Our Hammocks provide the maximum relaxation,so let the fine swinging motion and everlasting floating midair begin
Using
an Existing Tarp?
Note
that if you intend to use an existing tarp for
the rain canopy, it may be necessary to sew on
two ridgeline pull-tabs as described above. Having
the ridgeline pui:-tabs ensures symmetrical set
up of the tarp over the hammock; otherwise, it
is difficult to get it even!-,-centered over the
hammock.
Setting
Up the Rain Canopy
Tie
the rain canopy to the same two supports, generall
~ trees that the hammock is attached to. Using
a simila-four-wrap knot as described in websection
next for attaching the hammock straps will ensure
that the canopy ridge guidelines pull from the
center of the trees. This helps keep the canopy
evenly centered over the hammock and prevents
knots that cannot be untied. Follow the picture
sequence below.Next, the corner guidelines can
be attached to available trees, bushes, roots,
rocks, etc. using the trucker's hitch described
earlier. One or both sides of the canopy can be
lowered as necessary for added wind or rain protection.
Tips
for Reducing Weight Even More:
Although
my hammocks are remarkably lightweight, many backpackers,
especially long-distance hikers, will be interested
in reducing the weight even more. For them, every
ounce eliminated means less effort and greater
comfort. If you are one of these devoted fanatics
(like I am), you probably have already figured
out some ways to save weight on my hammocks; however
some weight-saving possibilities that may or may
not be appropriate for you are given below. The
weight of a modified hammock and rain canopy can
be as little as 1.2 pounds!
Omitting
the bug net and its' support line can save four
to six ounces. This is easy since they are removable
anyway so that they can be left at home during
bug-free seasons. I have used the hammock with
only a small piece of bug netting laid over my
head during bug season; while not as convenient
as the full bug net, it does work and saves some
weight. If you intend to never use the bug net,
you can save another ounce by omitting the Velcro
strips normally sewed to the edges of the hammock.
