Newb Wants to Get Into Hammock Camping!

**aboyd** · 08-05-2011, 08:43

I too have back trouble, ruptured disk in lower back about 12 years ago, rupture one in my neck about 7 years ago. Both fixed now, but I hate sleeping on the ground. WBBB 1.7 dbl for me (I am almost twice your weight, but working on that). I love the Blackbird, very comfortable.

**SteelerNation** · 08-05-2011, 10:33

I wouldn't be too hasty ruling out the Traveler. While the bug net isn't integrated (the optional net hangs around the hammock), it also means that you have netting below you as well. Also, in the winter, you can remove the bug netting entirely and save the weight. The footbox isn't necessary in the Traveler because the bug net isn't attached to the hammock. The thing that is missing is the shelf, but you can hang something from the ridgeline if that is something that is important to you.

I have both a Traveler and a Blackbird, so I don't have any biases there and I love them both. I will say, though, that in the south in the summer, the way the blackbird's fabric reaches above my body height tends to block some of that precious airflow for me. For me, the Traveler breathes better.

I discuss my reasoning and show my setup in these videos if you are interested.

Look forward to hearing how it turns out!

SN

**begleysm** · 08-05-2011, 12:16

Cool. Thanks for the reply SteelerNation. I'm at work but will watch your vids when I get home.

Thanks,
Sean

**Syb** · 08-05-2011, 12:26

Originally Posted by begleysm

I'm at work...

Right... working. Ha!

**begleysm** · 08-05-2011, 12:29

I've got multiple monitors... ya that's the ticket... haha

ALSO: Can somone please describe the footbox in the WBBB?

Thanks,
Sean

**SteelerNation** · 08-05-2011, 14:07

Originally Posted by begleysm

ALSO: Can somone please describe the footbox in the WBBB?

Shug's got a good video on the Blackbird that shows the footbox.

Essentially, it is an area with extra material that makes room for your feet. With the net attached to the hammock, I would think that it would be pretty tight without the extra area.

I find that I can lay on the same diagonal in both the Traveler and the Blackbird. In the Blackbird, I have the footbox to give me foot room. In the Traveler, there is no attached net, so you just use the hammock to the same effect.

Don't know if that explanation helped or not, but watch Shug's video and you'll see it for yourself.

SN

**Trooper** · 08-05-2011, 20:32

Originally Posted by begleysm

- Looks like I still have to figure out the hardest question (though you guys have given me some good food for thought): SL or DL! I think it is going to come down to whether I want to splurge on a Yeti UQ or not.

When your pad moves or a mosquito bites through a single layer you'll wonder what a double is like.

You probably won't notice the extra few ounces of the extra layer, especially if you change to Whoopies.

**begleysm** · 08-05-2011, 21:09

Good point Trooper... Especially since my #1 concern right now is comfort b/c I find tents so UNcomfortable.

Balance is tipping a bit toward 1.1 DL. Plus, I'd prefer the Olive Brown color ;P

Sean

**catalyst** · 08-05-2011, 23:20

I've never had problems with mosquitos biting trough the single layer. If weight isn't a big factor for you the double would be a little more versatile. There's a good chance you'll end up with an under quilt, but with the double you'll be able to use it as a loaner for friends or family with a pad.

**Str1der** · 08-09-2011, 11:00

First off, welcome to the forums from a fellow GA hanger. You've already done some homework and narrowed your choices down to some fine hammocks. If you truly value comfort over weight (as do I, btw), I think you should go for either the double 1.0 or 1.1. At your weight, you have no need for the 1.7s, and I think you would prefer the DL for the following reasons:

1. Per Brandon, a DL BB is generally flatter than the single version. The fabric will stretch long before it breaks, and the DL will help you stay as flat as possible which could help with your back.
2. I too live in GA, and the DL mosquito barrier is nothing to sniff at. I'm not generally concerned with catching a disease, but I do sleep better when I'm not exsanguinated during the night.
3. You can use pads more easily. This will help you save your pennies for more gear.
4. The only real advantage a single layer has over a double is reduced weight. If comfort is your primary concern, get the DL.