I've spent a large amount of time in cheap hammocks.
I started with a utility tarp that I folded up into a "hammock tent". It was ok until it rained.
That's when I got a "blue" one from Walmart, and used that for a summer before I saw one Sports Authority, back when they existed, which was was an olive and slate two-panel color combo, for only $10 more.
I used that for a few years, and went through a couple. at each new hammock purchase, the old hammock was demoted to "gear hammock" status. When I went to get my next one, I discovered Sports Authority had gone out of business, and decided to spring for the Eno as my budget had increased.
Now, the Eno is my gear hammock, and I have graduated to the Chameleon.
So. What's the difference?
The fabric of the Chameleon is MUCH better than any of those others. The single panel construction doesn't have any itchy seams, the way it stretches is disconcerting at first, but much more comfortable once you adjust your hang, plus the fabric isn't as course.
You can get netless with the same fabric, and yes it will be lighter without the zipper and net and top cover, BUT if you need the net or top cover, the Chameleon should be lighter WITH the net, than a netless will be with a bottom entry net.
The top cover has it's good and bad points. it keeps off the moving outside air, which keeps you a little warmer, but that also prevents moisture from being taken away by those same air currents, and I've found that the net window is limited in it's ability to vent enough to stop condensation from forming on the inside of the cover... depends on conditions. Even with the top cover unzipped for increased venting, I still woke up yesterday to condensation overhead. none this morning though. Like I said it depends.
Before i had a Chameleon though, I never had a top cover and was just fine, there is definitely a difference in how warm I feel though.
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