Plus's and Minus's of a Bridge Hammock

**TxTiger** · 03-21-2014, 11:51

So as I continue my education, the bridge hammock looks interesting. From what I've read a bridge hammock sleeps flatter than a gathered end, but is also tippy. How easy is it tip a bridge hammock? Is this something that can happen if you are reaching for something outside the hammock, or in your sleep? What is the consensus for those who have had both, more or less comfortable than a gathered end? I've been looking at the WB Ridgerunner.

Thanks for any input.

**pgibson** · 03-21-2014, 11:58

I don't find them overly tippy....I think that some bridge's might be more so that others but a lot of that depends on the hammock in question and the set up. Lets say though that for me the Ridgerunner does not fell tippy one bit. I can roll over, lay on my side with my back right up against the edge and not feel the least bit like I might tip it.

Comfort wise that will be a personal preference. I like the RR's a lot and use it almost exclusively since getting them but I did not dislike my GE's.

**doc17th** · 03-21-2014, 12:29

My wb rr is my favorite hammock I toss from side to side when I sleep but never felt like it would tip.

**gunner76** · 03-21-2014, 12:52

The old style fish net style bridge hammocks you see all the time with those wooded spreader bars are very tipsy.

My wife has a RidgeLine and once she is in it, she's not going anywhere.

**Brien** · 03-21-2014, 13:06

I've only used a bridge hammock so I lack any comparisons to give you. But I really like my hammock. It is tipsy but easily remedied by using tie-outs. Unlike traditional hammocks that are hung at a 30 degree angle, I find bridge hammocks work better if hung flatter. My hammock is completely enclosed like a tent, which is nice. I can sit up and move around comfortably. I also use a Jarbridge 3/4 underquilt and it fits fine.

The main draw back is the size and weight. Mine is at least 2' tall in the sack and weights under 5 lbs. So kinda big and heavy for backpacking. I'm actually going to buy a Eno soon for backpacking purposes. But for car camping or in the backyard I really like mine.

ImageUploadedByTapatalk 21374382209.949075.jpg

**Life Scout** · 03-21-2014, 13:16

Originally Posted by Brien

I've only used a bridge hammock so I lack any comparisons to give you. But I really like my hammock. It is tipsy but easily remedied by using tie-outs. Unlike traditional hammocks that are hung at a 30 degree angle, I find bridge hammocks work better if hung flatter. My hammock is completely enclosed like a tent, which is nice. I can sit up and move around comfortably. I also use a Jarbridge 3/4 underquilt and it fits fine.

The main draw back is the size and weight. Mine is at least 2' tall in the sack and weights under 5 lbs. So kinda big and heavy for backpacking. I'm actually going to buy a Eno soon for backpacking purposes. But for car camping or in the backyard I really like mine.

ImageUploadedByTapatalk 21374382209.949075.jpg

What BH is that? If you don't mind me asking.

**Bic** · 03-21-2014, 13:19

I've slept in lots of bridge hammocks... mostly DIY ones. But I've spent the better part of the last year in a WBRR. They are all only a little tippy when you sit up. When laying down, they are fine. They are more comfortable for a lot of people, but not for everyone. For me, the bridge hammock has won me over, and I will never go back to a gathered end.

**Nodust** · 03-21-2014, 13:59

I sleep in a gathered end hammock. But have tried my wife's BMBH twice. I didn't find it tippy. The only thing I didn't like was it felt like my hips were squeezed a little, but still very comfortable. I also needed a pillow unlike with my gathered end hammocks.

**Cactusjack** · 03-21-2014, 14:05

What is the ideal distance between trees when setting up the WBRR Bridge Hammock?

**fiveonomo** · 03-21-2014, 14:29

I had the WBRR and it is an awesome piece of gear, just didn't work for me. It is very comfortable while laying on your back but I could not lay on my side and I am a side sleeper. As far as tippy goes, maybe if you set up in it a little but it never bothered me. I switched to the WBBB XLC and have not looked back, this is a much more comfortable optioin for me. I have way more room in the XLC and the folks over at Warbonnet are first class, much like the other cottage venders here.
I would suggest if you could get to a group hang or if one of the members lives close to you maybe you could try one there. Good luck in your desicion but this is part of the hammock fun....trying all of the great stuff thats out there.