Looking for recommendations on hammock systems, specifically between the Hennessy Explorer Deluxe and the ENO JungleLink Systems. Have been using a cheaper DIY set up for the past 5 years but its starting to show its age. I have considered the WarBonnet as well but unfortunately REI does not carry it and I have some $$$ to spend there! Any experience/opinions with the explorer or junglelink systems is appreciated.

Cheers

Personally, I have reservations about integrated bug nets, as mosquitos can and will bite you from below. You may be using a pad, but there will be times when you don't want to use one, or, even if you do use it, there will be times that your leg or arm is hanging off over it and they will find that spot and they WILL bit you. I purchased the Pathfinder hammock last year (affordable and decent) which is similar to the JungleLink and that has been my main critique of it. I thought I would like the integrated bug net but have found that not to be the case.

I've been using the ENO OneLink for like five years. The removable bug net goes over the entire hammock, top and bottom. For this reason, I consider it better. It protects from bugs better (assuming you properly secure the ends) and is more versatile because when I hammock camp in cold months I can leave the bug net behind and carry that much less.

No opinion on the Hennessy hammock, other than the fact that it looks to have the integrated bug net like the JungleLink.

If you get the Hennessy, I would upgrade to a hex tarp if possible. You can do that if you order from Hennessy. Not sure about REI.

Assuming you get a hammock with an integrated bug net, I would suggest you find a double-bottom hammock to keep mosquitoes at bay from underneath as well as to hold a thermal pad. It adds a snick of weight.

I can't say since I don't have either of them. I do have the Warbonnet Ridgerunner though and man it's an upgrade from my trusty old Grand Trunk. I've never had a hammock set up with this many features before: giant pockets on either side, lay-flat design, double layer underneath (protects from the mosquitos which my grand trunk never did well, and provides a sleeping pad sleeve which I use in the winter), bungee attachments for the mosquito netting easily adjustable while hanging.) It's amazing what spending up a little big can do. Oh, and more than any of the features, their customer service is some of the best I've ever worked with. Best of luck on whatever you purchase. I've heard great things about the Hennessy as well.

Personally I would spend the REI rebate on something else and buy your hammock gear from one of the dedicated hanging cottage vendors like Dutchware Gear, Warbonnet Outdoors, Enlightened Equipment, Hammock Gear, etc.
Their products are exceptionally designed and executed, and made in the USA.

colecudd: "Looking for recommendations on hammock systems, specifically between the Hennessy Explorer Deluxe and the ENO JungleLink Systems. Have been using a cheaper DIY set up for the past 5 years but its starting to show its age. I have considered the WarBonnet as well but unfortunately REI does not carry it and I have some $$$ to spend there! Any experience/opinions with the explorer or junglelink systems is appreciated.

Cheers"

I started hammock camping with a ENO Doublenest One-Link system about 10 years ago. This was a cheap way to gain some experience with hammock camping that I quickly outgrew. You say you've been hammocking for the past 5 years. You are well beyond the ENO grade of hammock.

I have seen but, never used a Hennessy. It seems small and lower quality compared to my two Warbonnet Blackbird hammocks. However, if you are limiting yourself to the REI available options, try the Hennessy.

Alternatively, Cheap and DIY is a really smart way to continue hammock camping.

Good Luck

I have owned Clark Hammocks, Hennessy (several different types), Grand Trunk, and Eureka Chrysalis (bridge hammock). Our group has owned Warbonnet and Eno hammocks.

I would advocate for the attached mosquito netting for the very reason that the mosquitoes can't get in. When they are really thick, I bring a Hennessy classic with the bottom entry. . . mosquitoes don't seem to get in when entering and exiting on those.

We never go when it is hot. . .we always go in September so underquilts are the name of the game.

I have been using hammocks for 25 years. Hennessy is the biggest manufacturer along with Eno. Warbonnet is a "cottage industry" hammock maker. While Warbonnet is made in the US, Hennessy is made in Canada. I don't really see the difference.

It kind of boils down to this: if you really want to sleep on your side, you will want a bridge hammock. That narrows it down to 3 manufacturers that I know of. I have several Eureka Chrysalis and know the inventory of those. Way over engineered, but have more bells and whistles then any other hammock out there.

My second choice are Hennessy hammocks , both bottom and side entry. As others have said, I use the Hex tarp on these.

Thanks everyone for the help! I think I am going to splurge and go with the Hennessy
https://hennessyhammock.com/products/4season-survivorman-xl-zip