Here's a dumb question... (re suspension tension)

**khai** · 04-13-2010, 22:45

In that MASSIVE SMC ring thread, one thing that kept coming up as a reason why many people preferred the descending rings over the CC buckles was because it enabled them to pull the suspension "really tight" (and still be able to release it in the morning). Several people mentioned pulling it "as tight as I can", etc.

Why is that? With a ridgeline, shouldn't one only need to tighten the suspension lines to the point where the ridgeline is somewhat taut? With no ridgeline, shouldn't there be some sag to enable diagonal sleeping and to minimize shoulder squeeze?

I'm new here, and probably missing something obvious - but I just don't understand why the ability to easily release the rings after pulling the hammock really tight (as a regular practice) is all that big a deal. Sure it's nice to be able to release given any situation - but is it really a major factor in deciding which hardware to use?

**wisenber** · 04-13-2010, 22:53

Having used both, I'd go buckles over rings with straps any day.
You're pretty much correct on your observations. Most gathered end hammocks will result in shoulder squeeze if set to tight and not using a structured ridgeline.

**GrizzlyAdams** · 04-13-2010, 23:00

Originally Posted by khai

...With a ridgeline, shouldn't one only need to tighten the suspension lines to the point where the ridgeline is somewhat taut? With no ridgeline, shouldn't there be some sag to enable diagonal sleeping and to minimize shoulder squeeze?

you are correct, and I think by now the HF folks that have been around a while have learned this. I think some of the "pull it tight" thinking is left over from similar instructions on HH hammocks.