Hennessy side zip models

[Globetruck]

Does anyone have any experience with the Hennessy Explorer side Zip (or similar) model? They seem to be new as of 2010.

Here's a link: http://hennessyhammock.com/specs-explorerUL_zip.html

Thanks,
Globetruck

[Just Jeff]

Hennessy resisted putting zippers on his hammocks for a long time, talking about how they were unneeded weight. Then Warbonnet created the El Dorado and Blackbird and started taking some of his market share...all the sudden Hennessy has side zip models.

The zipper doesn't change how the hammock lays...just adds some convenience. I've used the HH Backpacker and HH Explorer, and neither was as comfortable as my El Dorado or my Blackbird. If you're looking for a great HH, get the zipper model. If you're looking for a great hammock, get the Blackbird. Just my opinion...yours may vary.

[Hawk-eye]

Not really impressed with the HH side zip ... now take a HH and get a 2QZQ Mod ... especially a Mod4 and you have something! Blackbird ... absolutely ... I don't have one but have read enough about them to be duly impressed!

[Oxblood]

I purchased the Explorer Deluxe Side Zip. I am very happy with it. I had the Ex[edition previously, but found it a bit too small. When I decided on getting a new hammock to replace it, I decided to go with the side zip style. I find it easier to get in and out of than the bottom entry. With the Explorer Deluxe also came a lot more room to lay in.

I have now been on two multi-day long distance motorcycle trips with the Explorer, and spent 8 nights in the hammock. I slept very well on all occasions. The few times I felt a little uncomfortable were my own fault for not hanging correctly, and this was easily addressed by getting out of the hammock, and adjusting the suspension.

So far, I am impressed with hammocks in general, and like my Hennessy. I am sure, out of curiosity I will eventually get around to trying a Warbonnet, and maybe even the JacksRBetter BMBH. The one thing I will say about hammocks in general is, I ain't gonna sleep in a tent again if I can help it.

[Wisereader]

I have the Expedition side zip and like it very much. I am 6' and about 195 lbs and was initially worried that it may be a little snug. After a few trips I can happily say that I am quite comfortable in it.

[qm1pooh]

I have an Expedition side zip, and for the price it works well. I swapped out the original suspension lines and straps with whoopie slings and new treehuggers from Paul at AHE, and I set it up a little better than I was with the original stuff.

I'm 5'8" 220lbs and I'm pretty comfortable in it. I do need to replace the zipper pulls with some longer cord because sometimes it's a little tough to swing my feet into the hammock with the foot end zipper at a point where I can reach it lying down.

[TheFED]

Does the side zip models allow the netting to be thrown over the ridgeline?

[Dudorino]

I'm thinking about the HH Safari Deluxe model. The description says you can sleep a couple in it as long as you don't exceed 350 lbs. It only comes with the bottom entrance though. I'm also seriously looking at the 2QzQ zipper mod 4 to my HH expedition. Having access out the top just seems to make a lot of sense to me. Having to go through that hole on the bottom seems a bit confining to me.

[Oxblood]

Does the side zip models allow the netting to be thrown over the ridgeline?

Yes. When you unzip the side, you will notice small velco tabs sewn to the netting. This allows you not only to throw the net over the ridgeline, but to secure it in place with the matching tabs on the other side.

I agree with the comment about the zipper puls. I am going to loop some paracord through the tabs to make a draw so that they are easier to reach.