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Finding the hammock that’s right for you!

LILLIAN DURR Editor D@lillian_durr

Even with restrictions on hammock-use in Springfield parks, nothing has ever stopped Missouri State University students from enjoying a sunny day in a hammock.

According to Chapter 82, Section E of the Code of the City of Springfield, “It shall be unlawful for any person while on property or in buildings under the operation and control of the park board to: Attach wires, ropes, placards, notices or other contrivances to any structure, tree, shrub, plant or utility lines without prior written permission of the park board.” This stipulation includes hammocks.

This ruling prevents students from hanging hammocks from trees in city parks, but there are still many places to hammock in Springfield, especially on campus. Hammock hanging stands can be found in several locations on MSU’s campus, including near the PSU and in front of Temple Hall.

Before you start your hammock adventure, it is important to know what to look for in a hammock. There are many different brands offering similar products; below is a brief overview of a few similar models offered by popular hammock brands and the qualities that set them apart.

Eagle Nest Outfitters (ENO) DoubleNest Hammock

• $69.95 • Assorted colors • Straps not included (additional $49.95) • Weight capacity: 400 lbs • Material: nylon taffeta • Dimensions: 9’ x 6’6” • Weight: 19 oz

Reviews found on ENO’s website highlight the DoubleNest Hammock as roomy, quick to dry after rainfall, lightweight and easy to set up.

Many avid hammock users will recognize this brand and agree that it is one of the most popular brands today. Although the DoubleNest Hammock is more expensive than its competitors, and the straps are not included in the basic price, it is a roomy choice made of durable, lightweight material.

If it’s within your budget, the ENO DoubleNest Hammock is a quality choice. Hennessy Hammock Leaf Lounger XL

• $79.95 • Color: leaf green with black trim • Straps included (3’6”) • Weight capacity: 300 lbs • Material: 70d nylon • Dimensions: 130” x 59” (advertised as designed for anyone up to 7’ tall) • Weight: 1 lb 3 oz

While there are limited reviews on Hennessy’s website, Amazon reviewer Daniel Mandon commented that the Leaf Lounger XL is comfortable, albeit difficult to get into.

This hammock has an incredibly unique shape and comes with 3’6” straps, which are adequate in length for most hammock stands and some thin trees.

Although it is more expensive than many competing hammocks, it sets itself apart with its asymmetrical shape.

Fox Outfitters NEOLITE XL: Double Hammock

• $47.95 • Assorted colors • Two 5’6” straps with “tree friendly” sleeves included • Weight capacity: 400 lbs • Material: woven nylon • Dimensions: 10’6” x 6’6” • Weight: 19 oz

Reviews on Fox Outfitters’ website herald the hammock as durable, compact and extremely comfortable. The NEOLITE XL is also the cheapest of the models included in this review.

Additionally, it comes with longer straps than Hennessy’s Leaf Lounger XL and includes

Graphic by Sydney Arlt Q@sydneyarlt.png

One of our stellar graphic designers drew me doing one of my favorite activities: hammocking. In this story you can read about what hammock is best for your lifestyle.

tree friendly sleeves for them. This makes it compatible with both hammock stands and thicker trees.

Overall, the Fox Outfitter NEOLITE XL appears to provide plenty of bang for your buck.

Grand Trunk Double Deluxe Parachute Nylon Hammock

• $49.95 • Assorted colors • Includes two 5’ x 2” ‘Tree Friendly’ hammock straps • Weight capacity: 400 lbs • Material: 210T 70D parachute nylon • Dimensions: 10’6” x 6’6” • Weight: 28 oz The reviewers of the Double Deluxe Parachute Nylon Hammock on Grand Trunk’s website like its generous size and breathable fabric. One reviewer claims their hammock lasted more than eight years.

The straps are comparable to those included with the Fox Outfitters NEOLITE XL, and it is only slightly more expensive. It is also the same length and width as the NEOLITE XL, although it is 9 oz. The two hammocks are very similar, and they are mostly differentiated by their weight and the type of nylon used.

If you are interested in purchasing a hammock, there are countless models and brands not listed above. Nonetheless, I hope my overview of some popular choices helps you turn a new leaf and begin your hammocking adventure.