Hello from Leesburg, Virginia

[squarefeet]

Hello! Last night, I spent my first night in a real hammock during a short backpacking trip along the VA/WV line. I've been using a Zpacks Duplex tent for the last 5 years and wanted to try something different. John Rammel at Trailheadz hooked me up with his new ultralight Poltergeist, a 1000 fill UQ, tarp and suspension, so I am all geared up now. I'm sure I'll make changes to the gear as I learn more about it and develop personal preferences, but I think I'm off to a really nice start.

I can't say I slept great as I was trying to figure out how to get a good lie, but the setup/takedown was a joy compared to tents. I've read and watched everything I can find, so now I just need to spend the time and learn it on my own.

Take care,

Square Feet (Dave)

[FLTurtle]

Welcome! Seems that you've got a good start with some quality gear. I hope that you can find a solution to your hammock lay. If you haven't yet, go check out Shug's videos. I'm not familiar with Trailheadz (heard of 'em, haven't seen or hung in one) but I would guess your issue with the lie was calf ridge. If so...check out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFHvX56ZKNs

I used to work out in Sterling VA back in the late 90s before I bailed out of the DC area and moved to Florida. Pretty country, but I wasn't into backpacking and camping back then.

[dkurfiss]

Welcome from just down the road in Sterling.

[Phantom Grappler]

Watch Shug’s video on Calf Ridge, it’s spot on!

I recommend a gathered end hammock
11 and a half by 5 and a half minimum
That’s 138 inches by 66 inches for you comfort and reduction but not complete elimination of CRS Calf Ridge Syndrome
CRS happens hahaha

My hammock is 12x6
My other hammock is 138 inches by 68? inches

Many hammock campers are comfortable in 11x5 hammocks and even some 10x5 hammocks. Each person has their own hammock nirvana and are free to explore, finding their own comfort zone.

After you’ve used your hammock a few more times, it might lay better!

[Chadx]

Tinkering is half the fun. Experiment as each persons prefers a different lay/tension. Adjust to the commonly recommended but then experiment. A little adjustment goes a long way.