All-in-one Hammock and Tarp suspension

All in one Hammock and Tarp suspension
This specific system is done by MyersTech Hammock Lab, but you could make one yourself. Check out MyersTech Hammock Lab at ...
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[@geoffbubas977]

I used to do this with 1 added piece of engineering: an adjustable ridge line coming from each side of the tarp so that I could get the prusiks as close to the trees as possible with different tree spacing. This way you can get your tarp higher. I stopped using an all in 1 after a few years playing with it for 2 reasons. 1. I liked my tarp even higher for fair weather, and even lower for extreme weather. 2. Setting up in rain I found myself putting the tarp up 1st, then setting everything up under the tarp, which you can still do with this method, but it's a little more fiddly when putting the tarp up 1st and the less fiddle the better when setting up in rain lol. Ultimately, this set up does work great, I've just found there's less versatility.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Thanks!

[@christoole6820]

If setting up in the rain with this method you would put the straps up first and then clip on the tarp? How difficult is it to set up the hammock with the tarp already deployed to the straps?

[@christoole6820]

Geoff Bubas Do you have a video on the adjustable ridge line from both ends? Or a name for the knot? I plan on going back to this kind of system where I used Hennessy hammock for ten years it always worked great however I like the tarp to be the last thing I take down and first thing up if it is raining which it is always raining in Appalachia

[@jthompsoniii]

Geoff, I agree with your comments and especially regarding set-up in the rain. In my experience and when it is raining, I like to set up my tarp first. This allows me to better protect my sleep system (e.g. UQ, Hammock, OQ, sleep clothes) from the rain. The "All-In-One" system, described in this video, definitely works AND you can set up the tarp first in the rain. However, in my experience, a separate tarp line is more convenient in the rain. Jeff Meyer's work is innovative and of the highest quality. Jeff makes a GREAT adjustable tarp line! I purchased two!! Spiguver, thanks for another informative video! I experienced the same dyneema ribbon "crinkling / skrunching" that you describe. I think the dyneema crinkling also made the release of the Beckett Hitch more difficult. J. Meyer suggested I add a loop "handle" to the Beckett Hitch / hammock connection. Problem solved!!!

[@danielkutcher5704]

Me, too. Exactly what you said. I like to pitch low in wind driven rain, and if it's still raining in the morning, pack up the hammock and then raise the tarp while I make breakfast and pack the rest of my gear. I have found that using shock cord as the stake out lines allows the tarp to billow and buck more than with spectra line, which ruins any aerodynamic efficiency that it had in the first place (practically none, except I've been using a tarp with a catenary ridgeline).

[@MsHurricane70]

I bought this setup last summer after watching this vid. I used it on a 5 week canoe trip half of my nights when I anticipated milder weather. Super easy, low volume, low weight. I did take a separate dyneema ridgeline with prussik toggles for when I knew there was bad weather coming...and I would use my pole mod OVER the ridgeline with the tarp (Hummingbird Hammocks Pelican) under the ridgeline. (to prevent pole rub on top of tarp). This would give me more structure and space. For the particular set up in this video, it was my go to whenever possible. Super fast and simple at the end of a long day. It remains as my hammock suspension and tarp deploy system forever.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Thanks for the feedback! I appreciate you checking out the video! I agree with the way you did the poles, that's the correct way!

[@KuntryRD]

Jeff is a brilliant guy. So glad that I found his KZbin, FB and Ebay pages. I have lightened up and simplified my set up significantly. I may have to get a set of those straps. I too have the Venum straps and hate how much they roll and crinkle up. Thanks for the in depth lookie see

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

No worries, thank you for watching!

[@jhulin9018]

Mark, This has been revolutionary for me. I have been using it for years after I saw this video. So simple yet profound. I use the becket hitch and the toggle with prusik for the tarp. No hardware weight. I can adjust the hammock tension while loaded and can deploy a tarp in minutes. The height of the tarp above the hammock is the same each time it is depolyed and if I ever want the tarp higher I can just extend the prusic loop. Once dialed in it is very repeatable. It is a great system!!!

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Sweet, glad you're getting it to work for you!

[@DragonRoams]

I really like the Loop over the biner for the tree strap. I think that will be one of my next upgrades. The attachment for the tarp is nice and loops for pulling your knots are a very good idea. I still like to have my tarp on an independent ridge line for setting up in bad weather. But you have helped give me ideas on how I can improve my tarp attachment. I use the worms as well such a great little piece of hardware. Thanks for sharing this with us.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

I will be doing a follow up video where I show that you can still set this up prior to setting up the hammock in bad weather. I'm also looking at some other ideas that people have mentioned. Thanks!

[@chrisxx012]

I am truly liking this idea. All in the name of research ugh. Thank you the good work

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Thanks!

[@michaelmarziotto8105]

Mark, I've been using this setup for a year or so.. anytime I want to go lite and fast. HF member Sqidmark and I worked out the kinks last year. A few differences.. We have a length of zingit attached to the prussik in place of the toggle you're using. The zingit has hook worm that clips to diamond knots tied to the tarps ridge tie out. The prussik is used to raise and lower the tarp relative to the hammock, and the hook worms are used to tension the tarp. At the corners, I do exactly the same as you with shock cord and tarp worms, but I use Z-Line where you're using micro cord. Next, the connection between the straps and hammock CLs we 're using double whoopie hooks where you're using a becket hitch.. amazingly easy to adjust. At the trees, I am using (and loving) MyersTech EVO Loops. There are two shortcomings to this setup... Can't use a pole mode with it. The entire tarp flattens out and rests on the hammock ARL. The second is, like you I use a 12' tarp... two actually. Because of the longer ridge on the tarp, you can't low and tight in storm mode as easily as you could with a smaller tarp. Thanks for the vid!!

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Awesome! I haven't seen many using the all in one type systems, and I really was interested in seeing how it would work. Great to hear others are having success with it. I like some of the ideas you mention with having the ability to raise and lower the tarp in relation to the hammock! Thanks!!!

[@armaviewer2578]

Everything i was wishing you showed ended up being in the vid, great detail thank you

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Awesome, happy to know you got what you needed!

[@expanderz5268]

Spiguyver, thanks for mentioning ShortRound...excellent video as always!

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

I had been playing around with ideas when I saw his video and that kicked me into high gear. Credit where it's due! Thanks!

[@johnphillips3526]

Still my very favorite hammock suspension system!

[@davidson_oldbull_sectionhiker]

Nice system Mark. Have a good week.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Thanks, you too!

[@cleener]

I use elastic on all connections, no sag and really helps with wind.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Me too! Thanks!

[@All_Things_Out_Doors]

I love this rig! Great simple idea that makes set up easier. Thanks for sharing.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Happy to help!

[@Hootyhoo-jq9vq]

Very nice system. I love it. I would like to see this be setup in the rain. I guess the tarp can be setup on the suspension, then stake the tarp out. Next get under the tarp and becket the hammock. Then fine tune it.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

I really haven't been using this system in the past couple of years. I may need to go back and revisit it.

[@pedroclaro7822]

Using the hammock strap for the tarp is ok, but saves little weight and time. When the hammock swings it will drag the tarp. When it is raining, you can not set it up without getting the hammock wet, or at least getting the whole straps wet. If you want a ridgeline for drying up clothes and gear the next day you won’t have it. Needless to say I’m biased towards a continuous ridgeline for your tarp, but I honestly believe it is better - so much so that it’s what I went it from the get-go, and never looked back.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

I am also biased to the continuous ridgeline. I keep trying to find other ways to do things but end up back with what I normally use!

[@AlexGashShellHammocks]

nice hardware-free solution, y'all! I'd imagine that the hang angle for your hammock comes into play here, as a steeper or more shallow hammock hang angle will move more as the hammock is occupied. It'd be nice to see how each of those affect the tarp tautness.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

True, I'll take a look at different hang angles to see how it plays into the system. Thanks!

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

@Chris Walker So far I've been really impressed with the setup, it works really well.

[@hikingwithyowie]

I just received my Evo loop from Myers...Took it out last weekend.Loved it..reducing weight is what it is all about.....Awesome Video as usual. Thanks for sharing

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Right on! Thanks!

[@kriscoty1]

Right on....thnx from Seattle.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Anytime! Thanks!

[@bitslovesbytes2103]

I had a dream where I would pull out the whole setup from one bag. Tarp, Hammock, Undrequilt and top quilt. It took under 45 seconds to hang. But what about when it rains during tear down? What about when the trees are too close? What about storm mode? This setup is only really suited to asym tarps with ideally spaced trees in fair weather. BTW. Use an adjustable grip hitch on full shock cord for the steak outs. Saves a ton of headaches. Put it at the tarp end so you dont get wet adjusting tension.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Terrapin Outfitters has started selling a bag that does the entire hammock setup, the hammock, under and top quilt in one bag. I agree, fair weather only for the whole setup, a tarp in with the hammock is not something I would recommend. Thanks!

[@markevans506]

I would like to see how you make the prusik knot and toggle that you attached the tarp to. Way cool system to attach to the tree though.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

I will show that at some point in the near future!

[@thefucrew9865]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/eabYXq16oMarb8U Here is a video, I believe from the same guy that made this tarp set up, that shows that prusik with loop, Guys.

[@rafaelroman3867]

Very simple set up. I think I’m going to try that system on my chameleon lol

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Not bad, I don't use it very often though.

[@blaskotron]

The best use of this is that you can leave the tarp permanently attached and stuff in the same storage bag. Then the next level is leaving under quilt and top quilt in place for the ultimate rapid deployment.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

The only downside to leaving the tarp attached is that if the tarp is wet, all your stuff will be wet.

[@blaskotron]

@@SpiguyverBackpacking1 can detach it or cuben fiber tarp doesn't absorb water.

[@TheWasatchGearReview]

Really cool system Mark, thanks man!

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Happy to share! Thanks!

[@uptrail7169]

Nice setup! Darn mosquitoes!! lol It looks like you still may be able to somewhat setup the tarp first if it's raining. One thing I still need to do is upgrade my tarp tie out setup. Groundhogs? Jason mentioned something about using them.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

You can absolutely set up the tarp first. I will show that in a follow up video along with some other clarification items. Thanks! And yes, MSR Groundhog stakes, my favorites!

[@aaronwinter447]

Very clean. Thanks for sharing!

[@bencoombes2711]

Nice system I have used sumthing simlur for a few years not but I have a shock cord presseck on one end of my tarp and a fix on the other end it lets the tarps have a bit of ease and stops it from ripping in night winds you might want to try it just he 1.5 mm shotcord I also use plastic mi I flag clips to attach the presseck to the end of the loop on the taro they way .3 of a gram each so not weight added and Easter to clip on

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Awesome, thanks!

[@rsimons5952]

Mark, just curious if you tried this in tarp mode. Do you believe it will work in that mode?

[@perandersen6569]

C👀L system Mark. If you would comment on this setup, on your next trip, when you come to camp, it would be nice. Also pls mention what hammock you are sleeping in etc.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Absolutely! Not sure when the next trip will be, I would like to get out with my boys this weekend. we'll see!

[@senorwilliams3969]

I believe he is using a Dutchware Chamelion, I have one myself and highly recommend it

[@WanderingFromKansas]

I don't think this setup is for me, but I do appreciate you sharing it. Would you consider doing a video (if you haven't already) comparing the Raven to the Chameleon? Have you seen that HammockGear has come out with a netted hammock that competes with those two?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

I have a comparison video comparing the Sparrow, Chameleon and WBBB XLC. I have a Hammock Gear netted hammock headed my way for testing!

[@jeffmyers7062]

Another great video , thanks Mark!

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Thanks for working with me to make this one happen!

[@robertrios6649]

I Like this system. Can't wait to try this. Are you using small "D" rings or split rings on the tarp pullouts?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Depends on the tarp, I have 2 with split rings, and the rest have the D rings

[@joshk6856]

Good info, thanks for sharing! I just orderd one.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Sweet!

[@alyss8213]

Thank you for this detailed setup explanation. I imagine you've covered tarp worms in the past, but I would love a quick little close up on how to set them up as you have here. I have some but they're sitting in the box still because I can't figure them out! 🙃 It looks like you're using pretty thin elastic, and that you have three different types of line (attached to each other) on the guy points on the tarp?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

I'll do a video that shows them.

[@alyss8213]

@@SpiguyverBackpacking1 thank you! I ask because I had trouble one night in the roan Highlands with bad weather. My tarp (one of the ugq winter dream cuts) blew around so much my underquilt was getting wet. I've only had that issue once, but hoping not to repeat.

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

I want to see you set up the tarp first, then the hammock. I think it can be done.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

It can be done. I have in the past. I'm not using this system anymore though.

[@rickwebermusic]

This is a really neat system. Have you tried setting the tarp up first, and then the hammock- in the event of having to set up in the rain?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Yes, I was going to include that in this video, however the mosquitoes were eating me alive! I will show that in the next video I do on it. Thanks!

[@rickwebermusic]

Awesome, thanks!

[@happyfuntimereviews5600]

Thank you so much for the great content! Love your videos!!

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

I appreciate it, thank you!

[@happyfuntimereviews5600]

@@SpiguyverBackpacking1 you've probably gone over this in other videos, but what kind of tarp is that?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

That tarp is an UGQ Membrane Hanger 12' tarp.

[@mrwes100]

Very interesting

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Thank you!

[@cnlawrence1183]

Love this idea. I am using your previous method of webbing + muletape. I think I can incorporate this pretty easy. Do you think the hammock ridgeline could further eliminate any movement of the tarp and get a consistent tarp ridgeline tightness? It seems like the movement, like you mentioned, actually helps tighten the tarp ridgeline. I'm not super crazy about buying tarp worms because I have a 7 person family to buy at least 4x each tarpworm. I currently have a "permanent" tied guy lines to the tarp loops. (When I pack up I take all of the guy lines and wrap them around the tarp to keep untangled) Then i'm using a marlin spike hitch to terminate to the ground spikes. That's been a lot faster for me. I think I can incorporate the bungee in-between there with the same set up.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

To get away from using tarp worms, which are totally not required, incorporate a tensioning system with either shock cord or medical hose, you can find tutorials on this on KZbin. Or even just adding a loop of shock cord that you're attaching the tie out points. I am going to play around with this some more, and try out my different sized tarps to determine the variables and how it performs. Thanks!

[@davidthomas5544]

That is awesome will the Knot work with Dyneema straps from dutch

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Yes!

[@smkwhatsnext3411]

Nice!

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Thanks!

[@gearntrailetc.8257]

Very Nice!

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Thanks, as is your system!

[@trailslug893]

Excellent video Mark and I really like this system. Did you upgrade your camera as this video was pin point sharp. Looking at these straps on EBay it's not clear to me that they have a loop sewn in one end. Also they come in 25 feet and 50 feet. Do you purchase these and cut them in half? Thanks for any clarification.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Yes, I have upgraded from the GoPro to the Sony a5100, and I love it! I don't need to use an external mic because the audio quality is great, and the video is much crisper. I got mine as two 15' tree straps. If you want I can have him put together a link for exactly what we're discussing here and shoot it over.

[@jamesmayfield510]

Where did you get the rings, and how did you attach the rings to the tarp and to the tie outs? Thanks.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

I believe I got everything from Myerstech, but I don't recall now.

[@samsmith8870]

That's really cool but what if you're setting up or breaking it down in the rain? Your hammock is going to get wet right?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

No, you can set up the tarp first, then do the hammock.

[@jimdye7431]

Do you know if this will work with Dutch ware beetle buckles?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

It should work with just about all types of suspension.

[@scottmcwaters7407]

How would this work with the spider/poly straps that Dutch sells? I’m guessing not very well but I’m curious if someone has tried it.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Not sure.

[@vietadvisor6781]

I am seeing some droop in the hammock sideline when you have the tarp sideline taught. Does this cause trouble getting flat and or the bugscreen laying on you?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

It takes some tweaking to keep it pretty tight. Nothing to the point where I have had that much droop.

[@wolfherek]

Mark is that tarp from Dutch ? What color is that ?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Mark Killam This is a 12’ Hanger Tarp from UGQ. The color is Olive Yellow. Thanks!

[@cassandralesh8536]

So that webbing holds and releases knots well?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Yes!

[@cassandralesh8536]

@@SpiguyverBackpacking1 Cool

[@tonyfleming9403]

Thanks for posting this Mark. How long are the straps?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

15' tree straps. Thanks!

[@davidprovost3537]

That's essentially the same system Hennessy has used for years. Nothing new under the sun!

[@lauhc8047]

Great simper idea but just want to highlight that this system can not be setup or pack up in the rain. one drawback!

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

While I don’t actually use this one anymore, it can be done in the rain, just takes a little more back and forth to get it right. Not a great overall setup from my experience with it.

[@nojaysimpson]

Is this a system you're still using? What were the limitations you encountered?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Yes it is. The only issue I've noted is that if you have a longer tarp, you end up with it set up higher, exposing you on the sides if your tarp isn't wide enough. Other than that, it's been a killer setup!

[@did61two]

Can't like it on F/B as i'm doing a thirty day facebook jail sentence ........ Banned again lol....Some really good tips here Mark....

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Thanks! Dave you just can't seem to stay out of trouble! hahaha!

[@jamesmayfield510]

What hammock and tarp do you have?

[@johnphillips3526]

How do you get ahold of MyersTech?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

He is on Facebook, and ebay. I can shoot you a message with his contact info.

[@richardmatthews6503]

Does it change the hammock swing?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Yes and no. Because of the shock cord, you can still swing a little in it. But I don't know how much I'd want to swing knowing it's all integrated.

[@murph6730]

What's the total weight?

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

I'll have to check. Thanks!

[@jeffmyers7062]

I think you got the evo loop installed a little off kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6LLn3epbd2fbbs

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Ah, I hadn't even thought to do it a different way. I will redo it that way and check it out. Thanks!

[@stevenladrig9592]

Is a salesman he's got a seller stuff for the company that he works for probably the company that for the webbing and for the other stuff that he's got hammock whatever he's a good salesman

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Seriously, you think I'm a salesman? I have zero interest in any company whose products are on my videos. Not a salesman

[@stevenladrig9592]

@@SpiguyverBackpacking1 if you buy the stuff from the company and you show it and you recommend it your salesman that's all there is to it you're trying to sell their stuff on KZbin

[@-nepherim]

Nice vid. This is the first time a hammock system actually made sense to me! Quick link to Jeff's corresponding video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nImroaSBmrOnea8

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Thanks!

[@cleener]

I use elastic on all connections, no sag and really helps with wind.

[@SpiguyverBackpacking1]

Me too!

[@christoole6820]

I’ve thought about using shock cord on my ridge line tarp connections Does it work ok?