendation, and with them, setup takes under two minutes. Without them, youâre tying knots around trees, which damages bark and is a pain to adjust. For setup speed alone, the hammock rates a 9 out of 10 with the straps, and a 4 out of 10 without them.
Lightweight at 1 lb 3 oz: A Backpackerâs Best Friend
On the spec sheet, the DoubleNest weighs exactly 1 pound 3.2 ounces, including the attached stuff sack. Thatâs impressively light. For context, a typical camp chair weighs 3 to 5 pounds. This hammock takes up less space than a Nalgene bottle. It fits easily into a daypack alongside a water filter, snacks, and a rain jacket, and the extra weight is barely noticeable. For hiking to a secluded spot, this is a game changer. It also compresses small enough to fit in a bike pannier or even a large purse.
The Missing Bug Net: A Real Pain
The lack of an integrated bug net is the single biggest flaw. Owner feedback consistently highlights that in early summer or near water, mosquitoes become a problem within minutes. Eno sells a separate bug net attachment (the Guardian), but thatâs another $50 and adds weight. For fair-weather loungers who only use it in cool, dry climates, this might not matter. But for anyone who camps, lives near water, or enjoys warm evenings, budgeting for the net is essential. Some owners use third-party nets that clip to the carabiners, which work fine but add an extra step and cost.
Suspension Straps Sold Separately: The Hidden Cost
The DoubleNest costs around $70 (street price, not MSRP). The Eno Atlas Straps add another $35. Thatâs $105 total for a complete setup. Thatâs still reasonable for the quality, but it feels like an oversight. Cheaper rope or webbing from a hardware store can be used, but risks damaging trees or getting a poor hang angle. The official straps are recommended because they have multiple daisy chain loops for easy adjustment. The â$70 hammockâ is really a $105 investment for most people.
Build and Value: Premium Feel, But At a Cost
The DoubleNest feels premium in hand. The stitching is tight and uniform, the carabiners are aluminum with a smooth gate action, and the stuff sack has a drawstring that doesnât jam. Cheaper hammocks often have rough seams, weak carabiners, or fabric that pills after a few uses. This is the opposite. After heavy use, the DoubleNest looks and feels brand new. The nylon hasnât lost its stretch, and the color hasnât faded despite direct sun exposure.
Value is trickier. For casual users who want a hammock for the occasional backyard nap, decent options exist for half the price. But for regular campers, hikers, or those who value durability over cost, the DoubleNest is worth every penny. The fabric alone justifies the price. Cheap hammocks have been reported to rip under a 200-pound person; this one holds two adults (total weight around 340 pounds) without sagging or creaking. The double stitched seams and reinforced end channels are clearly built to last years, not months.
Who Should Buy It (And Who Should Skip It)
Buy It If:
- Youâre a couple or duo who wants to lounge together. This is the best two-person hammock under $150 based on owner feedback.
- You backpack or hike. At 1 lb 3 oz, itâs light enough for multi-day trips.
- You prioritize durability over budget. The fabric and construction are top tier.
- You already own suspension straps. If you have a compatible set from another hammock, youâre saving money.
Skip It If:
- You need a bug net included. The separate purchase is annoying and adds cost.
- Youâre on a tight budget. Factor in the straps and youâre over $100.
- Youâre a solo sleeper who wants a compact, ultralight option. The single Eno SubLink is lighter and cheaper.
- You only use it in your yard with perfectly spaced trees. A cheaper hammock with cheap ropes might suffice.
Verdict: The Gold Standard, With a Few Asterisks
The Eno DoubleNest is widely considered the best hammock in its class, based on extensive owner feedback and spec analysis. It nails the three most important things: comfort, durability, and portability. The spacious design is genuinely usable for two people, the fabric shrugs off abuse, and the weight makes it a no-brainer for any outdoor adventure. But the two big asterisks remain: no bug net, and no suspension straps. These omissions feel like a cash grab, especially since Eno makes excellent accessories that they clearly want you to buy. If you can stomach the total cost (hammock plus straps, plus maybe a bug net), youâll have a setup that outlasts cheaper alternatives by years. If you canât, look elsewhere.
The DoubleNest has earned a permanent spot in many outdoor enthusiastsâ kits. Itâs a go-to for impromptu park hangs, lazy afternoons by the river, and backyard stargazing. Itâs not perfect, but itâs close enough that itâs a common gift recommendation. If you value quality and are willing to pay for it, this is the hammock to get.
