This is a big decision. influenced by many factors:
(all the links in this article, with the exception of the one in how to choose a hammock, will take you to our hammock shop - http://hammocksetc.com - and will open in a new page )
Who is going to use the hammock? Hammocks are fun for children but it is important to choose a hammock that is safe for little ones.
Where are you going to use your hammock? If you are going to hang it at a cottage or camp you may want something tough that can be left out in the weather all season long. Maybe you want to take it camping - then portability becomes important.
How much space do you have? Standard hammocks usually require 12 to 14 feet of hanging space. If you have less (or more) having a hammock custom made is a solution - and it doesn't have to cost more.
Does appearance matter? If you are creating an outdoor room you may want a hammock (or hammocks) to match your decor. Many of our customers select Sunbrella fabric that matches their patio furniture and we make the hammock for them.
Concerned about the environment? (and who isn't?) Our EarthFriendly hammock is great. We make the rope from recycled plastic fibre and finish the spreader bars with locally produced organic oil.
What are the weather conditions where you live? This will determine the type of rope or fabric you select. Unless you live in a very warm, dry climate, or are planning to use your hammock in a weather protected area cotton is likely not for you. Our EarthFriendly and nylon rope hammocks are weather resistant, extremely soft and comfortable, our olefin is tough as nails at a good price and the Sunbrella fabric is beautiful and very comfortable, but will turn into a sail if hung in a windy spot.
Do you want to take it camping, hiking, kayaking, etc? Then portability is an important consideration. We offer a good selection of portable hammocks.
How much do you want to pay? The cost of hammocks varies a lot and is based on several factors - the fibre used, how the rope is made (be sure it is braided not twisted), what the spreader bars are made from, the style of the hammock, the size of the hammock and where it is made. As a general rule plan to spend in the $80 to $100 range for a cotton fabric hammock and more for a good quality rope hammock. Sunbrella fabric hammocks are the most expensive because the fabric is expensive, but well worth it because it makes a very beautiful and durable outdoor hammock.
Which style should you choose? Each has its advantages:
A Yucatan-style hammock is very stable and can be hung in spaces where there is no room for the wooden spreader bars. The disadvantage is that, to be comfortable you should lie in the hammock diagonally or crosswise, lying horizontally will allow the hammock to fold in over you.
Hammocks with two spreader bars to keep it open are very comfortable and perfect for two people. We make most of our hammocks this way.
Another option is the single spreader bar hammock. This is our most popular hammock. There is a spreader bar at the end where you put your head then it narrows gradually to your feet, hugging your body in place.
Then there is the hammock swing or hammock chair, great for folks who do not have a lot of space or if you want to be able to sit and swing while enjoying the view or reading a book It is great fun to have several on your deck for folks to sit and swing while visiting..
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