How to buy a hammock

Hammocks immediately make you think of ocean waves lapping, swinging between two trees on a beautiful day. But just because the product brings on thoughts of rest and relaxation doesn’t mean that you should go out and buy the first one you see. There are many different types of hammocks and hammock materials, so take a look at these tips before you make a decision.

Types of hammocks

Most people think of a cotton rope hammock as the norm, but in reality, there are many more choices and many decisions to consider – shape, material, water resistance, portability, and comfort. Some hammocks are designed for a single person while others can safely be used for more than one person. Hammock width varies, but the typical length is 13 feet.

Craftsmanship varies as much as material when it comes to hammocks. As with anything, handmade work is always the best quality. With rope hammocks, the quality is usually based on the weaving and thickness of the rope. Generally speaking, if you want a hammock for more than one person, you will want to purchase one with spreader bars. The best quality spreader bars are made from solid wood that has been treated for weather resistance. On that same note, any metal on the hammock should be rust resistant; fabric materials should be durable, weather resistant and colorfast. Also keep in mind what mounting hardware you will need (tree straps, hammock stands, etc).

Rope hammocks

Rope hammocks are a classic and versatile choice. They are woven from cotton, polyester, or DuraCord and include two stretcher bars, usually made of wood, at either end of the hammock. The bars hold the hammock bed open and help provide balance. In purchasing a rope hammock, you’ll need to consider the material, since it influences comfort and durability.

Rope hammocks

Cotton hammocks

Cotton is a traditional choice. It’s very soft, breathable, and comfortable. It stretches to conform to your body, and has a natural look.

Cotton hammocks

However, cotton is the least weather-resistant of the available hammock materials. Cotton hammocks should not be left outside for long periods of time and should always be brought in for the winter.

Polyester hammocks

Soft-spun polyester rope is almost as soft as cotton, with the added plus of being weather, mold, and mildew resistant. These hammocks withstand high humidity, salt water, rain, and sunlight, making it acceptable to leave them outside for longer periods of time than cotton hammocks. However, all hammocks will show extra wear when left out consistently year-round. Unlike cotton, these hammocks are firmer and hold their shape, and usually come in a bright white color. Because of their durability, polyester hammocks are a popular choice.

Polyester hammocks

DuraCord hammocks

This material is as soft as cotton and as weather-resistant as polyester, making it a highly desirable choice. Like polyester, DuraCord is resistant to high humidity, salt water, rain, sunlight, mold, and mildew. It is colorfast and available in bright colors, as well as in the “natural” looking colors of cotton hammocks.

Bright DuraCord hammocks

In addition, it dries faster than either cotton or polyester. Though usually more expensive than other material options, DuraCord is a top pick for long-lasting and comfortable rope hammocks, and is also available in high-quality fabric weave.

Quilted fabric hammocks

Quilted fabric hammocks offer top of the line comfort and style. The padded fabric is often colorfast acrylic, which is also stain, fade, mold, and mildew resistant. The bed padding fill is usually soft polyester. DuraCord is another popular fabric option. In addition to being durable and comfortable, it is a great quick-drying choice. These hammocks come in a large range of attractive patterns and colors and are often reversible for added versatility.

Patterned fabric hammocks

Mayan and Brazilian hammocks

The key distinguishing factor for Mayan and Brazilian hammocks is that they do not have stretcher bars. This makes reclining in them a very different experience. They wrap and contour to your body for a snug and cocoon-like fit. They are lighter and easier to store and carry, and frequently come in interesting patterns.

Brazilian hammocks

The main difference between Mayan and Brazilian hammocks is the material. Mayan hammocks, traditionally handmade by local artisans in Mexico, are made of thin string woven together into a fine, flexible net. This material is very lightweight, cool, and comfortable, but less durable than other options. Brazilian hammocks are made of cloth cotton.

Hammock chair swings

Chair swings hang from a single hardware point and offer a comfortable and different style of swaying in the breeze. Generally available in the same material and style options as regular hammocks, you’ll find a wide variety of chair swings, from woven rope to padded cloth. They are usually designed for single use but double swings are available.

Rope woven chair swings

Camping and travel hammocks

Camping hammocks and travel hammocks are entirely portable and come in lightweight fabrics, such as parachute silk, mesh, or Mayan netting. They generally are easy to hang and sometimes include folding stands. Compact carrying bags are usually included.

Camping hammocks

Poolside and quick-drying hammocks

As might be expected, many hammocks are designed for use in the wet conditions found by the pool and the beach, and thus include water-resistance and quick drying as key features. Top material choices are DuraCord, which is tightly woven to look and feel like cotton, and acrylic vinyl.

Beach hammocks

Hammock sizes

Thirteen feet is the standard length for hammocks, with a typical bed length of 82 inches. Width varies from about 55 to 65 inches, depending on whether it is designed for single or double use. It is best to go with the standard length, since this will make it easy to match the hammock with a standard stand. Most hammocks and stands can support 450 lbs, with some going up to 600 lbs. You should always check the specifications for both your hammock and stand.

How expensive is a hammock?

Hammock prices differ based on style, size, craftsmanship, and material. Make sure you know exactly what comes with your hammock. Often you will have to purchase a hammock stand, tree straps, or hanging hardware separately. Typically, you can find a high-quality hammock in most styles, sizes, and materials within the $100 to $250 price range. There are also many choices available from $50 to $100. The price of hammock stands also depends on the quality and style. They generally fall from $125 to almost $200 for well-constructed metal ones. Some elaborate stand options cost more, such as a curved cypress stand for about $430. Tree straps cost about $20 to $30.

Cypress Hammock Stand

Once you know what kind of hammock you want, you’re ready to shop. Good luck, and enjoy your relaxation!