Are you thinking about finding a comfortable solution to backyard lounging when the weather gets nice? For the most enjoyable backyard experience, a hammock is easily your best bet. With so many styles and types available, you are sure to find the one that fits your relaxation needs perfectly.
In this article, you will find 15 different types of hammocks explained and laid out the different features and things to consider for each one. By understanding the difference between all of them, you can pick the best hammock for your individual wishes and comfort.
Hammock Styles to Consider
Hammock With Spreader Bar
The image of a hammock often comes with a difficulty getting in and out of it due to its flexibility and floppy construction. However, with a spreader bar, a hammock can maintain its shape, even as you lie down in it. With this feature, you don’t have to worry about needing help getting in and out of it.
The spreader bar also makes the hammock more comfortable. It gives the fabric or rope a distinct shape and supports the back much more efficiently than one without it.
Hammock With Stand
If you don’t have two trees or poles to attach a hammock to, you might be wondering how you would even put one up in your yard. That’s where a hammock with a stand comes in handy. A stand can support the full weight of you and the hammock and can be put up anywhere you like.
A hammock with a stand is a great choice if you don’t want to be stuck with a hammock in one place. Should you decide to move it, you can simply drag the stand anywhere you desire. Plus, you won’t have to worry about damaging any trees in the process.
Camping Hammock
A camping hammock is a must-have for anyone who regularly spends time relaxing in the outdoors. It is a great addition to any camping trip and is much more portable than a folding chair or stool. They are especially handy if you are backpacking to your campsite.
Most camping hammocks use rope or cord to wrap around two trees. This cord is usually fairly long so you can have a lot of options for hammock placement, even if the trees aren’t close together at your site.
Hammock Chair
Hammock chairs are compact versions of regular-style hammocks that you don’t lay all the way back in. They still offer the free-swinging experience of a full hammock without having to commit to laying down. They are a great option for camping or backyard barbecue pits where you still want to participate in the conversation.
Hammock chairs also have backrests, making them great for people who need a little extra back support. Not everyone thinks full hammocks are comfortable for the simple fact that they don’t offer that support. A hammock chair solves this problem.
Portable Folding Hammock
If you’re not interested in having a big metal hammock stand taking up space in your backyard year-round, a portable folding hammock could be the answer. Portable folding hammocks offer the same lift and support that a metal stand does but without the bulk and permanence.
The nice thing about a portable folding hammock is that you can bring it anywhere. You do not have to worry about finding two perfectly situated trees with this option. You can just unfold it and set it up wherever you go.
Canopy Hammock
If you want some of the best comfort and protection, a canopy hammock might be the way to go. Not everyone wants to lay out in the sun without anything covering them. Plus, should you fall asleep (which is easy to do in a hammock), you’re more than likely going to wake up sunburnt.
Adding a canopy to your hammock stand solves this problem. Plus, you can even enjoy your hammock during a warm summer rain if you’d like. It’s a good way to have some of the comforts of the indoors while still enjoying the outdoors.
Hammock Materials to Consider
Rope Hammock
A rope hammock is a classic example of comfortable and sturdy materials coming together to create what we all think of when we think of the word “hammock.” Rope is a great material due to its durability and weather resistance. If you accidentally leave a rope hammock out in the rain, it’s not going to be destroyed the next morning.
Rope is also great for its ability to roll up easily and save space. If you are going to put your hammock away every winter, rope is a great option since it won’t take up too much room in your attic or garage.
Fabric Hammock
If rope doesn’t sound very comfortable, fabric might be a better option for you. Fabric hammocks are soft and offer a little more support than a rope hammock. Instead of a collection of strands, fabric hammocks don’t have gaps and offer a full, flat bedding.
They are also easy to roll up and bring with you anywhere. Since you don’t have to deal with crossbars or ropes getting tangled, they can be folded just like a blanket.
Cotton Hammock
Cotton hammocks are usually put together just like a rope hammock, but the material is so much softer and more comfortable. Without the harsh strands of the rope, the cabling in these hammocks is soft to the touch and will be more forgiving on your bare arms or legs.
They are also a great choice if you have sensitivity to harsh materials like polyester or plastics. If you want a rope hammock but don’t want to deal with getting scratched up, cotton could be a great choice.
Quilted Hammock
If you want an incredibly comfortable hammock experience, quilted might be the way to go. This hammock type is soft and padded for the plushest relaxation possible. They have essentially the same feel as a quilted blanket and can offer the same luxury.
A lot of people don’t like hammocks simply because of the material they are made of. They tend to be harsh for the most durability. For these people, quilted hammocks might change their minds.
Polyester Hammock
If you want a hammock that you can leave outside rain or shine, polyester might be the best material for you. Polyester is an incredibly strong synthetic material that can withstand a lot of weather. If you’re looking for a hammock you can set up and forget about, it is the way to go.
Polyester won’t fray or decompose the same way cotton or other materials will. You don’t have to worry about deterioration if you live in an area that has a lot of moisture or humidity.
Hammock Origins to Consider
Sari Hammock
Image credits: Instructables
Indian sari hammocks are intricately interwoven and usually incredibly colorful. If you want a hammock that will not only be good for relaxation but also add a touch of color and style to your backyard, they might be a good choice.
Sari hammocks are generally woven from cotton and have a soft, gentle feel. Their colorful designs are a symbol of summer and relaxation and make a great accent piece for any lawn furniture set.
Brazilian Hammock
A Brazilian hammock is one of the most unique choices you can make for your backyard furnishings. Adorned with long, interwoven tassels, Brazilian hammocks add a touch of class and opulence to the hammock design.
They also come with long, vertical stripes that scream fun in the sun. Either one of these designs will be an interesting addition to your backyard.
Mayan Hammock
Mayan hammocks are handwoven in a diamond weave pattern that is designed to flex along with your body. They have enough give to be comfortable but they still offer support and don’t sink too low to the ground.
Mayan hammocks are also incredibly intricate and have dazzling color patterns. They are a truly unique hammock style and can be matched to almost any aesthetic.
Nicaraguan Hammock
A Nicaraguan hammock is one of the most luxurious hammock types available. Like the Brazilian style, Nicaraguan hammocks have ornate tassels that make for an incredibly ornate look.
They are also generally hand-made and designed to have longevity and durability. If you want a hammock with a lot of style that you don’t have to be delicate with, they could be a great choice.
A Final Word on the Different Types of Hammocks
No matter what type of hammock you decide on, the important thing is that you are comfortable in it and it serves you well when the weather’s nice. Nothing screams summer like pulling the hammock out of storage, and if you choose wisely, you’ll be happy to see it every time.
Do you have the inside scoop on a new type of hammock or an old favorite? Let us know in the comments section below!