Propping a hammock open

[TheHikingDead]

A few years ago, I decided to give the hammock thing a try. I didn't spend a ton of money on the hammock, or an underquilt, and any other bells and whistles. I'm sure shelling out some more money for a better setup could alleviate a good bit of what I'm about to ask...But it suffices for my little overnight trips. My question is this though. Is there any product specifically made to be attached to the ends of a hammock, so the fabric isn't quite so cocoon like? Think something similar to the way a backyard hammock lays out flatter. I lay on a diagonal, to limit the claustrophobic feel as best as possible. Just wondering if there's maybe a way I could manufacture something, if there's not already a product for what I'm looking for?

[mudsocks]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0VfSILeRGs

or

side tie-outs. Some even use hiking poles as spreader bars though I suspect that does not make for a very comfortable lay.


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[Old Grouse]

Check out a Jacks R Better Bear Mtn Bridge Hammock or other bridge-style hammocks.

[ChrisJackson]

Check out a Jacks R Better Bear Mtn Bridge Hammock or other bridge-style hammocks.
Agreed. This is the first thing I thought...sounds like a bridge hammock would fit that bill for the OP rather than the gathered end.

[Old Hiker]

I use a closed cell sleeping pad under me in my Clark hammock. This helps spread it out and it works fairly well.

[Dochartaigh]

Many of the pre-built hammocks with bugnets have tie-outs for either side. They have shock cord attached to them which goes to a stake in the ground. They help with spreading the head and foot ends out a little bit so you don't have as much extra fabric in those areas - makes the hammock feel just a little bit wider in some instances.

[TheHikingDead]

My hammock certainly has the built in bug-net, but I never noticed any tie-outs on it. I'll have to set it up to find out. I'm heading to the Batona Trail tomorrow, but I think I'll take my tent this time. I'd imagine the sandy soil of south Jersey, is not very conducive for holding a stake under pressure.

[Dochartaigh]

I hang in Wharton all the time and the stakes are usually fine (or easily jury-rigged). It's the trees you have to worry about since they cut so many down at the campsites in the last couple years. I'll be at Hawkin Bridge Saturday night actually.

[couscous]

http://www.amokequipment.com/
Presale orders for the 2nd gen ends this Sunday.

[Drybones]

http://www.amokequipment.com/
Presale orders for the 2nd gen ends this Sunday.

I looked at these, really like the idea but the weight kept me from trying one.

[couscous]

Mine hasn't been on the trail yet .. but it sure is comfy.
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