How do you hang a hammock?

When suspending hammocks from trees, it is advisable to use tree straps rather than raw rope. (You may have to purchase these separately depending on the product.) For the sake of protecting trees, Clare Healy, a Portland-based explorer for The Outbound Collective , advises users to select straps at least 3/4 inches wide rather than rope, adding that “straps that are 1.5 inches wide are even better, and some parks even mandate 2-inch-wide straps. On a related note, choosing healthy, robust trees is crucial to avoiding damage." When installing a hammock more permanently, you’ll need to follow the instructions accompanying your particular hammock, locate the appropriate hardware, and—if hanging the hammock at your home—stick to wooden studs (no metal studs!). Something else to consider is ridgeline length, or the amount of curve or sag you want in your hammock, which will be determined by the distance between the two ends of your hammock. The conventional ridgeline length is between 8 and 9 feet.

Can you hang a hammock indoors?

As long as your hammock is anchored properly, it can hang almost anywhere. If you are leery about installation, you can always select a hammock stand to use inside your home.

Is sleeping in a hammock bad for your back?

Many users find a hammock-snooze preferable to the floor of a tent and even, surprisingly, their own bed. This is because hammocks mitigate the number of pressure points between your body and the sleep surface and because they can reduce the tossing and turning which can lead to spine misalignment. Some hammock sleepers, however, do find that they awaken with more lower back pain. This is possibly attributable to the amount of droop in the hammock; many avid backpackers like Healy advise users to sleep diagonally in their hammocks for this very reason. Healy also suggests that hammock campers use a sleeping pad: “This is where closed-cell foam pads come extra handy but any sleeping pad will do,” she says. “Rather than just adding extra comfort, this will ensure your underside doesn't get too cold while sleeping.” All told, occasional snoozes in hammocks are nothing to fret about, but if you are considering substituting a hammock for a bed, it’s best to consult your physician first.

How high should a hammock be off the ground?

This depends on a few things. In general, your hammock will hang 4 to 5 feet off of the ground if it has spreader bars and 6 to 8 feet off of the ground if it doesn't. The height can also change due to your environment. For example, you could hang your hammock higher if you want to be at a good distance from any wildlife or swampy wetland below you.

The 8 Best Hammocks of 2022

The 7 Best Hammocks of 2022 — The Spruce / Chloe Jeong

Whether you're kicking back at a campsite, on the beach, or in your backyard, nothing says nap time like a comfortable hammock. Over the last four years, we've researched and tested dozens of hammocks, evaluating quality, durability, and ease of use.

Our favorite, the Yellow Leaf Signature Hammock, is easy to hang, made of soft, weather-resistant yarn, and has a weight capacity of 400 pounds.

Here are the best hammocks available online.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Yellow Leaf Signature Family Size Hammock at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Bear Butt Hammocks Double Camping Hammock at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Rope:

Original Pawley’s Island DuraCord Rope Hammock at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Portable:

Eno SingleNest Hammock at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Camping:

Easthills Outdoors Jungle Explorer Double Camping Hammock at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Chair:

Lazy Daze Hanging Rope Hammock Chair at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Tent:

Arlmont & Co. Saffo Camping Hammock at Wayfair

Jump to Review

Best with Stand:

Vivere Double Cotton Hammock at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust The Spruce

4.5

View On Amazon View On Yellowleafhammocks.com

Size: 10 x 6 feet | Material: Acrylic Performance Yarn, Cotton | Weight Capacity: 400 pounds | Return Policy: 30 days | Stand Included: No

What We Like

No waffle-marking
Weatherproof
Compatible with most standard-sized hammock stands
Available in many colors and potential customizations

What We Don't Like

Prone to snagging
Expensive

Who else recommends it? Architectural Digest and Forbes also picked the Yellow Leaf Signature Hammock.

What do buyers say? 300+ Yellow Leaf Hammocks reviewers rated this 5 stars.

Most rope hammocks come equipped with a free, uncomfortable tattoo—AKA, that waffle imprint left where gaps meet gravity. Not the Yellow Leaf signature hammock. Their triple-weave construction combines 150,000 ultra-soft loops for a completely weightless embrace. What’s more, unlike its cotton counterparts, the weather-safe materials mean you can leave the hammock outdoors without fear of mold or mildew creeping in. It's also super versatile and can be hung between trees or on a hammock stand (sold separately). This cozy hammock comes in many colors and possible customizations, and each one is handmade and signed by the weaver.

Courtesy of Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart

Size: 10 x 6 feet | Material: Nylon | Weight Capacity: 500 pounds | Return Policy: 30 days | Stand Included: No

What We Like

Affordable
Compact
Weather-proof

What We Don't Like

Can "cocoon" if a single person is using it

You don’t have to break the bank (or your back!) to bring a cozy hammock on your next hiking trip. Compact and lightweight, the Bear Butt Hammock is perfect for adventuring outdoors or simply outfitting your own backyard. Durable and comfortable, this hammock holds up to 500 pounds—ideal for two people. It comes with two 10-foot ropes and two heavy-duty carabiners, plus a bag for traveling, so you'll have everything you need to set up while you camp.

4.6

View On Amazon View On Walmart

Size: 13 x 4.5 feet | Material: Cotton-Polyester Blend, Oak | Weight Capacity: 450 pounds | Return Policy: 30 days | Stand Included: No

What We Like

Classic look
Weather- and rust-resistant
No knots within rope bed
Many colors to choose from

What We Don't Like

Expensive
Not as soft as other models

When you imagine a tropical getaway, you probably envision some palms, a margarita, and a classic rope hammock with a white lattice design. If you were to look closer at the brand of that hammock, it’s likely you’d see Pawley’s Island, a brand practically synonymous with the style because of the quality and longevity of their hammocks.

Pawley’s Island has introduced a DuraCord version of their original cotton rope hammock that extends the life of their products even further. The synthetic blend balances the softness of cotton with the weather resistance of polyester—in fact, all elements of the hammock are bolstered with elements like marine-grade varnish or zinc to protect from rot, mold, mildew, and rust. Moreover, the oak spreader bar is naturally resistant to rot and insect infection. Margaritas are sold separately.

The 8 Best Patio Dining Sets of 2022

View On Amazon View On REI

Size: 9 x 4.5 feet | Material: Nylon | Weight Capacity: 400 pounds | Return Policy: Dependent on retailer | Stand Included: No

What We Like

Affordable
Lightweight
Available in a range of colors

What We Don't Like

Color combination might differ from image because ENO uses all fabric remnants in production

Weighing only one pound and with the ability to condense down into the size of a softball, the ENO SingleNest Hammock tops our list of portable hammocks. What truly sets it apart from the competition is its durability: The triple interlocking stitching of the seams is a match for any backpacker, boater, or trailblazer. The hammock also comes with sturdy wire gate carabiners and a nautical-grade line for hanging your hammock. (We hope you get attached because these hammocks stick around for years.) Better still, no comfort is sacrificed to achieve strength—this silky-smooth hammock bed will have you getting some zzz's whether you intend to or not.

The Best Gazebos to Enjoy the Outdoors in Style

View On Amazon

Size: 9.8 x 6.5 feet | Material: Nylon | Weight Capacity: 700 pounds | Return Policy: 30 days plus 1-year warranty | Stand Included: No

What We Like

Compact
Comes with rainfly and bug net
Comes with pockets to hold personal belongings

What We Don't Like

Tricky setup

Wild animals may be your biggest concern when camping, but you also have to keep in mind the smaller pests—like those little blood-sucking mosquitos. The mesh bug net and rainfly supplied with this hammock will keep you sleeping comfortably under the stars. With 2,500 holes per square inch, the mesh effectively keeps the bugs out while letting oxygen in, and it's made from taffeta parachute with triple-stitch edge seams for increased durability and breathability.

It also comes complete with two long, adjustable tree straps, two wiregate carabiners, four guylines, and four aluminum stakes—everything you need for setup. Inside, you’ll find four internal hanging loops and two gear pockets for small personal items. This hammock supports up to 700 pounds, so it’s perfect for snuggling with a partner or relaxing with a friend.

View On Amazon View On Walmart

Size: 1.50 x 0.5 feet | Material: Polyester and Cotton, Hardwood | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Return Policy: 30 days | Stand Included: No

What We Like

Pillow padding for added comfort
Looks great indoors or outdoors
Easy to clean

What We Don't Like

Limited weight capacity (300 pounds)
Hardware for hanging not included

Grab your phone and favorite novel before you sit in this chair because you won’t want to abandon it once you give it a try. Whereas some porch hammocks leave you horizontally cocooned, the Lazy Daze hanging rope hammock ensures you can sit up straight and see the sights while you relax. You'll also appreciate how the neutral cotton canvas helps the hammock blend into any environment—even most interiors. Those considering hanging it outdoors will be glad to note that it's easy to keep clean.

The 8 Best Outdoor String Lights of 2022

View On Wayfair

Size: 4 x 4 feet; 5 x 5 feet; 6 x 6 feet | Material: Cotton, Polyester | Weight Capacity: 440 pounds | Return Policy: 30 days plus 1-year warranty | Stand Included: No

What We Like

Offers privacy
Quick drying
Available in three sizes

What We Don't Like

Low height clearance

A “tent hammock” may evoke images of a dense forest and a roaring fire, but these hammocks are equally great for hanging around the home. Simultaneously functioning as a chair, hammock, and mini-tent, this teardrop-shaped hammock creates a feeling of escape from the routine. (And with a diameter of 4-6 feet and weight capacity of 440 pounds, both children and adults can take advantage of this hideaway!) Those who opt outside with their hammock will be pleased to discover that the cotton-polyester blend is quick-drying, easy to clean, and holds up well in the elements.

Size: 110"L x 47"W | Material: Cotton, Steel, Polyester Ropes | Weight Capacity: 450 pounds | Return Policy: Dependent on retailer with 12 month manufacturer warranty | Stand Included: Yes, steel tri-beam

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Home Depot

What We Like

Available in a range of colors
Space efficient stand and carrying case are included
Polyester end strings for durability
No tools required for assembly

What We Don't Like

Can be difficult to get out hammock for some

There is no need to disturb your trees or rely on load-bearing walls, the Vivere Double Cotton Hammock comes with a stand made of steel. The tri-beam stand is efficiently designed with a minimal footprint size, and the assembly of the stand does not require any additional tools. The hammock attaches to the height adjustable stand with durable polyester ropes that are fabricated to withstand wear and tear from rain and wind. The Vivere hammock model we selected is made of breathable double weave cotton, but you can also select a hammock in the same style made of polyester or Sunbrella® fabric—both of which offer additional resilience against the elements. The hammock is available in a variety of colors and can easily accommodate two.

Final Verdict

Overall, we recommend the Yellow Leaf Hammock (view at Yellow Leaf) for its durable construction, generous capacity, and range of color options. If you're looking for something more budget-friendly, we recommend the Bear Butt Double Hammock (view at Amazon) for its heavy duty construction and affordable price tag.

Type

There are actually quite a few types of hammocks available, one to suit every activity from relaxing in the shade to exploring the great outdoors. There are rope hammocks that are mainly bought for their aesthetic value but also for comfort. Other hammocks are made out of various types of fabric, some easier to clean than others. Then there are hammocks that break all the rules, combining a traditional hammock with a chair or a tent. Once you decide what you're using the hammock for and what you want it to look like, you can narrow down your search.

Measurements

How long should your hammock be? That depends on where you want to hang it. It's important to decide where you're going to hang your hammock before you buy one so you can get the right measurements. You'll want to measure the length between the two trees or structures you want to hang it from and buy one that is long enough to accommodate the distance. Each hammock will also have a weight limit. Make sure that if you're buying one that will hold several people, it can handle it.

Portability

Some hammocks are very portable—just throw it in a bag and take it to the next pair of trees. This is perfect for camping or for someone who likes to change things up. There are hammocks made to be more portable than others and this may be exactly what you need. You may not need the portability because you plan on putting the hammock up in one place, securing it, and then enjoying it. In this case, you can look for a hammock that lends itself to a more permanent setup.

Material

You should highly consider the amount of moisture and wind your hammock will be exposed to when selecting the material. Synthetic materials, such as polyester and nylon, will withstand the elements much longer than natural materials, such as cotton. Traditionally, rope hammocks are made with cotton, but a cotton blend, such as Pawley’s Island DuraCord, has been engineered with man-made materials to maintain the softness of cotton while providing a more durable, color fade-resistant rope. In addition, rope hammocks are often treated with a varnish or zinc to protect them from rot, mold, mildew, and rust. A woven hammock, such as the Vivere Double Cotton Hammock, is available in double weave cotton, or a more resilient blended fabric, but is connected to polyester ropes for added durability. Portable hammocks for hiking and camping are made of lightweight nylon which is breathable and quick to dry, such as the ENO SingleNest Hammock.

FAQ

How do you hang a hammock?

When suspending hammocks from trees, it is advisable to use tree straps rather than raw rope. (You may have to purchase these separately depending on the product.) For the sake of protecting trees, Clare Healy, a Portland-based explorer for The Outbound Collective, advises users to select straps at least 3/4 inches wide rather than rope, adding that “straps that are 1.5 inches wide are even better, and some parks even mandate 2-inch-wide straps. On a related note, choosing healthy, robust trees is crucial to avoiding damage."
When installing a hammock more permanently, you’ll need to follow the instructions accompanying your particular hammock, locate the appropriate hardware, and—if hanging the hammock at your home—stick to wooden studs (no metal studs!).
Something else to consider is ridgeline length, or the amount of curve or sag you want in your hammock, which will be determined by the distance between the two ends of your hammock. The conventional ridgeline length is between 8 and 9 feet.
Can you hang a hammock indoors?

As long as your hammock is anchored properly, it can hang almost anywhere. If you are leery about installation, you can always select a hammock stand to use inside your home.
Is sleeping in a hammock bad for your back?

Many users find a hammock-snooze preferable to the floor of a tent and even, surprisingly, their own bed. This is because hammocks mitigate the number of pressure points between your body and the sleep surface and because they can reduce the tossing and turning which can lead to spine misalignment. Some hammock sleepers, however, do find that they awaken with more lower back pain. This is possibly attributable to the amount of droop in the hammock; many avid backpackers like Healy advise users to sleep diagonally in their hammocks for this very reason.
Healy also suggests that hammock campers use a sleeping pad: “This is where closed-cell foam pads come extra handy but any sleeping pad will do,” she says. “Rather than just adding extra comfort, this will ensure your underside doesn't get too cold while sleeping.” All told, occasional snoozes in hammocks are nothing to fret about, but if you are considering substituting a hammock for a bed, it’s best to consult your physician first.
How high should a hammock be off the ground?

This depends on a few things. In general, your hammock will hang 4 to 5 feet off of the ground if it has spreader bars and 6 to 8 feet off of the ground if it doesn't. The height can also change due to your environment. For example, you could hang your hammock higher if you want to be at a good distance from any wildlife or swampy wetland below you.

Jessica Joblin is a writer and scholar with six years of experience in the home space. For this roundup, she considered dozens of popular hammocks, evaluating criteria such as comfort, durability, breathability, portability, style, price, and maintenance requirements. She also consulted reports from experts, customer reviews, and avid backpackers.

The 8 Best Hammocks of 2022

Best Overall

Yellow Leaf Signature Family Size Hammock

Best Budget

Bear Butt Hammocks Double Camping Hammock

Best Rope

Original Pawley’s Island Large Meadow DuraCord Rope Hammock

Best Portable

Eno SingleNest Hammock

Best for Camping

Easthills Outdoors Jungle Explorer Double Camping Hammock

Best Chair

Lazy Daze Hanging Rope Hammock Chair

Best Tent

Arlmont & Co. Saffo Camping Hammock

Best with Stand

Vivere Double Cotton Hammock

What to Look for in Hammocks

Type

Measurements

Portability

Material

Why Trust The Spruce?