HammockLength vs. Hammock Comfort

[@VisitaInteriora]

this is the most helpful video in the hammock-realm

[@Teer4477]

Exact reason, I just ordered a new 12 foot hammock. Thanks for making this highly informational video. Enjoy the outdoors!!!

[@What_If_We_Tried]

Really glad I stumbled across your video, as I am 6' 2", and almost bought a 111" hammock tonight. Thank-you...

[@alantaylor6691]

That is what I would have termed, "A disaster". Just joking, but you can do better than 111. I like the 2 metre wide ones, although I haven't tried one. But word on the street is that's the way to rumble. You can buy one that width and it makes a great difference, but to make is hard as they don't usually stock material that wide.

[@pyrofful]

I'm 6'3" and sleep in a double hammock I bought a "hobo hammock" and works good for me. Never made one yet but quick learned a single hammock or 8 ft one was to small for this big guy. Lol. The hobo hammock is around 10ft long and I think 6+ft wide

[@semco72057]

Somewhere down the road I plan on getting a hammock and the information you gave us should help me in keeping warm when camping out in a hammock.

[@ericpayne318]

Great video, love the side by side comparison of the three hammocks. I'm getting ready to make my first one and this was very informative.

[@ChristianMaczikcimachh65]

I`d knew, that it give so much information about Hammocks. And i have to try it by myself in the riality. Thank you very much for the informative video. Christian from Northgermany.

[@m00nsplitter72]

Big like. All through your demonstration I was wondering about under-quilts and then you very helpfully dispelled my doubts. As for cold-butt fixes it is almost a necessity to have a helper for initial set up. I have recently discovered that I was making the same mistake at my foot end, and in trying to cure a problem I failed to correctly identify on my own I also used too much tension on my suspension and compressed my lofting. Just enough is always right. I saw a presentation on fitting under-quilts on Jacks'R'Better's website and they suggest doing the opposite of what I intuited, namely to have the head-end drawcord quite tight but the foot-end drawcord quite (and surprisingly so) slack. Thank you for posting, and kudos for your DIY efforts.

[@dannycurtis2591]

This helped me TREMENDOUSLY!!! Been looking at hammocks, both big brands and independents for over a year, trying to make an informed first, and probably last(gettin' old,heh)hammock. It's finally come down to size. I'm pretty big(6'4, 260), and a 100% side sleeper due to NASTY neck injury several yrs ago. Tent camping is not an option anymore, but I still want to camp, with short, light hikes in and out, 2-4 days, max. Length seems more important than width, although I need more than most, I'm sure. But simple geometry tells me that longer equals more room to flatten out, making it easier to side sleep, as your video seems to prove, unless I'm missing something. Anyway, looks like I'm going with 11X68, but I haven't ordered it yet. I could go 12', but it was brought to my attention that trees aren't always over 12 feet apart, but proper straps can accommodate a shorter hammock if they are(makes sense)! So, do you have any input? The netting is fully enclosed with wide opening at the bottom with bungee cord closure, so I don't foresee a problem there. Not in a GREAT hurry, but I plan to place order within the next 2 weeks. Any advice, input, or suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated, from you, or anyone else, for that matter!!! Thanks!!!

[@paddlepower888]

Hey Danny, if I were your height I'd go for the 12' hammock, because the ridgeline will be under 10'. I know that you'll just need to walk around a bit to easily find trees far enough apart for that length. A half mile walk can bring you to the most amazing campsite. if you're making your own hammock you can always shorten it later. also a 6" closed loop of amsteel will allow you to hang in tight places.

[@dannycurtis2591]

+Jeffrey Wong , Thanks Jeffrey!!! I need all of the help I can get!!! Not sure what a steel ring is, tho'. Does it allow shortening of the hammock?

[@paddlepower888]

+Danny Curtis Another great resource: theultimatehang.com

[@dannycurtis2591]

+Jeffrey Wong, I saw some u tube videos from him! I'm just about to Chuck the whole retail thing and make my own! After seeing several DIY videos, I realized I've got about 90% of the material here, including the fabric!! Just gotta find everything! I figure it'll run me about $15.00, max to do it!! Thanks for the info!!! I let you know how it goes!!!

[@jackmaverick5481]

Good video... I am a short person so I can get away with a regular size hammock, but someone 5' 9" or taller should consider a longer hammock for their first hammock or they might be put off by hammocks because their first hammock was too small. Good demo. 👍👍👍

[@MiddleEarthTenkara]

I just started using a hammock for when I go backcountry fishing. It's a good choice. Liked and subscribed.

[@Waldlaeufer70]

Thanks a lot for this informative video! I guess it would help folks if you could write down the exact measurements of the hammocks (length, width and length of the ridgeline) in the information box. Thanks! P.S. I really liked your tip about the underquilt! Very helpful!

[@JohnSmith-vb6jx]

Good vid content. Answered all my questions. Thanks.

[@Stormstaff]

The tip about the tightness of the shock cord is a good one. I had the same kind of thing going on that you described and I saw a video by Paul from AHE on how to setup up his Jarbridge and he covered it there. Good to know about the length of the hammock. I'm hoping to get an 11' in the near future

[@richardbargerhuff7554]

Thanks! Appreciate the info.

[@aubépine-coeur]

Thank you !!

[@jaymiddleton772]

Great video! Thanks for sharing!

[@jamthebushcraftman5267]

hey man great video thanks for taking the time to put it up very helpful. Atb jam

[@TheTrailHammer]

Great Info

[@EconoChallenge]

Great info and demo. Thank you.

[@spijkerpoes]

nicely shot! very clarifying. For me, a side sleeper, it isn't as much of a trade-of between comfort vs weight. I found many perfect trees but often to close together. My summer set is very short and very light. It fits under a 2.9 meter tarp and will fit between trees only 3 meters apart. Opening up more and cozier stealthcamps! Also shorter ridgeline means smaller tarps possible thus lighter. Not that i am UL freakish but my knees hurt...

[@alaskadrifter8334]

My favorite hammock to sleep in is my 13' Yucatan. it is just to big and bulky weights almost 4lbs. to use camping. My pares from SMr is 10 and three quarters but doesn't give me as much wiggle room. Not having access to a sewing machine. Making my own is out. lol

[@treywilly431]

Always really informative great video!!!

[@jariperho]

Thanks for the tips!

[@budharpey]

is there anywhere a site with a tutorial for the hammock seen in 03:30? It looks great - i would so want to build one like this... is there a bugnet included in that design?

[@DruLeeParsec]

+J. Charles Check out my other videos. I have a video on how to build a hammock. The one at 3:30 just has some end piece added on them and I STILL haven't added the bug mesh yet.

[@teddydaniels]

Greg, I just bought my first hammock and your video was absolutely fantastic and very comprehensive! Do you use any special underquilt suspension? What do you attach the suspension to? thanks for great vid.

[@brimstone33]

Have you considered an asymmetric hammock, which can be shorter but wider where it counts?

[@theoutdoorvirginiansdad2804]

Ok

[@ahilbilyredneksopinion]

Been wonderin if I should go ta 12 feet er not.thanks fer the help.

[@dryocum]

Good vid! Thanks for the tips...

[@aheadsup6492]

doesn't the width matter as well for comfort in a diagonal lay?

[@mixchief]

Exactly what I was thinking as well. To me, that seems even more crucial than length, but I’m still a hammock newbie so, what do I know :-)

[@JasperJanssen]

Not unless you’re falling out the side.mostly with extra width it just bunches up next to you.

[@pebba92]

Thank you :)

[@newhampshirebound8551]

That looks so comfortable. You made the quilts as well? I'd like that setup.

[@jefflowe8803]

Man I hate cold butts, Fronkey is the man. great video !! thanks

[@michaelbutler4961]

What width was the finished hammock on your 10.5 and 12.5-foot hammocks?

[@MrBalas3]

Came across your videos and based on your videos it looks like I may be needing a 12 ft hammock being that I’m 6’4”. Curious about what the width of them are? Even though the length helps. If you’re pushing the width out to go diagonal can’t you be comfortable in a 10’ and let’s say 68” wide or even wider🤔? Thanks. Also would a synthetic quilt stretch as well?

[@RonGallant]

I like shorter hammocks. But make up for the diagonal with width. Wider hammocks are more comfortable to me.

[@tangowood]

Ron Gallant I was thinking about that. How do you lay in yours. I have a dd super light and lay like a banana... I'm about to make my first hammock and stand 6 feet tall, what would be a good size in length and width if comfort is highest priority?

[@samuelfox8126]

What is the width of your fabric?

[@ruthstriccklen]

So...what did you use to make your under quilt? And did you make your top quilt as well?

[@cristibaluta]

I think the dawn is effective if is next to skin, you put if under many layers below the hammock.

[@OutDoorRoutecom]

Had all the same problems in my black bird xlc. I went to a bridge hammock and will never go back, the ultimate comfort!

[@AlanAlanAlanDave]

What were the hammock widths please?

[@DruLeeParsec]

All hammocks are a standard bolt of cloth width of 60"

[@lindamon5101]

9x12 cotton painters dropcloth=perfection.

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

Were all 3 hammocks the same width? Thx

[@dancer1]

G Henrickson ^

[@benwhite3227]

I see two variables in the video: hammock length and tension. Is it the increase in length or the increase in sag that is allowing for a more diagonally lay?

[@HerrFinsternis]

Both, and there's a third and fourth variable not spoken of in this video: the shape of the hammock and the way it is whipped (or maybe that's one and same the same variable). With this you can give shape to the sag itself and the diagonal lay is part of the hammock. Hammocks like this have a left-to-right lay (or visa versa) build into them. Note that this is not the same as having asymmetrical pullouts. A hammock that gives shape to the sag this way doesn't need pullouts to give you that lay.

[@hikeeatrepeat9768]

I have to say that in my 9' 6" Yukon outfitters Double, I can get a perfect diagonal lay which keeps me flat. The double width allows me to do this with the ridge line adjusted correctly.

[@levibaseball]

+HikeEatRepeat I have found that length isn't the big factor to laying diagonal, its the sag. Im 6' 4 with a 9.5' hammock and get just as diagonal as he did with his 12.5'. Just decrease the ridge line length and let it sag. Just gotta make sure the hammock is wide enough for you.

[@mikeandsuzannegeorgiamount6036]

What is the width of your 12+' hammock?

[@JA_from_the_east]

Great content, i have to ask though because i have not caught it if it was mentioned, but how tall are you?

[@lancestoll2704]

He's 6'1"

[@andrewrouse4366]

I've been thinking about making my own hammock and this was very insightful. I've been leaning towards a longer hammock due to back issue (thanks to Afghanistan). My wife swears she can integrated a zippered bug net into the hammock for me. Opinions?

[@cakeshoe]

Just bought a sewing machine to start making gear. Locally, bought parachute silk and rips top is approx 62" width, full-without hemming. I've seem some hammocks with extra strips of material sewn onto each side to make them wider. So my question is: if side panels are sewn on to make a hammock wider, do they become less comfortable due to the extra seam that would pass under your head and calves? Any info???

[@pyrofful]

No it's not more uncomfortable the ends will always be tighter because the person's weight is in the middle. With or without the extra on the sides the end will still be tighter. I personally only have the store bought side sticked ones but think maybe just maybe you could feel the edge where the fabric is over lapped but I don't notice it. I sleep in mine from time to time. I'm no expert but thought I could try to answer it. Welcome to the world of hammocks! Just for future reference it is rip stop fabric. Meaning if you get a small hole it won't become a huge hole and keep ripping. I knew what you ment. Have fun!

[@startupism]

good comparison Greg, how tall are you? Im sure that will affect the results in some way.

[@DruLeeParsec]

I'm 6'1"

[@stadtjer689]

Guys, I'm having issues finding the answer to this question. When people speak of an 11' hammock, do they mean the length between the lines you attach it to a tree with? So only the fabric while laying flat? Or is it the whole hammock with lines and attachments included?

[@DruLeeParsec]

It's the fabric length from tie in point to tie in point. Your slings to the tree can vary quite a bit (and will with every setup).

[@lokisith69]

How tall are you? Opps 6 foot 1inch. thanks.

[@bushwp11]

Greg, what is the math to figure out length of hammock ridge line to the hammocks length?

[@jblaze725]

I believe they say the ridgeline should be roughly 83% the length of the hammock. Use that as your starting point and adjust from there for your comfort. This is a good place to use a Whoopie sling as it makes the adjustment easy to make.

[@1239chris]

great video :-) I was thinking about this a lot as I am 6"6 would you recommend an even longer hammock?

[@DruLeeParsec]

+No1 Toast I think there's a sweet spot around 11 feet long. Beyond that you start having problems finding a tarp which can cover the hammock. I think you'd be fine in an 11 footer. A 12 footer is almost too big.

[@1239chris]

Ah great Thanks for the advice :-) This has made my choice much easier.

[@Brayne01]

+No1 Toast I'm 6'4 and 11ft are plenty. Like Greg I have tried several lenghts and widths and 11' long at 60'' wide is what I like best. 10 ft is minimum to be comfortable. I have a 11'/66'' and like Gregs 12 footer, its nearly too much, like a tub.

[@traveltip1427]

Yes absolutely

[@tomnoyb8301]

What if instead of cutting hammock square, the ends were cut half-moon, such that side-rail length was longer than middle-ridge length? Yes, the continuous-loop channel would be curved. Thus, a better diagonal lay would be available in a shorter overall length (and lighter weight) hammock?

[@tomnoyb8301]

@@Luke-eg1gn - Since then, when ahead and made one. Calculated the angles to achieve a flat-lay and guess what? It worked. Was about 12" shorter along the CenterLine. Cut a smooth curve, leaving 8" straight along each side for side rails. Sewing the end-channels was a little tricky, especially at the transition to the short 8" straight-sections. It's just enough curve to keep each point level. No bumps and no troughs. Guess hammock-manufacturers agree with you though, since they still sell banana-canyons?

[@bushwp11]

Do they make netting for a 12' hammock?

[@alantaylor6691]

The netting makes YOU.

[@Singularity2039]

Yes there are 12' bug nets available on Amazon for under $40

[@denischasse3567]

Très bon ! Merci 😜😜😜🎩🎩🎩

[@RonGallant]

Loosening the end also allows the entire length of the under quilt to get closer to your back. Instant heat! Hang on!!

[@bobnazareth4863]

why not give the width dimension for any of your hammocks? Does it make much difference depending on the width....would be interesting to know

[@DruLeeParsec]

I'm using a standard bolt of nylon for my hammocks so they're all 5 feet wide minus the 1/2 inch or so you lose by doing a rolled hem.

[@jeffaust68]

width would be nice????

[@tattoo5187]

its called a calf ridge

[@t-a9402]

It seems to me, a non-expert, that hammocks are more comfortable the more diagonal you lay. If true, wouldn't width be more important than length? Just asking....

[@OhiohiO216]

no too much width leaves you with extra fabric all around you. it feels like the hammock swallowed you.

[@RestingScotFace]

depends on the style. I've been sleeping in a woven mayan hammock for going on three years now, and I absolutely love it. Solid cloth need the length to allow the diagonal (you're right that's the proper way) but with the woven cord it gives you the width stretch you need. Also how tight you string the hammock makes a difference in how wide you can stretch it. Somehow the eno freaks got the idea that the tighter the better. the more banana shape you allow, the wider you can stretch.

[@Waldlaeufer70]

Width without length doesn't help a lot. The longer a hammock is, the more sag you can give it when hanging it. And the more sag you have, the more diagonally you can lie in it.

[@greego5952]

@@OhiohiO216 some people want that though, like me lol.

[@ahilbilyredneksopinion]

Lol.the quilt looked like a 3/4 at first.that thing is huge....bet it needs a big fly.

[@pblount007]

Great video I’m making my 12’ this weekend ?ridgeline length, 83%? 11’ tarp work?

[@pyrofful]

No expert but everyone ridge line is different. Start around 83% and adjust bigger or smaller till you find the sweet spot for you.

[@robertocardenosa493]

My my, hammocks are so complex, i'd pay a course to learn how to sleep on it properly...

[@pyrofful]

Lol free "course" on here. Look up the "shug" hammock videos. He covers everything you pretty much want to know in a easy and funny way. He goes by shug.

[@jasonxhx7854]

Aren't you supposed to pull your hammock taught? This is what gives it support so you're not curling in a U shape..?

[@DruLeeParsec]

These kinds of hammocks are designed to have a certain amount of sag. In fact, the length of the ridge line is used to determine that sag and everyone sort of finds their sweet spot. Laying diagonally is what gives you flat laying position. If it was flat you'd feel really constricted on the sides and strangely enough, it would add a lot of tension to the suspension. A 200 pound person in a straight, flat hammock pitch can generate over 1000 pounds of tension on the material. Do a KZbin search for "Shug Hammock Newbie". Shug does a much better explanation of the use of sag than I am. Thanks for watching.

[@3nertia]

Thanks, +Beyond The Veil. Though I'm sad because the 7' Hennessy hammock I wanted isn't long enough for me :(

[@juan2luna]

Hey dude if you don't tell us how tall you are, what's the point of this video ?

[@wildernessman2022]

I'm afraid you're not seeing what i see need to watch your own videos and think think about it. It's not the length of a hammock that is helping you it is actually hindering you in some ways. Think about this a shorter hammock like the second one. But make it wider. That way it still staple but you have the extra width to lay diagonally for what you need is a medium length hammock that is whiter

[@user-neo71665]

Most people get store bought universal hammocks and they are not universal. Everybody I've seen hanging that complains is in a hammock too small for them.

[@bobnazareth4863]

how about adding some width? 12 feet long for a hammock is a bit excesive no? I bet if you went up to 180cm wide then your 10 foot hammock would be just as comfy as your 12 footer....i mean why stop at 12 feet why not make it 16 feet or even 20 feet. At some point it matters not how long your hammock is cos if its now wide enough then you will never get a decent diagnonal lay ... just thinking out loud. Thanks for the vid

[@traveltip1427]

Must lay flat diagonally

[@develentsai3215]

This video doesn't explain anything! He didn't tell how tall he is and how wide the hammock is:(

[@rubbersole79]

One word. Windscreen

[@lindamon5101]

No shoes in the hammock? Cardinal rule#1

[@danielbarbieri7163]

And if it rains

[@Pygar2]

Tarp.

[@Singularity2039]

People hammock camp in pouring rain all the time.. check out Shugs channel, he has hammock camped in -40 degree fahrenheit blizzard weather in Minnesota!

[@pyrofful]

......rain fly

[@grizzlycountry5539]

@@pyrofful 13' tarp is heavier than one person tent.

[@pyrofful]

@@grizzlycountry5539 yeah maybe. I never got huge into it. I know that crap can be ultra light if you have the $$$ for it.

[@benjaminshaw4263]

Are you not trying different widths? There are more variables here that you're not manipulating. Not a bad video but not super useful.

[@DruLeeParsec]

Benjamin Shaw Material for hammocks come from a bolt of cloth which is always 60" wide. So I limited my comparison to hammocks which can be made easily from the most common material.

[@PeterHartman1]

Greg ripstopbytheroll has an XL fabric line for much wider material.

[@davidfudge1907]

shush!! be quite!