All About Hammocks

Hanging out (so to speak) in hammocks is a wonderful way to pass the time. A long days cares can drift away when you settle down into a comfy hammock. Kids love spending time there too. There are obviously many things people do to enhance the enjoyment and livability of their physical surroundings at home, but I can't think of a more enjoyable addition to make to your yard than a hammock.

Hammocks hold a special, albeit somewhat idealized, position in the American mind. People dream of lazy days hanging out with a nice cold lemonade in hand, watching the kids play and not having a care in the world. Fortunately, this is a dream that can come true. A couple hundred bucks and you are good to go. Just a note on the price of these. I've seen hammocks that are super high end and went for upwards of two grand. Of course, the other end is the $15 cheapy specials at discount places. My recommendation is that you find something nice in the middle.

When I bought my first hammock I thought rope hammocks were the way to go. Boy was I wrong. The bad thing about this style is that your flesh goes through the rope mesh. When you shift your weight to your side, prepare for your elbow to go through. Nice! Do yourself a favor and just get a fabric one. These are much more comfortable. And isn't that what having a hammock is all about? I am particularly fond of the quilted variety. These are comfy, durable, weather resistant, fairly priced, and come in a wide range of colors and widths.

Another important thing to note about hammocks is the space they require. If you have never had one before, you will be surprised at how much room they really take. It's not enough to just pay attention to the given length of the hammock. If, for example, it says that it is 7' long, it is referring to the actual length of the useable space. It does not, however, take into consideration the length of the ropes used to hang it. Plan on adding three or more feet on each end.

Some hammocks do come with a stand, but many have to be purchased separately. Metal stands are cheap and will do the job, but after a few seasons it will start to develop rust around the holes where the screws attach the thing together. For most, this isn't that big a deal and can be dealt with if necessary. You can always opt for wood. These generally come in what is called an "arc" style. These are expensive, but beautiful. It's not that they don't also require occasional maintenance, because they do.  Either way,  a stand gives you portability and options. The other way you can go is to use available posts or trees.

Hammocks are here to stay, and with good reason. Find one that will work for you and your family and you will never regret it. Here's to warm summer days, a tall glass of icy lemonade, and a swinging hammock out in the yard.