Hammock Equipment Poll

[UncleMJM]

1. Functionality/Versatility
2. Comfort
3. Weight
4. Durability
5. Price

It's gotta work for what I got it for and better if there is a multiple-use for it.

I've gotta be comfortable with it, either sleeping in it, wearing it, or using it.

If it weighs too much it stays with the car camping gear but I'll trade weight for comfort.

Durability is relative to weight and price.

Dang, I gotta pay for it but it's better to buy the right thing once and pay a higher price than a bunch of lower priced items not quite what I really want several times that cummulatively is higher than the right thing once. Reading back that confuses me but I know what I mean.

[Valleybird]

Functionality
weight
comfort
price
durability

[OfftheGround]

Not to speak for anyone else but I'll bet that a close representation of what most hiker/backpackers will answer.

Sometimes it depends on the item, though. My final answer is going to be...

1- Functionality/Versatility
2- Weight
3- Durability (let's think of it as life expectancy)
4- Comfort
5- Price

But you can't forget that "2nd kinda cool" (nutnfancy term, look it up) can sometimes trump all.


4-
5-

Great feedback - thanks. Yes cool factor is one of those that can't be measured but sure can effect our decision making!

[OfftheGround]

Being out here on the trail for over 5 weeks now, my priorities have definitely changed

3 *Weight
1 *Durability
5 *Price
4 *Functionality/Versatility
2 *Comfort

if something rips or breaks mid hike, I am screwed.
Weight has definitely taken a lower ranking.
And comfort is a close second.

I just had to exchange a pack mid hike and i would not recommend this method to anyone whether it has to do with stoves, hammocks, sleeping bag, etc

I think if one is a weekender or planning a short hike, then the considerations are much different.
But for a thru hike, this is my .02

I am right there with you. This would be the way that I would personally rank my gear requirements. Durability - this speaks to a deeper Ethos than just "reliability". Durability has environmental impact, social impact, and financial impact in the long run (the saying goes 'don't be penny-wise and dollar-poor). Depending on the gear my 3-4 might change a bit, but I agree on the first two . -Greg

[thegreatjesse]

1-Weight - obsessively.
2-Functionality/Versatility - this ties into weight. Functionally, I want the lightest possible manifestation of something that performs the most NECESSARY functions. Gimmicky stuff doesn't get me.
3-Comfort - Again, tied to weight. I want to be as comfortable as possible while carrying the least amount of weight.
4-Durability - I like buying gear, but not that often. That being said, I take care of my stuff and know how to make good gear last
5-Price - Cuben Fiber - end of story.

[ol' daddy]

1. Functionality
2. Durability
3. Price
4. Weight
5. Comfort

It's got to do the job I'm getting it for, or I'll be disappointed, or at least I'll have to make do some other way. I don't like to be let down on the trail by my gear.

I wish money were not an issue, but it is, especially since this is, for most of us, a hobby.

It's a real trade off between cost and weight. I prefer light, but cost usually wins.

I came to hammock camping seeking comfort. I found it at a not too astronomical price.