Our Favorite Hammock Stand Sets Up in 5 Minutes and Holds Up to 550 Pounds

Reclining in a backyard hammock is one of summer’s great pleasures, especially when it’s supported by a high-quality hammock stand. While some hammocks and stands come as a specific set, many stands are sold separately and can accommodate a range of hammock types. To help find the perfect fit for your deck, porch, or patio, we tested seven popular hammock stands, including options for Brazilian, Mayan, spreader bar, and hammock chair styles.

After 2 weeks of daily use, we chose the Sunnydaze Universal Hammock Stand as the best overall pick for its universal compatibility, lightweight and durable powder-coated steel frame, and ample 550-pound weight capacity. However, we recommend checking out the other options as well before deciding if that’s the right one for your needs, as there’s a lot to like about the rest of the products on our list. From a heavy-duty model to support you and a friend or a chair stand that functions as a hammock swing, these are the best hammock stands to suit everyone’s relaxation needs.

1. BEST OVERALL: Sunnydaze Universal Heavy-Duty Steel Hammock Stand
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Vivere Double Cotton Hammock With Steel Stand
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3. UPGRADE PICK: Vivere Double Cotton Hammock With Solid Pine Stand
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4. BEST FOR HAMMOCK CHAIR: Greenstell Hammock Swing Stand
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5. BEST SPREADER BAR SET: Sorbus Hammock With Spreader Bars & Frame
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6. BEST PORTABLE SET: Tranquillo Universal Canvas Hammock & Foldable Stand
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Hammock Stands Comparison

Our Top Picks

While making a DIY hammock can be a fun weekend project, those who are ready to relax will appreciate the easy assembly and long-lasting durability of these metal and wood hammocks for outdoors. 

Best Overall

Sunnydaze Universal Heavy-Duty Steel Hammock Stand

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What We Like

• Compatible with multiple hammock types
• Fast and easy toolless setup
• Felt the most supportive in our tests
• Lightweight steel frame is powder coated for durability

What We Don’t Like

• May blow over in high winds if not weighted down
• Buying a hammock separately increases cost

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Specs 

• Style Mayan, Brazilian, or spreader bar
• Material Steel
• Weight capacity 550 pounds

Our Ratings

For anyone looking for a mega-tough stand compatible with Brazilian, Mayan, and spreader bar hammocks, the Sunnydaze measures up with its powder-coated steel and 550-pound capacity. Though this model came in the most individual pieces at 14 (plus four plastic and rubber feet that fit on the base bars), the toolless assembly process is still quite quick and easy. The joints lock together with spring-snap mechanisms, and the chains and S-hooks to support all types of hammocks are included. 

The Sunnydaze steel hammock stand fits hammocks ranging from 9.5 to 14 feet long, making it flexible enough to upgrade outdoor living spaces regardless of size. Just one word of caution alongside our reminder that this pick is sold as the stand only: Consider weighing this model down with some sandbags, particularly if using it with a spreader bar hammock, as that style acts a bit like a sail in heavy winds and causes the stand to tip over. 

What our tester says: “This is our favorite hammock stand because it works with all the hammocks we own and is heavy-duty enough to support our entire family of three. Even though our teenager may not want to sit next to us on the couch for a movie, she’s often willing to climb into the big hammock we attached to this stand for a quick cuddle.”—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Get the Sunnydaze hammock stand at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., The Home Depot, Walmart, Target, or Sunnydaze.

Best Bang for the Buck

Vivere Double Cotton Hammock With Steel Stand

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What We Like

• Easier assembly than most stands we tested
• Included hammock comes in several colors and patterns
• Comes with case for disassembly and storage

What We Don’t Like

• Only compatible with Brazilian hammocks

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Specs 

• Style Brazilian
• Material Steel
• Weight capacity 450 pounds

Our Ratings

Those fretting over finding a high-quality hammock stand without taking a big chunk out of their summer vacation fund can breathe easy. This handy hammock set from Vivere includes a top-of-the-line steel stand and a stunning double-cotton Brazilian hammock. Like many of the stands we tested, the frame features tool-free assembly, but since there are only five pieces to connect, the process was faster and easier than almost any other model. It uses the same spring-snap mechanisms as our top pick, which not only simplify assembly but also make it relatively easy to dismantle and pack into the included storage bag during the offseason.

The stand can hold up to 450 pounds without buckling, and the sleek black poles won’t detract from the woven hammock, which is available in a variety of colorful striped options. The hammock itself is just as well made as the stand, featuring reinforced stitching and tough polyester end strings with built-in steel loops. And since the hooks on the stand are adjustable, it’s easy to change how high or low the hammock hangs. 

Get the Vivere steel hammock stand at Amazon, The Home Depot, Walmart, Target, or Vivere.

Upgrade Pick

Vivere Double Cotton Hammock With Solid Pine Stand

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What We Like

• Made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified wood 
• Works as a single or double hammock with stand
• Adjustable height options
• Included hammock comes in a variety of colorways

What We Don’t Like

• Assembly is easier with extra tools and hands

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Specs 

• Style Brazilian
• Material Wood
• Weight capacity 450 pounds

Our Ratings

Freestanding hammocks with steel frames may be durable, but they aren’t necessarily the most stylish or the easiest to get in and out of, as their lightweight frames make them relatively easy to tip. This Vivere hammock with wood stand remedies those issues with its solid FSC-certified pine that weighs about 44 pounds and provides a stable, attractive base. The stand and included hammock (available in multiple colorways) are strong enough to support up to 450 pounds and easy to adjust should users want the cotton bed higher or lower. 

This pine hammock stand comes in six pieces with all the hand tools and heavy-duty hardware needed for assembly. Though the process isn’t difficult, the segments are heavy, and the included hand tools are basic. We found setup went much faster with two sets of hands and a socket wrench. Also, since this heavy-duty hammock stand is pine, consider weatherproofing it using a good wood sealer to help it hold up to year-round weather. Given that this is one of the most comfortable hammocks we tested, we think it’s well worth that little bit of maintenance.

What our tester says: “Our family calls this hammock ‘The Viking Ship’ because its big wooden frame feels so safe and sturdy that we can actually close our eyes while we recline in it without worrying our crazy dogs will run into us mid-nap and knock us over. It’s the hammock we always choose when we need a cozy break from the day.”—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Get the Vivere wood hammock stand at The Home Depot, Amazon, or Vivere.

Best for Hammock Chair

Greenstell Hammock Chair Swing Stand

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What We Like

• Extremely stable X-shaped base
• Compatible with various standing hammock chair styles
• Only four pieces to put together

What We Don’t Like

• End cap came on wrong piece, delaying assembly 
• Chain likely required to lower chair (sold separately)

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Specs 

• Style Chair
• Material Iron
• Weight capacity 330 pounds

Our Ratings

Hammock chairs are great, but often require searching for a ceiling beam or trusting a tree branch. The Greenstell hammock chair stand is an excellent choice to avoid those frustrating issues. Its 44-pound X-shaped base feels sturdy and balanced (even when spinning in a full circle) and the industrial iron frame is strong enough for use as either an outdoor or indoor hammock stand.

We were excited to test this standing hammock chair​, and overall, we were pretty happy with it—once we got it put together. Everything needed is in the box, other than a buddy to hold the heavy segments tightly in place so the rather short screws will fit. We thought it would come together quickly since there are only four pieces, but we hit a snag when we realized the manufacturer installed the only end cap on the wrong segment. After figuring out why the pieces didn’t match the instructions and getting a screwdriver from our garage to get it out of the way, we were back on track. 

Though we anchored our Greenstell stand outside using the included ground nails, it also comes with large silicone floor pads for scuff-free indoor use. Just remember this isn’t a full hanging chair with stand—something like this cozy macrame swing is an ideal purchase to pair with this stand. 

Get the Greenstell hammock stand at Amazon or Greenstell.

Best Spreader Bar Set

Sorbus Hammock With Spreader Bars & Frame

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What We Like

• Assembly is incredibly quick and easy 
• Comes with comfy machine-washable hammock and pillow
• Supports up to 450 pounds

What We Don’t Like

• 12¼-foot-long frame takes up significant space

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Specs 

• Style Spreader bar
• Material Steel
• Weight capacity 450 pounds

Our Ratings

Folks who don’t like to sink into a hammock should check out this Sorbus model. Solid wood spreader bars keep the double-wide cotton bed flat, making it perfect for lounging, sunbathing, or catching a quick snooze. The set includes everything needed to create a comfy spot: a supportive freestanding hammock frame, a soft multicolor striped hammock, and even a detachable pillow.

This Sorbus stand comes in five pieces that are super easy to connect using snap-button joints—no tools required. It’s strong enough to support up to 450 pounds, and its powder-coated steel construction helps it hold up to year-round weather. The included heavy-duty cotton hammock bed is dye-treated for UV resistance and machine washable for easy maintenance. Just be sure to have plenty of room to set this hammock up, as its frame is 12¼ feet long and takes up a fair bit of space.

What our tester says: “As much as I like being cocooned inside a Brazilian hammock, there are times when I just want to recline in the shade with the cool breeze on my skin. This is my favorite hammock for those moments—the flat, open design makes it easy to stretch out, and it’s wide enough for my husband and me to share.”—Michelle Larson, Product Reviews tester and writer 

Get the Sorbus hammock stand at Amazon.

Best Portable Set

Tranquillo Universal Canvas Hammock & Foldable Stand

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What We Like

• Set includes hammock with collapsible stand​ 
• Sets up and tears down in minutes
• Comes with case for carrying and storage

What We Don’t Like

• Bold hammock colors may fade in the sun

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Specs 

• Style Spreader bar
• Material Steel
• Weight capacity 600 pounds

Our Ratings

Blending portability with capability, Tranquillo’s collapsible hammock stand is hard to beat for those who want to take their hammock on the road (or just want one that is easy to tuck away in the shed on rainy days). This camping hammock stand​ features a folding design that simply opens up and clicks into place. The powder-coated steel frame is rust resistant, height adjustable, and has ball bearing joints that give the hammock a smooth and gentle rocking motion. As much as it’s nice to be able to set it up and take it down in under a minute, this pick’s soft sway was one of our favorite things about testing it. 

At just under 30 pounds, this entire kit is easy to carry in the included storage case. It’s advertised to hold up to 600 pounds—and while we think the frame can likely meet that claim, the relatively thin rope ties on the hammock don’t inspire total confidence for such a high max weight. Regardless, we didn’t find it roomy enough for two adults to lounge in comfortably anyway. Also, since this portable hammock with stand is the spreader bar style, it can tip over if not anchored in strong winds. Still, for solo relaxation and easy transport, this Tranquillo hammock with portable stand is easily the most travel-friendly option we tested.

Get the Tranquillo hammock stand at Amazon or Tranquillo.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Hammock Stands

To find the best hammock stands for this guide, we researched more than 30 popular options before narrowing the field based on the use of durable materials, weight capacity, and compatibility with different hammock styles. We focused on frames made from powder-coated steel or solid wood to ensure weather resistance and long-term reliability, those that claimed to hold hundreds of pounds, and portable hammocks with stands that were Brazilian, Mayan, spreader bar, or chair-style designs. 

Over our 2-week testing period, we assembled, disassembled, and rested in each hammock. If a stand we were testing didn’t come with an included hammock (two in this list are sold as the stand alone), we paired them with hammocks we already owned or had ordered to fit. We rated each hammock stand on ease of setup and teardown, stability, comfort, and how well it supported its stated maximum weight. We left the stands set up in full sun, heavy rain, and gusty winds to see if they could stand up to the elements. The hammock stands that made our final list are the ones we actually trust to hold up (and hold us up) season after season.

What to Consider When Choosing a Hammock Stand

Hammocks might seem simple as far as outdoor furniture goes, but there may be more to think about than it may initially appear when choosing the best hammock stand. Stand size, hammock compatibility, weight capacity, ease of setup, and durability of construction are all essential aspects to consider. 

Types of Hammock Stands 

There are many different types of hammocks, and not every one will fit every stand. Unless it’s a universal model designed to work with everything from Brazilian to spreader bar hammocks, it’s important to take time to make sure the stand and hammock are compatible. 

Brazilian

Brazilian hammocks are designed to have a deep, comfortable sag that creates a cocoon-like cradle. To accommodate this, stands that work with Brazilian hammocks either need to be relatively tall or adjustable so the user doesn’t end up sitting too low to the ground. In terms of attaching this type of hammock to a compatible stand, just hook the hammock over the end of the stand with an S-hook to hold it in place. 

Spreader Bar

Spreader bar hammocks are the most traditional style, featuring rope or fabric material looped through two bars on either end. The bars keep the hammock bed open so it retains its flat shape even when occupied. Users can sit in these hammocks similarly to sitting in a chair or lie back for a snooze by shifting lengthwise.

Hammock stands for spreader bar hammocks typically have two diagonally positioned arms from which the hammock hangs. They are generally height adjustable to accommodate hammocks of various lengths. 

Hammock Chair

For those who prefer to kick back in a cocoon-like setting, a chair hammock stand might be the way to go. Hammock chairs feature fabric, rope, or even basket-like materials woven together to create a chair. They might also feature a spreader bar to keep the fabric open, depending on the design.

Hammock chairs with stands are typically anchored at a single point, allowing the chair to spin, rotate, and sway. Many chair stands feature shock-absorbing springs to make getting in and out more comfortable.

Size 

Hammocks are not one-size-fits-all furniture, and as such, neither are hammock stands. Choosing the best hammock stand might have a lot to do with the size of the hammock, as well as the size of the space where it will reside.

Most traditional hammocks come in sizes between 9 and 12 feet, with some longer models measuring up to 15 feet long. A 15-foot-long hammock might seem like a true luxury in a wide-open backyard, but on a small deck that length could be a nightmare. Remember to consider the size of the area it will occupy when choosing a hammock and compatible stand. 

Material

In general, the most affordable hammock stands are made of hollow steel or iron tubing. Despite their lower price, metal stands are very strong, though they might only last a few years before they start to become corroded in places. Choosing a powder-coated metal stand and storing it out of the elements when not in use will extend its life.

Those who want a more luxurious and durable hammock stand may want to look for a hardwood option that will stand up to harsh weather while also looking great. Solid wood stands tend to be more expensive than metal ones, so it’s a good idea to treat them with a wood sealer each season to help protect the investment. 

Weight Capacity

Let’s face it, sometimes a hammock is more fun with two people cuddled up instead of one. To make sure a cozy afternoon nap or an evening of stargazing doesn’t end with you and your companion crashing to the ground, choose a hammock stand with the appropriate weight capacity.

Most hammock stands can handle an excess of 400 pounds, which is generally what the industry considers a two-person hammock stand. For hammock chairs, 300 pounds is a typical weight capacity. While users might be able to save a bit of money with a lighter-weight hammock stand, the risk might not be worth the reward.

Setup

Assembling a hammock stand is usually pretty straightforward, requiring the user to slide a few poles into one another, tighten a few bolts, and hang a hammock from the hooks, but there are generally a few slight differences between various models. 

Some hammock stands feature hex-head bolts and nuts, so a set of wrenches and sockets will speed up the process. While most manufacturers include any tools needed for assembly, the process may go faster with a higher-quality version from the user’s tool bag. Be sure to tighten everything completely before loading up the hammock. And remember that the chains that most spreader bar hammock stands feature create quite a bit of the adjustability, so don’t cut off excess links—they might be necessary if the hammock ever needs replacing. 

Some folding hammock stand models have toolless designs for quick setup and increased portability. These stands are the easiest kinds for camping, moving in and out of the sun, and breaking down for storage in the offseason.

FAQs

If you still aren’t sure which of our tested hammock stands is right for you, the following answers to some of the most frequently asked questions could help resolve your lingering queries. 

Q. Are hammock stands safe? 

Hammocks can be tricky to get in and out of, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes pretty easy. In terms of safety beyond that, as long as the hammock and stand are still in solid shape and not over their weight capacity, they’re safe.

Q. Can hammock stands hold more than one person? 

Most hammock stands feature weight capacities of between 300 and 550 pounds. As long as both people combined weigh less than the hammock stand’s stated maximum capacity, they can enjoy it together. Exceeding a hammock’s upper limit puts the user (or users) at risk of personal injury and hammock damage. 

Q. How long should a hammock stand be? 

It depends on the hammock size, which is generally between 9 and 15 feet. While the standard rule of thumb is to add 2 feet to the length of the hammock, the appropriate length for a hammock stand also depends on where you plan to use it. 

Q. Can I leave my hammock stand outside year-round?

Snowy and wet winters can do a number on a hammock stand, even if it’s wood or powder-coated metal. It’s best to store hammock stands out of the elements in winter, which is why so many are easy to disassemble.

Q. How long does a hammock stand last? 

Powder-coated hammock stands can last a few years if they’re taken care of and not left out in the winter. A wooden hammock stand can last much longer if appropriately maintained with an outdoor sealer.

Q. What can I do to prolong the life of my hammock stand? 

Metal hammock stands are most likely to rust from the inside, so be sure to keep any exposed opening covered or plugged. Also, disassemble the stand and bring it in each winter (spraying some WD-40 or similar rust-preventing spray into the tubes will help). For hammocks with wood stands, sand and seal them each year to help them last as long as possible. 

Meet the Tester

Michelle Larson is a writer and editor with a lifetime of experience camping and using outdoor-living goods. She combines detailed research with hands-on testing to deliver straightforward, value-driven recommendations to help everyone enjoy their time outside a bit more.

Additional research provided by Andréana Lefton and Tom Scalisi. 

 

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