Before I purchased my first Trek Light Gear hammock (I now own two), I was definitely not a hammock guy. I thought the ropes were uncomfortable, and they weren't stable enough to relax in without fear of being flipped out. I also thought they were big and bulky, and stayed put wherever you had permanently installed a hammock stand. Trek Light changed all of that.
The Trek Light hammock in 3 words - comfortable, stable, versatile.
The parachute material breaths very well, and is a little bit stretchy. It holds your body nicely, unlike rope hammocks that dig in. The double hammock is the way to go - it's barely any bigger (I think a few ounces) than the single, and it's much roomier, for one person or two. The owner of the company told me the best way to stay comfortable for hours in a Trek Light - lay at a slight ~15 degree angle across the hammock - it will flatten out and allow you lay without locking out your knees. Add a pillow and it's a great spot for a snooze.
You might look at the Trek Light and wonder - can this thing really hold me? My girlfriend and I (320 lbs combined) regularly lay in my Trek Light with no issues at all. It's also SO much more stable than a traditional rope hammock. Many people are familiar with the sensation of being "flipped" out of a traditional hammock. That never happens AT ALL with the Trek Light because it doesn't have spreader bars. You can just sit right down in it without fear. Even moving around fairly aggressively with two people in the hammock doesn't give you any fear of flipping out. In fact, sometimes the Trek Light is so stable it can be a bit HARD to get out when you want to!
My favorite part of the Trek Light is that it is extremely versatile - you can hang it anywhere there are two anchor points (posts, trees, cars, etc), and it's small size (about the size of a nerf football) means that you can bring it with you on a camping trip or vacation just on the off chance you have the opportunity to use it. And believe me, you'll find an opportunity. Places I've hung my Trek Light - porch of our mountain vacation home, trees in Rocky Mountain national forest, between pallet racks in our warehouse at work, under the deck of a beach house. Anywhere I go, the Trek Light comes with me. This listing comes with the rope kit, which is key for versatility because it gives you a lot more distance between anchor points. You should also get some carabiners to make it even easier to connect the hammock to the rope kit at varying heights. I think Trek Light sells them - spend the five bucks and pick some up - they really should be included with the rope kit.
Bottom line - this is an awesome hammock, and it changed my perception of hammocks generally. I bring it with me on literally every vacation now, even if I have no specific plans to use it. There's nothing better than being able to string up an impromptu hammock lounge overlooking the beach and thinking "man, this is the life". The Trek Light gear hammock gives me that on the regular, and it's worth every penny.
The Trek Light Gear Double Hammock (Green) is an excellent two person hammock for casual lounging or camping under the stars. It's made of high quality parachute nylon that is rated to handle up to 400 lbs., and it has held up fine with myself, my wife, and our three little daughters sitting in it (together, we all weigh probably around 380 lbs. and the nylon seems to support us easily). The green is relatively discrete so it doesn't look obnoxiously bright or out of place hanging in the trees in the back yard.
This hammock may take some getting used to if you're not accustomed to these banana shaped hammocks. I like them because they are exponentially safer than most hammocks with spreader bars, which can tend to flip violently if you aren't careful getting in and out. We chose this style so we wouldn't have to worry about our daughters getting hurt if they try to climb into or out of it when we aren't looking. It's very stable. Of course, hammocks with spreader bars feel a little less restrictive because they don't have quite as deep of a belly and don't allow the side to fold up around you, so if you're claustrophobic, you may prefer that style to this kind.
Since this hammock has such a deep belly, the sides do wrap up quite high around you (almost like a cocoon) UNLESS you hang the hammock just right (with the right amount of slack and distance between the trees) AND position your body correctly. After a few hours of experimenting, you'll get the hang of it and probably come to love it as we have. My wife and I find it very comfortable to lay in together, and when it starts swaying gently in the breeze, it's almost impossible not to feel relaxed and fall asleep. On a slightly chilly day, especially if you're laying in it alone, there is enough fabric width in the middle to pull the sides around you like a light blanket. On a hot day, the nylon breathes pretty well, so I find it very comfortable all the way up to 90 degrees F as long as there is a slight breeze and it's hanging in the shade. Hanging it in the shade will also reduce UV exposure, ensuring the fabric lasts much longer.
Since the hammock hangs from the included S hooks, it is extremely easy to set up and take down (almost instantaneous), so it's easy to take inside when you're not using it, which will extend its life. The entire hammock stuffs into a sewn on pouch that doubles as a handy pocket for small items (a phone, a flashlight, a beverage, etc.) when the hammock is in use. When stuffed away in its pocket, it is an impressively small bundle and weighs only 20 oz., so it may be a good option for solo or couple campers looking for a very simple, lightweight, but strong hammock to carry in a pack.
All in all, a great hammock!
[UPDATE 6/3/2014: One month later and we are LOVING this hammock. It's so comfortable and it makes our back yard almost feel as relaxing as being on vacation. I can't explain it, but it's surprising how much more enjoyable and relaxing it feels to hang out in the back yard with this hammock. Now, instead of sitting on a lawn chair, I lounge in the hammock while our daughters play in the sandbox or jump on the trampoline (or join me in the hammock). Because the nylon is fairly thin and the breeze blows under as well as over me, I stay cooler. And laying on my back looking up into the vibrant green leaves of the overhanging trees also makes it feel like I'm in a park or in the woods--much better than sitting up staring at the privacy fence and nearby neighbors in our subdivision. The large size of this double hammock makes it fun to twist and turn to try out different positions when in it alone, but also ensures there is plenty of room for everyone if the family (three little daughters, my wife, and sometimes two little dogs) decides to pile in. Best of all, my 2- and 4-year old daughters have been playing with the hammock almost daily, but there are no rips, tears, or signs of wear and we have not had a single flop-out-and-face-plant accident either! What a great, comfortable, generously sized, and safe hammock!]
The hammock is excellent quality. I made this purchase after seeing a number of posts in forums on other sites about people who have had success treating insomnia by sleeping every night in a hammock. Having tried many other things over the past couple decades (sleep studies, several expensive mattresses, sleeping on the floor, in a recliner, on a couch, etc, etc,), I figured it was worth a try, and if it didn't work out, I could use it in the yard.
I'm not claiming anything here about curing insomnia or back problems or any other health issues, and my experience may be entirely different from anyone else. And I don't work for Trek Light Gear, and have not been offered anything for me comments.
My experience is that I'm sleeping much better and longer. The difference has been measurable because I wear a Fitbit Charge HR (for about 8 months to help get a handle on my sleep problem). I have gone from averaging around 4.5 to 5 hours of broken/interrupted sleep per night to over 7.5 hours of sleep with large blocks of uninterrupted, sound sleeping (based on weekly average). And more and more often, I wake up in the same position I fell asleep in.
If you asked me if I thought my insomnia was cured, I would say it likely never will be completely. but sleeping full time in this hammock for these past 5 weeks definitely improved things for me. And Trek Light's Double hammock (weight limit 400 pounds) has handled my 300 pound just fine up to this point. I would (and surely will) buy it again.
My wife and I decided to put this hammock's load rating to the test today. It's rated for 400 lbs, and together we are about 415 pounds. We went over to our favorite park and found two cypress trees about 12 feet apart. It looks like it would work with a range of 8 feet to 16 feet or so, depending on the diameter of the trees. The tree ties are in their own little pouch that fits inside of the big pouch, keeping everything nice and organized. Setup is super easy: just wrap the tree ties around the trees, and hook the hooks to the ties. You could probably set it up in less than 20 seconds if you are in a rush to lay down.
My wife and I climbed in and got comfortable without much effort. We are not small people, but let me tell you--this thing is huge. I was laying diagonally and she was laying in-line with the trees. We weren't planning on taking a nap, but we were so comfortable that there wasn't much of a choice. There was still enough material to give us a little privacy too, which was nice in a fairly busy park. I read in another review that you could place an object with a little weight in the pouch and put it over the opposite side to completely encapsulate you. This is definitely do-able with one person in it.
Taking it down was as easy as putting it up. The pouch is big enough that you don't have to work to stuff the hammock in--unlike another hammock that I have. When it's packed up, it's small enough to leave in your car like an umbrella.
Pros:
- Very light. It's impressive that something so light can support so much weight.
- Quick & easy setup.
- Quick & easy take-down.
- Easy to get comfortable on.
Cons:
- I honestly can't think of any. Maybe that you'll make a lot of people jealous while you are all snuggled up at the park?
Note: Trek Light offered me a price reduction to test this hammock out.
I love these hammock's! this is my second one. I still have my other one I just decided to have two sets of hammocks and mosquito nets while camping in case one tears or something. The fabric is very strong while still being thin and breathable. I only use the double hammocks cause I love the extra material. while sleeping you can pull the extra material over you so it's like a caccoon. if you are looking for a good hammock, these are all I use now.I have been through many hammocks these are by far, the best.
Feature Product
- BEST-SELLING HAMMOCK - The most comfortable, extra-wide hammock we make! This popular ultralight hammock] is a must-have for camping gear or outdoor gear collections, tailgating, days at the park, or even for sleeping at home.
- OVERSIZED - We call it the "Double," but that doesn't mean you need a friend to use it - measuring at 6.5' wide and 10' long, this hammock is larger than any other Double Hammock on the market. You can stretch out horizontally,at an angle to lie perfectly flat, share it with a friend or use the extra room to wrap up in it camping.
- GREAT FOR CAMPING - The Double Hammock holds up to 400 lbs and only weighs slightly over 1 lb (20 oz) in the pouch. Way smaller and less bulky than any tent (or even camping chair!) on the market! Plus, it's quick and easy to set up - be sure to check out our helpful, hanging kits!
- DURABLE, DRY & COLORFUL - Our Hammocks are lightweight, quick drying, durable and breathable. Choose from a wide variety of colors! They all come with a 3-YEAR MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY - longer than any of the competition!
- THE TRUSTED BRAND - Don't be fooled by imitators on Amazon - Trek Light Gear is the original brand you can trust. As the lightweight hammock pioneer since 2003, we make customer happiness our #1 priority and we plant a tree for every hammock we sell.
Description
It’s not about fitting two people (you can do that too), this is about you! The Double Hammock is the most comfortable, extra-wide, best-selling hammock we make. For your camping gear, backpacking or outdoor gear, tailgating, days at the park, or even for sleeping at home - everything is better in a hammock. The Double Hammock measures 6.5’ wide and 10’ long, giving you plenty of room to share it, stretch out horizontally or at an angle, or use the extra room to wrap up in it for a cozy night’s rest. Holds up to 400 lbs and only weighs 20 ounces in the pouch! Have you heard about the benefits of sleeping in a hammock overnight? Many lightweight hammocks on the market are only intended for lounging around the backyard or campsite, but Trek Light Gear’s Double Hammock is specifically designed to provide you with a blissful night’s sleep whether at home or on the trail. Whether you have sleeping issues like insomnia, sleep apnea, back, neck or hip discomfort - or you just want to get the best night’s sleep you’ve ever had - sleeping in the Double Hammock just may change your life forever! When combined with accessories like our Rain Fly, Bug Net, Gear Loft and more - you’ve got everything you need to leave your tent behind and join thousands of others in the world of hammock camping. Be a Happy Camper!
I, like others, found the sleeping in a hammock tutorial and decided to switch from beds to hammocks for the kids. However, then I emailed my questions to them about the fabric. I was scared it wouldn't be comfortable. This is how the Founder/CEO responded:
"Cotton is an extremely comfortable material for hammocks and I would never argue 100% against using a cotton woven hammock for sleeping in, but the nylon material we use is extremely comfortable and much more durable - as cotton absorbs moisture over time (something that will definitely happen) it begins to break down the fibers and the material will continually stretch, weaken and eventually begin to fray over time. The parachute nylon doesn't rot, mildew or stretch and is extremely quick drying, which makes it much more durable over time, especially when using it for full time sleep."
This is what he said about size for kids:
"When it comes to hammocks, the general rule (up to a point) is bigger = more comfortable. With a small child, even our smallest full size hammock (the Compact) will be plenty big but the extra width of our Double can be preferable even for a small child because it makes it more difficult for them to climb out and over the sides. All of our hammock models are kid friendly because they don't spin or flip, but as with any hammock a child can still find ways to climb up and over the edges and fall out so it's something to keep in mind. As a general warning, please keep in mind that none of our hammocks are specifically tested for toddler safety or marketed as such."
If my toddler is fighting going to sleep, I just threaten that she'll have to sleep in her bed instead of the hammock and I get complete compliance. So I'd say this is the PERFECT way for my toddler to sleep!
I've bought & given away so many of these, all different colors, I can't even remember how many I've bought.
I've used mine between palm trees on Catalina Island, off the coast of Los Angeles, and between pine trees in Santa Cruz and the Sierra Nevada foothills, attached to a car handle & tree, and more to come.
I have one up in my bedroom attached to screws in the ceiling joists, because it's the perfect snooze zone for naps; & since it's next to a reading lamp, and in view of a TV set, for movie watching, & a window to check out the garden, it's my favorite um, piece of um furniture.
Thanks, Jakob Von Essen, for turning me on to them. You rock, so do these hammocks.
They scrunch down in their little attached pouches, and you can get extra carabiners & line to hang them from Trek Light...might as well, it'd cost you more for the same stuff at REI or any hardware store & these are just the right size.
Try it, you'll like it. If you don't, give it away as a birthday present.
I got this hammock several of months ago and slept out on my screened-in porch all spring. It's super easy to set up following the directions; very comfortable; and easy to fold away in the attached storage pouch which also functions as a pocket when the hammock is in use - the perfect place for my cell phone which I use as an alarm clock. I read the website article about how to sleep comfortably - good info, but I have no problem sleeping either at an angle as suggested, or in the "banana curve" position. I just position myself in the "curve" so my back is comfortable, and sleep great all night. There is a bit of a learning curve involved in sleeping all night - mostly the night noises! :) The slight rocking is delightful.
I love camping/backpacking but I hate waking up in the morning with a sore back. It takes a little bit of the fun out of the whole experience. I have tried several camping pads but they slide around in the middle of the night unless you are on perfectly flat ground and where we go into the backcountry there aren't leveled camping sites. I have an ENO double hammock as well and I would say they are of equal quality, this one costs a bit less. I have ditched my tent and now I only bring my hammock and a tarp in case it rains. Super light weight and their color selection is awesome! I wanted an Olive Drab color for hunting and if you find the right tree you can use this as a spotting perch. Very very sturdy and the pouch that it comes in is attached to the hammock so it turns into a pocket for flashlights etc.
I bought one for my dad when we went on our last backpacking trip, he was a little bit skeptical at first until he finally slept in it. Now all he does is rave about how comfortable it is and how he will never sleep on the ground again. Save your back! Buy this hammock!
Thank you for this trek light double hammock. It is a great hammock! It holds up to 400lbs so will easily hold the two people that it says it will. Also it is very light weight and packs down nicely into it's bag so that it is easy to stow away in the car so that it can be pulled out to use whenever the change presents itself! I also like to pack along a hammock when I go backpacking and this one is nice and light and will be great to pack along on a day trip or a weekend trip. Our family has several hammocks and I weighed them and this one came in about in the middle of them as far as weight but they all weighed less than 2 lbs. That's not too bad of an added weight to add to the backpack. I received this hammock at a reduced rate in exchange for my honest review.
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