The NEMO Dragonfly OSMO tent is designed for backpackers and bikepackers who want a lightweight, freestanding shelter without compromising on interior space or weather protection. Built with NEMO’s proprietary OSMO fabric, this tent offers improved water resistance, reduced stretch when wet, and enhanced sustainability. Whether you’re tackling multi-day treks or minimalist bikepacking routes, the Dragonfly OSMO aims to deliver comfort, durability, and ease of use in a compact package.
Materials and Construction
The standout feature of the Dragonfly OSMO is its namesake fabric. OSMO is a proprietary polyester-nylon blend that’s PFC-free and made from recycled materials. It resists water absorption and sagging, which helps maintain tension and shape during wet conditions. Compared to traditional silnylon or PU-coated fabrics, OSMO offers better long-term performance and environmental credentials.
The tent uses DAC Featherlite poles, known for their strength-to-weight ratio. Colour-coded hubs and pole segments make setup intuitive. The fly and floor are treated with durable water repellent (DWR), and the mesh canopy provides excellent ventilation while keeping insects out.
The tent features a tapered design with pre-bent poles that maximise headroom and shoulder space. The floor shape is optimised for two sleeping pads, and the vestibules offer generous gear storage without encroaching on sleeping space.
Setup and Usability
Setting up the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO tent is quick and straightforward. The freestanding design means it can be pitched on hard ground or uneven terrain without relying on perfect stake placement. The pole structure snaps together easily, and the fly attaches with buckles for fast deployment.
The tent includes dual doors and vestibules, which improve access and gear organisation. The doors are large and easy to operate, and the zippers are smooth and snag-resistant. Inside, the tent offers gear pockets, a light-diffusing pocket for headlamps, and ample space for two people to sit up and move around.
For solo users, the 1P version offers a similar experience with reduced weight and footprint. The bikepack-specific models include shorter pole segments and a compression stuff sack designed to fit handlebars or panniers.
Weather Protection
The Dragonfly OSMO performs well in a range of conditions. The fly provides full coverage and sheds rain effectively. The OSMO fabric maintains tension even when wet, reducing flapping and sagging. The bathtub-style floor keeps water out during heavy rain, and the seam sealing is reliable.
Ventilation is excellent thanks to the mesh canopy and fly vents. Condensation is minimal, even in humid conditions. The tent holds up well in wind, though it’s not designed for extreme alpine use. For three-season backpacking, it offers solid protection against rain, wind, and mild cold.
Weight and Packability
The Dragonfly OSMO 2P weighs approximately 1.3kg (2.9lbs), making it competitive in the ultralight category. The packed size is compact enough for minimalist setups, and the included stuff sack is well-designed for compression and organisation.
Bikepack models feature shorter pole segments and a roll-top stuff sack with tie-down loops, making them ideal for handlebar or frame bag storage. This modularity is a major advantage for riders who need efficient packing without sacrificing shelter quality.
Interior Space and Livability
Despite its low weight, the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO tent offers impressive interior volume. The pre-bent poles and ridge geometry create vertical walls that increase usable space. Two people can sit up comfortably, and the vestibules provide enough room for packs, boots, and cooking gear.
The tent’s shape is optimised for sleeping pads, and the floor area is generous for its weight class. The dual doors make entry and exit easy, and the interior pockets help keep essentials organised.
Durability and Sustainability
The OSMO fabric is a major step forward in sustainability. It’s made from recycled materials and free from harmful PFCs. It also performs better over time, resisting UV degradation and maintaining waterproofing longer than traditional coatings.
The DAC poles are durable and lightweight, and the tent’s stitching and construction are high quality. With proper care, the Dragonfly OSMO should last for many seasons of regular use.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- OSMO fabric resists sagging and absorbs less water
- Dual doors and vestibules for convenience
- Excellent ventilation and interior space
- Sustainable materials and PFC-free coatings
- Bikepack version offers modular packing options
Cons
- Premium price point
- Not suited for extreme alpine conditions
- Requires careful handling to preserve ultralight materials
Value and Use Cases
The Dragonfly OSMO is priced at the higher end of the market, but its performance and sustainability justify the cost. It’s ideal for backpackers, bikepackers, and minimalist travellers who want a reliable shelter that doesn’t weigh them down.
Compared to other ultralight tents, it offers better livability and weather protection. The bikepack-specific models add versatility for riders, and the freestanding design makes it easy to pitch in varied terrain.
Final Verdict
The NEMO Dragonfly OSMO tent is a well-rounded ultralight shelter that balances weight, durability, and comfort. Its innovative fabric, thoughtful design, and sustainable construction make it a standout choice for three-season adventures. Whether you’re hiking long distances or packing light for a bikepacking trip, the Dragonfly OSMO delivers reliable protection and smart features in a compact form.
