The 8 Best Hammocks for 2024

Best Hammock for the Backcountry

Warbonnet Original Blackbird

Size: 10.5 ft x 5.25 ft | Includes: Bug net, continuous loops

The Warbonnet Blackbird has been our favorite suspended backcountry bed for many years. Of all the end-gathered models we tested, its spacious asymmetric design lets you find the flattest position, and the foot box provides space to spread your hard-working extremities. The Blackbird has a roomy feel and gives you the freedom to move around and find your sweet spot. When ordering from Warbonnet, you can choose exactly what features and components suit your expedition style. We tested the webbing and buckle suspension system – it is one of the quickest and easiest to set up, adjust, and takedown out of any system we tested. It weighs a few more ounces than the whoopie sling-style, which is also an option from Warbonnet if you're really counting ounces on your setup.

Even though this shelter is nowhere near a bargain basement price, it's certainly worth the investment. We don't love that the bug netting isn't removable, as it makes lounging sideways slightly uncomfortable. Aside from that, our tests proved the comfort, weight, customization options, and quality are on par. If you're serious about ditching the tent for a hanging shelter, the Warbonnet Blackbird should be on your shortlist. If a comfortable night's sleep is a top priority and you have ounces and budget to spare, we suggest you also add the Warbonnet Ridgerunner to your list for consideration. The upfront cost will set you back a little more, but it has spreader bars that allow for a flatter sleeping surface to help accommodate an even more comfortable night's sleep.

Read more: Warbonnet Blackbird review

Best Hammock for Backyards

ENO Skyloft

Size: 7 ft x 3 ft | Includes: Wiregate carabiners, continuous loops, spreader bars

ENO has designed the perfect hammock for backyard nappers – the ENO Skyloft offers effortless comfort for casual hammockers, thanks to an easy setup and soft nylon construction. The spreader bar design opens the space up for unobstructed views, and the lowered foot box allows you to lay almost completely flat, so even a side sleeper can get comfortable for a nice long nap. The heavier nylon material feels durable enough to stand up to visits from excited dogs and wayward belt buckles alike. The Skyloft includes two high-quality aluminum wire gate carabiners and is simple to hang if you add on any of ENO's suspension straps.

Our testing revealed the comfort is excellent, but the weight and bulk make it a little harder to take this hammock on your rambles around town or down to set up at the base of a rock climbing cliff. It's around 18x5 inches packed, which may be tricky to toss in a daypack. So, its use leans more toward intentional lounging at basecamp, in the backyard, or on a seaside overlook. A narrower, three-foot profile and a combined 250-pound capacity make the Skyloft poorly suited for a snuggle buddy. Sitting upright is still pretty comfortable, but you can't lean your head back like you would in a wider model. Despite its solo-style design, this is still by far our favorite hammock for lounging. If you want to spend a little less but still want something extra comfortable for afternoons in the backyard or casual car camping, we love the lightweight, large capacity Kootek Portable, which is a perfect low-cost addition to any weekend relaxation toolkit.

Read more: ENO Skyloft review

Best Bang for Your Buck

Wise Owl Outfitters Kit

Size: 9 ft x 6.6 ft | Includes: Suspension tree straps, carabiners

The Wise Owl Outfitters Kit is the perfect hammock for those seeking high performance at an affordable price. The traditional end-gathered design is constructed from 210 thread count rip-resistant parachute nylon that offers more durability but sacrifices some softness next to your skin. The triple interlocking stitching and the 500-pound weight capacity also increase the durability of the design and inspire confidence while suspended solo or while lounging with a buddy. The hammock is easy to set up without the use of instructions, while the lighter-weight design and compressed size increase packability. These details make this hammock a great option to toss into your daypack without feeling weighed down.

Our testers love that this hammock includes suspension straps, the 9-foot-long Talon Hammock Straps Lite, to be specific. The downside is these straps offer limited versatility both in the adjustment points (only five on each side) and overall length, which is less than the average suspension strap, requiring our testing team to scout smaller trees in width that are located closer together. While the seatbelt-like material that both the attachment loops and the suspension straps are built from appears to be durable, the thin D-shaped carabiners gave us pause as to the overall longevity of their performance. We prefer the durability of the ENO DoubleNest, though it is a little pricier. Durability concerns aside, the Wise Owl hammock is ideal for anyone seeking a simple, everyday design that is packable enough to toss in a daypack and retails at a price point that doesn't break the bank. The Kootek Portable is another affordable option we tested with comparable performance.

Read more: Wise Owl Outfitters Kit review

Best for Ultimate Comfort

Warbonnet Ridgerunner

Size: 10.1 ft x 3 ft | Includes: Spreader bars, continuous loops

Hammocks are fantastic for back sleepers and can be decent for side sleepers. But, for the most part, you can forget about sleeping on your stomach. Until now, anyway. Enter the Warbonnet Ridgerunner, our choice for ultimate comfort. It has spreader bars that help create the flattest lay possible – so flat our testers could get comfortable on their backs, both sides, and even on their stomachs. It's like laying in a floating cot made out of top-of-the-line materials. This hammock offered, no lie, the best night's sleep we have ever had hanging between trees. The Ridgerunner also has an optional integrated bug net. We tested the whoopie sling suspension system and found it among the easiest to hang and adjust, not to mention one of the lightest systems available.

Keep in mind, the suspension system is sold separately, adding to the overall cost. This hammock is also heavy. At 52 ounces for the whole system, it's not well suited for lightweight backcountry adventures. Also, it is disconcertingly easy to tip over compared to other hammocks without spreader bars. This tipsiness makes for great physical comedy with new users, but laying down in this hammock isn't exactly relaxing until you have some practice. If you want something extra comfy for relaxing on warm summer days in the backyard, we recommend the ENO Skyloft. It handles recreational lounging admirably and will leave you with a little extra cash in your pocket to stock the grill. However, if you've been dying to enjoy suspended camping but haven't yet found a hammock that's comfortable enough, the Ridgerunner is the one.

Read more: Warbonnet Ridgerunner review

Best for Extra Soft Comfort and Versatility

Kammok Roo Double

Size: 10 ft x 6 ft | Includes: Built-in stuff sack and carabiners

The Kammok Roo Double is a thoughtfully designed doublewide hammock offering exceptional comfort and many different options to diversify your setup. In terms of quality and durability, design features that include Dyneema racer sling attachment cords, compact climbing grade carabiners, and GravitasX 40D diamond ripstop fabric really caught the eye of our testing team. In addition, the carabiners can support up to 4,720 pounds of force within the system, while the ripstop fabric offers a 500-pound weight capacity along with a softness next to the skin that sets it apart from the competition. Our tests found the breathable and water-resistant hammock material is not only buttery soft next to the skin, but it is also bluesign-approved, meaning you can relax for hours without any concern that you're interacting with any harmful dyes or chemicals near your skin. The hammock measures 10 feet by 6 feet — even longer than the double ENO Doublenest — making it easy to comfortably wrap yourself in the extra material or easily share with your sweetheart. The setup is intuitive and easy to assemble (without the use of instructions) thanks to a simple end-gathered design with two carabiners on each end that effortlessly attach to girth-hitched suspension straps.

We tested the Roo Double with the Python 10 suspension straps (sold separately) that offer tons of versatility so you can find your favorite lounging position. Lined with eight gear loops, this highly versatile hammock is great for those looking to customize their backcountry shelter with expertly designed accessories. These high-quality accessories (also sold separately) include a tarp, bug net, gear sling, organizer pocket, underquilt, portable stand, and more to help create the backcountry shelter of your dreams. Perhaps the only drawback is that the super soft fabric might be subject to durability issues, though we didn't experience any during our testing. Fortunately, this model includes a lifetime manufacturer warranty should you experience any issues during use. If you're interested in a super soft, thoughtfully designed, and highly versatile doublewide hammock, the Kammok Roo Double offers a performance that sets it apart from the competition, making it a clear fan favorite of our testing team. The Dream Sparrow is another great option for versatility and comfort, though it isn't ideal for two people and costs more.

Read more: Kammok Roo Double review

Best Customizable Hammock

Dutchware Chameleon

Size: 10.6 ft x 4.8 ft | Includes: Continuous loops

We tested many models offering color, size, fabric, and accessories purchase options. Still, none allowed us to customize almost everything about the system. The Dutchware Chameleon allows discerning hammockers to design their hammock just as they want. We were able to select our fabric weights and colors, style of bug netting, type of suspension, and more. Versatility and functionality are maintained with fully removable bug netting. The symmetry of the hammock and reversible asymmetric bug net allows new campers to figure out which direction is most comfortable for them – rather than committing to “head left” or “head right” – and retains the comfort and space of an asymmetric setup.

Potential buyers should know there are wider options on our list (like the Kammok Roo Double). The Chameleon can feel a little less spacious. At almost 11 feet in length, it makes up for what it lacks in width by allowing the fabric to spread more easily as you get closer to the ends. Of all the options we tested, the Chameleon is our favorite for customization, but to be fair, the Dream Sparrow was so similar in all features and customization options that it was almost splitting hairs to pick between them. Both are more than worthy options for their comfort, versatility, and customizable features.

Read more: Dutchware Chameleon review

Best Classic Everyday Double

ENO DoubleNest

Size: 8.9 ft x 6.3 ft | Includes: Built-in stuff sack, aluminum carabiners

The ENO Doublenest is your tried and true, time-tested, reliable double hammock, perfect for everyday use. This rather affordable hammock is available in many different color options, and we can appreciate that the Freewave, 70-denier nylon taffeta fabric is bluesign approved, meaning that the colors are created without harmful dyes and chemicals. Our tests found this spacious hammock is very easy to assemble and measures roughly 9 feet by 6 feet, allowing for ample comfort whether you're solo or snuggling with your significant other. ENO also updated the hardware sold with the newest version, including durable yet compact, hammock-rated carabiners that feature notches and grooves so as to secure the hammock to the suspension straps and provide more peace of mind above the ground. Though not the lightest model we tested — that title goes to the 14-ounce Kammok Mantis — it weighs in at only 19 ounces for the hammock alone and right around 30 ounces for the hammock and suspension straps. Our testers appreciated the compact and packable stuff sack with an internal pocket and handle for easy carrying. This attached stuff sack easily fits the hammock but, unfortunately, doesn't leave enough room for the suspension straps.

Though the fabric is treated with a crinkle-free finish for additional softness and durability, our testers found other options, like the Kammok Roo Double, to provide the most softness next to the skin. The nylon taffeta might offer a more rigid feel, but the thicker, triple-stitched construction remains breathable and supplies more overall confidence in durability for everyday use. Another consideration when purchasing the Doublenest is that the suspension straps are sold separately. This allows for better customization, perhaps considering a lighter-weight strap for naps in the backcountry or beefier Atlas straps (like we used for testing) that allow for tons of adjustment within their easily girth-hitched nylon design. Our tests found the Doublenest is versatile enough to be converted into a backcountry shelter system, as it is compatible with several of ENO's accessories (sold separately), but we prefer this classic, reliable, and popular hammock for everyday use. Whether you're enjoying a relaxing afternoon solo or sharing the spacious hammock with your sweetheart, the Doublenest offers a performance that can't be beaten. For an even softer cradle in a double-wide size, consider the Kammok Roo Double. Or, if your goal is to relax on your own, the ENO Skyloft is a perfect accessory for any backyard lounge setup.

Read more: ENO Doublenest review

Best Freestanding Hammock

Vivere Double Cotton with Stand

Size: 9 ft x 4 ft | Includes: Carrying case

The Vivere Double Cotton with Stand strikes the perfect balance between comfort and durability thanks to its 100% double cotton fabric, polyester attachment strings reinforced with metal eyelets, and sturdy and supportive zinc-coated steel frame. It might go without saying, but this hammock is not for those seeking a lightweight and portable day-use option for lounging — for that, see the Kammok Roo Double mentioned above. At 27 pounds, the Vivere isn't the easiest to move too far away from your home or vehicle. Rather, the beauty of this design is that it can be assembled just about anywhere, whether you live near the beach or in the desert. The freestanding frame easily accommodates one or two people and doesn't require any trees for setup.

Perhaps the biggest caveat to this design is that it requires a bit of creative torque and twisting to both setup and breakdown. The steel frame features holes on each pole that must be properly aligned for the provided screw to fasten them in place. Our testers found this to require some additional muscle and may not be for everybody. Ultimately, we appreciated the security of the tight assembly as it never shifted, creaked, or adjusted, even when two people were resting in the canopy. And though this hammock doesn't offer much in terms of versatility, Vivere does advertise compatible accessories that are sold separately but enhance the portability and versatility of this design. If you need something that's a little more portable, check out the Kootek Portable.

Read more: Vivere Double Cotton with Stand review

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	83	Warbonnet Ridgerunner Best for Ultimate Comfort	$220
	79	Warbonnet Original Blackbird Best Hammock for the Backcountry	$175
	79	Kammok Roo Double Best for Extra Soft Comfort and Versatility	$85
	78	Dutchware Chameleon Best Customizable Hammock	$142
	76	ENO DoubleNest Best Classic Everyday Double	$75
	76	Dream Sparrow	$195
	75	ENO Skyloft Best Hammock for Backyards	$130
	75	Wise Owl Outfitters Kit Best Bang for Your Buck	$35
	74	Kootek Portable	$40
	70	Vivere Double Cotton with Stand Best Freestanding Hammock	$74
	69	ENO JungleNest	$110
	68	Kammok Mantis	$270
	66	Hennessy Expedition Asym Zip	$170
	65	Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro	$70
	64	Anyoo Garden Cotton	$20
	62	Hennessy Ultralite Backpacker Classic	$230
	55	Grand Trunk Ultralight Starter	$30
	53	PNAEUT Double Hammock with Stand	$90
	49	Grand Trunk Nano 7	$70
	45	Lawson Blue Ridge Camping Hammock	$229

How We Tested

Our review began with thorough research into the hammock market. After we settled on our selection, we purchased the entire test fleet for side-by-side testing and analysis. Our test team invited friends to help form a comprehensive group, including various ages and sizes. We hung around in our backyards, set up camp in the backcountry, and tested in various weather conditions to compile an unbiased review of these products. For full details on our testing process, see our How We Test article.

Our hammock testing is divided into five different metrics:

• Comfort (40% of overall score weighting)

• Ease of Setup (20% weighting)

• Durability and Protection (20% weighting)

• Versatility (10% weighting)

• Weight (10% weighting)

Why Trust GearLab

Elizabeth Paashaus has spent many backcountry nights and many backyard days just hanging around in various types of hammocks. She shares her love for adventure with her husband and two kids while living in a retired school bus between epic trips that range from multi-week pack rafting adventures in southern Utah to climbs up the classic moderates of North Carolina or rugged thru-hikes like the Vermont Long Trail. During her hike on the Appalachian Trail, Elizabeth spent four months sleeping in a homemade hammock, which left her with more than a few opinions on what works best for the backcountry. She also has a degree in Graphic Design from North Carolina State University and has logged numerous years outfitting folks for varied outdoor adventures while working as a trail guide and in retail management. She draws on this deep design knowledge, field testing, and product expertise to help our readers better understand the features one should look out for when shopping, and those it is better to avoid.

Laying around in the backcountry, additional testers Maggie Nichols, Penney Garrett and Liz Chamberlain provide expert advice on which 'mocks are best for you. Maggie is a water-loving, data-driven adventure enthusiast with a B.S. in Biology from Iowa State University who has been guiding canoe and kayaking trips since she was a teenager. Penney is a nature lover and herbalist with a long history in the arts (including a B.F.A from Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design) who has spent more than seven years refining GearLab's testing and reporting process when not off somewhere exploring a trail, crag, or riverside campground with her pup. Liz spends summer days scoping out new trails around the West Coast by bike and nights lounging in a hammock with a book and beer in hand. With a B.B.A. in Marketing from the University of Colorado and a professional background in gear sales, she brings a sharp eye for brand promises and performance to every product she takes up for review. And rounding out our testing team is Trish Matheny, who is essentially addicted to adventure, logging many miles in the backcountry over the last 20+ years. Whether sliding down a mountain on her snowboard or putting up first ascents on backcountry summits, Trish brings a ton of valuable experience to the testing crew. She combines her background in retail sales with an extensive knowledge of outdoor equipment to provide an objective approach and helpful recommendations.

Analysis and Test Results

Hammocks are staples of relaxation, but these creative hanging systems are not just lazy afternoon enablers. They can replace your tent, support your ultralight backpacking endeavors, enhance impromptu car-camping trips, and allow you to sleep on sloped terrain that would be a nightmare for a tent.

To find the best model for each user, we've tested the top contenders and rated them based on comfort, versatility, durability, protection, weight, and ease of use. We've experimented with these models over hundreds of hours, from chilly alpine nights to hot summer afternoons. We also keep our eyes on the market and test new contenders as they appear, ensuring you always have the most up-to-date information at your fingertips.

What's the Best Value?

It's hard to find an outdoor enthusiast who doesn't own a hammock these days. Whether in your backyard or miles into the backcountry, they are a quick way to get comfortable and relax outdoors. A comfortable hang is a top priority. But most of us will consider our wallet, to some extent, when deciding on which hammock to purchase. While it may not make sense to drop a few hundred dollars on an expedition model for relaxing by the creek, paying top dollar for a better night's sleep and weather protection can be critical for extended backcountry trips.

We tested models that cost no more than a few cups of coffee up to systems that may require a savings plan to purchase. While products with higher price tags typically translated to a better design – more comfort, less weight, additional features – we also found budget hammocks that offered better-than-average performance for a fraction of the price. We acknowledged the intended end-use for each model when considering its value. An option designed to be your backcountry shelter may hold more value even if it costs three times more than a model designed for day use. When comparing hammocks, it isn't always apples to apples, so we get into details about best uses and how performance stacks up against the price. Some of the most comfortable day models were also some of the least expensive, such as the Wise Owl Outfitters Kit, the Kootek Portable, and the ENO Doublenest.

Some of the priciest models, like the Warbonnet Blackbird and Hennessy Expedition Asym Zip, held tremendous value for a full shelter thanks to an excellent combination of comfort, protection from rain, wind, and bugs, and helpful features, while options like the Lawson Blue Ridge Camping Hammock have a higher price tag and seem quite durable, but lack in comfort and are heavy. For those seeking an entry-level backcountry design that is highly affordable, check out the Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro. It does require a little more effort to set up, but it is quite comfortable and works well.

Comfort

Without question, the most critical component of a hammock is its comfort. Why are you even in that swath of fabric dangling above the ground if you can't get comfy and grab a good night's sleep? We guarantee you aren't thinking much about the ease of setup and the killer deal you just scored if you are tossing and turning at 3 a.m.

We considered how flat we could position our bodies, our headspace when sitting upright, and each model's overall size and roominess. We sat in them, laid in them, slept overnight in each backcountry model, put sleeping bags and pads in them, and even tested their capacity to add friends. Roomier models tend to sleep a bit better, while some lighter designs sacrifice comfort for a compact size that feels great in the pack but can significantly impact your sleep quality. No matter how you're using your hammock, comfort is king.

Taller and heavier folks will find roomier designs more critical to their comfort, while smaller campers can get comfortable in some models that may feel a bit tight for most. Some of the hammocks in our lineup are labeled “double”. None were really all that comfortable for two people to sleep in, but they do fit two day-loungers better than a single hammock and certainly sleep one very comfortably. While each person will seek comfort based on their own needs, extra space and features that lend themselves to full relaxation are rarely a bad thing.

Overall, the Warbonnet Hammocks were the most comfortable hangs, though for different reasons. The Warbonnet Blackbird is made of soft nylon and is quite wide, allowing a wide range of comfortable sleeping positions. At the same time, our side and stomach-sleepers loved the options with spreader bars, like the Warbonnet Ridgerunner and the ENO Skyloft. The Skyloft is an ideal option for hanging around the backyard, while the Ridgerunner is a much more durable, more protective sleep system designed as a backcountry shelter.

Smaller, ultralight models may be appealing if you're taking on an adventure where weight is ultra important, like thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail. We like the Hennessy Ultralight as the model that crushes the weight and comfort metrics at 32 ounces for the entire shelter. Though some may scoff at the full retail price, this full shelter is available for less than a personal ultralight bivy of the same quality while offering much more in terms of overall comfort. And for an entry-level backcountry shelter that requires a little extra initial setup, check out the Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro.

For expeditions where you can stand to carry a few extra ounces, models like the Dream Sparrow, Dutchware Chameleon, and Warbonnet Blackbird offer a high level of comfort and weather protection for an additional half-pound or so. However, these hammocks, which seemingly offer it all, are expensive — especially when you consider that the list price doesn't even include the cost of a rainfly. If you want the added comfort and protection of a shelter system, the Hennessy Ultralite Backpacker will keep you well covered for less money.

The Kootek Roo Double is a super smart design that falls somewhere between an ultralight doublewide hammock yet supplies the additional versatility options to personalize the design as your new favorite backcountry shelter. The GravitasX 40D diamond ripstop nylon material is 100% recycled, bluesign-approved, and treated to be water-resistant and crinkle-free for additional softness. This design provides a unique comfort that sets it apart from its competitors and quickly became a favorite of our testing team.

For those seeking comfort without relying upon trees for setup, check out freestanding options like the Vivere Double Cotton, which comfortably lounges up to two humans thanks to its reinforced 100% cotton fabric that measures 9 feet by 4 feet.

Ease of Setup

At its most basic, setting up a hammock requires wrapping a suspension system around a tree. But let it be known: not all suspension systems are created equal. Some are trickier than others to set up; some are surprisingly straightforward and easy to use. Some models required more of a learning curve than others, and some took way more time to assemble. We considered how easy each model was to set up, how intuitive they were to set up without reading instructions, and how well the instructions described the setup process. After many years of reviewing hammocks, we are still surprised that many models don't include a suspension system. While many manufacturers sell compatible suspension systems, several others require you to purchase straps specific to each model.

We loved the simplicity of the Kootek, which includes fully adjustable straps and carabiners and is one of the most affordable models in the lineup. While the hammocks with spreader bars weren't the lightest or most compact options, they tended to be super easy to set up, as you just snap the tri-fold poles into place and hook them to your tree straps. The ENO Skyloft, in particular, took us less than three minutes to set up. The ENO JungleNest also impressed us with its intuitive setup.

Expedition models like the Hennessy Expedition and the Ultralite Backpacker come with suspension systems. Both Warbonnet models, the Dream Hammock Sparrow, and the Dutchware Chameleon all have a selection of optional suspension systems available for an additional cost. The lack of included suspension may be a benefit, especially if you prefer a particular style of suspension system. However, it is important to note that not all strap systems are universally compatible, so be wary of mixing and matching to avoid any unwarranted damage to your brand-new hammock.

The ease of setup for most basic models depends on simply wrapping webbing around a tree and clipping a carabiner to a loop. There are many variations on this theme, but we found the basic and ever-popular ENO DoubleNest to effortlessly integrate with ENO's own Atlas straps and other models without any issue.

Other basic models, like the Grand Trunk Ultralight and Grand Trunk Nano 7 hammocks, offer similar versatility, not to mention the Kammok Roo Double, which features a thoughtful design with solid features that not only set it up in a matter of minutes but also provide peace of mind when suspended above the ground.

While we loved the Warbonnet Blackbird and Ridgerunner for many of their design attributes, we found there's more of a learning curve to set up the suspension because standard looped webbing is not included. However, with a little practice, we could master the setup with confidence and ease. The Hennessy system on the Expedition and Ultralite Classic hammocks also feature trickier suspension systems that require specific knots to ensure the lashing securely holds around their tree anchors. These tended to be far more time-consuming and required watching a how-to video from the brand. One thing to note is that some models don't include all the components necessary for setup, which feels silly and frustrating. For example, the Blackbird requires stakes to set up the guy lines; however, they are not included with your purchase.

Durability and Protection

If you plan on using your hammock as your backcountry home, you will want to ensure it provides adequate protection from the elements. A rip in the fabric may leave you lying on the ground, curling up in your busted hammock as a makeshift blanket – not fun. During our research, we gathered more than a few stories of folks woken up by a smack on the back, only to find themselves on the ground with shreds of fabric hanging above them.

To rate durability, we considered the thickness of the fabric, the presence of ripstop materials, and the redundancy of stitching in both the fabric and the suspension. For protection, we assessed how well the netting kept out bugs, the size and shape of the tarp, and the fabric's resistance to wind. We also looked at options offered for additional insulation, like the ability to add an underquilt.

Complete systems – setups that include accessories like a rainfly and bug net – offer the best protection from the elements. In many cases, hammocks intended to be backcountry sleep setups also include extra fabric for added durability. Systems that offer the best protection, like the Warbonnet Ridgerunner and Dutchware Chameleon, already aren't cheap, but it's important to note that the baseline hammock setup does not include a rainfly; those are accessories that you must purchase separately. It is equally important to note that other systems do include a rainfly, setups like the Kammok Mantis and the two Hennessy hammocks we tested.

As you can probably guess, the ultralight models offered the least protection and durability. While hanging in the Nano 7, we could feel even the slightest breeze moving underneath us, an obvious sign of thin material weight. For thinner options such as this, we recommend utilizing a sleeping pad or an underquilt below your body for extra insulation on those cooler nights. Ultimately, the thinner fabric is a blessing and a curse; the lightweight material is nicer to pack around. However, the overall durability decreases simply because one little snag could tear a hole, which could compromise the entire design.

Some single-layer models that lack bug nets, like the Kammok Roo Double, the Kootek Portable, the Wise Owl Outfitters, and the ENO DoubleNest, are wide enough to wrap the fabric around yourself to cocoon inside. This wrapping action provides a bit of extra protection from the sun or bugs but only slightly improves the protection score of these otherwise simple hammocks.

Our testers were especially impressed by the “kanga claws” found in the Kammok Roo Double design that are actually climbing rated and strong enough to withstand 4,720 pounds of force. These carabiners combine with the Dyneema attachment cords to supply additional strength within the construction without adding a ton of extra weight and bulk.

The Vivere Double Cotton with Stand quickly became our favorite freestanding option when tested alongside the PNAEUT Double Hammock with Stand. Though their heavyweight designs decrease both their portability and versatility, our testers appreciated the freedom to set up these hammocks without searching for and relying on two perfectly spaced trees for setup. The Vivere offers a solid steel frame that weighs 20 pounds and offers a weight limit of 450 pounds. This sizable hang is perfect for two people, and the frame never creaked or shifted when we loaded it up beyond the weight capacity. Though it requires a little extra torque to set up, we appreciated the stability along with other features like polyester attachment strings with reinforced metal eyelets for added protection.

Though our testers typically get pretty excited when a highly affordable model outperforms its price tag, we also have to consider whether or not the affordable design is worth the money. Options like the Anyoo Garden Cotton hit the mark on price yet let us down when we discovered the fraying attachment strings and the lack of metal reinforcement surrounding the attachment point to the frame.

Versatility

Everyone has reasons for purchasing and owning a hammock, and we consider many different ways you might be planning to spend time in yours. We tested models that fit particular situations perfectly and others that can adapt to various end uses.

We have already discussed many of these uses, like ultralight options for thru-hikers and highly comfortable options for folks prioritizing a solid night's sleep above any other factor. We found that models with integrated bug nets are surprisingly less versatile than those without, as many bug nets don't fully zip off and can restrict use for anything other than laying down and sleeping.

Certain models proved to accommodate everything from extended use as a shelter to casual campus hangs. Contenders that stood out in this category were the Dutchware Chameleon and the Dream Hammock Sparrow. Both options have many pieces of a whole system that can be added or removed as you desire based on your anticipated conditions. These models are fairly packable, roomy enough for hanging with friends, and comfortable as an overnight sleep system regardless of terrain or weather.

Another notably versatile model is the Warbonnet Blackbird that features a bug net perfect for keeping out those pesky mosquitoes yet has an option similar to other traditional tent structures where the bug net can be rolled up and secured out of the way so as to transition the design as a classic day hammock that's perfect for those who wanna chill and take it easy.

By now, you've already heard us mention the smart and sleek design of the Kammok Roo Double, which is also highly versatile, thanks to eight gear loops that line the sides of the hammock. These gear loops allow you to store small items while you're chilling, and they also allow you to attach other manufacturer accessories that are sold separately. These accessories include everything from underquilts to bug nets to gear slings and more, which allow you to customize your perfect backcountry shelter. While other options like the ENO Doublenest are also compatible with accessories sold separately, we believe that the Kammok Roo is the best option in regards to optimal versatility.

Weight

Whether you're carrying your hammock down to the park or over 2,000 miles on a thru-hike, at some point, you will have to carry your suspended haven with you. The ounces and grams will be more or less important based on your personal preferences, so we consider the end-use (depending on the intended purpose) and the objective measurement of a hammock's weight.

Our weight metric scores take into account the hammocks themselves as well as their components. We weighed the hammocks with suspension straps – since you will always have to carry the hammock and suspension system together – and, when applicable, as entire shelter systems, which may include a tarp and bug net. Many hammock systems come with straps, while others have to be purchased separately. If you are particularly concerned about weight, purchasing a hammock that doesn't include straps allows you to customize your system based on weight, price, and ease of suspension system setup.

We also considered the end-use, or intended purpose, when rating the weight of each hammock. A day-use model may weigh less than a shelter model yet have a lower score for this metric because the heavier model also included bug netting and a rainfly. The ENO Skyloft is a great example of a design intended purely for backyard or day use. While the weight and packability of this hammock score low, the tradeoff is greater space, comfort, strength, and durability. After all, this isn't the kind you throw in your bag as an afterthought, but choose intentionally for its comfort and durability.

Weighing a little over two pounds (35 ounces) without any detachable accessories is the Warbonnet Ridgerunner. This option is definitely on the hefty side, especially when considering a backcountry option. However, it is important to keep in mind that this includes an attached bug net, spreader bars, and a suspension system. It may appear heavy compared to other hammock systems, but it's totally reasonable when paired against the lightest weight one-person tents.

The lightest setup we tested was the Grand Trunk Nano 7, which weighed a featherweight 5 ounces, including the integrated compression stuff sack. While this measurement is a little misleading, considering only the weight of the hammock and compression sack, when including the Trunk straps that are purchased separately, the entire kit weighs in at a mere 17 ounces—not bad at all.

When it comes to day-use hammocks, you may not be entirely focused on weight. But the ability to stuff a small, light package into your backpack has its advantages. The lightest day models tend to be the smallest. While the more spacious and comfy options like the Wise Owl Outfitters, the Kootek Portable, and the ENO Doublenest weighed several ounces heavier than some of their ultralight counterparts.

And while the Kammok Roo Double isn't any ultralight option, it only weighs 24 ounces for both the hammock and the Python 10 suspension straps. It also packs down into a very compact size that is easy to throw into a daypack or diversify the design by purchasing additional accessories to create your own backcountry shelter.

Weighing in at 32 ounces for the entire shelter (not including stakes), the lightest full shelter on a budget is the Hennessy Ultralite Backpacker. The only other system that even comes close is the Kammok Mantis, which weighs 35 ounces for a comparable system. Interestingly, the Kammok system of just hammock and straps is nearly eight ounces lighter, but only because the Ultralite Backpacker includes an integrated bug net.

Remember that the longer distance you're hauling your hammock, the more important weight will be. Most ultralight backpackers and travelers are here specifically because they are opting for a lightweight alternative for a sleep system. But if you intend to use your hammock for merely lounging around in the backyard or a park, this metric will be less important for you. A roomy design that prioritizes comfort over ounces will be more suitable in that case. Take the Anyoo Garden Cotton, for example. This design is not created for backcountry performance, nor is it very lightweight. However, the design is quite packable thanks to a functional stuff sack that can be thrown over a shoulder while seeking the perfect trees that will allow for setup.

Conclusion

Hammocks are not for everyone or every environment, but they can provide the ultimate sleep and relaxation experience for many outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the novelty of floating above the ground, they are often among the most compact and lightweight sleeping systems. Our goal with this article and the individual reviews is to help you narrow down the options and get closer to choosing your perfect hammock.

But, if you decide a hammock isn't your thing, we've also spent many nights in ultralight tents, and we are more than happy to share our top picks with you. Whether you're going fast and light or just getting into backpacking, our gear experts will help you find the right backpacking gear to get you outside.