I made that same transition: Hennessy Explorer Deluxe Zip to the Blackbird XLC. I agree, at first. The Hennessy is initially easier to get in and out of as the tie outs are lower/out of the way. After a few trips, I just "know to duck down" under the net. I haven't used my Hennessy in 4 or 5 years now. I just love the shelf and the extra comfort in the XLC.