Noob Trial Basis - advice needed

[Rabid Deer]

I want to try out hammocking before I dive in head first. I don't want to make my own gear right off the get-go. I also don't want to spend too much cash. Here's what I'm looking for:

• A hammock that can hold both my wife and I
• Something fairly light, but I'm not a minimalist
• Something I can use winter camping because I eventually would want to do that anyway

About me (and my wife):
I'm 5'6" 150 pounds, she's 5'2" and about 100 pounds and we are currently looking forward to getting into backpacking. I'm thinking I will bring the hammock along and try it out. Also thinking I'm going to like it and this will be a tool to win her over.

Eventually I want to buy or make a tarp, too. So far I like the WB Superfly because it is very versatile. Winter camping capability is a must with anything I'd buy. I've gone a couple times in a tent this winter so far.

Any input is much appreciated. I'm new, but everything I've read is very informative. Also, any community with Shug in their ranks must be a cool place to hang...(sorry, the puns are always intended).

[JayS]

While any "double" hammock can hold your wife and you, it's not comfortable for any length of time. I'd suggest getting a double (ENO DoubleNest, etc) but don't expect to both sleep in it more than once. That said, maybe I should suggest just getting a hammock based on your other "wants" and get a second setup for your wife if she tries yours and likes it.

[refund]

I have seen this done several times, two hammocks, same trees, one tarp. it is the best thing for what you want to do, as mentioned before you can't sleep two in a hammock for long, No matter how in love you are. And of course a tarp to cover both of these. The one on bottom has to be kinda close to the ground but it works. hope this helps.

[Rabid Deer]

Thanks for the input so far. I am not planning on sleeping in the hammock with my wife, just hanging out in it at camp. Right now we are set up for tent camping and it would take quite a bit of cash to set us up in hammocks. Looking more for a lounger that can be used later as a serious setup.

I really do like the ENO Doublenest. Thanks!

[Sidewinder]

I think the ENO suggestion is a good one. You can get them at REI, and if you don't like it, they have a great return policy. I actually did this with a Hennesy Hammock. Bought it, tried it then returned it.

~S

[GGT]

Yep me too

[Rabid Deer]

ENO looks like it will be the way I will go. Anyone tried the Insect Sheild?

[G.L.P.]

"A hammock that can hold both my wife and I"

ENO Dbl nest would be the way to go...but i agree with others...get the hammock you want and a cheaper on for her...that way if she don't like it no big deal

"Something fairly light, but I'm not a minimalist"

ENO,WB,HH,tttg all the vendors have hammocks in that range... just fine the one that best fits your needs

"Something I can use winter camping because I eventually would want to do that anyway"

any hammock will be good for winter camping....it's insulation that you will need.. you will need something under you at around 70F and below
either a pad or a UQ ...pads will work but for 2 ppl at the same time i don't see it working so spend the money on a UQ...you will be alot more happy in the end

one thing to remember there is no cheap way... in the end you will end up with UQ's and TQ's and more then one hammock...it happens to everyone
welcome to the madness LOL

[JCK]

About the superfly tarp, its as im sure you know quite a large tarp and i believe quite a few member use it for their winter camping needs. It can also easily fit two hammocks under it.

I know you said you currently ground camp but IMO if you get a good quality tarp then thats one piece you already have when you decide to complete your hammock setup. Im sure you could also use it as part of your ground setup.