Buying guide for best nylon hammocks
When most of us think of camping outdoors, away from city amenities, we think of tent camping: sleeping on damp, rocky ground, possibly with snakes slithering nearby or big bugs buzzing around. No more! Nylon camping hammocks provide backpackers with a night of super comfortable sleep. When you sleep in a nylon hammock, you are securely suspended above the ground. What’s more, these camping must-haves are affordable, lightweight, and easy to set up.
You can use a nylon hammock for purposes beyond camping, too. In this review, we’ll discuss the versatility of this investment and explore other uses for a nylon camping hammock. If you don’t own one already, you’ll likely be longing for one soon. This is some seriously luxurious gear, though it may not look like it on the outside.
What should you look for in a nylon hammock? When you get one, how do you go about sleeping in it? In this guide, we address these questions and more.
Key considerations
Workmanship and product quality
Before you choose a nylon hammock, examine the workmanship and quality of the product.
- Look for triple-needle stitching on all seams for durability.
- Look for aluminum or stainless steel carabiners that, unlike plastic, will not break.
- Mosquito netting, tree straps, and nylon rope for rigging are included with the best nylon hammocks.
- An attached and well-constructed stuff bag is a highly convenient addition to this purchase.
The nylon hammock you select should be soil resistant and waterproof. It should also resist tearing. Most of all, it should be comfortable. Try it out before you keep it. Products with a money-back satisfaction guarantee are ideal in this situation.
How to sleep in a hammock
Hammock advocates admit that learning how to sleep in a hammock can be a bit of a challenge, as gravity thwarts your every effort to remain horizontal. On your first attempt, you are likely to end up a twisted pile of limbs stuffed into the lowest point in the hammock. But hammocking should be a comfortable experience. You don’t want to feel like a mashed banana at the bottom of a grocery bag.
To keep the hammock smooth and flat, position your body at a diagonal angle. Keep your head to one side and your feet to the other. With a little practice, you’ll be snoozing in no time.
Hammock camping basics
Hanging it correctly
You are not going to achieve a good night’s rest if your hammock is not hung correctly. Hung too loose, the hammock will sag in the middle. Hung too taunt, there will not be enough flexibility for comfortable body positioning. Because size, design, and hanging instructions vary, read the manufacturer’s directions and follow them closely.
Practice at home
If this is your first time using a nylon camping hammock, it’s a good idea to practice setting up your hammock at home a few times. Practice until you feel comfortable enough to set the hammock up outdoors at what might be a less-than-perfect location in inclement weather. When hiking and camping in remote areas, the weather can suddenly change. The temperature may drop; the wind may blow.
- When a nylon hammock hangs properly, the natural curve of the hammock elongates with the human body to become a flat surface.
- If you hang your nylon hammock too tight, you will toss and turn as you wrestle to find a comfortable position. You will likely find yourself too snugly “cocooned” by the restrive sides of your hammock.
- Keeping your nylon hammock tied somewhat loosely provides space to stretch out, so you can take full advantage of the width of the hammock.
Features
Versatility
Nylon camping hammocks perform double duty. While a tent may languish in the attic or garage between backpacking adventures, a nylon hammock can be used for backyard relaxing or car camping. You might even use your nylon hammock indoors to accommodate an overnight guest.
Compact nature
By their very nature, nylon hammocks take up little space. Do you live in tight quarters? If so, you could use one to add sitting or sleeping place. This could work in a loft, studio apartment, or even a college dorm.
Hardiness
Unlike cotton or canvas hammocks, nylon hammocks do not fade with sun exposure or rot with mold when stored damp. These are hardy products.
Size
Nylon hammocks are sized as “single” or “double.” If you are buying a nylon hammock for a child or a small teen or adult, a single is the best choice. The occupant will have plenty of room to stretch out without getting lost in the folds. If the user has a larger physique, even if sleeping alone, choose a double-size nylon hammock so there is plenty of room to rest in comfort.
If you weigh more than 125 pounds, be sure to check the maximum weight capacity of the nylon hammock you purchase.
Color
Nylon hammocks are available in a diverse array of color combinations to match your backpacking gear or to complement your interior decor.
Nylon hammock prices
Like almost any product you purchase, the price of a nylon hammock depends on the manufacturer, brand name, merchandiser, product availability, and product quality. You get what you pay for.
Inexpensive
Nylon hammocks in the low price range can be purchased for as little as $19. These will be of lesser quality and not as durable as pricier hammocks. However, for the money, they are ideal for use during backyard sleepovers or for unexpected houseguests.
Mid-range
Nylon hammocks in the mid-price range, designed for interior decor or rugged outdoor use, cost from $40 to $75. Many people will find what they’re looking for here. If you camp occasionally, this price range may be your best bet.
Expensive
Nylon hammocks of the highest quality demand the highest price. Quilted and padded extreme-weather hammocks in the high price range start at $75. If you have need for a high-end camping hammock made of nylon, expect to spend close to $100.
Tips
- When selecting a nylon hammock, consider the hammock’s weight limit. Some are rated for as little as 150 pounds or less. Other nylon hammocks offer a maximum load capacity of up to 1,000 pounds.
- How tall are you? When buying a nylon hammock, the height of the occupant is an important consideration. For the most comfortable rest, choose a hammock with a length that will accommodate your height.
- When your nylon hammock is hung correctly, you will sleep soundly and comfortably with your head and feet slightly elevated and the hammock material cradling the natural curve of your spine.
- You can pitch your nylon hammock almost anywhere. Once you have experienced the cradling support of a nylon hammock, it will likely be your preferred place to meditate, relax, and slumber.
FAQ
Q. What is the healthiest sleeping position?
A. Holistic healthcare practitioners recommend lying on your back to sleep with the head elevated from 10% to 30%. They note that sleeping in this position provides the brain with optimal blood circulation while allowing for a more unobstructed airway. Asthma and allergy sufferers report that sleeping in a hammock allows them to breathe freely while relieving congestion.
Q. How hard is it to correctly tie the knots needed to secure and hang a nylon camping hammock?
A. A stout nylon rope or tree strap is used to secure nylon hammocks in place. The knots required are easy to learn. Practice your rope skills. The clove hitch and the trucker’s hitch are the most utilized knots amongst nylon hammock users.
Q. What is the best grade of nylon for use in manufacturing camping hammocks?
A. For strength, weight, ease of care, and longevity, heavy-duty parachute-grade nylon is the best choice.
