Straps: are they really that important?

**Just Jeff** · 07-10-2010, 12:52

bigbamaguy - with thick-barked trees there's probably not a problem...but imagine thin spectra (which is pretty hard and doesn't flatten out to distribute the force) wrapped around an Aspen. The pressure on a hammock would likely (IMO) cause damage to the part that was under force...probably 1/2 to 3/4 of its circumference. That's enough reason to use straps, IMO.

I think that as long as SOMETHING is distributing the force from the cord, it can serve the purpose. Youngblood often uses (or used to use) hollow rope that flattens out to distribute the force. That may work just as well as webbing. Other folks seeing it may not make the connection, so perceptions are still important, though.

I think the tarps are different. I don't put anywhere near the force on my tarp that I do on an occupied hammock. But if there's enough force that you're risking damaging the tree, then surely something should be used to protect it. Straps would work.

**canoebie** · 07-10-2010, 13:20

Originally Posted by oldgringo

Let's not let this get away. Youngblood is making a good point, here.

I have one tarp that hangs on tree straps, and plan to change the others over.

Dave,

Say more about this. How are you connecting the tarp to the webbing? I have considered such because I don't like rope around trees at all.

**Albert Skye** · 07-10-2010, 13:20

I trust Acer's judgement regarding tree damage.

As well as protecting trees from the suspension line, tree slings also protect the suspension line from trees (i.e., sap, algae, abrasion, &c.). They can also make suspension line adjustment easier.

**MikeN** · 07-10-2010, 13:50

Originally Posted by oldgringo

Let's not let this get away. Youngblood is making a good point, here.

I have one tarp that hangs on tree straps, and plan to change the others over.

I wouldn't think a tarp would exert anything NEAR the pressure that a hammock rigged on cordage would.

**TOB9595** · 07-10-2010, 13:57

Based on all the quality info here at HF, I use webbing FOR hammock and not for tarp.

I am contemplating the use of webbing for tarp also...still pondering the realities.
Tom

**bigbamaguy** · 07-10-2010, 14:56

Sorry Jeff, I could not see the forest for the trees!!!!!!!! I miss read one of the posts and made my post. I agree that a thin Spectra or other form of small cord will damage the trees. I always stress that straps should be used and if they are not used then there should be a "twig spacer" placed around the trunk to spread the load of the suspension out over a greater surface area.

**oldgringo** · 07-10-2010, 15:03

Originally Posted by MikeN

I wouldn't think a tarp would exert anything NEAR the pressure that a hammock rigged on cordage would.

I agree with that, Mike.

As has already been stated, there's no science on the topic of what will/will not damage trees, and even if there were, it wouldn't matter much, if at all...perception carries the day, every day. Choosing straps over cordage is all about spin control...has nothing to do with facts, whatever they may be.

**canoebie** · 07-10-2010, 15:06

Originally Posted by oldgringo

I agree with that, Mike.

As has already been stated, there's no science on the topic of what will/will not damage trees, and even if there were, it wouldn't matter much, if at all...perception carries the day, every day. Choosing straps over cordage is all about spin control...has nothing to do with facts, whatever they may be.

When was the last time you had a rational conversation with an irrational person? Perception does carry the day. Exactly why I would like to go to straps for the rainfly. Even if there were a remote chance of damage, I don't want to be party to it. And if Ranger Rick thinks it is so, it is what it is.

**oldgringo** · 07-10-2010, 15:10

Originally Posted by canoebie

Dave,

Say more about this. How are you connecting the tarp to the webbing? I have considered such because I don't like rope around trees at all.

Version 1 is a strap/ring buckle suspension, using 1/2" webbing...I don't like it very much, for a variety of reasons.

V2 will employ 1" webbing and side release buckles...the webbing will go around the tree and fasten just like a belt. Then I'll use a mini 'biner on one end, and a Figure Nine 'biner on the other to secure the tarp's ridgeline.