Airy during summer yet spindrift-proof in winter, the Nemo Kunai is packable, light and all-seasons ready.

Tents present perhaps the biggest dilemma when it comes to purchasing or deciding which to pack for a trip. For summer comfort, should you choose a three-season breezy, lightweight model with limited protection from wind and rain, or pick the storm-stopping warmth of a four-season tent and suffer sweaty nights and a weight penalty too? Both options have benefits and compromises, and this creates a niche for three- to four-season spec tents that can be used confidently in four-season weather or the changing climates of long-distance or overseas travel.  

Enter the Nemo Kunai two-person. Weighing just under 2kg, it’s one of the most versatile tents you’ll find for year-round use and well suited to a wide range of weather conditions. It’s a freestanding, twin cross-pole dome tent with a stabilising brow pole and a single entrance. This configuration offers four-season protection from heavy rain, strong winds and moderate snow loading. But it’s the adaptable inner that makes this tent unique, because its large mesh ventilation panels can be zipped closed to provide the warmth, wind and dust protection of an alpine tent. 

We were impressed with the refined design and user-friendly features of the Kunai. The small footprint makes site selection easier in subalpine terrain. With the exception of being slightly fiddlier to pitch than some three-season tents, it was easy to adjust pitch points and vents and there was sufficient internal storage. Although the headroom was generous for two while sitting up, it’s not a spacious tent; the vestibule is small but workable. It’s one of the lightest and most packable double-wall tents with this level of weather protection available, making it a compelling option.

Trail Specs

Price $1299.95

Seasons 3–4 

Minimum weight 1760g 

Packed weight 1960kg

Floor area 2.4m²

Vestibule area 0.7m²

Ceiling height 112cm 

Fly fabric 15D Sil/PeU Nylon ripstop (1200mm)

Floor fabric 30D PeU Nylon Ripstop (3000mm)

Inner fabric 20D Nylon ripstop/mesh, reinforced with 375D X-Ply

Variants Also available in three-person

Key features we like

Four-season stability

The three-pole design (DAC Featherlite 9.6 and 9mm) provides support for snow loading and wind strength that might deform a typical three-season tent. Additionally, four burly guylines pass through ports on the fly to attach directly to the reinforced inner. While it’s ready for snow camping and gnarly weather, it isn’t as reliable as a true four-season tent in the high alpine zone or extreme winds. 

Adjustable inner ventilation

From the humid nights of summer to the coldest frosts, this tent is comfortable year-round. Large mesh-backed panels on the sides and door can be zipped fully or partially closed when temperatures plunge or the wind picks up, or to keep out dust. When the panels are zipped shut, condensation is managed by a closable ceiling vent at the tail of the inner. We experienced minimal condensation during a cold and calm winter night.

Kickstand fly vents

The fly features two kick-stand vents: one on the fly entry door and the other at the tail, which is adjustable from inside the tent. Other well-considered features include adjustable pitch points on the inner and fly and plenty of gear storage, including overhead pockets with light-  diffusing fabric. The supplied Y-stakes have excellent holding power.  

Wind and snow shedding profile

This tent’s windstreamed shape, well-supported ceiling and high-sided tub floor all contribute to increased reliability in stormy weather and snow. To save weight, the floor and fly fabrics have deniers and waterproof ratings typical of lightweight three-season tents, so a footprint is recommended.

Wilderness verdict: Year-round trampers and travellers who encounter wide-ranging conditions will find high value in this well-designed tent. Although it’s not as spacious as some, it’s as packable and light as many three-season tents and a lot more reliable.