Originally Posted by
BillyBob58
Very nice! I love my HammockTent ( HT, but they are no longer making them). And I can see what you mean about the dyneema strings being too complicated for a home made version.
Does your design require a pad for use? The Amok does, the HT does not, at least potentially. It can be remarkably comfortable even without the pad, though it is VERY strange how the only thing keeping the hammock length from collapsing is my body. Not so much of a problem when on my back, but when I of to fetal position, oh boy! Then the length of the hammock is exactly the same as the distance from my head to my feet in fetal position! Truly weird, but amazingly comfortable. When the length collapses, a supporting ridge is formed right under my side, just the opposite of most hammocks. It (with no pad) is the most comfy hammock I have tried for fetal sleeping. With a pad, it is probably ONLY equal to the best of any other other hammock I have tried for side (fetal or legs straight). IOW, still as good as it gets, for me, based on the other hammocks I have tried.
I do not know why the Amok requires a pad while it is optional in the HT. Which is why I asked if your's required a pad. Anyone know what causes the difference? Of course, some would say the HT actually requires a pad, in order to give it structure. But, if I can insulate (if needed) by using some form of INNER QUILT, I can definitely sleep in my HT with no pad. Just takes some getting used to, but very comfy.
Of course, I am going to need a pad, or something, once temps drop below 70F or so. Maybe even higher if wind and moisture are an issue. If needing insulation, I have several options:
1: A pad inside the hammock like you are showing
2: Preferably, a thick pad inside the 3" deep pad pocket, which does not raise the center of gravity, and the pad will never move. The pad inside the Hammock has stayed put fairly well, but I can see where it might move, especially when getting in. I have not tried it much. But a pad in the pad pocket DOES NOT MOVE, and does a better job of giving structure to the hammock so that it does not collapse.
3: An INNER quilt inside the deep pad pocket. There is virtually no compression of loft, and it stays put.
4: Some combination of 2 with 3, a quilt on top of the pad. Depending on pad thickness, it can be a much thinner, much lighter quilt.
Anyway, those are the things I like about the HT and it's deep pad pocket. Good job on your new DIY hammock!
Bookmarks