Good Quality Hammocks

March 15, 2022 5 min read

Five hammocks in a row on the beach at sunset.

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How to Find a Hammock That Will Last

Hammocks are great options for resting and sleeping. Studies show that using camping hammocks can provide better sleep, pain relief, and protection from insects and other outdoor creatures.

But how do you find hammocks for sale that will last throughout many adventures and uses? Keep reading this guide to learn how to choose the best and most durable hammock.

What Should I Look For When Buying A Hammock?

There are three main things to consider when shopping for a hammock: size, use, and accessory compatibility.

Size

When deciding on hammock sizes, first decide whether you need a hammock to fit one person or two people. Single hammocks are smaller and lighter but provide less space overall. Single hammocks can only hold around 250 pounds.

Double hammocks fit two people and can hold double the weight, on average. They are more spacious so often they are chosen even when it is just needed for one individual. Double hammocks can be slightly heavier, though, compared to single hammocks.

Use

An important indicator when looking for the right hammock is to know what you plan to use the hammock for. If you need a camping hammock for backpacking, choose a lightweight and rain-resistant option. If you're looking for a hammock for lounging at home, then durability and comfort can be more important.

Accessories

A hammock that will last will be designed to be used with accessories. Some common hammock accessories include hammock stands, suspension straps, rain tarps, mosquito nets, and underquilts.

The type of accessories you need depends on how you'll use the hammock. For example, underquilts and rain tarps are great additions to camping hammocks.

What Is The Best Material For Hammocks?

The best material for hammocks depends on what the hammock is used for. If you're looking for comfort, then cotton and quilted hammocks are the way to go. If you're looking for low-maintenance and durability, then nylon or polyester fabrics are best.

Nylon Vs. Cotton Hammocks

Cotton hammocks are comfortable, cool, and tear-resistant. The long cotton fibres create a stronger rope and can hold more weight. Cotton is also lightweight making it easy to pack and carry your hammock wherever you go. Nylon is the best option for camping because it is lightweight and easy to fold up and pack. Nylon also dries quickly and won't soak up moisture. However, nylon is not as strong as cotton and can't hold as much weight.

Rope Hammocks

Rope hammocks are the type of hammocks typically found in beach vacation spots and advertisements. They are made of threaded rope and have spreader bars on each end keeping the hammock suspended wide. If you are looking for an alternative with no spreader bars, opt for a Mayan hammock, since they are also made of ropes.

Rope hammocks are made of either cotton or polyester. Cotton rope hammocks are more comfortable but should be placed inside between uses as they are not as weather resistant. In wet or humid climates, a polyester rope hammock is the better choice because polyester will resist mold and mildew.

Quilted Fabric

Quilted fabric hammocks are made with quilted layers rather than threaded ropes. The quilting makes the hammock feel more like a bed compared to rope hammocks.

Quilted hammocks have a spreader bar on each end making them easy to get in and out of. Plus, they can comfortably fit two people. When made out of polyester, quilted hammocks are weather-resistant and dry easily.

What Type Of Hammock Is Best?

The best hammock will depend on what you desire. If you want to leave the hammock outside most of the time, then a polyester hammock is the way to go.

If you want to take your hammock camping, then a parachute-style hammock with nylon fabric is a good choice.

If you're looking for traditional vibes, then you can't go wrong with a Mayan or Brazilian-style hammock.

How Long Can A Hammock Last?

If the hammock is taken care of properly- for example, properly stored and kept clean - then it can last decades. Good quality hammocks will last at least 20 years with good care. Hammocks made with weather-safe materials can last even longer.

For a hammock to be durable, it needs two things, great quality material and great care. You lack one or the other and you will be on the lookout for another one. We at Hammock Universe do our very best to offer great quality and count on you to take great care of it.

How To Take Care of A Hammock?

First thing is to try not to snag the material, especially with rope hammocks. If you do happen to get a snag, weave the thread back in. If the thread breaks, tie the ends together so it cannot continue to unthread.

Another important part of hammock care is protecting the hammock from the elements. Put the hammock inside when not in use, especially during winter, wet seasons, or harsh weather. Cotton should be protected from the rain to avoid mildew.

To wash the hammock, handwash with lukewarm or cold water and mild soap. Hang dry the hammock and make sure to keep it open to prevent mould or mildew.

Also, try protecting your hammock from the sun. It's UV rays are probably the worst hammock killer because they attack the fiber and damage it.

The Takeaway - What are the top three indicators of a high-quality hammock?

Different types of hammocks provide different benefits depending on your need. But the three most important indicators of a high-quality hammock include durability, comfort, and accessibility.

A hammock made with durable materials will save you money in the long run because it will last longer. All high-quality hammocks will be comfortable because they will be handmade with care and top fabrics. Lastly, high-quality camping hammocks are made to work with all types of accessories.

At Hammock Universe, we have every style of hammocks for sale. Check out all of our hammock styles and start shopping for the perfect hammock to fit your needs.

 

We Recommend:

Parachute Expedition Hammock 

Mosquito Net Hammock Nylon 210D

These two hammocks are what we suggest the most for camping/ outdoor activities. We prioritize the Mosquito Net because it already has a built in netting, includes carabiners and ropes for the net and an attached carry pouch to easily store the hammock away.  This only accommodates a single person or a weight capacity of 300 lbs. In the event that you need a hammock with more weight capacity, try the Parachute Hammock and the Mosquito Net. Individual products to enjoy a bug free camping. 

Brazilian Double Hammock

We also have customers who want a day to day indoor and outdoor  hammock. Here we suggest the Brazilian or Colombian Hammocks. These hammocks are not as lightweight as the hammocks mentioned above but if it is just a short camping activity the weight of the hammocks shouldn’t be an issue. ( 2.8 lbs heavier than the camping hammocks ) The Brazilian and Colombian Hammocks can also be used as a bed replacement which makes them versatile and cost efficient.  

Parachute Expedition Hammock - Double
Hammock Universe
$49.97 CAD$44.97 CAD
Mosquito Net Hammock 210T
Hammock Universe
$69.97 CAD$59.97 CAD
Deluxe Brazilian Double Hammock with Universal Stand
Hammock Universe
$269.94 CAD$219.94 CAD