![]() ![]() Structure: There are two basic types of hammocks: those with rigid structural support on the ends and those with gathered ends. Some people prefer double hammocks over singles even when they’re not planning on using it with a second person - Will Bowen prefers the roominess and flexibility of a double, saying that “it’s nice to have the option if another person is coming along, and it’s not too big or heavy to be inconvenient even when it’s just me.” If you’re going to be using it for your sleep system, think about whether you want to be able to hang your gear off your hammock and be sure to account for the extra weight. double): You definitely want a hammock that’s rated for your weight or heavier. The most ultralight hammock and straps will be nearly as small and light as a grapefruit, while the bulkiest more closely resemble a watermelon. But if you want to take it backpacking, or even just on a day hike, think about how much weight and space you’re willing to dedicate to your hammock and choose accordingly. ![]() Packed weight and size: If you’re only going to be stringing it up at your drive-in campsite or backyard, how big and heavy your hammock is doesn’t matter much. If you know you’re just going to use it for a short reading session on a day hike or to sit perpendicularly, bench style, a shorter version may work just as well, but otherwise, go long. “A good hammock needs to be at least 11 feet to give you the best flat lay.” Shorter than that and the gathered ends push your feet together and keep your body curled inward along the centerline. “If it’s not long enough, you’re going to lay like a banana in it,” says Rasmus Madsen, a Danish self-described “hammock enthusiast” who used to design and sell his own hammocks and hammock accessories. Length: How comfortable a hammock is comes down to how well it holds its shape when you get into it, and that’s about stringing it up nice and taut and about length. Whatever straps you get, make sure they’re broad enough where they make contact with the tree to disperse pressure and prevent stripping the trunk of bark.īest overall camping hammock | Best (less-expensive) camping hammock | Best full sleep system | Best camping hammock with a bug net | Best ultralight camping hammock | Best bridge camping hammock | Best freestanding camping hammock “The loops that you clip the hammock into are spaced much closer together than other tree straps I’ve used, so it’s a lot easier to adjust and get the right amount of slack from your hammock no matter the size of the tree,” he explains. Will Bowen, a sales associate at Ascent Outdoors in Seattle, recommends the ENO Atlas Straps for most people. Most hammocks are sold separately from the straps you need to attach them to trees, which is irritating with the first hammock you get and convenient if you end up purchasing subsequent hammocks. I’ve used my lightweight camping hammock for backpacking and occasionally to read outside, but I also asked outdoor experts and hammock aficionados about the best options out there for every type of hammock user. While you can use any hammock as your camping sleep system (add a tarp and bug net to protect from rain and creepy crawlies and extra insulation for chilly trips), they’re not all equally suited for it. All you need are a couple of sturdy trees or boulders and you’re able to set up what basically amounts to a portable couch. But you don’t have to drive all the way to a campsite to enjoy them, either: Toss them in your backpack the next time you’re out on a day hike or even for an afternoon at the park. ![]() ![]() There’s no denying that a hammock is great to bring along on camping trips for napping, seating, reading, and even in lieu of a tent. ![]()
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