Your point of the tarp is spot on, here in Wisconsin in spring my tarp is covered in pollen, just a thing layer of yellow and I would much rather that than all that falling on me overnight
Great point! I remember those pollen days when I was living in North Carolina. I guess I should have also mentioned that having a tarp also keeps things like leaves, sap, bird poop, and anything else that may fall from the tree.
One use case to think of is if your trip is in areas where there are poisons snakes then its a good idea to use a pad instead. Snakes will seek warm areas and you don't want them between you and your under quilt . :)
I think it's important to note that the choice isn't just between a symmetrical ENO style hammock and an asymmetrical hammock. There are many vendors who sell 11- and 12-foot symmetrical hammocks that can be super comfortable. The real difference, as I understand it, is that asym hammocks save a little bit of weight at the expense of only being able to lay in one diagonal direction. And then you still have to decide which direction you want before purchasing (head right vs. head left). Personally, I recommend a symmetrical hammock of at least 11' length to newbies because it takes time to figure out if you have a preferred lay direction, or whether you flip-flop during the night.
I have found that it wasn't the length of a hammock but the width of a hammock that allows me to lay in either direction. Although the longer the hammock the wider it will be, typically. I've never tested it out with a symmetrical hammock, but my asymmetrical hammocks are wider versions, and I am able to lay in either direction. I would assume that same may be true for symmetrical hammocks too. Plus, it all depends on your height too. When my son was 5'5'', he had no problem with a symmetrical hammock. Now that he is 6', he no longer finds the symmetrical hammock comfortable. But as you know, it's all preference and what works best and is most comfortable for you. Thanks for sharing! I love hearing feedback from other hammock campers as I continue to try and evolve my hammocking experience.
Very good coverage of the basics!
Great information! Much appreciated!
Your point of the tarp is spot on, here in Wisconsin in spring my tarp is covered in pollen, just a thing layer of yellow and I would much rather that than all that falling on me overnight
Great point! I remember those pollen days when I was living in North Carolina. I guess I should have also mentioned that having a tarp also keeps things like leaves, sap, bird poop, and anything else that may fall from the tree.
One use case to think of is if your trip is in areas where there are poisons snakes then its a good idea to use a pad instead. Snakes will seek warm areas and you don't want them between you and your under quilt . :)
I think it's important to note that the choice isn't just between a symmetrical ENO style hammock and an asymmetrical hammock. There are many vendors who sell 11- and 12-foot symmetrical hammocks that can be super comfortable. The real difference, as I understand it, is that asym hammocks save a little bit of weight at the expense of only being able to lay in one diagonal direction. And then you still have to decide which direction you want before purchasing (head right vs. head left). Personally, I recommend a symmetrical hammock of at least 11' length to newbies because it takes time to figure out if you have a preferred lay direction, or whether you flip-flop during the night.
I have found that it wasn't the length of a hammock but the width of a hammock that allows me to lay in either direction. Although the longer the hammock the wider it will be, typically. I've never tested it out with a symmetrical hammock, but my asymmetrical hammocks are wider versions, and I am able to lay in either direction. I would assume that same may be true for symmetrical hammocks too. Plus, it all depends on your height too. When my son was 5'5'', he had no problem with a symmetrical hammock. Now that he is 6', he no longer finds the symmetrical hammock comfortable. But as you know, it's all preference and what works best and is most comfortable for you.
Thanks for sharing! I love hearing feedback from other hammock campers as I continue to try and evolve my hammocking experience.
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