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  1. #1
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    Is there a better ridgeline length for side sleeping?

    I have been toying around with the ridgeline length for my Grand Trunk SBP. My hammock is 10.5 ft long, and I had the ridgeline set at 101 inches. While this gave me a pretty good lay for sleeping on my back, I cannot fall asleep like that. I know the best way is to just get out in the hammock and lay and adjust, but has anyone had any experience for adjusting their hammock for side sleeping? Also, once a ridgeline is installed, how important is angle and tension on the suspension? It would seem that a structural ridgeline would keep the hammock in the same manner everytime, but I keeping getting hints (though not out right answers) that I should still strive for a 30 degree hang even with a ridgeline. I have also noticed that I tend to end up in the center of the hammock and I get a lot of push back from the sides forcing me to the center. What changes could I make to prevent that?

  2. #2
    Senior Member Bubba's Avatar
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    There are no absolutes but I'll try to address some of your questions. 83% for a 10.5 foot hammock would give you RL of 104.6 inches. 83% is starting point but since you are at 101 you may want to try lengthening it a little. A bridge hammock would be your best bet for side sleeping comfort.

    In terms of the tension on the suspension, you are right in that the RL maintains a consistent sag. Aiming for 30 degrees is more to keep the forces on the suspension and on the tree as low as possible. The closer to horizontal, the more force is exponentially applied to the suspension and the tree. It may be necessary to rely on the RL in the case of trees that are too far apart than ideal but if you can do it, its good to aim for 30 degrees.

    To keep you from ending up in the centre of the hammock, hang your foot end higher than the head end. How much higher depends on you but start at 6 inches and then move it higher up the tree as needed. This keeps your centre of gravity from sliding down the hammock.
    Don't let life get in the way of living.

  3. #3
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    I sleep on my side with 83% RL's all the time. I do not use a different RL length for back vs. side.

    I say you're on the right track of continuing to test-adjust-test-adjust. It can get frustrating sometimes, but when you find that sweet spot, wowzer.

  4. #4
    Senior Member Loki's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by mychal View Post
    I sleep on my side with 83% RL's all the time. I do not use a different RL length for back vs. side.

    I say you're on the right track of continuing to test-adjust-test-adjust. It can get frustrating sometimes, but when you find that sweet spot, wowzer.
    Same for me.
    Never tried a SBP but works for all my gathered end hammocks. 9' - 14'.
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    Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.
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    while cares will drop away from you like the leaves of Autumn." — John Muir


  5. #5
    Senior Member dirtwheels's Avatar
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    If you want to simplify your quest for the optimum RL just make an adjustable RL, or a giant whoopie sling. I use zing-it, lash-it or dynaglide for making all of my RL's.
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  6. #6
    Member Porch Hanger's Avatar
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    I also have a GTSKP. Made an adjustable RL from amsteel like a giant whoopie.
    I have set the length anywhere from 96" to 108". Currently, I'm using 103" and have been happy on several back patio overnighters.
    I'm 5' 11" 180lbs ,a side / stomach combo sleeper and find I get a comfortable lay anywhere in the range of 100" - 104".
    "The longer I wait, the more I learn and the more $$ I save."
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  7. #7
    Senior Member RedStix's Avatar
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    I'd also double check the actual length of the hammock. I have a GTUL that I was under the impression was 9.5' long, but after measuring it really is only 9'. That said, the 83% rule was giving me a ridgeline length that never really felt right (about 5" longer than would have used). Anyway, using an adjustable ridgeline is a nice way to allow you to tweak it.

  8. #8
    Herder of Cats OutandBack's Avatar
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    I don't think so. I only use a RL when there is a bugnet to holdup.
    If you don't have a bugnet that could be damaged from over stretching. Go out and try no RL.
    Find your own favorite hammock angle while laying on your side then adjust your RL accordingly.

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