The summer months are the times when most of us spend the majority of our time outside, whether it is fishing, hunting, hiking, or just relaxing with family and friends. Hammocks are a sure fire way to enjoy some relaxing time outside in the backyard but also can be used as sleeping arrangements when backcountry hunting or hiking. These comfortable couches come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and intended uses so anyone looking for a hammock has a number of options to choose from with their own sets of advantages and disadvantage.

While there are quite a few types of hammocks available they can be broken down into three general groups: chairs, spreader bar, and backcountry hammocks. The most common hammock you will find in use is the spreader bar style which is what pops into most people’s mind of when they hear the word “hammock.” Typically made from cotton ropes or woven fabric, the spreader hammocks are the largest of the styles and can be used for sleeping, lounging, or just sitting. The spreader-bar hammock is easily recognized by wooden or metal bars at the head and foot of the hammock, spreading its width and allowing for easy access for casual use, such as in a backyard. Unfortunately, the spreader bars also make the hammock unsteady since the metacenter of the hammock when sleeping is very high. Though one can lie in a hammock lengthwise or across its width, most hammocks are best used with a diagonal position, as it provides the most room and support. Users with back and joint pains have reported some relief from these problems when sleeping in a hammock in this manner. An example of a traditional spreader-bar hammock is the Texsport Padre Island hammock. The Padre Island model which features cool, comfortable cotton construction with an overall size of 112” by 45” with a bed size of 76” by 48”. In addition, this strong cotton rope hammock has a weight limit of 350 pounds making it suitable for adults and children.

The second type of hammock that you will often come across is a hammock swing which generally hangs from a hook in the ceiling or is attached over a limb or structural cross beam. A hammock swing gives more advantages than a basic hammock because it is more durable and it can swing back and forth rocking you to sleep or just relaxing your body while you enjoy your favorite novel. Savor the moments in a hammock swing while reclining in the summer afternoon or laying beside your significant other with nothing in mind other than watching the sun cross the sky. As opposed to traditional hammocks, it is not easy to find hammock swings in your local outdoor patio store or hardware store. Hammock swings have been around for quite a while, but technology has brought it to a new level. Firm cables help keep them in place. The adjustable, pivotal steel attachment keeps the hammock from falling, yet it has the flexibility to swing back and forth with the slightest breeze. The Texsport Day Dreamer hammock swing is a great example of a solid hammock swing made with durable quilted cotton and seat padding, extra wide and tall to accommodate most adults, and metal eyelets for reduced wear and increased durability.

The third and final type of hammock is not one that is typically used for relaxing in the backyard, but it is used for backcountry hiking and hunting gear for trips. Increasing in popularity, Leave No Trace hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts are turning to these high tech hammocks. These hammocks are favored by outdoors-folk because of their reduced impact on the environment and their light weight and easy transportation in comparison to tents. Most ultra light hammocks are made from nylon and feature a mosquito net and storage compartments. Check out the Eagle’s Nest Double Nest hammock which can shrink down to the size of a large softball. With a weight limit of 400 pounds this hammock can house up to two adults comfortably in almost any situation. Safety is not a concern with the Eagle’s Nest hammock since it comes with heavy duty carabineers and line.

What type of hammock do you prefer? Share with others by leaving a comment below on the outdoor news section and find all your outdoor sporting goods needs at PoorFish Outdoors.