Hammock Comfort issues

**litetrek** · 06-09-2013, 11:45

I set up and tried out my DIY single layer (5'x11') hammock for the first time and had some comfort issues that maybe someone can help me solve. I'm using whoopie slings and polypro tree straps and a 109" structural ridge line. I had the hammock set up between two trees that are probably further apart than the ideal distance since I had to put the tree straps up as high I could reach. The suspension is at about 30 degrees though. Here's the problem and question: Trying to sleep on the diagonal results in the hammock pressing against my head and neck. The more diagonal the position, the more pressure against my head. If it matters, I'm 6 feet tall, 240 lbs. I'd estimate that my feet were 2 feet off the center line of the hammock and comfy. My body was essentially flat except for my head. My head was constricted by the fabric with the fabric pressing up against me and "stretching" my neck to the point of being uncomfortable. What do I adjust or change to improve that?

**Loki** · 06-09-2013, 12:33

If it were me I'd first try tightening and loosening the ridgeline a few times. After that would be time for using http://theultimatehang.com/hammock-hang-calculator/

I'd also calculate the ridgeline length at 83% of the distance between the two attachment points on my hammock (actual distance between the whipping or loops while the hammock is laying flat )

Hope this helps. Anyone else??

**Shug** · 06-09-2013, 12:40

I re-whipped my DIY hammock several times to get it where I wanted it....ala JustJeff's instructions: http://www.tothewoods.net/HomemadeHammock2.html
Then finally....nirvana.
Carry forth,
Shug

**craige** · 06-09-2013, 12:42

Another thing to look at is how you finished the ends of the hammock? If the sides are whipped and pulled out a bit from the hammock then it will make the edges shorter than the rest of the hammock body and could result in your hammock having a steeper side so your head will be on that steep edge. Know what I mean? It makes sense in my head

lol.

**litetrek** · 06-09-2013, 13:09

Thanks for those ideas ... any others from anyone else? The ridgeline length I'm using is the recommended 83% and I have my hammock set up pretty much like the calculator says. The ends aren't whipped really. I just pulled the fabric into a bunch and put larks head knot around it. So that might have something to do with it, although I hadn't planned to whip the ends.

**Shug** · 06-09-2013, 13:21

Originally Posted by litetrek

Thanks for those ideas ... any others from anyone else? The ridgeline length I'm using is the recommended 83% and I have my hammock set up pretty much like the calculator says. The ends aren't whipped really. I just pulled the fabric into a bunch and put larks head knot around it. So that might have something to do with it, although I hadn't planned to whip the ends.

Yeah.......loosen up your outside edges and re-lark. May do the job for ya'.
Hope so......
Shug

**silentorpheus** · 06-09-2013, 13:22

Like suggested, I'd say look at the ends first - it's possible you pulled the edges a little when you bunched it up, causing them to be a little tighter than you'd like.

The other thing to do is just take off the ridgeline. All the ridgeline does is help to ensure you get the same amount of sag every time. You can achieve the same thing by hanging it right even without the ridgeline. So try taking it off, and practice hanging it - see what works for you. You may find that you get it right where you want it without the ridgeline dictating how it's hung. At that point, you can make the ridgeline length to match whatever angle you decide on.