Friday, February 12, 2010

Hammocks - 101 Hammock Accessories

Ok, it's true. Actually listing 101 hammock accessories would be excessive. But the number and variety available today do make for an astounding array of choices. Modern shoppers are fortunate to have so many things to supplement their relaxing experience. Here are just a few...

Tree Straps

Tree straps are a popular option. They're often in the form of nylon straps about 3 inches wide with metal loops on the end. They make erecting your hammock a very simple affair. You wrap the strap around the tree then hook a carabiner to a hook or loop on the hammock support rope(s).

A carabiner is a small, oval-shaped device with a section that opens with a push and self-closes by spring pressure. They're familiar to anyone who has seen a rock climber scaling a cliff.

Tree straps also provide a very easy way to support your hammock without damaging your tree. Because of the material and the wide, flat surface, they don't scar the bark, which would create an opening for insects and parasites that can kill the tree.

Cup Holders

Cup holders are another very welcome item. Whether integrated into the hammock or available as an add-on, they provide a useful place to hold a glass or cup. Some are made of a wrap of rope that would complement the style of a rope hammock. Others are U-shaped plastic or wood cups attached via hooks, snaps or other means.

Cup holders can be hung from the side of the hammock or where the support rope meets the bed or several other places depending on the design. But whatever the specific type, they eliminate the need to have a table nearby. That's a great advantage since most hammocks will experience some sway, especially when entering or exiting. Eliminating the risk of knocking over the table is just one benefit of these ingenious little accessories.

Wheels

Some hammocks are tied to trees or posts, while many others are supported by a hammock stand. But in either case, they're typically stationary. That can be an inconvenience when you want to move your hammock into the shade or out to the sun. There are wheel kits that make it easy to roll your hammock wherever you want it.

While dragging a hammock on a stand is an option, it can damage the grass and many stands are very heavy in order to support large amounts of weight. Having a wheel kit makes it easy to move those heavy stands without damaging the grass or your back.

Pillows

Pillows are among the most sought after hammock accessories. Lying in a comfortable, stretchy Mayan hammock can be a very relaxing experience. But after a while, you often want something to support your neck or cushion your head. A variety of pillows are available, some of which have velcro strips to keep them in place on the hammock.

Pillows make for not only a comfortable convenience, but add a nice design element to a lovely Brazilian hammock. Available in hundreds of shapes, sizes, colors and designs they can add a wonderful decorative element to an already fine piece of outdoor furniture.

Hammocks are for fun!

You can have hours of fun lying in your hammock with your wireless laptop, searching for just the right accessories. But don't forget to take some time to just lie back and relax.