The Best Hammocks for Comfortable Lounging

Looking to kick back in a hammock this weekend? Check out our guide to learn more about choosing the best hammock for your needs from the available options.

By Donna Boyle Schwartz and Tiffany Lewis | Updated Jun 30, 2021 1:47 PM

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Best Hammock – Buyer's Guide

Photo: istockphoto.com

First developed by the Mayans more than a thousand years ago, hammocks are much loved in outdoor spaces. You can lounge in the backyard, sway gently in the ocean breeze, sleep under the stars on a backpacking trip—hammocks offer comfort and relaxation quite unlike a regular lounge chair or camping cot.

Hammock designs range from lightweight and portable to stylish pieces that complement backyard decor. Simple canvas pieces that tuck into a camping backpack, richly colored bohemian-style fabrics, roomy models to hold the whole family, and more. Learn how to choose the best hammock for your needs and view top picks across multiple categories.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Vivere Double Cotton Hammock
  2. BEST BUDGET: Anyoo Garden Cotton Hammock with Tree Straps
  3. UPGRADE PICK: SUNCREAT Cotton Rope Hammock
  4. BEST FOR CAMPING: Sunyear Camping Hammock with Mosquito/Bug Net
  5. BEST FOR SLEEPING: Sorbus Hammock with Stand and Detachable Pillow
  6. BEST FOR BACKYARD POOLS: Patio Watcher 11 FT Quick Dry Hammock Waterproof
  7. BEST CLASSIC ROPE: Castaway Living Double Polyester Rope Hammock
  8. BEST QUILTED: Patio Watcher 11 Feet Quilted Fabric Hammock Double
  9. BEST HAMMOCK CHAIR: Y- STOP Hammock Chair Hanging Rope Swing
  10. MOST PORTABLE: Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock Camping Double & Single
The Best Hammocks Options

Photo: amazon.com

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Hammock

Before making a purchase, consider the following factors that distinguish options available on the market today to choose the best hammock for your needs.

Material/Fabric

The most suitable hammock material comes down to desired usage, and which style you prefer. The various hammock styles are associated with certain fabrics, so we’ll discuss the features of these materials first.

  • Cotton: Hammocks made of cotton are among the most affordable. This fabric is breathable, soft, and has a bit of stretch to it, allowing it to contour comfortably to your body. The downsides to cotton are its low stain resistance and potential color fading. It also absorbs moisture and dries slower than other materials, so it’s more likely to develop mold and mildew.
  • Nylon: This lightweight, synthetic fabric offers more durability than cotton. It resists water damage and staining, and also dries quicker, so it’s less likely to develop mold and mildew. Nylon holds color well, unless exposed to UV rays. It doesn’t hold up to direct sunlight and is better suited for shady areas.
  • Polyester: This synthetic material shares many features with nylon. The main differences are that polyester costs less and is more resistant to UV damage and heat. However, compared to nylon, it has a lower strength-to-weight ratio, though still considered durable.
  • Textilene: is a synthetic fabric made of high-strength polyesters with PVC compound. The fabric is UV-resistant and won’t fade in the sun. It’s also comfortable and easy to clean. The fast-drying material is also resistant to mold and mildew.
  • Olefin: is a synthetic fiber made from polyolefins, such as polypropylene or polyethylene. It is stain, sunlight, abrasion, stain, sunlight, fire, and chemical resistant. The material is fast drying and easy to clean, and it won’t fade because it is UV-resistant.
  • Sunbrella: is a weather-resistant synthetic fabric that withstands mold and mildew. It is made of 100% solution-dyed acrylic. It is also fade-proof and UV-resistant. And, sunbrella is stain-resistant because it’s engineered with built-in moisture resistance.

Style

Hammocks are available in a plethora of styles, from those made for camping to those whose function is to operate as a place to rest and add an aesthetic touch to your outdoor decor.

  • Rope hammocks: These models feature an open weave design, usually made from cotton ropes. Some rope hammocks are made of a synthetic material, but these don’t have the same attractive beachy look as traditional cotton. These breezy hammocks provide maximum air flow, so they’re great for warm climates. Some rope hammocks contain a wooden spreader bar that creates a flat lying surface. Others have a cozy, cocoon-like design that wraps around the user.
  • Quilted fabric hammocks: These hammocks have two layers of cotton or polyester fabric with padding in between. They’re often reversible, with a solid color on one side and a pattern design on the other. Since they don’t have holes or gaps on the surface, they’re a safer option for families with children. Quilted fabric hammocks usually contain spreader bars.
  • Mayan hammocks: Constructed of thin cotton or nylon thread, Mayan hammocks don’t have a spreader bar. The flexible and lightweight design allows users to cocoon themselves inside of the fabric. Taking a cue from their traditional roots, Mayan hammocks are often bright and colorful.
  • Brazilian hammocks: These models are hand woven from cotton fibers, which are crafted into a cozy and thick cover. The thickness of the fabric makes it suitable for cooler climates. Brazilian hammocks are accented by bright colors, sometimes with an ornamental fringe. Most Brazilian hammocks do not have spreader bars.
  • Poolside and seaside hammocks: These durable hammocks are designed to resist moisture, fading, ultraviolet rays, and salt exposure. While some feature cotton, textilene, olefin, and Sunbrella fabrics offer the most UV resistance and are the quickest to dry. They’re available with or without spreader bars.
  • Camping hammocks: Typically made from nylon or polyester, these tree-hanging hammocks are lightweight and portable. They can withstand most weather conditions, and many come with a mesh net to protect from bugs. Since they don’t contain spreaders, these hammocks fold up neatly for storage on outdoor trips.
  • Hammock chairs: If you want the comfort of a hammock but have limited space, a hammock chair may be more suitable. Usually offered in cotton rope or fabric designs, hammock chairs often hang from the ceiling of a covered porch or a low-hanging tree branch in the yard. They’re a particularly stylish option, with many options embellished by hanging tassels or macrame fabric.

Size and Capacity

Length is less important than width when it comes to comfort. The rule of thumb for length is to look for something that is at least 2-feet longer than your height.
For width, the wider the hammock, the snugger it will feel. A lot of people purchase a hammock that fits two people to use solo for this exact reason.

All hammocks have a “carrying capacity,” with weight limits ranging from 150 to 500 pounds. Solo hammocks usually top out at about 250 pounds, while couples hammocks are designed to hold 350 to 500 pounds. Weight limits only apply for static weight capacity; jumping, swinging, and other vigorous activity will lessen the total weight capacity, as well as shorten the lifespan of your hammock.

Weight

If you’re purchasing a hammock for hiking and camping, weight is an important consideration. Ultra-light camping hammocks constructed with synthetic materials can weigh as little as 7 ounces. Make sure to factor in the weight of your chosen suspension system, since straps, slings, ropes, and carabiners will add 10 to 15 ounces to the system’s total weight.

Rope or fabric hammocks, often designed for home use, generally weigh a few pounds more. As the heaviest option, quilted fabric hammocks can weigh up to 6 pounds, depending on the fabric. If the hammock also includes a spreader bar, this can bring the weight past 10 pounds. Although it will fit two people, a double hammock will provide more room and feel cozier when used by one person.

Suspension System

Many backyard or lounging hammocks have wooden spreaders (or poles) along the length of each end, which keep the hammock open after it’s suspended from trees, poles, or hammock stands with hanging hooks and chains. Camping hangers don’t have spreaders; instead, they’re suspended with webbing straps, synthetic tree slings, or nylon ropes attached to the hammock with carabiners.

Hammocks with multiple attachment points allow for more flexibility and adjustability in hanging. When hanging a hammock, try making the rope have a 30-degree pitch for the best support.

Accessories

Think about how the hammock will be used, and whether any of the following extras interest you:

  • Freestanding hammock stands, often made of metal, allow you to place your hammock anywhere—even in places without trees.
  • Carrying bags are included with most portable hammocks, allowing users to fold up the material/fabric and store it with other beach or camping gear.
  • Canopies come with some hammocks designed for camping and backpacking, usually as a tarp that shields you from the sun’s rays or the occasional rain shower.
  • Sleeping pads and pillows come with some hammocks, usually as a detachable accessory.
  • Storage pockets are included with multiple types of hammocks so that users can store a phone, books, sunscreen, and other small items.

Our Top Picks

Regardless of the material and style, a hammock can help you chill out, kick back, and relax in the comfort of your own backyard. These are a few of our top-favorite picks among the best hammocks available today!

Best Overall

The Best Hammock Option: Vivere Double Cotton Hammock
Photo: amazon.com

A classic Brazilian-style hammock, the Vivere Double Hammock boasts durable construction and easy assembly, while offering a high degree of comfort. The double bed measures 63-by-94 inches, and the hammock comes with a nine-foot-long space-saving steel stand, in addition to a carrying case.

Made of 100% tightly woven cotton cloth, the hammock has durable polyester end strings that will last longer than traditional cotton end strings. The Vivere hammock accommodates up to 450 pounds, and it’s also available in polyester, mesh, and sunbrella. It also comes in several different colors and patterns to suit a user’s specific decorating needs.

Best Budget

The Best Hammock Option: Anyoo Garden Cotton Hammock with Tree Straps
Photo: amazon.com

This handcrafted hammock from Anyoo Garden offers a soft and comfortable feel, made with 70 percent cotton and 30 percent polyester blend. Both tightly woven materials absorb moisture and dry quickly. The unique fishtail knot on either side of the hammock makes the hanging rope more evenly stressed and able to bear up to 450 pounds.

The hammock comes with two straps and two carabiners to attach the hammock to a tree or a stand. You can bring the hammock along to the beach or on a camping trip using the included carrying bag, as well.

Available in six different colors, users can choose the one that best suits their backyard decor and style. The hammock bed measures 9 feet long by 5 feet wide.

Upgrade Pick

The Best Hammock Option: SUNCREAT Cotton Rope Hammock
Photo: amazon.com

This 100 percent pure cotton rope hammock comes with a steel frame stand, a polyester pad and pillow, and holders for drinks and an iPad. For its comfort, easy setup, and high quality, this double-lounger hammock is a standout, with the bed measuring 76 inches long by 52 inches wide.

The reversible pad has a 2-layer quilted polyester fabric construction with poly fiber filling for extra comfort. And, it won’t fade over time in the sun. At each end of the hammock, the hardwood spreader bars not only give the hammock more style, they also provide stability so that users don’t fall out when taking a nap.

Users can assemble the stand in seconds, with no tools required. The hammock can hold up to 475 pounds and is available in seven colors and patterns.

Best for Camping

The Best Hammock Option: Sunyear Camping Hammock with Mosquito Bug Net
Photo: amazon.com

Sleep in peace sheltered from the bugs using this hammock from Sunyear. The outdoor hammock comes with mosquito nets to keep the creepy crawlers away while resting. Plus, it comes in a pouch with all installation tools needed for setup, making it ideal for camping, hiking, and other outdoor adventures.

This hammock can be used as a sleeping bed, flipped over, then converted into a lounging spot in seconds. The parachute nylon adds to its durability and portability. The hammock is available in 10 colors and has a maximum weight capacity of 500 pounds.

Best for Sleeping

The Best Hammock Option: Sorbus Hammock with Stand and Detachable Pillow
Photo: amazon.com

This hammock from Sorbus creates an ideal lounging area in the backyard, around the pool, or on a deck. Made of heavy cotton fabric, the UV-resistant hammock comes with wood spreader bars for stability—to prevent users from falling over while they’re sleeping. It also has a detachable pillow for added comfort and neck support.

The sturdy steel powder-coated frame acts as a durable hammock stand. All of the materials are weather-resistant to keep the set in good condition. The hammock is easy to assemble and can be moved around the yard as desired, with a snap button mechanism that locks the joints together.

This lounger has a weight capacity of 450 pounds, and the bed measures approximately 75 inches by 55 inches. In addition, users can choose between four different colors to match their other outdoor furniture.

Best for Backyard Pools

The Best Hammock Option: Patio Watcher 11 FT Quick Dry Hammock Waterproof
Photo: amazon.com

This Patio Watcher hammock is made of Olefin and Textilene materials. Both are waterproof and UV-resistant, making this an ideal hammock to place beside a pool. The hammock is made for two people and has a bed resting area measuring 75 inches long and 55 inches wide.

The soft, comfortable, and breathable fabrics have a vinyl coating that makes cleanup easy. The hammock comes with a spreader bar that’s powder-coated in an oil-rubbed finish, making the hammock more stable and maximizing the look.

The rope ends attach between two trees or a stand and support up to 400 pounds. Users can choose between dark blue, dark gray, and mocha colors for the fabric.

Best Classic Rope

The Best Hammock Option: Castaway Living Double Polyester Rope Hammock
Photo: amazon.com

Relax between two trees using this rope hammock from Castaway Living. The 8-millimeter polyester rope improves comfort by reducing rope elongation under tension and provides a natural, more supportive fit.

Each rope pulls against the others and produces a lattice-like design, so there’s no need for knots within the hammock bed itself. The spreader bar adds stability, and the hammock supports up to 450 pounds. This rope hammock comes in five colors, with one cotton fabric option.

Best Quilted

The Best Hammock Option: Patio Watcher 11 Feet Quilted Fabric Hammock Double
Photo: amazon.com

Install this hammock between two trees or on a stand and add elegance and a nice escape to a backyard. It has a double-layered quilted polyester outside with cotton padding on the inside. The pattern and white color give it a serene style.

The curved bamboo spreader bar adds to the overall style of the hammock while still providing the safety and stability it’s meant to provide. The curve also adds to the snug feeling. The resting area measures approximately 75 inches long and 55 inches wide, and the hammock can support up to 440 pounds.

Best Hammock Chair

The Best Hammock Option: Y- STOP Hammock Chair Hanging Rope Swing
Photo: amazon.com

This hanging chair from Y-Stop comes with two cushions to rest on, and users can choose to sit up or lie down. The polyester and cotton construction provides a durable chair that isn’t easy to tear. The chair can be placed outdoors or indoors and comes with a side pocket for storing a book, a mobile device, or other small items like reading glasses.

With a maximum weight capacity of 330 pounds, the hammock chair comes with all hardware needed for hanging. The chair comes in beige, grey, and light grey.

Most Portable

The Best Hammock Option: Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock Camping Double & Single
Photo: amazon.com

This hammock from Wise Owl Outfitters weighs only 24-ounces or 1.5 pounds, and it folds up to a nice small size that fits perfectly in a backpack. And although it’s light, it’s strong enough to hold a maximum weight of 500 pounds.

The hammock comes with 9-foot long tree straps and carabiners, making the setup a breeze. Five separate loops allow users to adjust it to their ideal height. Made of parachute nylon and triple interlocking stitching, the hammock is built to last. It comes in 1-person and 2-person sizes and 15 different colors.

Tips for Hanging a Hammock

You’ll need different tools to hang a hammock indoors versus outdoors. In either case, you can choose to use a stand instead of hanging between trees, posts, or wall studs, etc. The amount of space you have, the location you select, and the look you’re going for will help determine which tips you need to follow.

Porch or Indoors

  • Secure the hammock to wall studs, wood posts, porch columns, or ceiling joists.
  • Locate two wall studs that are about 14 to 16 feet apart—determine feet required by adding 2-feet to the length of your hammock.
  • Hang the ends higher than the hammock, at least 4-feet off the floor.
  • Note: some fabric hammocks or rope stretch more than others—consider this when hanging the hammock and determining sag.

Outdoors Camping or at Home

  • Choose two healthy trees about 14 to 16 feet apart.
  • Make sure there are no poisonous plants, insect nests, sensitive plants, or wildlife habitats.
  • Only attach one hammock to a single tree.
  • Use two lengths of rope or tree straps for each end (straps are recommended for the tree’s survival).
  • Attach tree straps or wrap rope twice around each tree at about 4 to 6 feet high.
  • Secure the hammock so there are 18 inches between it and the ground when you’re sitting inside.
  • Try to establish a 30-degree angle between the strap and the ground to provide a less constricting feeling.
  • Hang the hammock at least 200 feet from a water source and free of any paths or walkways.

FAQs About Your New Hammock

For more information about the best hammocks, check out these answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. If additional concerns arise, contact the manufacturer.

Q. What is the most comfortable hammock material?

Cotton fabric is breathable, soft, and has a bit of stretch to it, allowing it to contour comfortably to your body.

Q. What is the best brand of hammock?

Some of the best hammock brands include Vivere, Patio Watcher, and Y-Stop.

Q. How far apart should trees be to hang a hammock?

Trees should be about 14 to 16 feet apart.

Q. What is the best hammock with stand?

The Vivere Double Cotton Hammock is easy to set up with a cozy cocoon-like design. SUNCREAT’s Cotton Rope Hammock is one of the most comfortable options with a spreader bar, featuring a quilted lying surface and pillow. For a premium hammock, consider the Sorbus Hammock with Stand and Detachable Pillow with weather- and fade-resistant materials.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, reading a book under the porch, or sleeping under the stars while camping, hammocks provide a comfortable and stylish resting place. The best hammocks fit your specific needs—for instance, a camping hammock may come with a net and a rope hammock works well in warm climates.

You can find hammocks that fit two people, one person or your whole family. Material, style, accessories, and dimensions all factor in when considering where and how you’ll use the hammock. Choose wisely, and you’ll get to sleep, rest, and relax as you please.