Do you feel superior in any kind of way over those who grovel on the ground?

**oldgringo** · 02-05-2010, 06:05

There are quite a few folk I feel superior to, but tent dwellers don't make the cut.

**Hangin' Burrito** · 02-05-2010, 06:26

I don't feel superior, just "enlightened". Makes me want to spread the good news about hangin'!

**MacEntyre** · 02-05-2010, 07:02

When I think of MedicineMan, I do not think of a hammocker... I think of a friendly fellow with intelligence, many miles on AT sections, significant experience in the woods, and a fine demeanor around the campfire. Perhaps the ground dwellers who see him as a 'holier-than-thou' hammocker don't know him well at all!

**2Questions** · 02-05-2010, 07:14

Ya know, we're all on the learning curve when it comes to camping/backpacking. When we get off it's because we're dead! That being said, I feel somewhat obligated to share the knowledge, just as it was shared with me. I remember carrying 50-60 lbs all through Boy Scout days, old heavy Coleman stoves, heavy tents, massive boots, etc. Getting around others and learning about options surely lightened the load. The problem we must deal with is "dumping" on those not yet knowledgeable of their options, which often leads to bad feelings. I agree with Just Jeff.....just wait, they'll ask you about your setup, your choice of gear, etc. In those moments, with graciousness on our part, friends are built for life...and maybe even hangers.

**SuperTramp** · 02-05-2010, 07:17

not superior but waaay cooler! i am still the only hammocker i know and my friends/family think i am nuts so i just smile at them in the morning while the sun comes up and i'm making myself coffee still bundled up cozy in the warmth and security of my hammock in the open heart of nature as they crawl out of their caves to do their morning groans and stretches-and because i'm the crazy one,i just may never share my secret

**Mrprez** · 02-05-2010, 07:25

Maybe just a little, but I keep it to myself. Sort of like I grew legs and crawled out of the primordial soup to turn around and look at the less fortunate species who had not done so yet. I am willing to share what I know with anyone willing to ask. But, like religion or politics, I don't force it on someone who isn't ready to learn. Sorta like being an alcoholic, you have to want to stop drinking first.....

**Frawg** · 02-05-2010, 07:26

"God, I thank thee that I am not as other men are .... or even as this ground dweller. "

No, not superior -- but more comfy, I hope.

**HappyCamper** · 02-05-2010, 07:29

Not superior. I usually feel surprised. Surprised how fast tenters will dismiss it as uncomfortable or impractical. And if it’s a couple, I usually get the couples argument . . .”but we want to sleep next to each other.” I never try to convert anyone. Heck, I can't even convert my own boyfriend.

I do take solace that I'm dry, warm, and comfortable and know that I'll have a great night's sleep. MAN, I AM SUPERIOR! ! ! ! !

**Coldspring** · 02-05-2010, 07:29

Ultralighting means superiority is based on the lightest load, and that is only through ground dwelling.

**tlbj6142** · 02-05-2010, 07:46

I would rather sleep on the ground than my hammock. However, (for me) sleeping on the ground comfortablly while backpacking requires a significant adjustment from my "at home" sleeping habits. I could overcome those differences if I were to carry an excessive amount of addition gear, instead I sleep in a hammock which seems to be a good compromise between kit weight (and clutter) and sleeping comfort.