I'd post in the hang forum but seems like theres not much traffic in there.

I'm thinking of getting into hanging and have been doing some research.
Think I've got it down to 2 hammocks...

Warbonnet Ridgerunner or the Blackbird XLC

Any pros and cons to them.

I sleep on my side or back ..
My size is 6'2" and about 210#

Lets see your thoughts

Thanks

I just ordered one from Superior Gear at Canoecopia. Have used a Hennessy for years, but this one makes set up quicker and easier. Also incorporates under quilt into it. Laid in it at Copia and it was amazing. They are custom made. So length and color are up to you. Also, you can use your own fly if you want. It is all a-la-carte.
Video

I am a side sleeper with bad shoulders so I use a bridge style hammock. I wanted a ridgerunner but decided to DIY one. If i had to do it again I would probably just by a ridgerunner and tarp. The pockets like on the ridgerunner and integrated bug net may be my next upgrades.

Best sleep in the woods I have ever had has been since I switched to hammocks.

I'm your same size exactly. WB is a great company and I've got the WB Eldorado , which is pretty much the same as the xlc. I didn't want the storage shelf, the internal Ridgeline bag is more than enough for me.
Hands down the flattest hammock I've slept in, but you'll want to follow manufacturing recommendations on the perfect hang for your model. It's easy once you know what you're looking for.

I've owned both but sold the XLC as I could never get comfortable. I now have three Ridgerunners in different configurations. I am very pleased with them. There is high learning curve with a gathered end hammock, but not much with a bridge. Can't beat the view!

I use a Ridgerunner with a Super Fly Tarp. The setup is strong. Withstood, 60+ mph winds last June on Agnes. The Storm was blowing broadside into the tarp, Only a stake was damaged, but it held during the storm.

Those are both high quality but very different experiences.

I have two ridgerunners...if you like the bridge style, they are popular for a reason.

I have two Superior Gear Ultimate Bundles, amazing hammocks. Not cheap, but hard to put a value on a good night’s sleep. I love these hammocks. Should last a very, very long time. I just got back from a winter trip and I slept like a baby.

Tony

I have a WB XLC and a Dream Hammock Sparrow. The Sparrow is more comfortable but I really like the shelf on the XLC.

I got the double layer XLC but would get the single if I had to do it again.

MidwestFirecraft: "I've owned both but sold the XLC as I could never get comfortable. I now have three Ridgerunners in different configurations. I am very pleased with them. There is high learning curve with a gathered end hammock, but not much with a bridge. Can't beat the view!
"

I'm pretty sure I bought one of your XLC's last year?

Anyway, to OP, I'm 6ft3in and weigh 200lbs, and am a back sleeper. I've never slept better than with in the XLC. Practice putting it up a couple times, and it's easy peasy.

jlw034: "I'm pretty sure I bought one of your XLC's last year?


Anyway, to OP, I'm 6ft3in and weigh 200lbs, and am a back sleeper. I've never slept better than with in the XLC. Practice putting it up a couple times, and it's easy peasy."

That was me. Glad you like it! The OP did mention he likes to sleep on his side. I could never do that in a gathered end hammock like I can in a bridge. Just like canoes, specs don't tell the whole story. If you could try the models before you bought them that would be best.

All these suggestions are great. I would submit that for me, the Kammok Mantis has been terrific. Well engineered and importantly, the customer service has been great. Super lightweight (there is a UL ultralight version) and it packs down to nothing. Super impressed. Ultimately the perfect hammock is the one that's right for each individual. Check out Shug's YouTube channel for good info. Happy hangs and we'll see you up there!

Not sure what you mean when you say gathered end of the hammock..
And the bridge style ...

Kind of new to the hammock then

podgeo: "Not sure what you mean when you say gathered end of the hammock..
And the bridge style ...


Kind of new to the hammock then "

This is brief article that explains it well:

Bridge vs. Gathered End Hammock

I highly recommend trying before you buy.

I was apprehensive about the learning curve involved with gathered end hammocks and thought the bridge style would be right for me. I bought a 12 foot gathered end model to play with in the backyard with my kids. After napping in it I added a fronkey bugnet, underquilt and tarp to it and will never camp in a tent again.

I started with the Blackbird and swore off tents. Issues with my shoulders led to getting the Ridgerunner. Gathered end hammocks tend to pinch/push my shoulders leading to my hands and arms getting numb. This does not happen in the flat lay of the bridge hammock.
And while there is less traffic, the hanging forum will offer lots of opinions on UQ or/and pads, tarps for hammocks and most of what you will experience on the learning curve. One tip is finding flat. If one end is higher than the other you still slide downhill, just like in a tent. With a hammock you make flat and that itself is a learning curve.
And another vote for try before you buy. Spring is coming and folks here are willing to share. Usually a group meeting will happen. Nothing has been posted yet but watch for one. These wingnight events are fantastic opportunities to see and experience the tips and tricks of like minded good people.

fadersup: "I have a WB XLC and a Dream Hammock Sparrow. The Sparrow is more comfortable but I really like the shelf on the XLC.


I got the double layer XLC but would get the single if I had to do it again."

I'm curious why you'd get the single? I'm considering an xlc and have been going back and forth about double vs single so I'm interested in hearing your thoughts.

tomo: "

fadersup: "I have a WB XLC and a Dream Hammock Sparrow. The Sparrow is more comfortable but I really like the shelf on the XLC.



I got the double layer XLC but would get the single if I had to do it again."

I'm curious why you'd get the single? I'm considering an xlc and have been going back and forth about double vs single so I'm interested in hearing your thoughts."

I’ll start with the reasons for choosing double. Mosquito protection in hot weather, additional warmth in cooler temps, ability to use a pad, and overall durability.

The mosquito protection is debated on the boards and I haven’t put it to the test. After trying both I prefer under quilts to pads and can add something under my feet If necessary. With a quality manufacturer, durability isn’t an issue.

I love and will keep the XLC for colder temps but the single layer has more give, and that little bit of stretch means more comfort. Not to mention it saves a little weight and space in the pack.

You’ll be happy either way, WB makes excellent gear. Just my 2 cents.

Thanks for the replies so far

Few more questions
Can someone post a picture of either the Blackbird or Ridgerunner set up

And what tarps are you guys using

I have a both a Ridgerunner and a BBXLC with 30F underquilts from Warbonnet. Bought Thunderfly tarps for them, they keep us dry in storms just fine (get the longer version for the RR). My wife and I love them. It’s easier to sleep on your side in the RR but I can sleep on my side just fine in the XLC.
The RR is easier for me to get a good hang but I like the simplicity of the XLC (no poles). That said we love them both. The storage pockets on the RR and the shelf on the XLC are REALLY handy. Almost gave up camping do to sore shoulders and back but since switching to hammocks it has been nothing but sweet dreams. They were a real game changer for us +50 yr olds.

In any case do yourself a favor and watch Shug’s hammock videos on YouTube (as well as others), they can really help you avoid a lot of uncomfortable mistakes. Like many have said it’s a great idea to practice in the back yard or local parks before heading out too far.

Good luck, hope you enjoy it!

podgeo: "Thanks for the replies so far


Few more questions
Can someone post a picture of either the Blackbird or Ridgerunner set up


And what tarps are you guys using "

Orange and Yellow Spindrift sock. I prefer the yellow. Blocks out any drafts, and without heavy rain or in winter I don't even use a tarp half the time.

Ridgerunner with Winter Haven tarp:


Ridgerunner with Superfly tarp:


Ridgerunner with CCS tarp:





Blackbird XLC with Superfly:

I am 6'2" and 210 as well. A Bridge-style design is the best for me. I get a lot of shoulder squeeze in gathered end hammocks. I also find it a lot easier to sleep on my side in a Bridge hammock.

podgeo: "picture of either the Blackbird or Ridgerunner set up
And what tarps are you guys using "

Here are a few of a Ridgerunner under a zpacks 11 foot DCF hammock tarp (with 'doors') - 11 foot is a little short, recommend 12'. My dream (very expensive) tarp is the 12' dyneema palace tarp by Hammock Gear.

I've been hammock camping for over 6 years and completely agree about trying before you buy. If you can't, then I agree w/ the others that a bridge-style hammock would better suit your side-sleeping better than a traditional gathered-end hammock.

2¢ advise: Get a Warbonnet Ridgerunner

10¢ advise: Get your butt to a hammock hang

The nearest hang I know of to you within the next 60 days is BACONFEST. Here's the website with all the info: www.bitly.com/baconfest2022

I know one guy coming who sleeps in his Ridgerunner instead of a bed in his home. He could answer ALL your questions about that hammock.

And while I don't have a Ridgerunner for you to sleep in, I have a spare REI Quarter-Dome Air Hammock you could sleep in. Here's what it looks like: https://www.rei.com/product/110804/rei-co-op-quarter-dome-air-hammock

Grab a buddy and come join us. It'd be great to get some more MN hangers to attend!

Boy, almost impossible to give advice on this. Everyone is so different. What works for one, doesn't work for others.
First, there are quality levels. All the Chinese stuff in Amazon is the bottom tier. Cheap, probably won't be that comfortable or durable. You're not just setting this up in the park for an afternoon... you're sleeping for hours in it.

Next tier up is "semi pro" or advanced amateur...whatever....Lawton Blue Ridge bridge hammock. Hennessy is good stuff for reasonable money and a cut above the Lawton with various models to choose from.

Next up is the pro stuff like Warbonnet.

At the top is the custom stuff. small manufacturers in US making some stock stuff and some custom stuff. Dream Hammock, Dutchware, Simply Light Designs and others.

You need to decide if you want bugnet (almost essential) and if you want it removable. Some makers have over-covers for winter camping....some are interchangable.

Then....you need to figure out your insulation.... underquilt and overquilt.

Any your suspension options.
Then tarp options.

There's a LOT to it...and many of the factors are related.

Go in the Hammock Forums website. Read, read, read...then ask questions. There are many people who will help guide you. It's really hard to try this stuff out because most of the outdoor gear stores do not stock much if any.

Personally I started thinking Lawton...then the more I read.... Hennessy....then the more I read, Warbonnet...then the more I read...Dutchware and Dream Hammock. I ended up with a custom Dream Hammock Sparrow and I LOVE it!

Most of the gathered-end hammocks are asymmetrical lay. Meaning you don't lay in the hammock completely straight alone its length and banana-like. You lay in a diagonal. The hammock is designed to give you a fairly flat "lay" in this position. Usually side sleeping is no problem.
Good luck in the journey.

Another RidgeRunner guy here. I’ve used it on 2 trips a year for the past 4 years and love it! I’m a side sleeper and have never slept better in the BW. My setup is a double layer RR with a 13’ custom Superfly tarp. I love the bigger tarp with pole modifications for the extra room. I also use a wide pad in between layers for a flatter lie. The initial cost of hammock,tarp,top and under quilts was kind of steep but was worth it for me to sleep better.

I've tripped with my XLC double layer for many years and I couldn't be happier. I've likely slept in my XLC for over 3 months cumulatively over the years.

I initially got a single layer and immediately traded it in for a double layer after some ravaging mosquitos were biting through the single layer. I didn't think it could happen but it did. Those little Minnesota skeeters can and do bite through a single layer. I am an ultralight packer, but the added weight of a double layer is miniscule in the canoe camping world.

I'm an occasional side sleeper but I've never had a problem getting comfy in the XLC.

The foot box is perfect and I've never experienced any calf pressure that some folks seem to complain about. I'm guessing they string it too tight without enough sag in the hang.

I'd highly recommend the XLC.

New to this last year about this time. I'll echo what a few others have said. Shug on Youtube, and hammockforums.net. Get as much information as you can. It's overwhelming the amount of options. My first real hammock is the WB RR, but I got the itch to try a gathered end and bought a netless from Dutch. Right away I figured out it is a lot easier to get the hang just right with the RR. I'm still figuring it out but after a week in a hammock, I'm done with the tents.

Ill add to this, I started off with a hennessy, then a warbonnet, now I own and love the dutchware chameleon. all good hammocks, very happy with the 11 ft length, i too am your size and it is very comfy, start off with good gear, you won't regret it.

I'm new to hanging myself so can't add info with any amount of experience behind it. But I can say the this book, The Ultimate Hang 2 , does provide a ton of useful information and can shorten that learning curve.

I started out with the war bonnet blackbird. And then moved to the ridge runner. The tarp on the floor bonnet blackbird is the superfly when I first started hammocking it didn't have the ridge running I wasn't aware of bridge hammocks. But moving to the ridge runner was a vast improvement in sleep comfort. So the ridge runner pictures above are showing with a 15x15 cook custom sewing tarp. At the time I couldn't find a tarp that I like I wanted one that would go almost all the way to the ground and there were very few offerings at the time.



I noticed that you live in Hastings Minnesota I'm not that far from you in Apple valley if you want I could meet you sometime maybe at spring lake Park or something and we can set up both hammocks and you can see him in use. You can message me by the email envelope under my header name


Tony

I own both the Blackbird XLC and Ridgerunner. I use the BB XLC most often. I also recommend "try before you buy" but, if you can't, they keep their resale value well.

With the BB XLC, I use a WB 11' Thunderfly tarp. With the RR, a WB 13' MountainFly tarp. Zero regrets with either hammock or tarp. Can't imagine parting with them any time soon.

I also recommend a Simply Light Designs 'Catch All Sack' to simplify and speed up set up and take down of the hammock.

And we haven't even gotten started on under quilts, top quilts, suspension hardware and tarp hardware! Take the red pill and enjoy the journey...

Yes there is a definite rabbit hole once you start into hammocks between all the cottage vendors the clips ropes ties different ways to attach you
r hammock to the tree, under quilt, top quilt pads instead of quilts, and then you get into all the types of tarps very confusing when you look at all of it at first. Hammock forums is a good place to get a lot of information.


Tony

Tony: "



I started out with the war bonnet blackbird. And then moved to the ridge runner. The tarp on the floor bonnet blackbird is the superfly when I first started hammocking it didn't have the ridge running I wasn't aware of bridge hammocks. But moving to the ridge runner was a vast improvement in sleep comfort. So the ridge runner pictures above are showing with a 15x15 cook custom sewing tarp. At the time I couldn't find a tarp that I like I wanted one that would go almost all the way to the ground and there were very few offerings at the time.



I noticed that you live in Hastings Minnesota I'm not that far from you in Apple valley if you want I could meet you sometime maybe at spring lake Park or something and we can set up both hammocks and you can see him in use. You can message me by the email envelope under my header name



Tony"

Yes i'm in Hastings.. I will keep this in mind. Thanks for the offer
I do got a friend that has a Blackbird I'm sure I could try.

So after all my thinking on the subject.
I'm going to order a Ridgerunner and a superfly tarp

The superfly seems it would have the best protect from rain. and I will order custom as it seems some of you recommend a longer tarp

I will also go with the web buckles suspension set up

Thanks for all the responses. I will try a do a update later when I get my set up and try it out

Any other comments are appreciated

Thanks folks

Warbonnet does carry a limited selection of "stock" 13ft Superfly tarps at a slightly reduced rate.

I presume you are including the UQ? Good choice!

podgeo: "So after all my thinking on the subject.
I'm going to order a Ridgerunner and a superfly tarp


The superfly seems it would have the best protect from rain. and I will order custom as it seems some of you recommend a longer tarp


I will also go with the web buckles suspension set up


Thanks for all the responses. I will try a do a update later when I get my set up and try it out


Any other comments are appreciated


Thanks folks "

Whooo hoo! Keep us posted!

Sale on new overproduced RR right now.
Ridgerunner

I have used many different hammocks looking for my best fit. I hover between a home made asymmetrical hammock which a a similar design to the Eldorado and the Eldorado itself. Presently I have settled with the Eldorado (XLC). The Eldorado is lighter, more versatile, and also allows my need for "side" sleeping in comfort. But with that said, I have no issue with the hammock cupping around me when I sleep in the side position.

I have used bridge hammocks, But have found them a pain to set up and not an improvement in comfort for the extra weight and effort. I also tend to rotate side-back-side-repeat and move about at night and this makes the bridge a bit tippy for that style of sleeping.

One thing about hammocks. It is definitely not one size fits all.

Loony_canoe: "One thing about hammocks. It is definitely not one size fits all."

Well said. People mention calf ridge with gathered end hammocks. I have never experienced this, but my knees hurt so bad, I would wake up in pain. I tried a small pillow under my knees, but it was uncomfortable and still painful. Having tried to change several times in my bridge hammock I will attest to it being much more tippy!

MidwestFirecraft: "

Loony_canoe: "One thing about hammocks. It is definitely not one size fits all."

Well said. People mention calf ridge with gathered end hammocks. I have never experienced this, but my knees hurt so bad, I would wake up in pain. I tried a small pillow under my knees, but it was uncomfortable and still painful. Having tried to change several times in my bridge hammock I will attest to it being much more tippy!"

I’m in a warbonnet Blackbird which is a gathered end hammock and it has a footbox on one side. So you lay on a diagonal and it becomes a very flat lay. I would get pain under my knees in a regular hammock but not with the footbox of the blackbird.

TomT: "I’m in a warbonnet Blackbird which is a gathered end hammock and it has a footbox on one side. So you lay on a diagonal and it becomes a very flat lay. I would get pain under my knees in a regular hammock but not with the footbox of the blackbird. "

I had a Blackbird XLC with a footbox, didn't help me. Like was previously stated, to each his own.

I made a bridge hammock with a kit from RBTR in 2020, modified it to have huge saddlebags and bugnet on it's own ridge line. I added a UGQ WinterDream this year & am looking forward to my first hang in it hopefully later this month!

I've got a Blackbird XLC (double layer) and Thunderfly tarp, with a 20F WB Yeti underquilt and 30F Hammock Gear Econ Burrow topquilt. It's a fantastic setup. Make sure you get a mesh sleeve/"snakeskin" for your tarp and look into Dutchware Gear for Flyz and Fleaz which will change your life when it comes to rigging tarps and guylines! I do have 2 videos on this setup on my YT channel in case you want to see this setup in action.

Tarp setups

Hammock setup (kind of long)

I have two Clarks and, quite honestly, wouldn't camp in anything else. I got my first one almost 10 years ago.
The owner retired and sold the production rights to Dutch Ware.
NX-270


Video

Double layer Ridgerunner and superfly tarp with stuff sack and two stickers have been ordered... Now the wait

Did not order a UQ. Going to try it with my insulated mat I use in my Big Agnes sleeping bag first

I use a neoair Xtherm, Xlite or Uberlite in my double layer RR, depending on the season. All of them are the large 77x25 size. Just FYI, I think a 20" wide mat would be suboptimal.

If I had a magic wand, I'd take a 30" wide Xtherm/Xlite/Uberlite...as it is, I use a couple extra items of clothing along the edges of the mattress to keep my elbows from getting cold.

Worth the struggle to get them in place. Just plan on drilling them a little larger than they come too.

ETA: Link won't post I guess. Fugal Innovations bridge buttons.

ODoyle: "Worth the struggle to get them in place. Just plan on drilling them a little larger than they come too.

ETA: Link won't post I guess. Fugal Innovations bridge buttons.


"

Fugal Innovations bridge buttons

Saberboys: "

ODoyle: "Worth the struggle to get them in place. Just plan on drilling them a little larger than they come too.


ETA: Link won't post I guess. Fugal Innovations bridge buttons.



"

Fugal Innovations bridge buttons "

Thank You

Got my hammock and tarp today

Now if it was warmer and not 100mph winds I could try it out

That's a pretty fast response time on your order. Enjoy your new hammock and tarp. I know I really like my ridge runner

Tony

Tony: "That's a pretty fast response time on your order. Enjoy your new hammock and tarp. I know I really like my ridge runner


Tony"

I thought so to ordered on 4-9 and delivered 4-14

As a new to hammocks person someone needs to impress on you how important bottom insulation is! The superior hammocks have the option of built in insulation. Other than that you will want a under quilt.
I am a side sleeper and use a WBBB and a pillow. I use a ¾ length UQ and am jealous of the no fiddle factor with the Superior Hammocks built in insulation.

I've been hammock camping for a little while now, and I love it! I've made changes, tried a few things, and still have regrets.

At your size, I think a bridge hammock would be great! I'm 6'1, and I haven't yet had a gathered end hammock that was big enough for me to really feel comfortable in. I'd love to have a Dutchware Banyan, but I bought yet another gathered end setup shortly before they became available again.

I'll reiterate the posts that emphasize bottom insulation. I can't recommend highly enough the Hammock Gear Econ Incubator/Phoenix/Burrow. I don't think you'll find high-end quality for such a low price. The trade-off for the econ line is slightly more weight than the expensive stuff, but the difference is very small in my mind.

Lastly, the BWCA is the perfect place for hammock camping!

Update
Ridgerunner and super fly trap
Finally tried my hammock out last night in the back yard. Was easy to set up. I did sleep pretty good in it. Started to get cool come morning just had a blanket I laid on and that moved around on me. Think I'll be getting a under quilt

Good idea. An underquilt/ pad is just as important as the hammock. I prefer an underquilt as I like the feel of my hammock fabric.

Lawnchair107: "Good idea. An underquilt/ pad is just as important as the hammock. I prefer an underquilt as I like the feel of my hammock fabric."

I'm going to try with my Agnes pad from my sleeping bag this Friday night. but will probably be ordering a under quilt real soon. I just think the UQ would be more comfortable

Don't inflate the pad fully, just enough so it has loft and will insulate.
I recently got a UGQ Zeppelin 20F UQ to go with my bridge. It also works with gathered end hammocks. I'm hooked.

mirth: "Don't inflate the pad fully, just enough so it has loft and will insulate.
I recently got a UGQ Zeppelin 20F UQ to go with my bridge. It also works with gathered end hammocks. I'm hooked."

I read somewhere not to fully inflate it so I didn't. Still didn't like it going to order a UQ hopefully it will be here by the end of the month for my trip

So I’ve always been a hammock camper, and have nearly every configuration I’ve ever seen. Started with some sort of jungle hammock 15 years ago, then the ENO hammock setups, then on to the ENO skylite, then AMOK, then Opeongo. I just ordered a Kammock mantis to use for side trips when base camping.
The ENO skylite with the integrated bug net is probably the most comfortable easy setup for your money, it’s not the lightest, but not the heaviest.

The AMOk system looked promising and has a built in pad for underside insulation. However entering and exiting is a problem and I seem to dump the contents of the hammock every time. But the tarp it comes with is top notch and I use it with other setups.

The Opeongo system is really pretty amazing and can be set on the ground if need be. It’s pretty much like a cot in the woods. I have moved towards using an inflatable mattress instead of under-quilt to save space. It’s not ultralight by any means, but I’ve never been more comfortable in the woods.

I can definitely vouch for the quality of the Warbonnet hammocks, but I only own the XLC, and although I was reluctant at first to try a hammock, my growing discomfort on the ground forced me to do it. Now I am a new man!! I am a side/fetal sleeper and I find the XLC to be super comfy, but admittedly I usually stay on my back. It is the most amazing back sleep I've ever had. It is pretty easy to sleep in the fetal position but would not be good for side sleeping with legs extended. I have heard that the Ridgerunner is good for the latter but can be difficult or impossible to lie in fetal position unless you have shorter legs. It would be interesting to try a RR, but I'm VERY happy with the XLC and it is significantly lighter. It is VERY important to follow the set up instructions on the Warbonnet site. Foot end 12-18" higher than head (yes, foot end higher!), ridgeline taught but not fiddle string tight, suspension at aprox. 30 deg angle and lay at an angle with feet in foot box. Most people seem to set it too tight and don't get the foot end high enough which makes you slide down all night and keeps you from lying flat.

mgraber: "I can definitely vouch for the quality of the Warbonnet hammocks, but I only own the XLC, and although I was reluctant at first to try a hammock, my growing discomfort on the ground forced me to do it. Now I am a new man!! I am a side/fetal sleeper and I find the XLC to be super comfy, but admittedly I usually stay on my back. It is the most amazing back sleep I've ever had. It is pretty easy to sleep in the fetal position but would not be good for side sleeping with legs extended. I have heard that the Ridgerunner is good for the latter but can be difficult or impossible to lie in fetal position unless you have shorter legs. It would be interesting to try a RR, but I'm VERY happy with the XLC and it is significantly lighter. It is VERY important to follow the set up instructions on the Warbonnet site. Foot end 12-18" higher than head (yes, foot end higher!), ridgeline taught but not fiddle string tight, suspension at aprox. 30 deg angle and lay at an angle with feet in foot box. Most people seem to set it too tight and don't get the foot end high enough which makes you slide down all night and keeps you from lying flat."

I did go with the RR from Warbonnet. Slept in it twice in the backyard. Mainly sleep on my back or side. I was comfortable. Think im going to like getting off the ground. Cant wait for my trip at the end of the month.
Just wish id just ordered the UQ when I bought the Hammock. Ordered it this morning hope it gets here by the 30th of Aug.. Was on backorder :(

Well, congratulations on getting off the ground, it is definitely a game changer! Have a great trip! If you have the double layer, I've heard that a pad often improves the lay in RR but not BB. Seems everything is on back order smh.

Regarding "try before you buy"...LLBean and REI and my local REI competitor, do not have a single camping hammock in the stores. Everyone, and I mean everyone, carries the ENO and Grand Trunk stuff. But nobody has real hammocks in a store where you can try them out. Seems foolish to me. Like they don't understand the hammock market potential. But in a way, that's great too. Because all the high-end custom small-shop manufacturers can continue to survive without the national chain competition.

podgeo: "

mirth: "Don't inflate the pad fully, just enough so it has loft and will insulate.
I recently got a UGQ Zeppelin 20F UQ to go with my bridge. It also works with gathered end hammocks. I'm hooked."

I read somewhere not to fully inflate it so I didn't. Still didn't like it going to order a UQ hopefully it will be here by the end of the month for my trip "

How wide is your pad? When I first got my RR I tried using my narrow pad and didn’t like it at all,I kept sliding off the side. I bought a wider pad and I really like the way it feels. I usually trip in May or September so I use both a pad and an UQ.

mgraber: "Well, congratulations on getting off the ground, it is definitely a game changer! Have a great trip! If you have the double layer, I've heard that a pad often improves the lay in RR but not BB. Seems everything is on back order smh."

Thanks
yes I got the two layer. I tried a pad last weekend liked it but if I laid at a angle seemed like it made the hammock tilt a little and slide off the pad some. pad is only 20 or 22 inches wide

moray: "

podgeo: "

mirth: "Don't inflate the pad fully, just enough so it has loft and will insulate.
I recently got a UGQ Zeppelin 20F UQ to go with my bridge. It also works with gathered end hammocks. I'm hooked."

I read somewhere not to fully inflate it so I didn't. Still didn't like it going to order a UQ hopefully it will be here by the end of the month for my trip "

How wide is your pad? When I first got my RR I tried using my narrow pad and didn’t like it at all,I kept sliding off the side. I bought a wider pad and I really like the way it feels. I usually trip in May or September so I use both a pad and an UQ."

pad is 20 or 22 its made to fit in my Big Agnes sleeping bag

I had the same problem pad was sliding.. I ordered the UQ hope it get here in time

The couple times I used a pad (this summer, to prevent CBS) I had an OK experience once and then crap sleeps the others, in a gathered end. I think it would be more comfortable in my bridge, admittedly I have not tried that yet.
I do plan on using my Exped 9LW mildly inflated to augment the 20 deg UQ if needed on campouts this winter. Hope you get your UQ in time!

mirth: "The couple times I used a pad (this summer, to prevent CBS) I had an OK experience once and then crap sleeps the others, in a gathered end. I think it would be more comfortable in my bridge, admittedly I have not tried that yet.
I do plan on using my Exped 9LW mildly inflated to augment the 20 deg UQ if needed on campouts this winter. Hope you get your UQ in time!"

I hope so too. if not I'll make do with what I got.

Looks like my UQ has shipped hopefully I receive it by next Monday

podgeo: "Looks like my UQ has shipped hopefully I receive it by next Monday "

You order the WB Lynx?

Lawnchair107: "

podgeo: "Looks like my UQ has shipped hopefully I receive it by next Monday "

You order the WB Lynx?"

Yes the Lynx full body

Received my UQ today. Pumped to try the hammock next week.

Think I'll be happy. I was the couple times I slept in it in the backyard

For those that are considering a hammock:
I can't recommend it enough.
My Dream Hammock custom Sparrow is so comfortable it's almost unbelievable. I sleep outside year round. Never mind a tent, I can't even sleep well in a bed anymore!
All the old campsite considerations of slope, rainwater drainage flow, rocks, stumps, thorns, brush....all of it become irrelevant.

You will want a good tarp. Personally I find the diamond and hex-shaped flies are not offering enough coverage and weather protection options. First of all, if you have an 11 foot hammock, a tarp measuring 12' along the ridgeline length will not really protect you from rain adequately. Rain will hit the suspension straps and make it's way down into your hammock. I now have a 4mx4m (13'x13') DD tarp. The size is jsut right. With a ridge strung up at about 7 feet, I can pull the ends down close to the ground to offer great protection from wind, snow and rain. If the weather and view are good, I lift up one side to make a "porch" roof, held up with sticks and guy lines. The ends can be folded in to make "doors" and you get a pretty good seal from intense storms. A lot of flexibility with the square/rectangular tarps vs the expensive hex tarps.

As far as suspension, leave the daisy-chain straps at home with the backyard ENO hammock.
Consider....Amsteel cord and Beckett hitch as the lightest option...or...
The 1' webbing with Dutchware Beetle Clips is a pretty good system, infinitely adjustable and pretty lightweight (unlike the heavy daisy-chains,) The ends of the Beetle Clips have a "hook" that captures the amsteel continuous loop at the ends of your gathered end hammock (if your hammock is so equipped). Tip: I like using a carabiner to make the loop around the tree. Yes, you can just put one end of the strap thru the loop at the end...but after the tension that get's applied, removing it from the tree 9 feet up is often challenging. With the carabiner, you just give the strap a shake and it comes right down the trunk.

As far as the tarp goes, what I do is run a ridgeline, completely separate, and above the hammock suspension. Carabiner loop around tree one...run to tree 2....use a truckers hitch to get the line really tight (learn the truckers hitch! It's awesome).
To actuall how the tarp on the ridgeline, I throw the tarp over the ridge, and tie on a Prussik to the ridgeline at each end. The Prussik is a slide-adjustable knot. From the Prussik, there's a 6"-12" loop, with a carabiner at the end. This clips into the tarp. Then the Prussiks allow you to position the tarp correctly and tighten it right up. The ridgeline needs to be strong but 1/8" amsteel is super light and way strong. If you're not using amsteel, 1/4" climbing accessory line is good. Even 3/32. The prussics I use very light guy-line cord...less than 1/8". Paracord is way to stretchy for a ridge and the tarp will always be sagging. Use that truckers Hitch and get it tight! The advantage to putting the tarp OVER the ridgeline is that it is continuously supported so no stress on tie-out tabs, and you can hang all sorts of stuff underneath the tarp with carabiners or whatever. Dry towel, ditty sacks, spare jacket, flashlight, lantern, etc.