Clark North American for AT Thru?

**BigCat** · 11-11-2009, 15:22

Hey Gang, I'm considering another thru attempt this Spring and was wondering if anyone had specific experience with the Clark NA on a thru hike.

I did 715 miles in '07 in a Claytor Jungle Hammock but am looking for something different this time. (I'm 6'3''/230lbs, so if any bigger guys have had experience with the NA I'd appreciate the input).

**Cannibal** · 11-11-2009, 15:31

I wouldn't. I'm only 6' and didn't find it (NA) comfortable enough to consider doing a thru with one. Maybe one of the NX models, but even then the systems are still
a little on the heavy side.

If I was planning another thru and was your size, I'd be looking at a Blackbird or a Switchback. Both have a nice balance of weight and comfort IMO.

**bigbamaguy** · 11-11-2009, 16:41

BigCat:
I have never done a through hike but I do own a Clark NX-200. Cannabil is correct to to say that you may not be as comfortable in the NA as you are in one of the NX models. I am 6'1" and 290 and I find the NX-200 to be very comfortable for someone my size. I was able to try the NA out before I bought the NX and it is well worth the extra money to get the NX.

**J_Squared** · 11-11-2009, 17:11

I am 6-4 and 220 and I find the Warbonnet Blackbird the perfect balance of size, weight and comfort. I have the 1.1 dbl but I were going to get another I might opt for the 1.7 single since I have all the fancy UQ insulation now. If I were UL I would sacrifice the bug protection and get a traveler at a similar size and significant weight reduction but then you don't get the shelf. I don't know if I can sleep in a hammock without a shelf.

**TinaLouise** · 11-13-2009, 09:17

My husband is in your size range and he's just not comfortable in my Clark. It's not long enough for him and he gets cramps in his legs. If you can try the larger Clark, the NX models, they should work better.

**beep** · 11-13-2009, 10:37

I'm 6'5" and 215 lbs. My WBBB 1.1 double layer is comfy and relatively light, especially now that I've swapped out for the Whoopie Sling suspension (yes, I've used the Whoopie dead-eye loop to replace the stock end rope!)

If you want to drop more weight, the WB Traveler with bug net would be the lightest option in the Warbonnet World.