Your One-Stop Guide to Help You Buy the Hammock of Your Dreams
Getting a new hammock is an exciting process with a great pay-off. Whether you plan on lounging indoors or outdoors, you probably have some idea of what you’ll want your hammock to look like – though you may also feel some uncertainty. How can you figure out what decision to make that will ensure you end up with the hammock that fits your life the best?
Have no fear – we’ve assembled a one-stop guide that can help you find the answers to all your questions. Read below to help find the best hammock based on your intended use, location, size, and many other factors. Trust us – the bottom line is that no matter what type of Hammock Universe hammock you choose, you’llnever be disappointed with the quality and craftsmanship.
Now, let’s find the perfect hammock for you and your needs!
Step 1: Understanding the Different Hammock Types
Our showroom has plenty of hammock types that differ in material, comfort level, texture, and functionality. With such a variety, it might be intimidating trying to figure out which one you’ll like the best – especially if you haven’t sat in many hammocks!
We’ve summarized what you need to know about each hammock type below.
Cotton hammocks are breathable and comfortable, two things you want in a hammock. However, cotton isn’t very weather-resistant, so if you choose this option, make sure to store your hammock indoors when anticipating a storm.
Polyester
Polyester hammocks are noticeably durable and weather resistant – and while they may not bring the fuzzy feeling that cotton hammocks do, they’re still comfortable enough to make you feel like you’re floating.
These classic hammocks can be made from your choice of cotton, polyester, or weather-resistant rope. Instead of having a flat piece of fabric, rope hammocks can stretch to your liking as you rest.
Quilted hammocks have a plush layer in the centre for extra comfort – plus, they’re made from weather-resistant fabrics that won’t fade in the sun or develop mildew while outside. These hammocks dry quickly, making them great for poolside or lakeside use.
Mayan hammocks are non-spreader bar hammocks that are typically handwoven by artisans using brightly coloured strings. They tend to be loosely woven, with a diamond weave for breathability. Plus, they cocoon when inside, making for comfortable hanging and sleeping.
Brazilian hammocks are similar to Mayan hammocks. However, the main difference is that the weave of a Mayan hammock is more similar to a fish net, while a Brazilian hammock is made on a loom and is more tightly woven. Brazillian hammocks do not have spreader bars – instead, Brazilian hammocks have cotton fabric gathered at both ends and hand-crocheted lace along the edges.
Colombian hammocks are made from soft, high-quality cross-weave loomed cotton. These hammocks tend to come in noticeably vibrant colours, creating a comfortable alternative to a bed – they do not have spreader bars.
Hammocks are great for visits to campsites and national or provincial parks. Camping hammocks are lightweight, durable, and easy to pack. These hammocks stuff into small bags the size of a softball, and they weigh less than two pounds, so you don’t have to worry about losing valuable space or over-exerting yourself if you go hiking with this hammock in your pack.
Camping hammocks are often made from durable, quick-drying material, such as nylon. They can also come with mosquito nets, a bottom slit for easy entry, a ridge line for easy setup, and webbing tree straps for easy hanging.
Hammock chairs offer a great alternative to full-size hammocks – they include all the best features of a hammock, but allow you to relax in smaller spaces and sit upright. They are also ideal for families with small children, as they are not prone to flipping and tend to lay closer to the ground.
Hammock chairs can be made with any of the same materials found in full-sized hammocks.
Hammock stands make hanging easier. These structures come in metal and wood, and they make it so you don’t need to find two perfectly-spaced trees to hang your hammock on a stand.
Keep in mind that a stand should be two feet longer than your hammock and support the same amount of weight – if not more – than your hammock can.
Step 2: Things to Determine Before Your Hammock Purchase
You’re invested in your future hammock, and you want to make sure you choose the right one – but what do you even need to determine?
Grab a pen and pad, and ask yourself the questions we’ve listed below.
Staycation, Relaxing, or Sunbathing?
Do you plan to spend your summer days relaxing in the backyard, maybe by the pool or under the trees? A hammock will certainly help make your summer staycations in your backyard that much better.
Will You Sleep In Your Hammock?
Some like to catch Zs in their hammock, while others strictly choose to remain awake and use their hammock socially.
If you’re planning to sleep, consider choosing a hammock with no spreader bar – and choose one that hangs with a good sag in the shape of a smile and banana.
Thinking About Lounging And Reading?
If you want a hammock for lounging by the pool or in the backyard, hammocks with spreader bars and stands are the way to go.
Also, hammock chairs are perfect for reading nooks both inside and outside. Hammock chairs can be suspended from a porch beam, tree branch, or a stand.
Going Camping?
Hammocks are one of the best things you can bring on a camping trip. They’re easy to set up and more comfortable to sleep in than sleeping on the ground. They also double as seating, so you don’t have to lug camping chairs with you on your trip.
What Size Do You Need?
If you know where you plan on keeping your hammock, record some measurements – specifically, determine the length, width and height of the space you have.
You’ll also want to decide how many people will use the hammock at once – they typically come in single, double, and XL/family size options.
Single hammocks are designed to be large enough for one adult, with a width of 4 to 5 feet, and a weight capacity ranging from about 250 to 400 pounds. Single hammocks are lightweight, making them ideal for camping and hiking.
Double hammocks for sale are large enough to comfortably fit two adults, with a width of 5 to 6 feet. These hammocks are also strong enough to support the weight of two adults, with a typical weight capacity of 400 to 500 pounds. But lighter double hammocks will have a weight capacity near 350 pounds.
You may choose a double hammock for single-person use, as the extra room leads to a more comfortable experience.
Extra-large hammocks for sale are strong enough to hold 3+ people, depending on their combined weight. Some XL hammocks can hold more than 800 pounds!
Where Will Your Hammock be Placed?
Where you plan to use your hammock will determine the type of suspension you use.
For example, if you plan to hang a hammock in your home, you will need to install it using the support beams in your walls.
If outside in your backyard or at your cottage, two trees or a hammock stand will do.
Note: some hammock stands are small enough for use on porches, balconies, and even inside homes.
Will You Travel With Your Hammock?
If you plan to travel with your hammock, you will likely want to get a lightweight, compact camping hammock, not a heavy quilted hammock. You’ll also want easy-to-use, lightweight suspension – tree straps are an excellent option.
Step 3: Choose Your Accessories
The right accessories can transform your experience. Here are some great choices you might benefit from:
Hammock-hanging tools, which often come with hammocks, such as hooks and carabiners.
Suspension. Many hammocks will come with suspension systems, while others may require that you buy these separately. Suspension systems includetree straps, carabiners,S-hooks, rope,springs,swivels,chains, and cords.
Tree straps. These are webbing straps that won’t damage trees when you hang your hammock. These straps easily wrap around trees. And the wider the strap, the less likely it will dig into the tree.
Rain tarps. For shelter from the rain and wind, you can install a rain tarp above your hammock and use guy lines to hold a taut pitch. Rain tarps come in various sizes and shapes with different levels of cover.
Bug nets. Look for hammocks with mosquito nets that provide 360-degree protection to protect your front and back from bites while you sleep. These nets should also have “no-see-um” netting to keep even the smallest bugs out.
Chains. If your hammock isn’t long enough to reach the anchor points, you can add chains to lengthen the suspension and avoid having a hammock that is too taut.
Top and under quilt. When sleeping outside, especially overnight, you will want insulation when the temperature drops, especially underneath you. Top quilts and under quilts will help keep you warm, even in chilly temperatures. Also, consider using a hammock sleeping pad for added insulation.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve had a chance to dive deeply into the world of hammocks, you’ll have a better idea of what to look for when you browse our hammock selection. As always, feel free to speak to our team of top hammock experts if you have any questions or want to feed your curiosity.
