Gear Hammock Idea

[Poseidon]

I sought out Randy from Dream Hammock and pitched my idea for a different kind of Gear Hammock. I was going to keep it between us but I think that's against the nature of what we're all trying to do here and it seems to be a pretty solid and trustworthy community so I thought I'd share one of my first prototypes with you guys and hear some feedback (sorry, I'm not the greatest artist):

http://i.imgur.com/TKQgp87.jpg

[mountainhanger]

Now that's some serious thinking. I like it

[latriper]

That is a sweet idea!!

[Zilla]

So, is this a possable addition to the dream hammock site ? what did Randy think?

[Bubba]

Looks pretty cool. Maybe some mesh pockets on the outside in addition/instead of the gear loops. I find the mesh pocket on the outside of my work bag really handy as a catch all. Just a thought.

[Eidson]

I really appreciate you sharing the idea. I've been longing for some really fresh/unique projects to surface.
don't knock your artistic ability, the preliminary sketch looks great. Makes me immediately want one.

Here are some general thoughts and comments. I love the idea of horizontal or vertical use in it. However wouldn't horizontal use, much like your standard gear hammock, eliminate much of the usefulness of the interior pockets, especially those near the top? I guess you could use velcro to seal these, but these small components would quickly add up in weight. I'm no gram counter by any means, but I try to pack light by feel and worry that the weight of this could add up quickly, velcro, the reinforcing necessary to maintain structure, etc.. If you had ideas to keep weight in check, that's wonderful.

So let me ask this way, if you could, explain to me what would you pack in this and each of the areas. I'm mentally trying to visualize what I'd be using in this.

As I said, just looking at your sketch, I want one...I just don't know how'd I'd use it Again, glad to see a new idea shared with us. Love the innovation.

[BigGreenMoose]

I like bubba's idea of mesh pockets... Useful for letting stuff dry overnight. Maybe pockets on the opposite side?

[Poseidon]

Thanks for the kind comments, brothers.

To answer some questions:

Zilla: I don't know if he'll make it an actual product on his site, but I'm hopeful that it will be successful and he will. He's not working on this specific model, but something simpler as he's really busy with 9 Weeks of Hammocks to make on order. He seems to really like the idea and told me he'll work on it. I doubt it's his main focus with the back of orders right now, but I trust him to do a good job; he produces quality work.

Bubba: Perfectly valid suggestion-- I'm sure the weight would be similar to the loops so it wouldn't make too much of a difference to change one out for another.

Edison: No problem! Your name is a little ironic, though, haha. I imagine that in horizontal use, the little pockets aren't utilized but the mesh separator and gear loops still are. Kind of like a gym bag.

As for what you would put in it? That's up to you. I personally would put some snacks and a phone in the pockets. A kindle on the mesh cover with maybe a pair of gloves and a beanie. In the bottom, maybe some warming layers (in case it gets colder) or shoes so I don't have to leave them out overnight for things to crawl into. In the loops, maybe I would throw on my solar charger w/ carabiner, or a glowstick through for visibility. Or maybe I'd hang one of those mini speakers and listen to music. It's really meant to be versatile and adaptable. You can customize it when ordering just like anything else. Add a gun pocket, or remove the mesh, etc.

[MAD777]

This reminded me of my old school locker with the addition of a light bulb at the top like my refrigerator. I think it's a genious idea! 👍👍👍

[Foxpoop]

No need to limit yourself to vertical or horizontal, either. I use my silnylon zippered gear hammock from Simply Light Designs on a 45* angle coming off my head-end suspension and then stake the other end down.
I like the idea of mesh, too. Cool stuff you got percolating.