#2 on this list
Hornet OSMO 1P
Nemo
The Nemo Hornet OSMO 1P caters directly to weight-conscious backpackers who prefer a dedicated pole frame over trekking-pole setups. Operating as a semi-freestanding shelter, the Hornet utilizes a single hubbed pole structure with a Y-configuration that provides structure to the head end while requiring two corner stakes to extend the footbox. This layout substantially reduces pole weight while retaining a predictable, quick setup. A central feature of this tent is Nemo's proprietary OSMO composite fabric. Blending recycled polyester and nylon fibers, the material is engineered to resist water absorption, sag substantially less when wet, and dry faster than conventional silnylon. Overhead, the patented Flybar clip pulls the inner tent mesh outward at the apex, increasing shoulder-level volume and preventing the tent wall from bowing inward against the camper. Because the foot end is non-freestanding, the Hornet requires secure staking to achieve its full interior length and prevent the foot of your sleeping bag from brushing the fly. The interior floor is distinctly tapered, leaving minimal room beside your sleeping pad for extra gear. Campers who prioritize shoulder and elbow clearance over a wide floor plan will appreciate the balance, but taller hikers may find the low footbox restrictive. **Highlights** - Semi-freestanding design cuts frame weight while maintaining a rapid pitch. - OSMO poly-nylon fabric offers three times less wet sag and faster dry times. - Flybar clip creates noticeably better headroom and shoulder width at the apex. - Compact packed dimensions fit horizontally inside narrow ultralight backpacks. - Nightlight Pocket diffuses headlamp beams to create warm, ambient ceiling lighting. **Watch-outs** - Tapered footbox requires solid ground stakes to avoid canopy sag. - Snug interior floor plan leaves virtually no room for gear beside a sleeping pad. - Ultralight fabrics require gentle handling around rough surfaces.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#3 on this list
Plex Solo
Zpacks
The Zpacks Plex Solo is engineered for dedicated ultralight backpackers and long-distance thru-hikers where every fraction of an ounce matters. Built around a single-wall architecture supported by a single trekking pole set to approximately 52 inches, the shelter strips away unnecessary hardware to achieve an astonishingly low trail weight. It packs down remarkably small, making it a staple among high-mileage hikers tackling extended trail systems. The entire canopy is constructed from Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), an exceptionally strong, inherently waterproof non-woven laminate. Unlike nylon or polyester, DCF absorbs zero water, meaning the tent will not sag during prolonged rainstorms and can be packed away wet without gaining significant water weight. The bathtub floor is sewn directly to the canopy via breathable perimeter mesh, which aids airflow while keeping ground moisture and insects out. Operating a single-wall DCF shelter introduces clear practical trade-offs. Condensation is an unavoidable reality in humid or poorly ventilated conditions, requiring users to wipe down interior walls with a camp towel and practice smart campsite selection. Setup requires a firm foundation with at least six stakes—often ten in high winds—and the single-pole pyramid profile leaves limited elbow room away from the apex. **Highlights** - Dyneema Composite Fabric construction eliminates wet fabric stretch and water absorption. - Exceptionally low total weight and minimal packed volume for ultralight kits. - Single-pole pitch utilizes standard trekking poles adjusted to fixed heights. - Deep bathtub floor keeps splash and running ground water away from your sleep system. - Storm doors feature metal hooks and overlapping panels for straightforward weather adjustments. **Watch-outs** - High retail cost associated with premium Dyneema Composite Fabric construction. - Single-wall design demands active condensation management in humid environments. - Requires secure staking across multiple guy points to maintain structural integrity.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | Hornet OSMO 1P | Plex Solo |
|---|---|---|
| Shelter Type | Semi-freestanding double-wall solo tent | Non-freestanding trekking-pole tent |
| Frame Structure | Single-hubbed aluminum Y-pole system | — |
| Fly Fabric | Proprietary OSMO poly-nylon composite | — |
| Interior Tensioner | Flybar volumizing canopy clip | — |
| Staking Needs | Two required corner stakes at the foot | 6 stakes baseline, up to 10 in wind |
| Ambient Lighting | Headlamp-diffusing Nightlight Pocket | — |
| Wall Structure | — | Single-wall with perimeter mesh |
| Canopy Fabric | — | Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF) |
| Support Pole | — | One trekking pole (approx. 52 inches) |
| Intended Use | — | Ultralight backpacking and thru-hiking |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Hornet OSMO 1P
- OSMO composite fabric drastically cuts wet fabric sag and dries quickly
- Flybar clip widens shoulder-level headroom at the tent apex
- Side-entry layout is significantly easier to access than front-door solo tents
- Packs down small enough for minimalist packs and bikepacking setups
- Semi-freestanding footbox requires solid stake points to avoid sagging
- Tapered floor plan provides virtually no room inside for personal gear
- Ultralight shell fabrics require diligent site clearance to prevent tears
Plex Solo
- Dyneema Composite Fabric absorbs zero water and will not sag in sustained rain.
- Remarkably low trail weight and compact packed size for ultralight kits.
- Single-pole pitch uses standard trekking poles adjusted to roughly 52 inches.
- Deep bathtub floor keeps running ground runoff away from sleeping gear.
- Single-wall geometry requires active condensation wiping in damp environments.
- High retail price compared to conventional silnylon or silpoly solo shelters.
- Non-freestanding structure relies entirely on secure ground stakes to pitch.
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.