Gear Review: Kunai 4-Season Backpacking Tent by NEMO Equipment
The NEMO Equipment Kunai 4-Season Tent delivers alpine-ready durability in a lightweight, backpacking-friendly package. With a compact footprint, strong DAC poles, and year-round protection, it’s one of the most versatile tents for hikers and mountaineers alike.
If you’re looking for a tent that can truly go anywhere, the NEMO Equipment Kunai 4-Season Backpacking Tent is one of the most versatile options on the market. Designed as a lightweight yet rugged shelter, it’s built to handle everything from high alpine storms to shoulder-season backpacking trips.
Unlike many mountaineering tents that feel too heavy and bulky for multi-day hikes, the Kunai strikes a balance, giving you true 4-season protection in a compact, backpacker-friendly design. It's definitely a little bit unique with how it's pitched, so practice setting this tent up before you take it out!
Standout Features
- True 4-Season Versatility: Handles snow, wind, and rain while still being breathable enough for mild-weather trips.
- Lightweight Design: At under 5 lbs packed weight, it’s much lighter than traditional mountaineering tents.
- Durable Build: With robust fabrics and super strong poles, the Kunai is built for rough conditions.
- Ventilation: Large vents and breathable canopy prevent condensation build-up even in cold conditions.
- Compact Footprint: Small enough to pitch on narrow ledges or tight alpine terrain.
Specs: NEMO Kunai 4-Season Tent
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2 or 3 person options |
| Season Rating | 4-season (year-round use) |
| Minimum Weight | 2-person: 3 lb 14 oz 3-person: 5 lb 3 oz |
| Packed Weight | 2-person: 4 lb 5 oz 3-person: 5 lb 10 oz |
| Floor Area | 2-person: 26 sq ft 3-person 37.9 sq ft |
| Peak Height | 2-person: 44 in 3-person 45 in |
| Vestibule Area | 2-person: 8 sq ft 3-person 13 sq ft |
| Number of Doors | 1 |
| Poles | 3 DAC Featherlite NFL aluminum |
| Fabric – Fly | 15D Sil/PeU Nylon Ripstop (1200 mm) |
| Fabric – Floor | 30D PeU Nylon Ripstop (3000 mm) |
| Fabric – Canopy | 20D Nylon Ripstop/No-See-Um Mesh |
| Color | Orange and gray |
| Price Range | Competitive for the 4-season category |
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight for a 4-season tent | Vestibule size could be larger |
| Packs small for alpine trips | Single door and vestibule limit gear storage |
| Strong, durable fabrics and DAC poles | Tight fit for 1 person in the 2p, tight for 2 people in the 3p with winter gear |
| Great ventilation reduces condensation | Not ultralight for fast-and-light solo trips |
| True 4-season protection |
Trail Tested
The Kunai really shines in the alpine, and in horrible weather. It’s compact enough to fit on narrow rocky flat spots, yet sturdy enough to handle strong winds and heavy snow loads. The small footprint is a huge advantage in technical terrain, and the burly poles inspire confidence when conditions turn.
On cold nights, the solid fabric walls help trap warmth, while the mesh vents prevent you from waking up in a condensation cave. It’s not the roomiest tent for two people (I use the 3-person model), especially if you’re carrying bulky winter gear, but it’s perfectly livable for serious trips.
For shoulder-season backpacking, the Kunai transitions well, offering the weather protection of a mountaineering tent without the bulk. You could take it on a fall backpacking trip, then trust it on a mid-winter mountaineering push- something few tents can claim.
Packing It Out
The NEMO Equipment Kunai 4-Season Backpacking Tent is one of the few true year-round backpacking tents that doesn’t compromise between strength and weight.
While it comes at a premium price, its versatility makes it an excellent investment for those who want one tent that can do it all from summer backpacking to alpine expeditions. If you’re a hiker or climber who refuses to be limited by season, the Kunai is worth every ounce and every dollar.
This article is independent of the supplier and reflects my own opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you.
