I recently got a Ridgerunner. I was expecting it to be very comfortable, and it has not disappointed. Haven't slept in it yet, but this weekend! So far it seems MUCH more comfortable than my gathered end 1.6 argon hammock from Dutch, which I thought was pretty good.
But I have been surprised by other positive aspects to the RR.
1) The extra weight of the spreader bars can be completely offset by using trekking poles for support. (This only applies if you use trekking poles.) Used this way, there is minimal weight penalty for the RR.
2) Because of its rectangular shape, with a width of about 3', the underquilt can be quite a bit narrower. This can lead to less bulk and weight than a standard width UQ for a 60" wide gathered end hammock. Also, the RR UQ connects more simply and with less hardware.
3) Since the RR is about 6' 8" by 3', you can get away with a much smaller tarp. Even a 12' ridgeline on a tarp for an 11" gathered end hammock doesn't cover that much of the very ends of the hammock. A 9' long tarp gives you more coverage at the ends on a RR. Again, potential weight and bulk savings. I got a custom 9' tarp, tapering from 8.5' wide at the head to 6.5' wide at the foot, and like its coverage. In silnylon, it only weighs 10 oz, which isn't much heavier than a full-sized, spun-from-golden-thread 8.5 oz Cuben Fiber. No doors on mine, but I didn't want them anyway.
I'm expecting to sleep great this weekend in the RR; if I don't, or if I get soaked, you can disregard the above commentary!
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