Strap Length for Hammock

[Al K]

I mostly backpack in Sierras, Rockies, and Cascades and I am looking to add a hammock for daytime chilling.

For straps, I am considering the Hummingbird versions which are the lightest and come in at two sizes

Weight (both straps): 1.55 oz (44 g)
Weight Rating: 400 lbs (181 kg)
Dimensions Packed: 4 x 2 x 1 in (10 x 5 x 3 cm)
Overall Length: 100 in (8 ft 4 in) (254 cm)
Webbing Length: 60 in (5 ft) (152 cm)
Whoopie Sling Length: 40 in (3 ft 4 in) (102 cm)

OR

Weight (both straps): 2.3 oz (65 g)
Weight Rating: 400 lbs (181 kg)
Dimensions Packed: 5 x 3.5 x 1 in (14.5 x 8.5 x 3 cm)
Overall Length: 152 in (12 ft 7 in) (386 cm)
Webbing Length: 120 in (10 ft) (305 cm)
Whoopie Sling Length: 40 in (3 ft 4 in) (102 cm)

Question is, based on the trees I am likely to encounter, is there any reason to get the bigger size? Keep in mind I am new to this. Thanks in advance for any replies.

[Matthew / BPL]

There are lots of big trees in the Sierra. If my math is correct, you can only get around a 1.5′ tree with a 5′ strap. I’d go for long length and keep the Amsteel whoopies off the bark.

[Kevin Babione]

I do most of my hammocking in Pennsylvania, and I always carry a 8′ and a 10′ strap to minimize my weight and maximize my tree choices.  My whoopie slings are much longer than 40″ as well…Probably closer to 72″.  You don’t always need that length, but when you do you REALLY do.

There’s also a Hammocks forum here at BPL…

[Matthew / BPL]

I didn’t look at the length of the whoopies. I agree they should be much longer.

I’ll bounce this over to hammocks…

[Author]

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