First Hammock

[Glenhart Brooks]

I'm planning my first hike this summer. I'll be starting at the northern point and heading south for two weeks. I've been trying to get my research and done and think I'm looking for something like the "ULTRALITE BACKPACKER A-SYM ZIP" from Hennessy Hammocks. I'm not sure what the temperature will feel like in it. Should be about the end of June, and I actually like it pretty cold. Will I need a sleeping bag, or quilt, or what?

Also, a different hammock maybe? Pretty open to suggestions here.

[kayak karl]

that's the same hammock i used. you'll need a pad or underquilt because temps may drop to 50 or lower. you may also consider a simpler and lighter suspension.

[gunner76]

Look at the Warbonnet Blackbird double

[JaxHiker]

Also look at the Switchback and Light Hiker hammocks from Tree To Trail Gear. I recently dumped my Explorer Ultralight for a LH and love it. Last night I couldn't get over how much more room it felt like I had. Whether real or imagined it seems roomier.

In addition to something under you to keep the heat-stealing wind off your back you'll want something to cover up top with as well. I had a pad under me last night and wasn't cold at all in that regard. However, even with temps in the mid 60s it was a damp night and I was chilled. The night before was much warmer and I didn't need anything but last night I had to pull my arms into my t-shirt to keep warm. My legs were very cold but of course I was wearing shorts. :)

When it comes to weather protection remember that it's better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. I've been caught off guard twice (once my the temp and once by rain). Never again.

[R00K]

You could also try the Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter - $40 - But it's not a cheap or uncomfortable by any means. If you don't like it, not as big of a loss. If you do, it'll make a great back up, or something to let a friend try next time you go camping with friends.

[Glenhart Brooks]

I'm pretty interested in the grand trunk skeeter beeter. Anyone else here tried it? I'm just wondering if it holds up well, or if I'd risk being a week in and with a ripped hammock. I can sacrifice comfort for price, and I'm only 145lbs so I imagine I'd be alright.

[Glenhart Brooks]

I just found the pro version:
http://www.amazon.com/Grand-Trunk-Skeeter-Beeter-Hammock/dp/B001AIFLX2

Looks a lot better. Really considering it. Could also use suggestions on where to find what I'd need with it, for rain/warmth.

[scope]

You can get by with a pad, but they can get a little squirrelly inside the hammock. For summer, something like a 2/3 to 3/4 underquilt and a top quilt would be the ideal setup.

[Spider]

i've got the expedition asym as well and it's always served me well. a lot of people complain that the rainfly is a bit small so you may want to upgrade it, but i've never had a problem with it. you're lucky that you'll be getting the zip, i've got the old velcro version and it can be a hassle sometimes- wish i had the money to invest in a zip instead.

[JaxHiker]

I'm not sure what the temperature will feel like in it. Should be about the end of June, and I actually like it pretty cold. Will I need a sleeping bag, or quilt, or what?

At a minimum I'd take something to keep the wind off your back. I've gotten a lot of mileage out of my JRB Weathershield. I slip an emergency blanket between it and the hammock. This works well as a vapor barrier, further keeps the skeeters at bay, reflects your body heat, and blocks the wind.



Also, a different hammock maybe? Pretty open to suggestions here.
I have an Explorer Ultralight. It's done well for me on several hikes through the GA section. I got a little tired of dealing with the bottom entry, though. Since you're looking at one of the new zipper models you won't have to deal with that of course. I recently switched to the Light Hiker from Tree To Trail Gear and I'm very happy. It seems to have a lot more room than the Hennessy and I sleep very well in it. It's also got a much flatter lay.


a lot of people complain that the rainfly is a bit small so you may want to upgrade it, but i've never had a problem with it.
The way I look at it, the stock tarp provides cover for the hammock. Period. If you don't mind being stuck in the hammock during a storm that's fine. If you want to be able to stretch your legs, cook, etc. then you're screwed. A larger tarp lets you get out and do those things so you're not cooped up.

[Glenhart Brooks]

Thanks for the replies, guys. I'm still pretty torn, but this helps.