Find your perfect hammock for your perfect hang.

Hammocks are everywhere lately. Their vibrant patterns and unmistakable curved shape dot college campuses, you can find them at almost every campsite in your local park, and they are even popping up deep into the wilderness. It's like they are growing on trees!

If you are considering purchasing a hammock to lounge, camp, or travel with you came to the right place. We're going to break down the different features of hammocks and help you make an educated choice to find your perfect hang.

When choosing a hammock consider the following variables.

End-Use: Where you plan to hang is very important. Once you know your end-use, you know how to weigh each variable for importance. For backpackers, weight and packability are going to be key. Car camp and lounging, durability matters most.

Size: Commonly referred to as single or double hammocks (not to be confused with single and double layer hammocks), most people choose a double for comfort. All of Sierra Madre's hammocks are considered doubles.

Accessories: A hammock requires a suspension system to set it up. We also highly recommend a rain fly, bug net, quilts, and somewhere to stash your gear.

Hammock End Use

Lounging: If you aren't planning to camp with your hammock the factor you should give the most consideration is size. You'll want it to be roomy and have enough room for a friend or two! Weight and accessories won't be as important as variable since you aren't trekking it across mountains.

Our recommendations: Ninox Flatlay Hammock or Parkes MK II Hammock

Car Camping: If you are primarily a car-camper then the factors you should focus on are size and accessories. Similar to loungers you will not need to worry about weight or packability.

Our recommendations: Ninox FlatLay Hammock or Pares MK II Hammock

Base Camp: Do you like to trek to a secluded spot and set up camp and then spend your days exploring from there? If you primarily base camp then you will want to consider weight and accessories. Unlike car camping and lounging, you won't have an easy "out" if the weather turns.

Our recommendations: (In order of heaviest to lightest) Ninox Flatlay Hammock or Pares MK II or Solo

Backpacking: If you plan to carry your gear on your adventures then the weight will be the most important consideration. Secondary you will want to consider size and accessories to find your perfect hang.

Our recommendations: (In order of heaviest to lightest) Pares MK II or Solo or xPlor

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Hammock Sizes and Specs

Single vs Double Layer Hammocks

Not to be confused with a double or single hammock, and let's be honest it is confusing. The layers refer to the literal number of layers of fabric the hammock is made constructed of.

Single Layer: A single layer hammock has, you guessed it, one layer of fabric that makes up the body of the hammock. It is the most common type of hammock in regards to layers.

Double Layer: A double layer hammock has 2 layers of fabric that make up the body of the hammock. Often it will be able to be opened with snaps or fasteners on one or both sides. The purpose of the dual layers is to allow you to slide a sleeping pad in between them. With the sleeping pad between the layers, it stays in one place and you won't wrestle with it in the middle of the night as it moves around.

Hammock Width

Single: A single hammock refers to a hammock that is 4-5ft wide and meant for a single person to sleep or lounge in. The main benefit of a single hammock is it weighs less than a double. The trade-off is that a single is much less spacious and ultralight models can have very low weight limits (250 lbs or less).

Double: A double hammock is a hammock that is 5-6ft wide and allows a less confined, more spacious experience for the sleeper or lounger. In addition, a double hammock has room for more than one individual to enjoy some hang time. On average, a double hammock also supports a higher weight limit with even some ultralight models supporting up to 350lbs.

Hammock Length: The lengths of hammocks vary a lot less than widths, no confusing single or double terminology here! For most people, unless you are extra tall (6'2''+) you won't have any issues with most market hammocks. A good rule to follow is for the most comfortable hang pick a hammock that is at least 2 ft longer than you are tall. Note, the longer the hammock the more room you will have inside to get comfortable but the more weight you will have to carry. For most people, this will be almost every hammock. If you are taller than 6'2" we personally recommend you search for a hammock that is 10-11ft for maximum comfort.

Hammock Weight: Weight is mainly determined by the aforementioned variables, single vs double, width, length, and fabric, but can be the determining characteristic for backpackers worldwide. Just like tents, the lighter you go the more you have to pay for a hammock. Hammocks range between 10oz and 3lb for the hammock alone giving you a lot of options depending on how much you want to carry and how far.

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Hammock Accessories

Most accessories are interchangeable between hammock and brand but always be sure to read descriptions and reviews carefully lest you end up with gear you can't use.

Suspension: Most hammocks include carabiners or loops that are strength tested to be sufficient. In addition, you need a pair of tree straps, your suspension, to actually hold you off the ground. Suspension should be a minimum of 3/4 of an inch wide to avoid digging into the tree and causing damage. Leave no trace!

Warmth: The biggest insulation difference between hammock camping and tent camping is the need for an under quilt. When sleeping, there is nothing stopping cool air from chilling your backside. A sleeping pad slipped into a double layer hammock can help but your body will compress the pad and reduce the insulation. Your best bet is to use an under quilt. Most hammocks have clips that integrate with insulation or elastic cords you attach to your carabiners that hang your hammock.

Most experienced hammock campers also find that instead of a sleeping bag using a top quilt is more comfortable and doesn't restrict movement. Imagine trying to shimmy back into your mummy bag after a midnight bathroom break. Not fun.

Rain Fly: Similar to your tent, this protects you from rain, wind, and snow while camping. It can be attached to either your hammock suspension or have independent suspension and uses guylines to keep a tight pitch. A larger tarp will provide greater protection but may weigh more depending on the model.

Bug Net: Look for models that offer either 360 protection or have a thick enough denier in the fabric to avoid butt bites. Also, be sure that it has

"no-see-um" mesh (most do) to keep gnat sized biters out.

Gear Stash: Don't forget about your trusty pack and leave it out in the rain. The most convenient option is hammocks that have the gear stash integrated into the bug net but you can also find gear stashes that are either hung inside or underneath your hammock to keep your other gear clean.

These are the most common accessories, and arguably completely necessary for hammock camping. There are plenty of other fun accessories on the market though like hammock stands and lights to string along your ridgeline.

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Hammock Set Up Tips

You want a 30-degree strap angle. It's the optimal angle to relax into without sagging so much your back bows and you end up with a sore back. If 30 degrees can't happen, go steeper rather then looser.

Sleep on the diagonal, position your head and feet in opposite corners of the hammock. It will allow your weight to distribute more evenly and avoid painful backbends.

Expect it to be colder than a tent. Dress a little warmer and grab lower-rated insulation then you would in a tent. Note, what you lack in warmth you more than make up for in comfort.

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