Jungle Hammock - waterproofing?

**Hike2Hang** · 07-11-2011, 23:46

Hi,
I'm ordering a jungle hammock in the next few days. I does have a built in "roof" however, I'm told that it's primarily for sun protection, and not for rain.

I'm wondering, is it possible to waterproof the built in "roof"? Could a standard water repellent (like for boots, etc) work? or would I have to "paint on" thinned silicone?

What about sewing on a tarp over the existing?

Or, would the best result be to simply get a tarp to use over the existing one?

thanks

**NewtonGT** · 07-12-2011, 02:14

by jungle hammock do you mean a clark? or do you mean any hammock that has a net sewn in and is made for jungle type places? If I were you Id just buy a tarp though. I wouldnt mess with waterproofing it man

**Hike2Hang** · 07-12-2011, 02:28

here's a photo of what I'm getting.
(I currently have a "standard" hammock as well)

I like this design for a number of reasons. The netting is a bonus, the fact it can be used flat (using sticks at either end), and it can even double as a small tent, should I (for whatever reason) decide to use it as such.
It would be great if the "roof" was waterproof though, then the whole unit would be completely self contained. -although I'd still need a larger tarp for colder weather to "tent" around the hammock for wind protection...

here are the specs:

* G.I. style
* 78" x 30" x 20" in size
* Elevated shelter
* Mesh netting with taffeta nylon
* Coated roof
* Heavy cotton canvas floor
* Attached ropes an clews

Material/Fabric: Nylon

does "coated roof" entail that it IS waterproofed?

**Shug** · 07-12-2011, 09:59

Originally Posted by FAQUAD

here's a photo of what I'm getting.

Material/Fabric: Nylon
does "coated roof" entail that it IS waterproofed?

I would assume that "coated" means waterproof.
Hope it is.
Shug

**gargoyle** · 07-12-2011, 10:46

These hammocks come up here time to time.
They are small and not real comfy. And are more bulky to pack. Weird ropes on the ends (that will tangle), grommets (that will fail), small tarp.
There are better options.
I had one growing up, it'll work. Just not the best.
I'd recommend a Claytor hammock or a skeeter beeter over this if budget is an issue.

**Hike2Hang** · 07-12-2011, 12:34

Thanks,
I already have a spear hammock with a diy bugnet system.
So looking at the Claytor, I don't see much benefit or reason to get it over what I currently have.

I do appreciate your opinion, however, I do still plan to purchase and try it out.
At worst, if I find it's a bit small, I'll hold on to it and let my kids use it when they get a bit older.

**Slackdaddy** · 07-12-2011, 17:05

I'll chime in,
I have 4 HH explorers and Exped's, never paid more than $80.00
One of the Exped's I got for 50.00
all very lightly used, just a thought.
I fact I got a HH exped, jetboil, titanium cook set, and nice pack off craigs list all for $150.00 from a gal that used then once.
I know many veiw the HH as "gateway drugs", but bang for the buck, a used one for 50.00 - 80.00 and your all set.

Slack

**TinaLouise** · 07-13-2011, 05:27

my troop has one of those hammocks, the top is more like a weather sheild and not like a tarp. We always hung a large tarp over it. That hammock is also heavy and not the easiest to get it hung up right. I personally didn't care for it and if I had to rate it, I put it at the bottom of my list; below my "el cheap-o" $20 hammocks!!! Now if that was my only hammock, it's way better than a tent!!!

**Jazilla** · 07-13-2011, 07:35

Originally Posted by FAQUAD

Thanks,
I already have a spear hammock with a diy bugnet system.
So looking at the Claytor, I don't see much benefit or reason to get it over what I currently have.

I do appreciate your opinion, however, I do still plan to purchase and try it out.
At worst, if I find it's a bit small, I'll hold on to it and let my kids use it when they get a bit older.

This was my first hammock. It was great. Uncomfortable as hell and the bugs ate me up where my shoulders touched the bugnet. Why was it great you ask, it lead me into hammock camping. A week after that first trip i purchased a HHULB blemished w/out tarp for $99. I still have the GI hammock. I say get it. Its made Army strong, perfect for kids to beat up.

**Hike2Hang** · 07-14-2011, 00:35

Picking it up on Friday. I'm not a very big guy. Worth a shot. And again, if all else fails, it'll be a starter hammock for my kids (3yr daughter and 1 yr son) when they get a little older (just a "little" older, LMAO)

I do like the design concept though. Perhaps after trying it out, I'll see what I do/dont like about it, then make my own DIY version to better suit my needs.

I do understand the weight issue, however, right now I'm not too focused/caught up on the Ultra Light. I'm more into just getting my *** out into the woods again and having a good time, experimenting with as much as I can afford to.

I can't believe how addictive hammock camping is. There really should be a surgeon general warning on all hammock related supplies/gear. LoL

Thanks again for everyone's input, greatly appreciated.
As I said, I am going to give it a go (hopefully - had a vasectomy today, better be healed up and pain free by Friday!)this weekend, see how I feel about it.

I'll deff be posting vids on my YouTube channel, and I'll post my feelings on this hammock here as well.