There are so many hammocks in this world! So many different shapes and sizes. And being slight hammock enthusiasts ourselves we thought we’d give you a quick debrief on all the types & styles of hammocks and the different ways you can hang a hammock.
Types of Hammocks
Single-Point
A single point hammock is simply a hammock that attaches at one point. In the center point above the hammock. It kinda makes you into a hanging cocoon and is most commonly used when doing a multi day climb. Single point tents are also used in harsher climates. These are usually difficult to enter and heavy.
Multi-Point
A multi point hammock as you can imagine uses 3 points of contact. Because of the larger area usually they can accommodate at least 3 people. They usually appear like tents, although they hang, so they’re hammocks…apparently. They’re also the bulkiest and usually hardest to setup. However once setup you have a kings setup.
Spreader Bar
A Hammock with 2 bars at the end to flatten out the hammock material. These often look like the most inviting because the hammock is already pen and usually made of loose woven material. These often need to be given a lot of slack, the tighter you tie it the more tippy it becomes.
Bridge
Often gets confused with Spreader bar hammocks. Although it’s based on a suspension bridge design (thus the name). These are a lot more stable and can get comfier sleeps. Also easier to setup because it has the frame. A larger tarp is required and sometimes a longer hang width is needed.
Gathered End
The most common type of hammock. Aswell as the cheapest, lightest and versatile design. This gives it the most amount of options, designs and materials to choose from. Also hanging it incorrectly can be and issue for new hammockers and give you uncomfortable nights.
Hybrid
Basically every other design.They often include multiple other designs such as, bridge, bar and gathered end. They usually come with a range of unique features but often requires a more complex setup.
Styles of Hammock
Open
Simply a hammock you can get in and get out. There’s nothing around it or complex entry. You typical hammock. Great for recreational use or day to day chilling. If going on a camping trip with bugs, extra fly screen would be smart addition.
Jungle
A hammock with a built in fly screen. Useful when going on camping trips and using your hammock for sleeping. Usually places where there’ll be in a constant bugs in your face. some can be difficult to enter and exit.
All Inclusive-Jungle
All you need to camp. A hammock, with a fly screen, tarp and anything else it needs to go wild! These are often a lot heavier, harder to setup and expensive. If your hammock will be your home for a long time and you’re going to constantly be facing the elements, this is a good hang to have on your side.
So overall there are a lot of hammocks I bet you didn’t even think about. or maybe you did I’m not one to judge your hammock experience.
Though there is a lot to consider when in search for your hammock, if you’re casual hammocker usually a gathered end would be the best. If you’re looking to place it for a specific location, bridges are always popular for decorative reasons.
In the end, it’s up to you (obviously). You’re going to be extremely comfy either way!
A lot of this information was sourced from The Ultimate Hang! which is an amazing read and I highly recommend it. I’ll be quoting a lot of stuff from there from now on.
