Use the 5 W's when choosing a Hammock

Hammocks are only good for one thing, and that's relaxing!  So when you're picking out a hammock, the first rule is: don't stress about it, because hammocks are anti-stress.  Besides, this article gives you all the information you need for each hammock type.  You'll feel absolutely comfortable making the right hammock choice. (Pun intended!)

The second rule to consider when choosing a hammock is: think about yourself first.  You won't use the hammock unless it's sheer heaven for you to ease back into.

What to Consider Before Choosing a Hammock - here's a few W's to think about:

Who will use it?
Many hammock styles can hold up to three adults.  Now that's a cozy get-together! Some hammocks are easier for kids (and pets) to climb into than others.

What material will suit you best?
Although early hammocks were made from hamack tree bark (the name "hammock" comes from this), most hammocks are now made from one of three textiles: string, rope, or cloth.

* Cloth - Hammocks made from cloth have a bed-like feel.  Cloth is easy to maintain and there's a wider variety of colors and materials that range from durable canvas to high-tech fabrics.  However, because cloth hammocks don't have an open weave, they don't provide as much ventilation as rope or string.

* Rope - The classic style of a rope hammock is familiar to nearly everyone.  This is an extremely durable material that, with a quality hammock, can be very comfortable.  However, some people find rope has too rigid of a feel.

* String - The benefits of string are that it's highly breathable, lightweight, and quick-drying.  It can also be dyed in a variety of colors and is an inexpensive material.  However, the colors can fade with use and it's not as durable as rope or cloth.

Where you will use it?
Inside or outside?  Take measurements of the area where you plan to hang the hammock (allowable hanging space should be clearly indicated at your place of purchase).  This will come in handy when its time to order. (If you think you don't have a place to hang a hammock, consider a hammock stand).

When you will use it?
Will it hang outside for the duration of your warm weather season?  Some hammocks are more weather-resistant than others (the level of resistance should be clearly indicated at your place of purchase).

Think about why you will use it.
Wait a minute!  This was already covered.  There's only one reason to buy a hammock - to relax and do absolutely nothing!

Variety of Hammock Styles

Now that you've thought about how you'll use your hammock, it's time to decide on an exact style.  Here is a brief overview:

Brazilian Hammocks
Brazilian hammocks are made from thick, soft cotton cloth that's both resilient and comfortable.  The styles offer lots of color choices.  These hammocks can be left outside during the warm season, but the colors will slowly fade over time like a pair of jeans.

Camping Hammocks
Camping hammocks do three things very well:

* They fold up small (8" x 4") and weigh very little (10 oz.).
* The netting protects against insects.
* All that and they're still extremely comfortable!

Most camping hammocks are made from durable parachute nylon.

Mayan Hammocks
Mayan hammocks are made of colorful dyed string that's woven in a diamond weave pattern.  Skilled Mayan artisans weave hammocks (in ethical and humane conditions), and each one is an individually crafted piece of art.  Therefore, the color combinations may vary.

Lying on a Mayan hammock, whether it's the extra-large size with extra-thick string or the regular Mayan hammock has been compared to lying on a soft sponge.  The pliable cotton string is the secret to these hammocks' unmatched comfort.

Rope Hammocks
Rope hammocks are permanently spread open with wooden spacer bars.  If you plan to leave your hammock outside during the warm weather season, you'll want to pay attention to the hardware construction of the spreader bars.  Spreader bars should have a quality finish of nickel-plated fasteners and triple-varnished, waxed hardwood bars.

Use the 5 W's when choosing a Hammock!