The 7 Best Hammocks for 2024

Best Hammock for the Backcountry

Warbonnet Original Blackbird

Size: 10.5 ft x 5.25 ft | Includes: Bug net, continuous loops

The Warbonnet Blackbird has been our favorite suspended backcountry bed for many years. Of all the end-gathered models we tested, its spacious asymmetric design lets you find the flattest position, and the foot box provides space to spread your hard-working extremities. The Blackbird has a roomy feel and gives you the freedom to move around and find your sweet spot. When ordering from Warbonnet, you can choose exactly what features and components suit your expedition style. We tested the webbing and buckle suspension system – it is one of the quickest and easiest to set up, adjust, and takedown out of any system we tested. It weighs a few more ounces than the whoopie sling-style, which is also an option from Warbonnet if you're really counting ounces on your setup.

While this shelter is nowhere near a bargain basement price, it's certainly worth the money. We don't love that the bug netting isn't removable, as it makes lounging sideways somewhat uncomfortable. And for all of the customization options, removing the bug net isn't one of them. But otherwise, the comfort, weight, customization options, and quality are on par. For anyone serious about ditching the tent for a hanging shelter, the Warbonnet Blackbird should be on your shortlist. If a comfortable night's sleep is a top priority and you have ounces and budget to spare, we suggest you also add the Warbonnet Ridgerunner to your list for consideration. It will set you back a bit more in upfront costs, but it delivered the most comfortable night's sleep we've ever experienced in any hammock and is well worth taking a look at.

Read more: Warbonnet Blackbird review

Best Hammock for Backyards

ENO Skyloft

Size: 7 ft x 3 ft | Includes: Wiregate carabiners, continuous loops, spreader bars

ENO has designed the perfect hammock for backyard nappers – the ENO Skyloft offers effortless comfort for casual hammockers, thanks to an easy setup and soft nylon construction. The spreader bar design opens the space up for unobstructed views, and the lowered foot box allows you to lay almost completely flat, so even a side sleeper can get comfortable for a nice long nap. The heavier nylon material feels durable enough to stand up to visits from excited dogs and wayward belt buckles alike. The Skyloft includes two high-quality aluminum wire gate carabiners and is simple to hang if you add on any of ENO's suspension straps.

While the comfort is superb, the weight and bulk of this model make it a bit harder to take on your rambles around town or down to the base of the rock climbing base. You won't be able to easily throw the 18-inch long by 5-inch diameter package in your daypack. So, its use leans more toward intentional lounging at basecamp, in the backyard, or on a seaside overlook. A narrower, three-foot profile and a combined 250-pound capacity make the Skyloft poorly suited for a snuggle buddy. Sitting upright is still pretty comfortable, but you can't lean your head back like you would in a wider model. Despite its solo-style design, this is still by far our favorite hammock for lounging. Hoping to make a smaller investment but still seeking something extra comfortable for afternoons in the backyard or casual car camping? Look no further than the lightweight, large capacity Kootek Portable - the perfect low-cost addition to any weekend relaxation toolkit.

Read more: ENO Skyloft review

Best Bang for Your Buck

Kootek Portable

Size: 9.8 ft x 6.5 ft | Includes: Suspension tree straps, steel carabiners

It's easier than ever to find affordable hammocks. Still, among all of the nearly identical options online, it can be hard to find one that doesn't sacrifice comfort, versatility, and durability for the sake of price. Enter the Kootek Portable. It has fabric seemingly identical to similar models we tested, has triple-stitched seams, and boasts one of the highest weight capacities at 500 pounds. It's also among the largest in overall size, meaning finding comfort is a cinch whether you're 4 feet or 6 feet. The Kootek has the longest straps with the most loops, providing plenty of attachment options. Like other top straps on the market, it uses heavy-duty webbing and is triple bar-tacked for durability.

The quality of the carabiners is the only thing we don't particularly love. Like many other budget models, they are heavy steel carabiners with a sticky gate that must be closed manually. You can always find other suspension setups on the market to replace this setup later, and it's hard to beat the value of this hammock. If you're ready to take the leap into hammock camping but don't yet know what your preferences for such a sleep system are, the fully customizable Dutchware Chameleon comes with everything you'll need to dial in the comfort and fit that's just right for you.

Read more: Kootek Portable review

Best Value for the Backcountry

Hennessy Expedition Asym Zip

Size: 10 ft x 4.9ft | Includes: Rainfly, bug net, suspension rope, tree straps, guylines, storage pocket

The Hennessy Expedition Asym balances comfort, weight, and price better than any other model we tested. The weight aligns with most full shelters, but its comfort and price far outweigh the less pricey options. The asymmetrical design allowed our testers to achieve a reasonably flat lay for back and side sleeping, and the width gave us plenty of room to curl up in the fetal position. The design is well thought out, with every component working precisely with the others. Even though the Hennessy isn't among the larger interiors, the integrated ridgeline and included storage pocket add to the livability of the space. We like that it uses more durable nylon than other lightweight shelters. The weight capacity is fairly low at 250 pounds, but the fabric is ready to withstand more abrasion than similar hammocks.

One notable downside: hanging the Hennessy Expedition isn't the most intuitive process. You have to learn a particular type of lashing for the rope, but after a little practice, the mechanics come easily. Admittedly, more fiddling is involved than with most of the other tested suspension systems, and adjusting the tension takes more time. Another drawback to this model is the relatively small rainfly. While it provides adequate coverage from moderate rain, blowing rain can sneak under the tarp. However, based on the price point, these seem like pretty minimal complaints for an otherwise fantastic backcountry shelter. For a reasonably priced option that is easy to set up, check out the ENO DoubleNest.

Read more: Hennessy Expedition Asym Zip review

Best for Ultimate Comfort

Warbonnet Ridgerunner

Size: 10.1 ft x 3 ft | Includes: Spreader bars, continuous loops

Hammocks are fantastic for back sleepers and can be decent for side sleepers. But, for the most part, you can forget about sleeping on your stomach. Until now, anyway. Enter the Warbonnet Ridgerunner, our choice for ultimate comfort. It has spreader bars that help create the flattest lay possible – so flat our testers could get comfortable on their backs, both sides, and even on their stomachs. It's like laying in a floating cot made out of top-of-the-line materials. This hammock offered, no lie, the best night's sleep we have ever had hanging between trees. The Ridgerunner also has an optional integrated bug net. We tested the whoopie sling suspension system and found it among the easiest to hang and adjust, not to mention one of the lightest systems available.

On the downside, the suspension system is sold separately, upping the price point overall. This model is also on the heavy end of the spectrum. At 52 ounces for the whole system, it is less ideal for lightweight backcountry adventures. Also, it is disconcertingly easy to tip over compared to models without spreader bars. This tipsiness makes for excellent physical comedy with new users, but laying down in this hammock isn't exactly relaxing until you have some practice. We suggest trying the Ridgerunner if you've been dying to enjoy suspended camping but can't get comfortable sleeping in others. If you just need something extra comfy for relaxing on warm summer days in the backyard, take a look at the ENO Skyloft. It handles such home recreational jobs admirably and will leave you with a bit of extra cash in your pocket to stock the grill.

Read more: Warbonnet Ridgerunner review

Best Customizable Hammock

Dutchware Chameleon

Size: 10.6 ft x 4.8 ft | Includes: Continuous loops

We tested many models offering color, size, fabric, and accessories purchase options. Still, none allowed us to customize almost everything about the system. The Dutchware Chameleon allows discerning hammockers to design their hammock just as they want. We were able to select our fabric weights and colors, style of bug netting, type of suspension, and more. Versatility and functionality are maintained with fully removable bug netting. The symmetry of the hammock and reversible asymmetric bug net allows new campers to figure out which direction is most comfortable for them – rather than committing to "head left" or "head right" – and retains the comfort and space of an asymmetric setup.

This model isn't as wide as some models we tested and can feel a bit less spacious. However, the almost 11-foot length of the Chameleon makes up for what it lacks in width, allowing the fabric to spread more easily as you get closer to the ends. We selected the Chameleon as our favorite customizable hammock, but to be fair, the Dream Sparrow was so similar in all features and customization options that it was almost splitting hairs to pick between them. Both are more than worthy options for their comfort, versatility, and customizable features.

Read more: Dutchware Chameleon review

Best Freestanding Hammock

Vivere Double Cotton with Stand

Size: 9 ft x 4 ft | Includes: Carrying case

The Vivere Double Cotton with Stand strikes the perfect balance between comfort and durability thanks to its 100% double cotton fabric, polyester attachment strings reinforced with metal eyelets, and sturdy and supportive zinc-coated steel frame. It might go without saying, but this hammock is not for those seeking a lightweight and portable day-use option for lounging, as its 27-pound design isn't the easiest to move too far away from your home or vehicle. Rather, the beauty of this design is that it can be assembled just about anywhere, whether you live near the beach or in the desert. The freestanding frame easily accommodates one or two people and doesn't require any trees for setup.

Perhaps the biggest caveat to this design is that it requires a bit of creative torque and twisting to both setup and breakdown. The steel frame features holes on each pole that must be properly aligned for the provided screw to fasten them in place. Our testers found this to require some additional muscle and may not be for everybody. Ultimately, we appreciated the security of the tightly assembled as it never shifted, creaked, or adjusted, even when we had two people resting in the canopy. And though this hammock doesn't offer much in terms of versatility, Vivere does advertise compatible accessories that are sold separately but enhance the portability as well as the versatility of this design. If you need something that's a little more portable, check out the Kootek Portable.

Read more: Vivere Double Cotton with Stand review

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	83	Warbonnet Ridgerunner Best for Ultimate Comfort	$220
	79	Warbonnet Original Blackbird Best Hammock for the Backcountry	$175
	78	Dutchware Chameleon Best Customizable Hammock	$135
	76	Dream Sparrow	$195
	75	ENO Skyloft Best Hammock for Backyards	$130
	74	Kootek Portable Best Bang for Your Buck	$40
	72	ENO DoubleNest	$80
	70	Vivere Double Cotton with Stand Best Freestanding Hammock	$110
	69	ENO JungleNest	$110
	68	Kammok Mantis	$270
	66	Hennessy Expedition Asym Zip Best Value for the Backcountry	$170
	62	Hennessy Ultralite Backpacker Classic	$230
	55	Grand Trunk Ultralight Starter	$30
	53	PNAEUT Double Hammock with Stand	$90
	49	Grand Trunk Nano 7	$70
	45	Lawson Blue Ridge Camping Hammock	$229

How We Test Hammocks

Our review began with thorough research into the hammock market. After we settled on our selection, we purchased the entire test fleet for side-by-side testing and analysis. Our test team invited friends to help form a comprehensive group, including various ages and sizes. We hung around in our backyards, set up camp in the backcountry, and tested in various weather conditions to compile an unbiased review of these products. For full details on our testing process, see our How We Test article.

Our hammock testing is divided into five different metrics:

• Comfort (40% of overall score weighting)

• Ease of Setup (20% weighting)

• Durability and Protection (20% weighting)

• Versatility (10% weighting)

• Weight (10% weighting)

Why You Should Trust Us

Elizabeth Paashaus has spent many backcountry nights and many backyard days just hanging around in various types of hammocks. She shares her love for adventure with her husband and two kids while living in a retired school bus between epic trips that range from multi-week pack rafting adventures in southern Utah to climbs up the classic moderates of North Carolina or rugged thru-hikes like the Vermont Long Trail. During her hike of the Appalachian Trail, Elizabeth spent four months sleeping in a homemade hammock, which left her with more than a few opinions on what works best for the backcountry. She also has a degree in Graphic Design from North Carolina State University and has logged numerous years outfitting folks for varied outdoor adventures while working as a trail guide and in retail management. She draws on this deep design knowledge, field testing, and product expertise to help our readers better understand the features one should look out for when shopping, and those it is better to avoid.

Laying around in the backcountry, additional testers Maggie Nichols, Penney Garrett and Liz Chamberlain provide expert advice on which 'mocks are best for you. Maggie is a water-loving, data-driven adventure enthusiast with a B.S. in Biology from Iowa State University who has been guiding canoe and kayaking trips since she was a teenager. Penney is a nature lover and herbalist with a long history in the arts (including a B.F.A from Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design) who has spent more than seven years refining GearLab's testing and reporting process when not off somewhere exploring a trail, crag, or riverside campground with her pup. Liz spends summer days scoping out new trails around the West Coast by bike and nights lounging in a hammock with a book and beer in hand. With a B.B.A. in Marketing from the University of Colorado and a professional background in gear sales, she brings a sharp eye for brand promises and performance to every product she takes up for review. And rounding out our testing team is Trish Matheny who is essentially addicted to adventure, logging many miles in the backcountry over the last 20+ years. Whether she's sliding down a mountain on her snowboard or putting up first ascents on backcountry summits, Trish brings a ton of valuable experience to the testing crew. She combines her background in retail sales with an extensive knowledge of outdoor equipment to provide an objective approach and helpful recommendations.

Analysis and Test Results

Hammocks are staples of relaxation, but these creative hanging systems are not just lazy afternoon enablers. They can replace your tent, support your ultralight backpacking endeavors, enhance impromptu car-camping trips, and allow you to sleep on sloped terrain that would be a nightmare for a tent.

To find the best model for each user, we've tested the top contenders and rated them based on comfort, versatility, durability, protection, weight, and ease of use. We've experimented with these models over hundreds of hours, from chilly alpine nights to hot summer afternoons. We also keep our eyes on the market and test new contenders as they appear, ensuring you always have the most up-to-date information at your fingertips.

Value

It's hard to find an outdoor enthusiast who doesn't own a hammock these days. Whether in your backyard or miles into the backcountry, they are a quick way to get comfortable and relax outdoors. A comfortable hang is a top priority. But most of us will consider our wallet, to some extent, when deciding on which hammock to purchase. While it may not make sense to drop a few hundred dollars on an expedition model for relaxing by the creek, paying top dollar for a better night's sleep and weather protection can be critical for extended backcountry trips.

We tested models that cost no more than a few cups of coffee up to systems that may require a savings plan to purchase. While products with higher price tags typically translated to a better design – more comfort, less weight, additional features – we also found budget hammocks that offered better-than-average performance for a fraction of the price. We acknowledged the intended end-use for each model when considering its value. An option designed to be your backcountry shelter may hold more value even if it costs three times more than a model designed for day use. When comparing hammocks, it isn't always apples to apples, so we get into details about best uses and how performance stacks up against the price. Some of the most comfortable day models were also some of the least expensive, such as the Kootek and the ENO Doublenest.

Some of the priciest models, like the Warbonnet Blackbird, held tremendous value for a full shelter thanks to an excellent combination of comfort, protection from rain, wind, bugs, and helpful features. If you don't need an ultralight setup, the highly comfortable and reasonably priced Hennessy Expedition is a great option for a shelter system.

Comfort

Without question, the most critical component of a hammock is its comfort. Why are you even in that swath of fabric dangling above the ground if you can't get comfy and grab a good night's sleep? We guarantee you aren't thinking much about the ease of setup and the killer deal you just scored if you are tossing and turning at 3 a.m.

We considered how flat we could position our bodies, our headspace when sitting upright, and each model's overall size and roominess. We sat in them, laid in them, slept overnight in each backcountry model, put sleeping bags and pads in them, and even tested their capacity to add friends. Roomier models tend to sleep a bit better, while some lighter designs sacrifice comfort for a compact size that feels great in the pack but can significantly impact your sleep quality. No matter how you're using your hammock, comfort is king.

Taller and heavier folks will find roomier designs more critical to their comfort, while smaller campers can get comfortable in some models that may feel a bit tight for most. Some of the hammocks in our lineup are labeled "double". None were really all that comfortable for two people actually to sleep in, but they do fit two day-loungers better than a single hammock and certainly sleep one very comfortably. While each person will seek comfort based on their own needs, extra space and features that lend themselves to full relaxation are rarely a bad thing.

Overall, the Warbonnet Hammocks were the most comfortable hangs, though for different reasons. The Warbonnet Blackbird is made of soft nylon and is quite wide, allowing a wide range of comfortable sleeping positions. At the same time, our side and stomach-sleepers loved the options with spreader bars, like the Warbonnet Ridgerunner and the ENO Skyloft. The Skyloft is an ideal option for hanging around the backyard, while the Ridgerunner is a much more durable, more protective sleep system designed as a backcountry shelter.

Smaller, ultralight models may be appealing if you're taking on an adventure where weight is ultra important, like thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail. We like the Hennessy Ultralight as the model that crushes the weight and comfort metrics at 32 ounces for the entire shelter. Though some may scoff at the full retail price, this full shelter is available for less than a personal ultralight bivy of the same quality while offering much more in terms of overall comfort.

For expeditions where you can stand to carry a few extra ounces, models like the Dream Sparrow, Dutchware Chameleon, and Warbonnet Blackbird offer a high level of comfort and weather protection for an additional half-pound or so. However, these hammocks, which seemingly offer it all, are expensive — especially when you consider that the list price doesn't even include the cost of a rainfly. If you want the added comfort and protection of a shelter system, the Hennessy Ultralite Backpacker will keep you well covered for less money.

For those seeking comfort without relying upon trees for setup, check out freestanding options like the Vivere Double Cotton, which comfortably lounges up to two humans thanks to its reinforced 100% cotton fabric that measures 9' x 4'.

Ease of Setup

At its most basic, setting up a hammock requires wrapping a suspension system around a tree. But let it be known: not all suspension systems are created equal. Some are trickier than others to set up; some are surprisingly straightforward and easy to use. Some models required more of a learning curve than others, and some took way more time to assemble. We considered how easy each model was to set up: how intuitive they were to set up without reading instructions, and how well the instructions describe the setup process. After many years of reviewing hammocks, we are still surprised that many models don't include a suspension system. While many manufacturers sell compatible suspension systems, several others require you to purchase straps specific to each model.

We loved the simplicity of the Kootek, which includes fully adjustable straps and carabiners and is the most affordable model in the lineup by a long shot. While the hammocks with spreader bars weren't the lightest or most compact options, they tended to be super easy to set up, as you just snap the tri-fold poles into place and hook them to your tree straps. The ENO Skyloft, in particular, took us less than three minutes to set up.

Expedition models like the Hennessy Expedition and the Ultralite Backpacker come with suspension systems. Both Warbonnet models, the Dream Hammock Sparrow, and the Dutchware Chameleon all have a selection of optional suspension systems available for an additional cost. The lack of included suspension may be a benefit, especially if you prefer a particular style of suspension system. However, it is important to note that not all strap systems are universally compatible, so be wary of mixing and matching to avoid any unwarranted damage to your brand-new hammock.

The ease of setup for most basic models depends on simply wrapping webbing around a tree and clipping a carabiner to a loop. There are many variations on this theme, but we found the basic and ever-popular ENO DoubleNest to effortlessly integrate with Eno's own Atlas straps in addition to other models without any issue. Other basic models, like the Grand Trunk Ultralight and Nano 7 hammocks offer similar versatility.

While we loved the Warbonnet Blackbird and Ridgerunner for many of their design attributes, we found there's more of a learning curve to set up the suspension because standard looped webbing is not included. However, with a little practice, we could master the setup with confidence and ease. The Hennessy system on the Expedition and Ultralite Classic hammocks also feature trickier suspension systems that require specific knots to ensure the lashing securely holds around their tree anchors. These tended to be far more time-consuming and required watching a how-to video from the brand. One thing to note is that some models don't include all the components necessary for setup, which feels silly and frustrating. For example, the Blackbird requires stakes to set up the guy lines; however, they are not included with your purchase.

Durability and Protection

If you plan on using your hammock as your backcountry home, you will want to ensure it provides adequate protection from the elements. A rip in the fabric may leave you lying on the ground, curling up in your busted hammock as a makeshift blanket – not fun. During our research, we gathered more than a few stories of folks woken up by a smack on the back, only to find themselves on the ground with shreds of fabric hanging above them.

To rate durability, we considered the thickness of the fabric, the presence of ripstop materials, and the redundancy of stitching in both the fabric and the suspension. For protection, we assessed how well the netting kept out bugs, the size and shape of the tarp, and the fabric's resistance to wind. We also looked at options offered for additional insulation, like the ability to add an underquilt.

Complete systems – setups that include accessories like a rainfly and bug net – offer the best protection from the elements. In many cases, hammocks intended to be backcountry sleep setups also include extra fabric for added durability. Systems that offer the best protection, like the Warbonnet Ridgerunner and Dutchware Chameleon, already aren't cheap, but it's important to note that the baseline hammock setup does not include a rainfly; those are accessories that you must purchase separately. It is equally important to note that other systems do include a rainfly, setups like the Kammock Mantis and the two Hennessy hammocks we tested.

As you can probably guess, the ultralight models offered the least protection and durability. While hanging in the Nano 7, we could feel even the slightest breeze moving underneath us, an obvious sign of thin material weight. For thinner options such as this, we recommend utilizing a sleeping pad or an underquilt below your body for extra insulation on those cooler nights. Ultimately the thinner fabric is a blessing and a curse, the lightweight material is nicer to pack around, however, the overall durability decreases, simply because one little snag could tear a hole which could compromise the entire design.

Some single-layer models that lack bug nets, like the Kootek Portable and ENO DoubleNest, are wide enough to wrap the fabric around yourself to cocoon inside. This wrapping action provides a bit of extra protection from the sun or bugs but only slightly improves the protection score of these otherwise simple hammocks.

New to our lineup this season is the Vivere Double Cotton with Stand that quickly became our favorite freestanding option when tested alongside the PNAEUT Double Hammock with Stand. Though their heavyweight designs decrease both their portability and versatility, our testers appreciated the freedom to set up these hammocks without searching for and relying on two perfectly spaced trees for setup. The Vivere offers a solid steel frame that weighs 20 pounds and offers a weight limit of 450 pounds. This sizable hang is perfect for two people, and the frame never creaked or shifted when we loaded it up beyond the weight capacity. Though it requires a little extra torque to set up, we appreciated the stability along with other features like polyester attachment strings with reinforced metal eyelets for added protection.

Versatility

Everyone has reasons for purchasing and owning a hammock, and we consider many different ways you might be planning to spend time in yours. We tested models that fit particular situations perfectly and others that can adapt to various end uses.

We have already discussed many of these uses, like ultralight options for thru-hikers and highly comfortable options for folks prioritizing a solid night's sleep above any other factor. We found that models with integrated bug nets are surprisingly less versatile than those without, as many bug nets don't fully zip off and can restrict use for anything other than laying down and sleeping.

Certain models proved to accommodate everything from extended use as a shelter to casual campus hangs. Contenders that stood out in this category were the Dutchware Chameleon and the Dream Hammock Sparrow. Both options have many pieces of a whole system that can be added or removed as you desire based on your anticipated conditions. These models are fairly packable, roomy enough for hanging with friends, and comfortable as an overnight sleep system regardless of terrain or weather.

Weight

Whether you're carrying your hammock down to the park or over 2,000 miles on a thru-hike, at some point, you will have to carry your suspended haven with you. The ounces and grams will be more or less important based on your personal preferences, so we consider the end-use (depending on the intended purpose) and the objective measurement of a hammock's weight.

Our weight metric scores take into account the hammocks themselves as well as their components. We weighed the hammocks with suspension straps – since you will always have to carry the hammock and suspension system together – and, when applicable, as entire shelter systems, which may include a tarp and bug net. Many hammock systems come with straps, while others have to be purchased separately. If you are particularly concerned about weight, purchasing a hammock that doesn't include straps allows you to customize your system based on weight, price, and ease of suspension system setup.

We also considered the end-use, or intended purpose, when rating the weight of each hammock. A day-use model may weigh less than a shelter model yet have a lower score for this metric because the heavier model also included bug netting and a rainfly. The ENO Skyloft is a great example of a design intended purely for backyard or day use. While the weight and packability of this hammock score low, the tradeoff is greater space, comfort, strength, and durability. After all, this isn't the kind you throw in your bag as an afterthought, but choose intentionally for its comfort and durability.

Weighing a little over two pounds (35 ounces) without any detachable accessories is the Warbonnet Ridgerunner. This option is definitely on the hefty side, especially when considering a backcountry option. However, it is important to keep in mind that this includes an attached bug net, spreader bars, and a suspension system. It may appear heavy compared to other hammock systems, but it's totally reasonable when paired against the lightest weight one-person tents.

The lightest setup we tested was the Grand Trunk Nano 7, which weighed a featherweight 5 ounces, including the integrated compression stuff sack. While this measurement is a little misleading, considering only the weight of the hammock and compression sack, when including the Trunk straps that are purchased separately, the entire kit weighs in at a mere 17 ounces—not bad at all.

When it comes to day-use hammocks, you may not be entirely focused on weight. But the ability to stuff a small, light package into your backpack has its advantages. The lightest day models tend to be the smallest. While the more spacious and comfy options like the Kootek weighed 12 ounces heavier than some of their ultralight counterparts.

Weighing in at 32 ounces for the entire shelter (not including stakes), the lightest full shelter on a budget is the Hennessy Ultralite Backpacker. The only other system that even comes close is the Kammock Mantis, which weighs 35 ounces for a comparable system. Interestingly, the Kammock system of just hammock and straps is nearly eight ounces lighter, but only because the Ultralite Backpacker includes an integrated bug net.

Remember that the longer distance you're hauling your hammock, the more important weight will be. Most ultralight backpackers and travelers are here specifically because they are opting for a lightweight alternative for a sleep system. But if you intend to use your hammock for merely lounging around in the backyard or a park, this metric will be less important for you. A roomy design that prioritizes comfort over ounces will be more suitable in that case.

Conclusion

Hammocks are not for everyone or every environment, but they can provide the ultimate sleep and relaxation experience for many outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the novelty of floating above the ground, they are often among the most compact and lightweight sleeping systems. Our goal with this article and the individual reviews is to help you narrow down the options and get closer to choosing your perfect hammock.

But, if you decide a hammock isn't your thing, we've also spent many nights in the best ultralight tents, and we are more than happy to share our top picks with you. Whether you're going fast and light or just getting into backpacking, our gear experts will help you find the right backpacking gear to get you outside.