Sleeping pad framed bridge

[Military hiker]

I have used gathered end hammocks my whole camping and hiking career. I have been wanting to try the concept a bridge, but as a light weight backpacker I can't force myself to carry spreader bars, and I don't use hiking poles (never needed them). Has anyone ever found a way to use a sleeping pad (thermarest neoair xlite) as a frame to get the bridge hammock feel without the spreader bars.


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[Otter1]

Unfortunately it won't work, as pads aren't rigid enough to keep the bridge "open".

If it worked, I would consider carrying a pad, for sure! Please figure out how to do so and report back.

[FJRpilot]

You should try using hiking poles, I never used them and then after deciding to go the bridge hammock route, I purchased a set to us as spreaders. Now I wouldn't hike without at least one. They make a huge difference, I think they actually make it easier to go longer distances. They also add some piece of mind around loosing your balance and twisting an ankle or even falling and breaking something.


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[Flatliner]

+1 on the pole advice. I bought a cheap pair and they quickly became "essentials" in my kit


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[Military hiker]

You should try using hiking poles, I never used them and then after deciding to go the bridge hammock route, I purchased a set to us as spreaders. Now I wouldn't hike without at least one. They make a huge difference, I think they actually make it easier to go longer distances. They also add some piece of mind around loosing your balance and twisting an ankle or even falling and breaking something.


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Thank you for the advice, I'll try it!!


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[hutzelbein]

You should try using hiking poles, I never used them and then after deciding to go the bridge hammock route, I purchased a set to us as spreaders. Now I wouldn't hike without at least one. They make a huge difference, I think they actually make it easier to go longer distances. They also add some piece of mind around loosing your balance and twisting an ankle or even falling and breaking something.

+1

With poles, I can use my arms to help my legs. Why not use all the muscle you have in your arms?

[johnspenn]

I prefer a staff (single pole, a little longer than standard poles). provides support and stability, while also leaving one hand free and unencumbered to do other things like drink water, take pictures, scratch and etc. Mine is a lightweight but very strong DIY bamboo pole with a paracord handle wrap.

Of course that doesn't solve your bridge hammock dilemma.

[Military hiker]

I prefer a staff (single pole, a little longer than standard poles). provides support and stability, while also leaving one hand free and unencumbered to do other things like drink water, take pictures, scratch and etc. Mine is a lightweight but very strong DIY bamboo pole with a paracord handle wrap.

Of course that doesn't solve your bridge hammock dilemma.

Unless I came up with a bridge that only needed one pole


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[GadgetUK437]

Unless I came up with a bridge that only needed one pole

That's been done... worth a forum search.


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Gadget