Trying to learn the ropes in Rome, Ga

**redpossum** · 11-20-2013, 22:14

I am really new to hanging. I have only got to hang on a couple of occasions so far, and both in the back yard. I love the comfort of a hammock but do have a couple of questions. First when you all talk about the hammock suspension is that the lines at the end of the hammock or the tree straps? My second question is when you are in the hammock how do you keep from sliding down in the hammock? I was using an self-inflatable pad and using a mummy bag for a top quilt. I also had a poncho liner for an under quilt. I keep sliding down and I woke up the next morning with a splitting headache. If anybody can tell me what I am doing wrong it would be greatly appreciated.

**Shug** · 11-20-2013, 22:17

Originally Posted by redpossum

I am really new to hanging. I have only got to hang on a couple of occasions so far, and both in the back yard. I love the comfort of a hammock but do have a couple of questions. First when you all talk about the hammock suspension is that the lines at the end of the hammock or the tree straps? My second question is when you are in the hammock how do you keep from sliding down in the hammock? I was using an self-inflatable pad and using a mummy bag for a top quilt. I also had a poncho liner for an under quilt. I keep sliding down and I woke up the next morning with a splitting headache. If anybody can tell me what I am doing wrong it would be greatly appreciated.

Hang your foot-end a bit higher…that'll help the slide. Use a pillow under your neck like a jacket or something.
Yes the suspension is the lines off of the end.
Stay at it…..
Shug

**blaktee** · 11-20-2013, 22:29

I agree with Shug. Make sure your foot end is higher than your head end. 6" is pretty common and more if you need to. Pads can be slippery!!!

**redpossum** · 11-20-2013, 23:11

Thanks for the info. I will have to try elevating the feet a little. I didn't know to do that. I will also try using my thermarest pillow next time.

Shug: Great video. very helpful.

**old4hats** · 11-21-2013, 07:05

redpossum, welcome to the forums from another north Ga. hanger.

**tri-pod bob** · 11-21-2013, 07:58

This is THE PLACE to learn!! Welcome....from the "Wilds of western Mass!"

**Cali** · 11-21-2013, 08:05

Welcome aloft from across the line in SC.

Hope you can join us on a local hang, and that is the place for you to learn so much about hammock camping first hand. You will also get to see lots of hammock camping gear close up.

There is a hang at Bussey Point on Lake Thurmond at the end of this month. I can't make that one, but lots of great folks will be there.

**sullythehiker** · 11-21-2013, 08:13

Welcome to the madness..lol. I live just up the road a little ways from you and just also breaking into the wonderful world of hammocks. There is a plethora of information on this forum and everyone is always willing to help as you have seen already..lol. As Cali mentioned it would be great if you could make one of the group hangs in our area. I'm going to try to make one here soon myself.

**wncsar** · 11-21-2013, 10:45

There is so much information on the forum and so many good ideas. Welcome

**squidbilly** · 11-21-2013, 11:33

Welcome redpossum, from Gadsden. About sliding down in your hammock: besides the other great advice, make sure you're laying on the diagonal too. You lay much flatter that way. We assume everybody knows this, but if you're new to hammocks you might not know it.
Also, the softer foam pads like these http://lawsonequipment.com/InsuLite-Foam-Pads-c127 don't slide so easily.