On long-distance hikes, each gram counts. Therefore, the ´big three´ (shelter, backpack, and sleeping system) can be real game changers. Nevertheless, there is a fine line between weight and comfort. When it came to my shelter, I was looking for a reliable, lightweight, and free-standing tent.
I wanted to be able to set it up quickly and easily, regardless of the surface. Over the last years I’ve tested many different tents. One of my all-time favorites that I use to take for my solo multiday hikes is the MSR Hubba NX.
Merle Wünderling
Merle is an outdoor enthusiast who’s passionate about hiking, rock climbing, mental health, and sustainability. Born in Germany but at home in the world, she’s hiked trails in New Zealand (Abel Tasman Coast Track, Kepler Track), Europe (Rota Vicentina/ Fishermen’s Trail, Tour du Mont Blanc, GR20 Corse, Kungsleden… ), and the Balkans (Peaks of the Balkans). Over the years she became a bit of a nerd, constantly improving her gear for upcoming hikes, such as GR11 Spain, Tour des Ecrins, Te Araroa, and the Transcaucasian Trail.
On Kungsleden in Sweden, Lycian-Way in Turkey as well as the GR11 through the Pyrenees, I spent almost each night in my tent, rain or shine. Therefore I had the opportunity to test the MSR Hubba NX in all kinds of weather conditions, including thunder storms and chilly nights, as well as on different terrain. And my biggest takeaway is that I can’t complain. The tent handles it all well!
One of the things I like most about the MSR Hubba NX is the super quick and easy setup, no matter which surface. What I really appreciate is that the inner and outer tents are set up separately. Without heavy wind and rain, I sometimes skipped using the pegs, and in warm weather conditions, I slept without the outer tent and transformed it into a 1000-star hotel. For those who want to save a few grams extra, it´s also possible to leave the inner tent behind, but I like to take it with me as a shelter from insects. In case of rain or heavy wind, it is essential to use the pegs and tension the tent correctly.
I find it relatively roomy for a one-person tent. With my 1.68m, I could easily sit upright and fit my backpack in. In exceptional situations, it is also possible to squeeze in two people. However, in this case, the backpacks will have to remain in the vestibule.
The tent’s takedown is as quick as its setup, thanks to one collapsible tent pole and a user-friendly pack sack, which I attach to the outside of my backpack.
About MSR
MSR, short for Mountain Safety Research, is a leading outdoor brand known for its innovative and reliable gear designed for backpacking, mountaineering, and expedition travel. Founded in 1969 by engineer and mountaineer Larry Penberthy, MSR was born out of a desire to improve the safety and performance of climbing equipment. Today, the brand is recognized globally for its high-quality stoves, tents, water filtration systems, and snow tools.
Built on a foundation of technical precision and field-tested durability, MSR products are trusted by outdoor professionals and adventurers alike, whether scaling remote peaks or trekking through rugged backcountry. With a strong commitment to sustainability, safety, and innovation, MSR continues to push the boundaries of what outdoor gear can do.
About the MSR Hubba NX
The MSR Hubba NXis a freestanding, three-season (spring, summer, autumn) dome tent designed for solo hikers who want to strike a balance between weight and comfort.
The tent’s weight of just over 1kg is due to its lightweight yet robust materials. The outer tent is made from durable 20D ripstop nylon fabric (available in green and gray), which is resistant to tears and damage. With its 1200mm water column, it did a great job keeping me dry from rain and sheltered me from the cold. The tent also has a `StayDry door’ with a rain gutter to divert water.
The MSR Hubba NX is a one-pole tent, with the individual poles and crossbars connected by a rubber cord. This allows for quick and easy set-up and take-down. The material, DAC Featherlite NFL, is lightweight yet sturdy. The included tent pegs are also very small and lightweight, just less stable in soft or loose ground.
In addition, the tent has a few other practical features. The vestibule offers enough space to store your backpack and shoes. It is also suitable as a shelter for cooking with heavy winds or rain (with sufficient distance between the stove and the tent and never unattended, of course…).
The reflective guy lines are also visible in the dark. This prevents accidental tripping and makes it easier to tension the tent at night. On dry days, I also like to use them as a clothesline.
To allow condensation moisture to escape quickly, MSR has used ventilation mesh on the inner tent and incorporated numerous ventilation options. This reduces the formation of condensation moisture caused by breath and body heat.
Overall, the MSR Hubba NX costs approximately 350€ and offers good value for money. It is also available in 2- and 3-person versions.
Specs
MSR Hubba NX Solo
Weight
1.12 kg
Dimensions (packed)
46 x 15 cm
Material
20D ripstop nylon, DuraShield / silicone, 1200 mm water column
Inner tent material
15D Nylon-Mirkomesh; 20D Nylon
Floor material
30D ripstop
Pole material
DAC Featherlite NFL Aluminium
Number of poles
1
Ventilation
Mesh and vents on the fly to reduce condensation
Vestibule
Yes
Setup time
Approximately 5 minutes
Price
From €348 (Oktober 2025)
pro's
Weight/ space ratio: This is a lightweight three-season tent with good headroom and vestibule, and a small pack size.
Freestanding: Quick and easy setup, regardless of the surface.
Durability: Lightweight yet sturdy material provides long-lasting, reliable weather protection in rain and storms.
Design: The StayDry door helps to keep water out.
Ventilation & air circulation: A small gap between the outer tent and the ground, mesh areas, and good ventilation openings help prevent condensation.
con's
At a little more than 1kg, it’s not an ultralight tent, but it offers a great balance between comfort and weight.
Pegs and grip in soft ground: The pegs supplied are very light, and so less stable in soft or loose ground.
Number of entrances: There is only one entrance. If a cow is on one side, I personally prefer a second entrance/ exit to escape from…
Conclusion
With a little more than 1kg, the MSR Hubba NX is a durable, lightweight, and relatively spacious tent with good headroom and vestibule, as well as a small pack size. The waterproof and windproof features provide protection even on cold nights, during prolonged rain, or in strong winds. This makes it a reliable choice for various weather conditions in three seasons, and it is flexible in terms of location, thanks to its freestanding design. In addition, it offers other practical features, such as the `StayDry door,’ reflective guy lines, and a great ventilation system, which helps prevent condensation. Therefore, it is ideal for solo hikers who value easy handling, excellent materials, and the balance between comfort and weight in a 1-person tent!
Testing the MSR Hubba NX Solo
About MSR
