Comfort of Single vs Double Layer Hammock

[Fuego]

I'm looking at getting my first quality hammock (currently have a gathered end 10ft from Amazon, SunYear brand), and starting to lean towards Warbonnet Blackbird XLC.

I watch a lot of YT videos about hammocks and heard The Marine say that he highly recommends a single layer hammock for comfort (conforms better to the body), and to only get a double layer if I need the weight support or want to use a pad between layers. I've never heard that reason given by anyone else, so thought I'd bring it up and ask if having the double layer is more uncomfortable than a single layer. I may want to try a pad sometime, but am mostly leaning towards an underquilt.

I'm 217 pounds (98.4 kg), 6ft 2in (188cm), so not a heavyweight. I'm not currently a backpacker, more car camping. Even the single layer XLC has a comfort rating up to 275 pounds, so I'm curious if I'd lose comfort by getting either of the double versions.

[Shug]

I have a video on that subject that may give you some insight.
And really a double layer is not required for a pad. You can just lay it in the hammock and lay on it.
Enjoy the hammock quest.
Shug

[TominMN]

One of my hammocks is double layer and not because I ever intend to use a pad in it. I happen to prefer the stiffness it provides. Some folks like more stretch. My others are single layer, primarily to keep the weight and bulk at a minimum.

[sideshowraheem]

If you dont need the additional weight capacity that a second layer provides then it becomes a matter of personal preference. I have both single and double layer hammocks. Myself I prefer a stiffer lay, so I usually opt for either a lightweight double layer or a more robust single layer fabric like Mtn 1.7XL for example.

Warbonnet makes fantastic hammocks, so you wont be disappointed either way.

[Tato Spud]

I agree with the prior posts on it being a personal preference. I enjoy my Wilderness Logics DL for the lay and feel. But for longer distances I'll often use a SL hammock for reduced weight.

Prior to getting a cold weather UQ, I did use a pad in the DL hammock for the extra insulation in winter.

[JollyRoger70]

I thought I was going to use a pad when I bought my double-layer SLD Trail Lair (Hexon 1.6) — I never have put a pad in it, and I got a single-layer (Hexon 1.2) for backpacking (since a double-layer is essentially carrying two hammocks), but whenever I use it, I’m struck by how much I like the firm lay and overall comfort. I light the lighter one to carry (and it’s comfy in its own way), but the double-layer sure sleeps nice.


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[Fuego]

Thanks all! I appreciate the variety of views and experiences.

[Derch]

I prefer the firmness of a double layer, in find it more comfortable but some other non pad benefits as well.

I find it easier to get in and out out. When you have really stretchy hammocks and you sit up there is a bit of a bounce as you shift weight and the hammock dips down and pushes your center of gravity lower. The dual layers just stay firm and keeps your balance better.

I find it easier to sleep on my side, which you think firmness wouldn't help but for me it does.

I don't know if it's actually true but if you are camping in the summer and might not have an UQ, then it can prevent mosquitoes from bitting through the bottom

[Cruiser51]

Funny, perspective with hammocks is everything.

All the hammocks I have made for my friends and I, have been double layers .... except for a couple of prototypes. Not for firmness and really not for extra strength. My main agenda is 1) I worry about mosquitos biting through a single layer and 2) I like a nice hand feel (soft fabric) for the inner layer

So pairing something like RSBTR MTN 1.2 outer with a HyperD 1.0 inner, gives an impressive weight capacity, fairly low weight, "bug bite proof", soft interior feel.

Having said that, you can certainly use a double layer just for weight capacity, but I think it falls well short of what a double layer can provide to a hammock design.

[HillbillyHanger]

My first hammock was single layer. The mosquitos here in the Southeast made a buffet of my back so I bought a double layer XLC. I find it comfortable. I did have to play with the setup until I found what I like. I still use a single layer netless hammock in the Winter. I like the open feeling. I have a netless double layer that I like when it’s really cold. I slip my hiking clothes in between the two layers. They stay warm.