4 Experts Tips To Choose A Hammock

1. What Type of Hammock is Right for Me?

There are several types of models and designs when it comes to hammocks, but to make your life easier, you can narrow down your choice by picking one of the most popular categories:

• Rope hammocks: are we right in thinking that this is the first model that pops into your head whenever you picture a hammock in the Caribbean or by a white sand beach?

  • rope hammocks usually have two wooden spreaders and are a great budget-friendly but durable option;

  • given their design that focuses on ventilation, they're better suited for warm climates;

  • however, because of their pattern, they can leave impressions on your skin: if you're planning on lying onto your hammock for hours, look for designs with smaller spaces in between the ropes;

  • they can be made of cotton, which is a natural and more breathable option, or polyester, that should be considered if your hammock will be exposed to frequent rain, as it's less susceptible to mold and mildew;

• Quilted hammocks: they also involve wooden spreaders, but their main body consists of two layers of fabric (usually polyester) with a comfy filling in between;

  • these models are some of the most comfortable hammocks, and a fantastic choice if you're planning on using yours for hours or to enjoy a nap;

  • because their quilted design doesn't make them very breathable, they're better suited for cooler climates, and they're rather weather-resistant and fast-drying, too;

  • quilted hammocks are the most versatile when it comes to design options: they make it easy to complement the style or color scheme of your garden, and are often reversible, offering you another level of customization;

• Brazilian hammocks: not involving any spreaders, this is the kind of hammock that you should go for if you're planning on napping in a cocoon-style pod!

  • traditionally made of 100% cotton, Brazilian hammocks are robust and durable; however, they could lead to mildew problems if you live in a particularly rainy area: if that's your case, look for a polyester option, but keep in mind that their shape will still result in a buildup of water;

  • they're some of the comfiest hammocks for sleeping, but, given their pod-like design, they wouldn't work really well if you're planning on using them to work on your laptop outside;

• Mayan hammocks: these colorful models are some of the most decorative hammocks, perfect for the most bohemian gardens!

  • tightly hand-woven and usually made of cotton, they're lightweight, comfortable, and impeccable at providing ventilation without incurring in the body print problem caused by rope hammocks;

  • however, given their delicate strings, they aren't the most durable, as they can easily get damaged by sharp objects (not the best choice if you've got kids!);

• Camping hammocks: if you'd like to relax on your hammock no matter where you are in the world, look for one of these handy models;

  • ideal for frequent travelers, camping hammocks focus on durability, portability and weather-resistance: they usually haven't got any spreaders and are made of waterproof synthetic materials like nylon;

• Hammocks with stands: if you can't wait to chill on a hammock but realized that you haven't got two trees or poles to tie it to, this is your dream come true;

  • easy to move around your garden (which makes it a blessing when you want to avoid having the sun right in your eyes), they can be any of the previous types of hammocks, but they come with a strong, sturdy stand;

• Hammock chairs: while they can be similar to other types of hammocks, the main difference is that they're hanging from the top rather than both sides, allowing you to sit down;

  • they're the best choice if you're mainly planning on reading or spending time with your guests while sitting down comfortably rather than enjoying a nap;

  • you could even consider placing one in your living room.

2. Should I Buy a Single or Double Hammock?