This is the ultimate guide to know how straps win over rope when it comes to hammocking.
So, if you’re a new hammock user then this post will provide you convincing reasons to choose best hammock strap instead of rope.
Let’s dive right in…
Honestly, tree straps and ropes both are good options to hang a hammock from tree but few facets made straps professional’s first choice.
So, we will first understand the difference between hammock straps and raw ropes and later will uncover the winning sides of straps.
Straps Vs Rope – Understand the Difference
Tree Straps – Widely Used By Pro Hammock Campers
Wrapping straps around a tree seems like one of the most popular suspension systems among campers.
It is easy to install and ensures better safety of the user and tree.
Pro hammockers always believe in “LNT” (Leave no Trace) and the design of straps do the same thing by preventing ringing or any other kind of damage to tree.
Besides it, there are plenty of strap designs are available at affordable rates to meet and greet the needs of different users.
Raw Ropes – Generally Used by Beginners
Many beginners are using ropes made from natural fibers as they weigh less. Besides it, rope system is pretty versatile when it comes to hanging a hammock.
Ropes made from Polypropylene or Nylon are also in demand due to their ability to prevent the abrasion and effectively resist chemical exposure.
However, Nylon is like a rubber band and stretched as user’s weight stretches the rope. This will make your hammock sagging which is not comfortable situation for many.
This is what sometimes prevent users from using ropes.
With that said, I am pretty sure that now you are aware of the basic difference between Straps and Ropes.
So now, it’s time to look at some unique features of straps that make it a winning choice…
5 Reasons to Choose Straps Over Rope
1) Cambium Friendly
Generally, rope suspension system causes intense friction with the bark and gradually damages the cambium. On the other hand, the straps come with metal ring spliced into each end which distributes the energy generated by the hammock user’s load across a wider area. It is dramatically results into reduced friction and lesser damage to the bark and cambium of the tree.
2) Durability
Almost all modern hammock straps are made of water repellent and un-stretchable materials like Polyester. This is what makes straps the perfect suspension system for all types of weather conditions.
On the other side, natural fiber ropes absorb the water which results into swollen fiber and this is why natural ropes are not reliable and durable hammock suspension system.
3) Easy to Pack and Carry
Hammock brands are now making lightweight hammock straps with the ever increasing use of this amazing hammock accessory. They also provide a very small hammock strap storage bag which is about the size of football and easily fit into your backpack.
4) Quick Installation
Straps are easy to install so that you can relax more and spend less time in setting up & down the hammock. Read our complete guide on how to tie a hammock straps like a pro in just few minutes.
5) Prevent Sagging
In a way straps surround the tree and locked ends with metal ring prevent straps from moving back and forth. Besides it, un-stretchable material makes the hammock steadier even though user’s weight stretches the hammock.
In brief, if you are a vivid hammocker then straps should be your first choice for comfortable hammocking experience.
Precaution: Whenever it comes to tie a hammock with a tree using straps or rope, always prevent thin trees grown in much moisture soil or if you find any signs of sap.