This comprehensive review dives deep into the Appalachian Hammock Original, a handcrafted hammock designed for comfort and durability. We'll explore its construction, materials, and overall performance, comparing it to popular competitors like the Eno DoubleNest. From the initial unboxing experience to weeks of real-world use, we'll assess every aspect, covering everything from the quality of the included suspension straps and carabiners to the hammock's impressive weight capacity and spacious design. We'll also examine the optional Big-Sil UL Tarp, a lightweight and weatherproof companion piece that enhances the overall camping experience.This in-depth analysis will leave you with a clear understanding of the Appalachian Hammock Original's strengths and weaknesses, helping you determine if it's the right choice for your hammock camping needs. We'll cover comfort, ease of setup, durability, and value for money, providing a detailed assessment that goes beyond surface-level observations. Get ready for a comprehensive look at a hammock that promises exceptional quality and performance.
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Unboxing and Initial Impressions
The Appalachian Hammock Original arrived well-packaged. The first thing that struck me was the quality of the materials. The nylon felt incredibly durable, and the stitching was impeccable. It’s clear a lot of care went into its construction.
Included in the package were the hammock itself, high-quality suspension straps, and ultralight carabiners. Most competitors sell these as separate accessories, adding significantly to the overall cost. This complete package makes setup a breeze.
The subdued color of the hammock is a nice touch, ensuring it blends seamlessly into the surrounding environment. The orange stuff sack adds to the overall package and allows for easy storage and identification of the hammock. The attention to detail speaks volumes about the craftsmanship.
Specs and Features
This is a truly substantial hammock, measuring 11 feet by 60 inches and boasting a 400-pound weight capacity. This generous size allows for comfortable use, whether lounging solo or sharing with a companion.
The hammock features triple stitching at the ends, providing robust reinforcement. The use of 1.9-ounce nylon ensures durability and lightweight portability. The included suspension straps are one-inch military-grade webbing.
The ultralight carabiners contribute to the overall lightweight design of the system, a significant improvement over bulkier snap links often found in other hammocks. The end-gather design enhances comfort and distributes weight evenly.
In-Use Experience and Comfort
After using the Appalachian Hammock Original for several weeks, I can confidently say it delivers exceptional comfort. The generous size allows for a variety of lounging positions, and the material is incredibly soft against the skin.
The length of the hammock, combined with the 9-foot straps, provides ample flexibility in choosing hanging points. This makes setup easy even when trees are spaced far apart. The asymmetrical hanging style adds further to the comfort.
The hammock's durability is evident in its construction. Even with occasional use in less-than-ideal conditions, it shows no signs of wear or tear. The generous size allows for plenty of room, accommodating various body types and even providing space for two people, if within the weight limit.
Comparison with Eno DoubleNest
The Eno DoubleNest, a popular competitor, is similar in size and weight capacity but lacks the included suspension straps. This alone increases the overall cost of the Eno.
The Appalachian Hammock Original is noticeably larger than the Eno DoubleNest, offering more space and comfort. This difference is especially apparent when comparing the two hammocks side-by-side.
The quality of the included hardware, such as the carabiners and straps, is superior in the Appalachian Hammock compared to the Eno. The superior materials and craftsmanship of the Appalachian Hammock makes it a better value.
Appalachian Hammocks Big-Sil UL Tarp Review
The Big-Sil UL Tarp is a lightweight yet durable tarp designed to complement the hammock. Its 144-inch ridgeline and 120-inch width offer ample coverage. It's constructed from 1.1-ounce silicon-coated ripstop nylon, making it waterproof and incredibly lightweight.
The tarp’s design features reinforced edges and triple-stitched tie-out points, adding to its overall durability. The neutral color scheme blends well with various environments. The integrated guy lines enhance its functionality.
The tarp's excellent pitch provides ample coverage against rain, sun, and wind. The extra space allows for storage of gear underneath the tarp. With its lightweight construction, the Big-Sil tarp enhances the camping experience without adding significant bulk.
Conclusion and Final Verdict
The Appalachian Hammock Original delivers exceptional value. The inclusion of high-quality suspension straps and carabiners, along with the superior craftsmanship and durable materials, sets it apart from competitors.
The Big-Sil UL Tarp is a worthy complement, providing excellent coverage and weather protection. Combined, they offer a lightweight and comfortable hammock camping system.
Considering the price, quality, and included accessories, the Appalachian Hammock Original is a highly recommended choice for hammock enthusiasts. Its blend of comfort, durability and value makes it an excellent investment. The superior quality and craftsmanship easily surpasses other, more expensive options.