Hammock noobie

**CenlaOutdoors** · 08-27-2015, 11:13

New to the forum but a long time fan of several members. My question is probably one that's been answered over & over. What is a good size hammock for someone 5'8"? 9", 10", 11"? Any info is much appreciated! Thanks in advanced!

**PapaSmurf** · 08-27-2015, 11:22

Hi CenlaOutdoors, and welcome.

I'm 5'7" myself and I prefer a 10ft hammock length. Some people like an 11ft hammock because it provides a flatter, more roomy lay, but this extra length provides very little benefit for me.

**CenlaOutdoors** · 08-27-2015, 11:31

Originally Posted by PapaSmurf

Hi CenlaOutdoors, and welcome.

I'm 5'7" myself and I prefer a 10ft hammock length. Some people like an 11ft hammock because it provides a flatter, more roomy lay, but this extra length provides very little benefit for me.

Great thanks! I would have to say I'm probably only 5'8" on a good day. Haha. This should definitely be a good bit of info. Thanks again!

**DustHunter** · 08-27-2015, 12:13

I was in the same boat as you, so, I bought a cheap 10' and then made an 11'. Im 5'9" and I found very little difference between them (as far as the length of the hammock.)
Now, saying that, I'd say the most important piece that determines your lay is the structural ridgeline. For me, right at 83% of your hammock length is just right.
A magic number that I found here on the Forum

**Martin_1** · 08-27-2015, 14:29

I am just a bit over 6" and I have a short hammock and a 10' homemade one. The 10' is perfect for me.

**barbermike** · 08-27-2015, 14:43

guess I'll chime in too. I'm 5'11" and I prefer an 11' over the 10'. This is in the about 56-58" width hammocks. I haven't tried wider yet. In the 11' I get much less calf ridge then I did in my 10'

**Bubba** · 08-27-2015, 15:55

11 foot hammocks tend to alleviate or even eliminate the calf ridge pressure associated with gathered end hammocks. If you lay in a 10 foot or less hammock with no pressure under you calves then you're good to go.

**OutandBack** · 08-27-2015, 17:41

Originally Posted by Bubba

11 foot hammocks tend to alleviate or even eliminate the calf ridge pressure associated with gathered end hammocks. If you lay in a 10 foot or less hammock with no pressure under you calves then you're good to go.

This is exactly what I found as well.
I am 5'8" 195# and only use 11x60 hammocks nowadays.
I have had calf ridge pressure with every 10' hammock I have owned. I have been able to wiggle around and move away from it for the most part.

**CenlaOutdoors** · 08-27-2015, 20:25

Thank for all the info! Definitely very helpful!

**Sunny Bear** · 08-28-2015, 13:31

length like suspension is a matter of personal preference. I'm pushing 5'8" 150# on a good day. My options are very open for smaller hammocks and light suspensions. I sleep comfortably in a grand trunk UL with 150# test webbing. Play around in your backyard with different setups before you take it out into the field. Above all find what works best FOR YOU.