Wise Owl Outfitters Kit Review
Our Verdict
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This Product
Wise Owl Outfitters Kit | |||||
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Awards | Best Bang for Your Buck | Best for Extra Soft Comfort and Versatility | |||
Price | $35 List $22.63 at Amazon | $84.95 at REI Compare at 2 sellers | $40 List $28.99 at Amazon | $20.00 List $18.99 at Amazon | $30 List $29.95 at Dick's Sporting Goods |
Overall Score | |||||
Star Rating | |||||
Bottom Line | This affordable design is perfect for day use thanks to a rip-resistant parachute nylon construction that features triple interlocking stitches for increased durability | Buttery soft ripstop fabric combined with durable climbing grade carabiners and Dyneema cord prioritize comfort without sacrificing too much durability | Save money but keep all the comforts and ease of use of industry-leading models with this one-stop budget hammock | Though this hammock provides a highly affordable option with suspension straps that are included with your purchase, the design lacks versatility and durability | A very affordable and easy-to-use hammock that provides a great entry point to try out hammocking without breaking the bank or the scales |
Rating Categories | Wise Owl Outfitters... | Kammok Roo Double | Kootek Portable | Anyoo Garden Cotton | Grand Trunk Ultrali... |
Comfort (40%) | |||||
Ease of Setup (20%) | |||||
Durability and Protection (20%) | |||||
Versatility (10%) | |||||
Weight (10%) | |||||
Specs | Wise Owl Outfitters... | Kammok Roo Double | Kootek Portable | Anyoo Garden Cotton | Grand Trunk Ultrali... |
Measured Weight - Hammock and Suspension | 30 oz (double hammock, straps) | 24 oz (hammock and straps) | 37 oz (hammock, tree straps) | 59 oz (hammock and straps) | 22 oz (hammock, straps) |
Measured Weight - Shelter System | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Maximum Capacity (Per Manufacturer) | Weight: 500 lbs (double); Height: Not stated |
Weight: 500 lbs; Height: Not stated |
Weight: 500 lbs; Height: Not stated |
Weight: 660 lbs; Height: Not stated |
Weight: 300 lbs; Height: Not stated |
Hammock Size (Per Manufacturer) | 10'L x 6'6"'W | 10'L x 5'10"'W | 9'10"L x 6'6"W | 8'10"L x 4"11"W | 8'9"L x 4'8"W |
Dimensions in Carry Case | 9"L x 5"W | 4"L x 5" W | 10"L x 7"W | 1'4"L x 6"W | 8"L x 4"W |
Suspension System Components (Included) | Nylon cord and carabiners | Dyneema Racer Slings and carabiners | Steel carabiners | Polyester rope and 2 carabiners | Nautical grade carabiners |
Construction Materials | 210 thread, rip-resistant nylon | GravitasX 40D diamond ripstop nylon, 100% recycled, bluesign® approved with DWR waterproofing + crinkle treatment | 210D Nylon | 70% cotton, 30% polyester | King Rhombic ripstop polyester |
Design Style | End-gathered with 9 foot suspension straps | End-gathered with dyneema cord, DWR waterproofing and crinkle treatment | Triple interlocking stitching | Tightly-woven cotton with wear resistant knots and nylon straps | Mildew resistant, tear resistant |
Sizes / Colors | 3 sizes, 18 colors | 1 size, 7 colors | 1 size, 5 colors | 1 size, 10 colors | 1 size, 3 colors |
Hanging Straps Included? | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No |
Accessories (Included) | Built-in stuff sack, suspension straps, storage sack, 2 carabiners | Built-in stuff sack and carabiners | Built-in stuff sack, tree straps, steel carabiners | Carry bag, carabiners, and suspension straps | Stuff sack, carabiners |
Accessories (Compatible, Not Included) | None | Suspension straps, extenders, sun shade, bug net, portable stand, cup holder, gear sling, hammock sleeve, hammock organizer, hammock hanging kit | None | None | Trunk strap, aluminum carabiners, stand |
Extra Accessories Tested (Not Included) | None | Python 10 Suspension straps | None | None | None |
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Wise Owl Outfitters Kit features a traditional, end-gathered design constructed from 210 thread count rip-resistant parachute nylon. Along with triple interlocking stitches, it is strong and comfortable enough to support the weight of one or two people. The design also includes two 9-foot Talon Hammock Straps Lite with your purchase. These straps and the attachment points for the design are constructed from material similar to that of a seatbelt, yet thinner in width. This hammock is very easy to set up once you find two appropriate trees or anchor points, and it easily supports up to 500 pounds without any disconcerting creaking or shifting. If you're after a simple, affordable, everyday hammock design, the Wise Owl should be at the top of your list.
Performance Comparison
Comfort
The Wise Owl Outfitters Kit design features a strong parachute nylon fabric that we found to be stiffer than other hammock fabrics we tested. This spacious hammock measures 9' long x 6.6' wide, allowing for a spacious single-person setup or enough room to easily share the hammock with your sweetheart. While the suspension straps only offer five different adjustment points for the carabiner to attach to on either side, we found it was enough to offer a variety of positions so that you can still customize the setup.
The parachute nylon fabric is machine washable in cold water on the gentle cycle, and we found that washing the material increased the softness of the fabric after air drying it on the clothes line. Just be sure to remove the carabiners before attempting to wash. We also found that aligning the position of the hammock so that our feet were a little above our heads increased the comfort of the design, allowing for both horizontal and seated positions, depending on your preference. While not the softest material, the Wise Owl offers ample comfort within its nylon construction.
Ease of Setup
The Wise Owl Outfitters Kit features a simple end-gathered design that is easy to set up and ready to go in a matter of minutes. This hammock design is equipped with two 9' Talon Hammock Straps Lite that are constructed from material that resembles a traditional seatbelt, along with two D-shaped carabiners that easily fasten to the provided suspension straps without sticking open and reducing the strength of the carabiner.
While setting this hammock up during our spring testing period, we never felt the need to consult instructions, nor did any of the process encourage frustration. The Wise Owl Outfitters Kit simply requires two appropriately-spaced trees for its 9', tree-friendly suspension straps that can be girth-hitched to each tree before attaching the carabiners to the straps. If you're looking for an affordable design with a no-muss, no-fuss setup, this hammock won't disappoint.
Durability and Protection
Though the Wise Owl Outfitters Kit is not the most durable design we tested, it allowed enough space for two adults without any disconcerting creaking or shifting when swaying side to side. The design is secured by thick triple interlocking stitches combined with a 210-thread count rip-resistant parachute nylon fabric to provide increased durability meant to withstand the test of time.
The tree-friendly 9' Talon Hammock Straps Lite (included in your purchase) is similar to that of a thinner seatbelt material meant to securely hold the weight of two adults, thanks to its 500-pound capacity. The same material creates the attachment points of the end-gathered design for additional strength and durability. While the suspension straps, rip-resistant nylon fabric, and carabiners didn't show very much wear and tear during our spring testing period, the carabiners didn't inspire much confidence in their durability due to their compact size, which is not rated for climbing. That being said, if you're simply after a day use hammock that's available for an affordable price, this one can't be beat.
Versatility
The Wise Owl Outfitters Kit is not the most versatile of the testing group. It does not have any extra attachment points for accessories sold separately, nor does it offer any option to convert into a backcountry shelter. This is more of a classic day-use design with an integrated stuff sack that can transition to being used as a pocket for small items but, unfortunately, cannot be closed entirely.
Though the hammock is big enough to accommodate a sleeping pad or underquilt inside the spacious interior, there are no attachment points to secure the sleeping bag or quilt should the wind pick up. Though not a hammock option that shines when it comes to overall versatility, it is the perfect affordable day-use option that comes in two separate sizes and nineteen different color options so that you can lounge in your favorite color.
Weight
Though the Wise Owl Outfitters Kit isn't the lightest double hammock design we tested, it is relatively lightweight and simple. Weighing in at 30 ounces, including the hammock and straps, it is light enough to throw in your daypack without weighing you down. The suspension straps are more flexible and packable than some of the other designs we tested, and at only 9 feet long, they require a little less space in the stuff sack.
Though this hammock is light enough to haul into the backcountry for an overnight mission, we found it best for day or backyard use, as it requires a little more space within our backpacks. The 8.5" x 5" packable dimensions were wider than some, though they remained relatively lightweight. Though not the lightest weight nor the most packable, the Wise Owl Outfitters Kit will easily fit into your daypack, or you can store it inside your vehicle for your next afternoon snooze.
Should You Buy the Wise Owl Outfitters Kit?
The Wise Owl Outfitters Kit is perfect for those seeking a day-use double hammock that offers high value in exchange for its affordable price tag. The rip-resistant parachute nylon fabric combines with triple interlocking stitches to create a comfortable canopy for one or two people, with enough durability to last for multiple uses. The 9-foot-long suspension straps are included with your purchase and easily girth hitch around the tree while offering just enough options to customize your hang. The end-gathered design is intuitive and easy to set up while remaining quite packable, whether lounging around the campsite or simply hanging in your backyard. For the price, this hammock doesn't disappoint.
What Other Hammocks Should You Consider?
If the highly affordable design of the Wise Owl Outfitters Kit piques your interest, but you're keen on suspension straps with more adjustability, check out the Kootek Portable. This hammock is another favorite of our testing team when it comes to affordable performance. It also offers thicker suspension straps that supply more adjustability so you can better customize your setup. Another great option for your consideration is the Kammok Roo Double, which supplies a sleek and thoughtful design with a noticeably softer canopy, thanks to its GravitasX 40D diamond ripstop nylon. The fabric not only prioritizes comfort but is also 100% recycled and Bluesign-approved, meaning it is designed without any harmful dyes or chemicals near your skin. Looking for hands down, top-notch comfort in a backcountry shelter? Check out our favorite, the Warbonnet Ridgerunner. Though more of an investment, this hammock provides backcountry comfort that sets it apart from the rest.