Our best overall pick, the Yellow Leaf Hammocks Signature Hammock, stands out for its durable construction, impressive versatility, and stylish design. Here are the best hammocks to make the most of warmer days and nights.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall Hammock: Yellow Leaf Hammocks Signature Hammock Best Budget Hammock: Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock Best Double Hammock: Lazy Daze Quilted Double Hammock Best Portable Hammock: ENO DoubleNest Hammock Best Rope Hammock: Dakota Fields Hutchison Double Hammock Best Stylish Hammock: Urban Outfitters Boho Fringed Outdoor Hammock Best Hammock With Stand: Vivere Double Cotton Hammock with Stand Best Heavy Duty Hammock: Sunnydaze American Deluxe Hammock Best Hammock Chair: Chihee Hammock Chair
Who it isn’t for: Those who don’t want to spend a lot on a hammock. After appearing on Shark Tank in 2020, Yellow Leaf Hammocks became immensely popular for its lightweight, handwoven, and comfortable hammocks. It’s available in two sizes: the classic hammock holds up to 400 pounds, while the family hammock holds up to 550 pounds. No matter what size you get, rest assured your hammock can be hung nearly anywhere, including between two trees, from patio beams, or on a hammock stand. It’s also made of weather-safe materials, so it can be left outdoors in any weather without growing mold or rotting. While this hammock is on the expensive side, it’s quite versatile with a durable triple-weave construction, soft yarn for ultimate comfort, and a variety of unique color combinations and patterns (you can even design your own!). Whether you’re having a beach day, lounging in the backyard, or camping in the mountains, the Yellow Leaf Signature hammock is the best choice for the whole family to enjoy. Product Details:
Weight Capacity: 400-550 poundsMaterial: YarnSize: 10 x 6 feet, 11 x 9 feet
Who it’s for: People whose first priority is price and those who want a hammock they can travel with. Who it isn’t for: People looking for a more aesthetically pleasing hammock. Durability, portability, and weather-resistance are a must when it comes to finding the perfect hammock, especially if you want to take your hammock on your next adventure. The Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock delivers all this at a budget-friendly price, and includes tree straps, carabiners, and a conveniently attached compact bag that does double duty as a pocket and carrying bag. This best-selling hammock is popular among campers for its affordable price point, soft and lightweight material, and simple set-up, making it an essential part of any outdoor adventure from the backyard to the woods. Even if you’re not a camper, this hammock is a great option for setting up in your backyard, although it’s not the most stylish choice. Product Details:
Weight Capacity: 400-500 poundsMaterial: NylonSize: 9 x 4.5 feet, 10 x 6.5 feet
Who it isn’t for: People who want a hammock that has a weight capacity over 500 pounds. Looking for a hammock you can share with someone else? With a generous weight capacity, quilted and double-layered bed, detachable head pillow, and hardwood spreader bars for stability, this Lazy Daze hammock is perfect for couples or even singles who want some extra space. It’s also available in a variety of colors and patterns so you can definitely find one that fits with your aesthetic. While this hammock looks and works best with the matching stand and only comes with built-in chains and S-shaped hooks, most tree straps are compatible so you can safely hang it in between two sturdy trees or in between two wall-mounted studs. It has a weight capacity of 450 pounds, which is standard for a double hammock but might not be high enough for some people. If that’s the case, look for a specific heavy duty hammock. Product Details:
Weight Capacity: 450 poundsMaterial: Quilted polyester with polyethylene stuffingSize: 12 x 4.5 feet
RELATED: The 15 Best Places to Buy Outdoor Furniture Online Who it’s for: Those who want a hammock they can take camping. Who it isn’t for: Those who want a less expensive camping hammock. Described as being able to pack down to the size of a grapefruit, ENO’s DoubleNest Hammock weighs just over one pound in its portable sack, but can hold two people or up to 400 pounds. This hammock easily compresses into its attached storage bag, which also doubles as a holder with a pocket for phone or beverage storage. It’s made with a breathable nylon fabric and is highly durable against tearing and ripping, but take note that it only comes with carabiners and no straps (you’ll have to buy those separately). As a bonus for environmental enthusiasts, ENO plants two trees for every hammock purchase through their partnership with Trees for the Future and donates 1 percent of sales to a variety of environmental nonprofits. Product Details:
Weight Capacity: 400 lbsMaterial: Nylon taffetaSize: 9.5 x 6 feet
Who it isn’t for: People who want a hammock that can be easily moved. This rope hammock found on Wayfair can comfortably accommodate up to 450 pounds for a fraction of the price of similar rope hammocks. It’s made entirely from a soft, thick cotton rope to reduce rope elongation and tension, while it may initially look much shorter right out of the box, it will stretch over time for maximum comfort. The wooden spreader bars add style and stability, while the lattice weaving reduces knots from occurring. It’s not made with portability in mind, but it’s the ideal hammock to set up in your backyard and enjoy for many summers to come. Product Details:
Weight Capacity: 450 poundsMaterial: CottonSize: 11 x 5 feet
RELATED: The 6 Best Patio Dining Sets for Outdoor Entertaining Who it isn’t for: People who want an especially durable hammock. If you’re looking to splurge on a hammock that gets major points for design, then look no further than Urban Outfitters’ Boho Fringed Hammock. Made with a sturdy canvas cotton, this beautiful hammock has wooden framing and an intricate macrame-woven fringed trim that will work as a perfect piece of outdoor decor (especially when styled with cushions and surrounded by tropical plants). The downside of this hammock is that Urban Outfitters does not list a weight capacity, although this style of hammock can usually hold at least 250 pounds. It also does not come with any hanging hardware, but the loops are thick and sturdy enough for straps or hooks and can be hung both indoors and outdoors. Product Details:
Weight Capacity: Not listedMaterial: CottonSize: 7 x 3.7 feet
Who it’s for: People with large backyards or decks who want a hammock that’ll stay in one place. Who it isn’t for: People who want a portable hammock. Not all hammocks have to be hung in between trees or mounted between two walls. While hammock stands require a bit of space, they’re an excellent choice for large backyards and decks. Most hammock stands are sold separately, but this purchase comes with a sturdy steel stand and a hammock that comes in a variety of colors and materials. Options include cotton, polyester, and Sunbrella fabric, all of which are durable materials that will hold up over time. This hammock does not require any hanging hardware, and comes with a carry bag in case you want to pack it up. However, it’s much harder to transport than a camping hammock, so you’re better off setting it up in your yard and leaving it be. Product Details:
Weight Capacity: 450 poundsMaterial: Cotton, polyester, or sunbrellaSize: 9 x 4 feet
RELATED: 10 Outdoor Canopies and Nets to Throw Some Serious Shade This Summer Who it’s for: People who want to fit multiple people on a hammock. Who it isn’t for: People who want more color options or don’t want to spend a lot. With an impressive weight capacity of 770 pounds, the Sunnydaze American Deluxe Hammock earns our spot as the best heavy duty hammock. The soft yet sturdy cotton nylon blend construction is easy to relax in, while the delicate crocheted fringe adds a stylish touch that’ll elevate any backyard decor. While this Sunnydaze hammock does not come with any hanging hardware, it can be set up on a 15-foot stand or hung between trees or between poles in your backyard. As a double hammock, it can also comfortably fit two or more people, as the wood spreader bars serve to stabilize the weight. Product Details:
Weight Capacity: 770 poundsMaterial: Cotton and nylonSize: 12 x 4.5 feet
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t have overhead space to hang it from. The Chihee Hammock Chair is compact, durable, and comfortable, holding up to 330 pounds and able to be used both indoors and outdoors. This hammock chair is the perfect option for those who don’t want to share their hammock, or don’t have enough space to hang up a traditional hammock, but still want to enjoy the comfort it provides. Made with a soft cotton blend material, this hammock chair is comfortable, durable, and can be hung just about anywhere. With only one suspension point, this hammock chair can be hung from a tree branch, from a beam under your roof canopy or porch, or anywhere indoors. It does not come with hanging hardware, but does include a matching carrying storage bag. Product Details:
Weight Capacity: 330 poundsMaterial: Cotton, polyesterSize: 3.25 feet wide
How to Shop for a Hammock Like a Pro
Material
Hammocks can be made from several types of fabrics and materials, although most are either cotton or nylon (or a blend of the two). Deciding which fabric is right for you will depend on how you want to use it, whether or not you want to leave it outdoors, and whether or not you want to travel or camp with it. Nylon hammocks are typically less expensive and more portable than cotton hammocks, especially cotton rope hammocks, but they tend to not be as stylish as cotton varieties. The material affects the durability or lifespan of the hammock, but this can also vary on usage and maintenance or care. “Durability is a factor to always consider when buying a hammock,” says Graham Grieve, founder of My Voyage Scotland. “Nylon hammocks are ideal for camping since they dry easily, are lightweight, and prove to be exceptionally durable.”
Functionality
The function of your hammock is a key factor to consider before deciding to purchase one. A camping hammock, which is almost always made of a weather-resistant fabric, may not function the same as a cotton rope hammock. You’ll also want to consider location—hammocks that are left outside all summer need to be made of durable, weather-resistant materials, while hammocks that hang in a covered area or can be brought inside during bad weather can feature more stylish features like fringe. “Are you planning on camping with this hammock or just relaxing in the park or in your backyard?” says Priscilla Moiseoff, Lead Stylist and Interior Designer of Walker Edison. “Those are probably two very different hammocks so it’s important to decide how you want to use it, then go from there.”
Size and Weight Capacity
The size and weight capacity of a hammock are of utmost importance, especially if you’ll be sharing it with multiple people. Smaller outdoor spaces require a smaller hammock in length (even a hammock chair) and thus a smaller weight capacity, while larger spaces can accommodate a wider hammock, even one with a stand, with a greater weight capacity. “Check the weight restrictions for the hammock carefully, going up a size if you are close to the limit,” says Grieve. “Additionally, a ten-foot hammock can easily accommodate a 5’ 5” camper, but anyone taller should opt for an 11-foot hammock."
Questions You Might Ask
What’s the best height to hang a hammock?
When it comes to hanging a hammock, dimensions might vary depending on the hammock’s size, hanging hardware, and weight capacity. Outdoors, you might need between 10 and 15 feet of distance between two trees or a tree and another support like a beam or pole. “When outdoors, look for sturdy trees about 12 to 14 feet apart, in a sheltered area, and away from high drops,” says Grieve. “Start by securing the webbing straps on each tree at around five feet off the ground, making sure it’s centered and adjusted to sit at a correct height. For the most comfortable positioning and the perfect sag, the suspension system should be angled at 30 degrees on either side.” If you’re hanging a hammock indoors, particularly on wall or ceiling-mounted studs, it’s important to locate the studs and always avoid drywall or plaster. Another simple way to hang a hammock indoors, if space allows it, is on a stand.
What’s the best fabric for a hammock?
While technically there is no best fabric, since it’s all a matter of preference and other factors, the most common fabric for a hammock is cotton. Other common fabrics are nylon, polyester, cotton blends, yarn, and vinyl. Weather, weight capacity, maintenance, and functionality can help determine which hammock fabric will work best for you.
What’s the best way to hang a hammock?
To hang your hammock outdoors in nature, you’ll want to find trees that are strong, healthy, and far enough apart so you can feel comfortable lying in the hammock. When hanging your hammock, use tree straps instead of abrasive materials like wire or plastic zip cord, which can damage trees. You should also have a 30 degree angle between the strap and the ground, and hang the hammock between 2-5 feet off the ground. To hang your hammock indoors or in a backyard, consider securing your hammock between two wood wall studs, ceiling joists, or other solid supports. You should reinforce the tension with ropes, cords, hooks, or carabiners, or use a hammock stand to avoid installation altogether.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by L. Daniela Alvarez, contributing writer for Real Simple with nearly three years experience writing about lifestyle content and product reviews. To compile this list, she spent hours researching hammocks and reading customer reviewers. She also received tips on how to shop for hammocks from Priscilla Moiseoff, Lead Stylist and Interior Designer of Walker Edison and Graham Grieve, founder of My Voyage Scotland.
