Hungry Jack
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Post by Hungry Jack on Oct 4, 2016 10:23:36 GMT -8
I have always been a tent packer, and have struggled to get a good night's sleep when out. A cranky back necessitates side sleeping, which means regular rotations. I think most of us have been there.
I am wondering if a hammock might offer a better night's sleep for my aging back. I understand that the better hammocks lay flat, and you can find models that offer shelter from rain and moderate wind.
A few specific questions:
1) Should I expect a more comfortable sleep in a hammock? (my ground kit involves a 2.5" Insul Mat, which I think does a good job)
2) What additional / type of mattress would I need to use in a hammock for cooler (down to freezing overnight temps) sleeping?
3) Any specific brands / models to recommend? I am 6'4" and 215 lbs
Thanks!
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zeke
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Post by zeke on Oct 4, 2016 10:41:51 GMT -8
I am the same weight as you, and I use a WarBonnet BlackBird. Double layer 1.7. That double layer allows me to slide a pad under me and it stays in place. I don't even need to inflate it, as it is for a wind block only. Others use an Underquilt, which usually has shock cord attachments so it hangs underneath the hammock, not between you and the hammock. It makes it like you are in a sleeping bag suspended from the trees.
Now, the better makers that I am aware of include WarBonnet, Henessey, Dutchware,and Dream. For a complete listing of vendors, you might visit Hammock Forums
I sleep just fine in temps down to freezing or just below, with a good quilt and my thermarest or neoair under me. I tried out a hammock, and swapped immediately because it was so much more comfortable. In fact, I have one you could try out, if you wanted to.
All of the vendors websites will tell you about what their load capacity is, and other such useful info. I will say this much. ENO is not the way to go.
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Post by trinity on Oct 4, 2016 10:42:01 GMT -8
I'd recommend spending some time researching this one. Hammockforums.net is a great resource, if somewhat overwhelming, because there's just so much available right now. I have a Hammeck Netty, but unfortunately Hammeck has halted production. For a good starting place, spend some time on the Warbonnet website, the Blackbird or Blackbird XLC would be great options, and if you decide hammocks aren't for you, you can resell them easily. Many if not most people seem to find hammocks more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, I know that I do. Gathered end hammocks are probably the most common, they don't lay flat, but allow for an almost flat lay along the diagonal. Another option is a bridge hammock, which gives a truly flat lay. I've never tried a bridge hammock myself. You can use a pad for warmth, but in my experience this destroys the comfort benefits of a hammock. A better option is an underquilt, which will keep you warm without compromising comfort. The Ultimate Hang is a nice intro to hammocks, you can order it on-line.
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Hungry Jack
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Post by Hungry Jack on Oct 4, 2016 10:51:47 GMT -8
Awesome info. Thanks guys!
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Post by dirthurts on Oct 4, 2016 17:54:09 GMT -8
Maybe look into the Hennesy Hammock Asym designs. They pitch pretty flat, as they stake out at two corners. They're the only hammocks I've really been able to sleep in, personally.
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almostthere
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Post by almostthere on Oct 4, 2016 19:47:57 GMT -8
I sold a Hennesy and have two Warbonnet Hammocks, the Blackbird and the netless version of it. Much more room and flatter lay than I got in the Hennesy, and not having to deal with the bottom exit helped a lot. I suppose they have had to add other models that don't have the bottom exit to compete, but they are heavier than the Warbonnet hammocks....
I'm happy enough to have a set of 0 degree quilts and a set of three season quilts. But then I got a boyfriend, and he likes me close, so I also have an Exped Synmat that's 25 inches wide and cushy enough that I can spend time in a tent without feeling like I slept on the bare ground as most of the pads made me feel...
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Post by hikingtiger on Oct 5, 2016 9:19:12 GMT -8
I will say this much. ENO is not the way to go. zeke, what's your issue with ENO? I've only used one as a glorified camp chair, not for sleeping and not backpacking. Just curious. |
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tigger
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Post by tigger on Oct 5, 2016 9:33:04 GMT -8
Maybe look into the Hennesy Hammock Asym designs. They pitch pretty flat, as they stake out at two corners. They're the only hammocks I've really been able to sleep in, personally. I've not tried the Warbonnets (heard many good things about them). I have a HH Ultralight Asym (original model) and absolutely love it. I am a side sleeper. IF I set it up right, it lays very flat. |
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zeke
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Post by zeke on Oct 5, 2016 9:33:06 GMT -8
Camp chair may be their best use, or a gear sling. For sleeping, they have no way to angle asymmetrically, leaving you with a possible sore back. When i examined their straps, it appeared they had too much stretch in them. Try any cottage industry maker, and you will be able to feel the difference immediately.
Put another way, I am a gear snob and I hate to see people buy cheap and then later upgrade to a product that wasn't all that expensive to begin with.
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almostthere
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Post by almostthere on Oct 5, 2016 11:19:33 GMT -8
I'm with zeke on the ENO -- I have one, even went so far as to give it a ridgeline attempting to get it to be comfortable in the way a shaped hammock (Warbonnets are asymmetrical as are so many others available now) can be. It's in the car camping bin, not the backpacking shelves, because it's just impossible. By the time you get the ENO Doublenest to have the width to get on the diagonal, might as well get a shaped hammock and cut a bunch of weight.
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Post by hikingtiger on Oct 5, 2016 13:26:28 GMT -8
Good to know. Thanks, zeke and almostthere. And zeke, no need to apologize for being a gear snob. I'm the same way as far as my pocket book will allow. |
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crawford
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Post by crawford on Oct 5, 2016 13:34:01 GMT -8
Don't discount looking at Grand Trunk as well. I'm a fan of the skeeter beeter pro as it has an integrated bug net. Not sure how tall you are, but be sure you don't go too short on the hammock.
I'll second the advice above on Dutch and Hennesy, they are quality items. Be prepared to be shocked by the price of some underquilts, but you can look around and find some at lower prices (mind you that means higher weight). You can also look at DIY stuff if you are so inclined.
I also agree with checking out Hammock Forums. You won't be disappointed. You can link to Shug's videos (sean emory) and the are very useful for those starting out with hammocks.
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