2024’s Best Hammock Stands for Patio and Backyard Relaxation

Enjoy superior stability as you laze the days away with the hammock stand that suits your size, budget, and swaying style.

Best Overall

The Best Hammock Stand Option: Sunnydaze 550-Pound Capacity Steel Hammock Stand

Sunnydaze Universal Heavy-Duty Steel Hammock Stand

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

FDW Portable Heavy Duty Steel Hammock Stand with Carrying Case

FDW Portable, Heavy-Duty Hammock Stand

BEST LUXURY

The Best Hammock Stand Option: Vivere Solid Combo Wood Hammock

Vivere Solid Pine Combo Wood Hammock

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Sitting in a hammock is one of the greatest summer pleasures and an excellent way to kick back on the weekend. But the comfiest hammock is only as good as its stand—the structure keeping it, and you, off the ground. Some hammocks come as sets with a stand, ensuring a good fit, but stands are also available for separate purchase. Stands for hammocks come in three main styles: Brazilian and spreader bar (to accommodate those hammock types), and hammock chairs with stands. 

We chose the Sunnydaze Universal Hammock Stand as our best overall pick because of its excellent portability, weather resistance, and 550-pound weight capacity. However, we included a list of the best hammock stands, all of which were vetted for reliability.

Whether you’re looking for long-lasting or cheap patio furniture, keep reading for shopping tips and some additional top picks, then choose the hammock stand that best suits your lazy-day needs.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Sunnydaze Universal Heavy-Duty Steel Hammock Stand
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  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: FDW Portable, Heavy-Duty Hammock Stand
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  3. BEST LUXURY: Vivere Solid Pine Combo Wood Hammock
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  4. BEST SMALL: Zupapa 550-Pound Weight-Capacity Steel Hammock Stand
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  5. BEST PORTABLE: Tranquillo Original Collapsible Hammock With Stand
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  6. BEST HAMMOCK CHAIR STAND: FDW Solid Steel Hammock Chair Stand
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  7. BEST BRAZILIAN SET: Vivere Double Cotton Hammock With Space-Saving Stand
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  8. BEST SPREADER BAR SET: Sorbus Hammock With Spreader Bars and Stand Frame
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A colorful freestanding hammock outside on a deck
Photo: amazon.com

How We Chose the Best Hammock Stands

When we compiled the list of the best hammock stands, we had some must-haves and priorities in mind. First, we looked for durability and plenty of weight capacity, since a hammock stand doesn’t do much good if it folds in the middle.

Considering Brazilian-style, hammock chairs, and portable hammock stands, we searched for durable materials. The types included are primarily powder-coated steel and wood hammock stands for ample durability and aesthetic purposes. We also took price into consideration, as value is always important. By comparing the materials, durability, and price, as well as the types of hammocks these stands can handle, we developed this list of products. 

Our Top Picks

Before attempting to make a DIY hammock, check out the stands below, which support Brazilian hammocks, spreader bar varieties, and hammock chairs. Choose between a solo stand or set—which is often less expensive compared to buying a hammock and stand separately. Each of our selected top picks comes with a list of pros and cons as well as product specs to help shoppers narrow the search. 

Best Overall

Sunnydaze Universal Heavy-Duty Steel Hammock Stand

Product Specs 

  • Style: Brazilian and spreader bar
  • Size: 9.5 to 14 feet long
  • Weight capacity: 550 pounds

What We Like

  • Works for Brazilian and spreader bar hammocks
  • Adjustable length for flexibility and versatility 
  • Steel frame is powder coated for durability
  • Toolless setup is fast and easy 

What We Don’t Like

  • Steel stand might not be the most stylish
  • Stand does not withstand abrasions well

For anyone looking for a mega-tough stand suited to both Brazilian and spreader bar hammocks, the Sunnydaze measures up with its 550-pound capacity. Weighing in at 33 pounds, it’s sturdy but also portable enough to jockey around the yard as the sun moves. 

The bars of this portable hammock are 1.5-inch tubular powder-coated steel, which resists rust and most weather conditions (though it might not be the most stylish). It’s also easy to assemble without tools: The joints lock together with spring-snap mechanisms, and all the required hardware comes in the kit. 

The Sunnydaze steel hammock stand fits Brazilian and spreader bar–style hammocks ranging from 9.5 to 14 feet long, making it flexible enough for smaller oases as well as expansive backyard getaways.

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

Best Bang For The Buck

FDW Portable, Heavy-Duty Hammock Stand

Product Specs

  • Style: Brazilian or spreader bar
  • Size: 9 feet
  • Weight capacity: 400 pounds

What We Like

  • Lightweight hammock with portable stand
  • Powder-coated steel stand is weather resistant and durable
  • Available in multiple color options 
  • Comes with a storage bag 

What We Don’t Like

  • The smaller size is most suitable for 1-person use

While it’s never a good idea to skimp on quality or engineering when it comes to something that holds a person aloft, it is possible to find an affordable, well-built hammock stand. FDW’s 9-foot portable heavy-duty hammock stand features sturdy, powder-coated steel construction. It fits most Brazilian-style hammocks, and it’s completely adjustable to suit individual users’ heights. 

The weight capacity for this stand is 400 pounds, but it functions best with one-person hammocks due to its size. It is easy to assemble and break down, and since it weighs less than 30 pounds, it is one of the most portable stands on this list (especially with the included carrying case).

Get the FDW hammock stand at Amazon.

Best Luxury

Vivere Solid Pine Combo Wood Hammock

Product Specs 

  • Type: Brazilian
  • Size: Adjustable
  • Weight capacity: 450 pounds

What We Like

  • Made from FSC-certified wood 
  • Works as a single or double hammock with stand
  • Adjustable height options
  • Comes in a variety of colorways

What We Don’t Like

  • Requires a basic set of hand tools to assemble

Anyone looking for a stylish solution for both a Brazilian hammock and the stand to hang it from will want to check out Vivere’s solid pine wood hammock. This kit comes with a wooden hammock frame made from FSC-certified pine, as well as a double hammock (available in a variety of colors) for tandem relaxation (thanks to its 450-pound weight capacity). Also, the hammock features a cotton bed with polyester end strings for long-term durability.

The pine hammock stand comes in several pieces, which the user will have to put together. This requires a basic set of hand tools. However, the hammock hooks are easily adjustable, allowing users to tailor the stand to their preferred height for single and double hammocks.

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

Best Small

Zupapa 550-Pound Weight-Capacity Steel Hammock Stand

Product Specs 

  • Style: Brazilian
  • Size: 8 to 10.5 feet
  • Weight capacity: 550 pounds

What We Like

  • Suitable for use with smaller hammocks of 8 to 10.5 feel long
  • 550-pound weight capacity 
  • Easy, toolless assembly 
  • Comes with a carrying case

What We Don’t Like

  • It isn’t suitable for use with spreader bar hammocks 

Anyone who wants a hammock but worries they haven’t the space for it will want to give Zupapa’s steel hammock stand a look. This stand features powder-coated steel tubing and offers a weight capacity of up to 550 pounds despite its small size. It also features rubberized feet to protect decking and finished floor surfaces.

This is the perfect hammock stand if you need a model that assembles easily, allowing the user to set it up and take it down in minutes without tools (it features easily tightened knobs to tighten the hardware). Once broken down, it fits into the included carrying case to easily transport this 25-pound stand back and forth. 

Get the Zupapa hammock stand at Amazon.

Best Portable

Tranquillo Original Collapsible Hammock with Stand

Product Specs 

  • Style: Spreader bar 
  • Size 8.3 feet
  • Weight capacity: 600 pounds

What We Like

  • No assembly is required 
  • Ball-bearing joints prevent any rocking or movement 
  • Lightweight design is portable and maneuverable
  • Comes with a spreader bar hammock and storage bag

What We Don’t Like

  • Not designed for longer hammocks

When it comes to blending portability with capability, Tranquillo’s collapsible hammock stand might be the way to go. This product features an assembly-free design that simply folds and unfolds, allowing for easy setups and adjustments. The Tranquillo hammock stand isn’t just a stand, either; it comes with a 8.3-foot-long hammock that’s available in 17 different colors. 

Like most portable hammocks with stands, the folding frame is easy to set up and doesn’t require any tools or assembly. Simply unfold the arms, snap the height adjustment arms into place, and spread the base—all of which benefit from ball-bearing joints. Like some portable stands, it also comes with a handy carrying case that the 30-pound frame fits into for easy transport. And, for those concerned about weight capacity from a folding stand, this one can handle up to 600 pounds.

Get the Tranquillo hammock stand at Amazon.

Best Hammock Chair Stand

FDW Solid Steel Hammock Chair Stand

Product Specs

  • Style: Chair
  • Size: N/A
  • Weight capacity: 450 pounds

What We Like

  • 450-pound weight capacity 
  • Can be used as an outdoor or indoor hammock
  • The hammock swings, sways, and spins freely

What We Don’t Like

  • Hammock chair sold separately

Unlike lie-down varieties, a handy hammock chair keeps folks upright and elevated with a woven seating area suspended from the ceiling on a hanger. FDW’s solid C-shaped stand supports this seat properly and allows for dangling in just about any direction, thanks to the stand’s 360-degree rotation. The secure X-shaped base provides maximum balance, so there’s no need to worry about tipping, and the powder-coated steel frame resists rust and most weather damage. 

With a weight limit of 450 pounds, this versatile hammock is perfect for both kids and adults. Easy to assemble and even easier to enjoy, the FDW chair hammock stand is a fun addition to kids’ rooms and playrooms or works as a fun porch swing thanks to its ability to be an outdoor or indoor hammock.

Get the FDW chair hammock stand at Amazon.

Best Brazilian Set

Vivere Double Cotton Hammock With Space-Saving Stand

Product Specs 

  • Type: Brazilian
  • Size: 9.1 feet
  • Weight capacity: 450 pounds

What We Like

  • Wide range of Brazilian hammock choices
  • 450-pound weight capacity 
  • Made with durable polyester end strings 
  • Tool-free assembly

What We Don’t Like

  • Not designed for backyard spreader bar hammocks 

Those fretting over finding a superior hammock and a stand to support it can breathe easy! This Vivere handy hammock set includes a top-of-the-line steel stand and a stunning double Brazilian hammock. The frame features tool-free assembly, and the hammock is made of high-quality cotton (or opt for polyester, mesh, or Sunbrella fabric), with tough polyester end strings for added strength. 

The stand can bear the weight of up to two people (or up to 450 pounds) without buckling, and the sleek black poles won’t detract from the woven hammock, which comes in dozens of different colors. With the adjustable hooks on the stand, users can decide how low or high they want the hammock to swing. 

Get the Vivere double hammock stand at Amazon.

Best Spreader Bar Set

Sorbus Hammock With Spreader Bars and Stand Frame

Product Specs 

  • Style: Spreader bar
  • Size: 9.8 to 12 feet
  • Weight capacity: 450 pounds

What We Like

  • Comes with a spreader bar hammock in multiple color options
  • 450-pound weight capacity for double hammocks
  • Tool-free assembly

What We Don’t Like

  • Not compatible with Brazilian hammocks
  • Heavyweight construction; hard to maneuver 

Folks who don’t like to sink into a hammock should check out this Sorbus model. Its spreader bars stretch this handy hammock to provide a flat surface for lounging, sunbathing, and snoozing.

This option comes complete with a freestanding hammock frame, spreader bars, detachable pillow, and a cotton hammock that can accommodate two adults (up to 450 pounds total). The sturdy hammock stand features powder-coated steel construction for weather resistance to maintain its black finish. Easy-to-assemble joints lock together with snap-button mechanisms (no tools required), and the Sorbus comes with all hardware and instructions.

Get the Sorbus hammock stand at Amazon.

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What to Consider When Choosing a Hammock Stand

Hammocks might seem simple as outdoor furniture goes, but there can be a lot to know about choosing the best hammock stand. This section will point out some of the most important considerations to keep in mind while shopping for the best hammock stand. Each segment can play an important role in the decision, so be sure to do some research.

Types of Hammock Stands 

There are many different types of hammocks, each with its own style and design. While the right hammock stands can handle several styles, they aren’t necessarily a universal product. From Brazilian to portable hammock stands, this section will explain some of the most common hammock types, as well as what to look for in a stand from which to hang them.

Brazilian

Brazilian hammocks are large and designed to have a deep sag. Rather than the hammock-lounger lying with feet and head in line with the stand’s posts, Brazilian hammocks allow the user to lie across the hammock perpendicular to the brackets from which the hammock hangs.

In general, Brazilian hammocks require taller hammock stands to allow for the deep sag without the user sitting on the ground. But, many standard hammock stands do feature adjustable heights. The hammock material simply loops over the hammock stand and attaches to a hook, holding a Brazilian hammock in place as necessary.

Spreader Bar

Spreader bar hammocks are the traditional style, taking up residence in backyards across the globe. These hammocks feature rope or fabric material looped through two bars on either end. The bars keep the fabric open, allowing the hammock to retain its shape even when occupied. Users can sit in these hammocks similarly to sitting in a chair or kick back for a snooze by lying lengthwise in the hammock.

Hammock stands for spreader bar hammocks are fairly traditional. They typically involve a frame with two raised arms from which the hammock hangs. They might feature adjustable heights, though spreader bar hammocks typically come in preset lengths.

Hammock Chair

For those who prefer to kick back in a cocoon-like setting, hammock chairs 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 typically hang from just one point, allowing the chair to spin, rotate, and sway unobstructedly. The stands that hold these hammocks in place generally are just large arms connected to sturdy bases, though many feature shock-absorbing springs to make getting in and out more comfortable.

Size 

Hammocks are not a one-size-fits-all proposition, and as such, neither are hammock stands. Choosing the best hammock stand might have a lot to do with the size of the stand, as well as the size of where it’s intended to sit.

Most traditional hammocks come in sizes between 9 and 12 feet, with some longer models measuring up to 15 feet long. In a wide-open backyard, a 15-foot-long hammock might seem like a true luxury. On a small deck, that 15-foot hammock might be a nightmare. For those more compact spaces, small patio furniture and a 9-foot model will be a wiser choice. Choose a hammock (and the hammock stand that holds it) according to the area it will occupy.

Material

Choosing the best hammock stand might have a lot to do with the material it’s made from. For instance, those who would prefer a reasonable and low-cost material might have different opinions on materials than those who want a bit higher-end hammock and stand.

In general, the most affordable hammock stands are made of metal tubing. These are less expensive and plenty strong, but they might only last a few years before corrosion becomes an issue. For those who want a more luxurious touch for their expensive hammock, tropical hardwoods are available that will resist rot and harsh weather while also looking great.

Weight Capacity

Let’s face it, sometimes a hammock is more fun with two people cuddled up instead of one. To make sure a romantic afternoon of sunbathing or an evening of stargazing doesn’t end with you and your partner feeling like a double-stuffed human burrito, choose a hammock stand with the appropriate weight capacity.

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

Setup

Hammock stands are usually pretty straightforward to put together, requiring the user to slide a few poles into one another, tighten a few bolts, and hang the hammock from the hooks, but there are a few things to expect.

Some hammock stands feature hex-head bolts and nuts, so a set of wrenches and sockets will speed up the process. Also, be sure to tighten everything completely before loading up the hammock. And remember that the chains that most spreader bar hammock stands feature make up quite a bit of the adjustability, so don’t worry about cutting off excess links—they might be necessary if the hammock ever needs replacing. 

Some hammock stands fold up for easy setup and portability. These stands work best for camping or for moving around a property.

FAQs

With all that information about the best hammock stands, there could be some additional questions hanging around. This section includes some of the most frequently asked questions about hammock stands, so be sure to check for an answer to your question listed below. 

Q. Are hammock stands safe?

Hammocks can be tricky, but once you get the hang of them, they’re not so bad. Along those same lines, as long as a hammock stand is still in good shape and not over its weight capacity, it’s safe.

Q. Can hammock stands hold more than one person? 

Most hammock stands feature weight capacities of more than 300 to 400 pounds, so as long as the hammock is rated for two people, it should be fine. You should always read the owner’s manual of their hammock to prevent injury or breaking the hammock.

Q. How long should a hammock stand be?

It depends on the hammock size, which generally ranges from 9 to 15 feet. The standard rule of thumb should be to measure the length of the hammock and then add 2 feet to the measurement. It also depends on where the hammock is going, so it’s a good idea to measure the area before installation.

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 powder-coated material. It’s best to bring your stand inside in the 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. Wooden hammock stands 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 if possible. 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, be sure to sand and seal them each year to get the most life out of them.

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Andréana Lefton is a writer and educator, focusing on human rights and creating spaces of refuge—in our homes and communities. As a documentary researcher, she has freelanced with The Guardian as well as NPR- and BBC-affiliates. She’s written for On Being, the United Nations, and many non-profit clients in the US, UK, Europe, and Middle East. All that she knows of garden care and interior design she learned from her artistic mother, Jacqueline. She now applies these skills to her life in Chattanooga, TN, where home is an urban art studio with books piled everywhere. Follow her on Twitter.

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