what to buy?

[rohanosu]

looking for a hammock.

things i care about:

bug protection
inclement/extreme weather protection (rain/snow, cold, wind, thunder/lightning)
simplicity of set-up
minimalistic, portable, easy to carry
posture (what are the best hammocks for your back? how does one sleep in a hammock, such as to reduce any possible strain?)

bonus:
camoflauge colors

suggestions?

thanks

[neo]

looking for a hammock.

things i care about:

bug protection
inclement/extreme weather protection (rain/snow, cold, wind, thunder/lightning)
simplicity of set-up
minimalistic, portable, easy to carry
posture (what are the best hammocks for your back? how does one sleep in a hammock, such as to reduce any possible strain?)

bonus:
camoflauge colors

suggestions?

thanks


i use this hammock

http://www.mosquitohammock.com/junglehammock.html

with this tarp

http://www.mosquitohammock.com/junglehammock.html

here is a pic of my sons set up

http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=12223&c=577

here is a pic of my set up using the 12 x 12 tarp

http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=12097&catid=member&imageuser=3462

and i use this pad in my hammock,my hammock has double bottom in it,

http://www.tadgear.com/x-treme%20gear/sleeping%20systems%20main/ultralite_long_military.htm

good luck:cool: neo

[indyboys1]

The Hennessy line of hammocks is a very good choice.

Bug protection: The Hennessy hammmmock is completely bug proof. Its pretty hard to get bugs in there.

Weather: the Hennessy hammock is fine in rain you just have to make sure that you tie the side tie outs of the tarp farther down.(if you encounter extreme weather) As far as snow and cold weather I am not sure about.

Set up: It is pretty easy to set up a Hennessy hammock. It doesn't take up much space either (depending on model)

feel free to Correct me if I am wrong

[jazilla]

If money is no object, I have a Hennessey and I love it. I also have a very cheap Army jungle hammock(not recommended but its a classic). I just bought a Byer for my brother, have not tested it yet. I have also made one that was pretty comfy for about $20. Just depends on what your looking for. Check out Sgt. Rock's, Just Jeff's and Ed Speer's sites. All give lots of information on hammocks on many different flavors.

[jazilla]

PS. My bought my HH w/out bug net. I have the Sportsman's Guide tarp recommended by Neo

[Just Jeff]

Can't go wrong with an HH or a Speer. Clark seems to have many happy customers, too. And I can't wait to check out the new Mountail Laurel Designs one but it's pretty expensive...not in my immediate future.

[Time To Fly 97]

I recently evolved from tarps (3000 miles) to hammocks. I went with the Hennessey Explorer Delux Asym (I am 6'3" and weigh 245... this supports 300). While this is MUCH heavier than my tarps (3 pounds dry), I have never slept better while hiking. The space underneath provides room for camp endeavors and the Hammock becomes a loft sleeping area of sorts - this is ideal in rainy conditions.

It is bug proof, dark grey-green, made very well, and sets up in about 2 minutes (attach to two trees and two stakes). I recommend the snake-skins (see hennessey site) for quicker setup/take down.

In this hammock, you sleep a little diagonally (like 11 and 5 o'clock). Comfortable on side and back.

There is a little mesh gear holder that slides along the ridgeline that gives you easy access to your headlamp, nalgene, etc. You can push this completely out of the way (over your head) when you don't need it. You can also hang clothing, etc. on the ridge line inside to dry.

To make up for the extra weight, I cut down on other things like a ground sheet, bug netting, big therma-rest (my back used to kill me so I was always bringing extra stuff to try to alleviate this), extra stakes (only need two now), etc. It doesn't totally make up for the extra weight, but it helps.

It feels a little strange to be so heavenly comfortable while on a hiking trip. I was hiking in the Berkshires when the remnants of hurricane Betsy went through (just for kicks). In torrents of rain, I was high and dry...and fell asleep listening to the rain and the cursing of the tent people. I was going to go out to help...but fell asleep.

So...if you are cool with the extra pound and a half of weight, I HIGHLY recommend this!

Happy hiking!

TTF

[hammock engineer]

If you want cheap options keep a look out for people selling theirs. Hammocks are great for some, but not for everyone. It seems like someone on this site is always trying to sell theirs.