There are endless claims that a hammock in your backyard offers the perfect backyard escape. But these claims are often overstated so you should be cautious when buying a backyard hammock. Listed below are four things to be cautious of when purchasing a hammock.

Spreader Bars:

If you ever tried to lay down in a hammock only to be dumped embarrassingly on the ground, it is because the spreader bars are to blame. Nearly all American hammocks sold online use wooden spreader bars because people are used to seeing them and they look great in pictures since they hold the hammock open. Unfortunately they make the hammock extremely tippy and actually reduce the comfort by restricting how you can lay in the hammock. Avoid them and you can move around much easier.

Overly Weather Proofed:

Having a hammock that's reasonably resistant to mold, mildew or other effects of rain and wind is a great feature. However, too many hammocks are built as if they need to withstand the hurricane season and they eliminate any chance for comfort. Never buy a solid fabric hammock of any kind. Solid fabric hammocks cannot breathe, flex, or adjust to your weight and shape. The best hammock is an open-weave hammock with Nylon or another synthetic material. Avoid most of the American rope hammocks as their weave won't stretch properly. The best hammocks are the Mexican or Nicaraguan models that use a double woven technique that artisans have been perfecting for the past 500 years.

Wrong Material

While focusing on material, avoid cotton or other natural fibers, unless you're willing to take the hammock inside after each use. Otherwise it will damage easily from the heat, sunshine and humidity.

Too Small

Insure the hammock is large enough for the user. Most hammocks have a bed section that is approximately six to seven feet long, which is fine. But consider the width. A good quality hammock should be at least 5 feet wide. Wider is always better because it allows you freedom to move around and position yourself, however, you like in your hammock. You want the option to lie diagonally for a flatter angle or even fully sideways for a playful swinging experience. Another bonus of a wider hammock is that you can share it with a friend.

So enjoy your summer in the backyard napping on your hammock and remember that open weave, big, wide hammocks without spreader bars in is the way to go.

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