Has Anyone Tried to Build a Hammock Like This...

**Texas Hanger** · 05-28-2015, 17:43

Ever since trying my hand at finding the perfect hang, I've tried to think outside the box. It seems a couple of companies are also trying this approach. Here's what I'm talking about:

http://www.amokequipment.com/#collection-section

http://www.exped.com/usa/en/product-...-hammock-combi

I've tried my DIY hand in creating a camp recliner using similar concepts:

20150418_152813.jpg

Here's the link to that thread: https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...=camp+recliner

It seems to me that if we combine the principles of a Gathered End and Bridge Style style, it's possible to get a completely flat lay using a gathered end. Has anyone tried and documented such an attempt? In my mind, the hardest thing to engineer is the counter balance and weight issues. I have some design ideas but want to further my research before jumping into the pond...

My searches on this forum were unsuccessful finding a similar concept/build. Anyone try this? Thanks!

Tex

**theclark5** · 05-28-2015, 18:18

Thanks for bringing this up. I read through Derek report (ultimate hang) on this and reviewed the site. I like the concept. Complaints would be the weight and pad requirement. That said I'd love to know also if there are people who have made a DIY that might be a little lighter (no grosgrain just hem, and maybe lighter fabric.

**CamoDeafie82** · 05-28-2015, 18:27

while not a gathered end hammock by any means, this one is something to think about, its a sort of bridge hammock with a single point suspension system...
http://www.mosquitohammock.com/bathammock.html

It's similar in concept to the other two hammocks you posted, though I would be concerned about shoulder squeeze...
with this though, you can use a poncho as a tarp, and it'll be ok... But it does what a bridge does I would think, with only one suspension point instead of two.

**SilvrSurfr** · 05-28-2015, 19:21

Most of my hammock daydreams don't weigh so much and don't cost as much as these models. They also aren't as short. I'll keep looking for my dream hammock; nothing to see here.

**Texas Hanger** · 05-28-2015, 20:59

Originally Posted by SilvrSurfr

Most of my hammock daydreams don't weigh so much and don't cost as much as these models. They also aren't as short. I'll keep looking for my dream hammock; nothing to see here.

Agreed. Neither of these hammocks (Amok & Ergo) would be my choice. But the concept is interesting enough to ask, can the concept be altered to be lighter, more compact, and simpler? And still combine the benefits of both gathered and bridge style designs. But saying "nothing to be seen here" ignores the possibilties for innovation.

**Texas Hanger** · 05-28-2015, 21:26

Originally Posted by CamoDeafie82

while not a gathered end hammock by any means, this one is something to think about, its a sort of bridge hammock with a single point suspension system...
http://www.mosquitohammock.com/bathammock.html

It's similar in concept to the other two hammocks you posted, though I would be concerned about shoulder squeeze...
with this though, you can use a poncho as a tarp, and it'll be ok... But it does what a bridge does I would think, with only one suspension point instead of two.

Thanks for the link. I had not seen that one before. It's an interesting design. It sure looks like the shoulder squeeze would be pretty bad tho.

Originally Posted by theclark5

Thanks for bringing this up. I read through Derek report (ultimate hang) on this and reviewed the site. I like the concept. Complaints would be the weight and pad requirement. That said I'd love to know also if there are people who have made a DIY that might be a little lighter (no grosgrain just hem, and maybe lighter fabric.

Thanks for the input Clark5. I know many don't like pads. But I also know many are willing to carry an additional 1-2 lbs and know they will have a sleep system that works for them. In my case, I'm still searching for that. Thus my interest in trying existing products and outside the box innovation.

**dirtwheels** · 05-28-2015, 21:37

I believe WV has posted his experiences with a design similar to the EXPED.

**Yojimbo** · 05-28-2015, 22:10

Dirt, i remember WV's attempt a few years back at my first MAHHA. His design could either be laid back or upright like a chair. It also entailed many little whoopie slings to make minute adjustments for comfort. That would have been in the fall of 2012. Perhaps there are photos in the trip reports.

**Texas Hanger** · 05-28-2015, 22:13

Originally Posted by dirtwheels

I believe WV has posted his experiences with a design similar to the EXPED.

Thanks Dirtwheels. I just spent 45 minutes looking at WV's threads. He's the McGuyver of hammocks! I may have to PM him and get some input.

**Texas Hanger** · 05-28-2015, 22:19

Originally Posted by Yojimbo

Dirt, i remember WV's attempt a few years back at my first MAHHA. His design could either be laid back or upright like a chair. It also entailed many little whoopie slings to make minute adjustments for comfort. That would have been in the fall of 2012. Perhaps there are photos in the trip reports.

Wow... I was thinking the same thing. I used several whoopies to make the recliner adjustable for a variety of body styles. Looks like my "vision" for a flat lay has been done. And done well!