Outdoor Blog

The 4 Best Hammock Knots

Published

5 years ago

August 7, 2019

Hammock camping can be a liberating experience. Any avid camper knows that there’s nothing better than packing up camp and continuing to your next destination with your home on your back. But with hammock camping, it gets even easier. With the tiny size of hammocks when they fold up, and no need to carry around heavy tent stakes and poles, backpacking just got even more convenient. Especially considering that you can put up camp literally anywhere, as long as there are some trees or a pole to tie your hammock to. But to fully embrace your hammock camping experience, you’re going to need to know the best hammock knots. That’s why we’re here to help.

We’re so excited by this new trend in camping that we’ve thought of some benefits, to try and convince you to give it a go!

Sleeping in a hammock is eminently more comfortable than sleeping in a tent. Being off the ground means you miss rolling onto a rock that you might have forgotten to clear from your campsite. The suspension provides you with support after a long day hiking.
Unlike with tents, you can pitch your hammock anywhere you choose – so long as there are some strong trees, preferably about 5m apart. This opens up a world of possibilities for minimalist hikers and adventure seekers, meaning that you can rest in even more rocky or thrilling terrains.
In a hammock, you’re also more protected from the elements – despite how it might look! Because you’re suspended above the ground, you avoid the rainwater or snow which could potentially seep into the bottom of your tent from the ground.
Hammocks are also often far cheaper than tents
Hammocks are lightweight, and portable, meaning you can reserve your energy for the things that really matter in your outdoor adventure
Hammock camping is even more eco-friendly, you leave no mark or trace once you have packed up your camping hammock, as opposed to damaged grass or peg holes left after tent camping.
They’re easier to waterproof than waterproofing your tent
It’s easy to set up… or is it?

Camping hammocks certainly look very easy to set up. But when we take into consideration the safety risks involved, we might have to be a bit more vigilant when learning the “ropes”. There is an obvious safety risk involved with hammock camping, that for some reason – maybe a shoddy knot – a person could fall from their camping hammock, especially if it is at a great height.

Learning how to set up your camping hammock safely and securely is of utmost importance, so we’ve compiled some of our top tips for you, including how to tie the best knot for your hammock.

Sleeping in a hammock isn’t just for the summer. With the right gear, you can use your hammock year-round.

Where should I set up my hammock?

Unlike tents, hammocks can really be set up anywhere, providing that there are anchor points, like poles or trees. The supporting structures have to be very sturdy and spaced at about 5m apart. To check that trees are sturdy enough to support your night of beauty sleep, make sure to check that the tree is still alive and healthy before setting up your hammock. You definitely don’t want to be waking to a creaking and swaying tree in the middle of a windy knight – and wonder whether it could fall on you!

Usually, the ropes for tying your hammock are in the package – so set up your tent in your preferred location at a height to allow you to be perfectly suspended above the ground – but not too high up. And, unless you’re an experienced hammock camper, we would recommend that you don’t hang your hammock above any sharp or hard surface, just in case. Once you’ve got your site, ropes, and height sorted, the next step is to fasten your ropes. And this is where the debate begins…

How can I securely fasten my camping hammock?

One option for securing your hammock is by using hardware. We would recommend you using some hardware to secure your hammock, especially if you are new to hammock camping. The hardware for a camping hammock is what is used in the place of a knot. This can take the form of a carabineer, toggle, clip or a whole range of other solutions.

Hardware is often easier than tying knots and can be a lot faster. Also if you’re new to tying the exact right knot for your hammock, it could give you some peace of mind to take a piece of hardware with you. We would recommend a carabineer, a ring, which is sometimes D shaped, often used by rock climbers.

With a small latch that opens inwards, the carabineer can be used as an important part of your suspension. Alternately, you can opt for the DIY solution for hardware: the toggle. This is usually a stick, that loops through a hole and can be used to attach the webbing to the hammock cord.

Despite the useful camping hack of the toggle or carabineer, we can’t discount the need for the trusty knot. It’s possible that while you’re camping, or hiking, your hardware could break – or maybe you could leave it somewhere and forget it. Also, as you get more practiced at hammock camping, you might want to go totally DIY, and do hammock camping the old school way. So, to help you on your travels, we’ve compiled instructions for making our favorite hammock knots.

The perfect hammock knot can be the difference between a good nights sleep and a bad one.

How do I tie the best hammock knots?

Before we take you to the step-by-step guide for different knots, we have one word for you: friction. The safest way to hang your hammock is to allow friction to do most of the work for you, to put less pressure on your knot. When you’re setting up your hammock, you should start by tying your rope as many times as possible around the tree or pole. If you wrap and tie the rope as tightly as possible, this step should stop the rope from slipping. If you’re setting up your hammock on a tree, try tying it just above a fork, or branch, for extra security. That way, there’s always something in the way to stop your rope, even if it does slip a little.

You should also consider the type of rope you’re using. There are lots of ropes out there, and your hammock will probably come with some, but check its material before you buy. One option you should look for is a cotton rope, which is resistant to UV rays, so it won’t wear out over time. Cotton also isn’t affected by getting wet, and it’s strong enough to hold you in your hammock.

Remember to seal the ends of your cotton rope so they don’t fray: if you treat your cotton ropes well, they will repay you, as they hold knots very well so are likely to keep you safe while you sleep! Your hammock may have come with a paracord rope. These ropes are durable, and can hold a lot of weight, but are very thin. So consider doubling them up for more strength in your knot tying.

If you have used the right type of rope and secured it tightly (many times) around your tree or pole, then even a simple knot should keep your hammock safe from moving. However, there’s no harm in knowing the best hammock knots, especially if it can mean that extra level of safety to help you sleep tight at night under the stars. So here they are:

The Bowline Knot

The Bowline knot is the most popular knot used amongst hammock campers, and it’s one that we would personally recommend to tighten your hammock to your tree rope. It’s so strong that it’s even the one used by sailors to attach their sails. We would recommend it due to it’s tied and tested strength, and because it’s versatile and can be adjusted to any size. It does not jam and is easy to tie and untie. It can easily be secured on a tree, and the strength of the knot is not phased by tension, so this is the classic bet to keep your hammock – and you – safe.

Guide:

Lay the rope on your left hand, with the free end hanging down on your palm. Make a small loop in the middle of the rope in your hand, pass the long end up and around your tent rope, and through the loop
Pass the end to the left, under the rope above the loop,
Then pass the end under the rope furthest from you, and bring it down through the loop
Tighten the knot by pulling on the free end while holding the standing line.

The Two Half Hitch (or three!)

The two half hitch, though less popular, is also another useful knot for securing your hammock to the anchor point. It’s sturdy, doesn’t jam and moves easily so you can adjust the length and distance from the tree. Here’s how you make a two half-hitch knot:

Pass the running end of the rope behind and around the post or tree
Bring the end over and around the long end of the rope, and back through the loop that is formed
Repeat the first two steps, adding another half hitch knot next to the first
Add another half hitch knot if you have the extra rope, for added security

The Becket Hitch

The becket hitch is another knot with a story: it’s been around for a long time, since before Columbia, and in South America, it’s just referred to as the “hammock knot”. But this doesn’t mean that the becket hitch is out of date or old fashioned. It’s stood the test of time, and can still be used in the modern-day as a safe, durable knot for hammock hanging. We would recommend using the becket hitch with webbing or sheathed rope, as thinner ropes – even if you double or triple wrap them – can slip, making them harder to tie and untie thus rendering the hitch useless. To protect the great outdoors while you are adventuring in it, we would also recommend webbing due to it protecting the tree from damage while your hammock is attached to it. It also acts as a nifty suspension line.

Tying the becket hitch:

- Pass the webbing or suspension rope through the loop at the top of your hammock.
- Leave a loop to the right, and pass the rope back under the hammock loop
- Create a loop out of the end of the rope, and pass the folded piece of rope through the loop you have left on the right.
- To tighten the rope and seal the knot, pull the folded rope on the right simultaneously with the attached piece of webbing or suspension rope
- When you want to loosen the becket hitch knot, just push down on your hammock rope loop to the left, away from the loop of the knot.

The Tautline Hitch

This hitch is popular amongst campers and is even the knot that the Boy Scouts of America recommend for an adjustable sliding knot. This is a multipurpose camping knot that is also very useful for setting up your camping hammock: it can be easily slipped and adjusted to tighten or loosen a line but holds fast under a load.

Tying the Tautline Hitch:

- Pass the end of your rope through the loop, and pack under the taut rope.
- Bring the end of the rope up, and down through the loop
- Pass the end of the rope up again, and back down through the loop, creating two consecutive loops along the taut rope
- Through the loop, pass the end of the rope to the right of the first two loops.
- Take it behind the taut rope, and bring it back down through the small loop underneath which was created by the last step.
- Pull the end of the rope, holding the taut rope taught, to tighten the knot.
- Slide the knot on the standing line to adjust the tension.

Mastering these knots is a vital step towards becoming a safer camper, and harnessing more of what the great outdoors has to offer. Although you can start with some hardware, it’s important to know these knots just in case your hardware breaks or is lost. It will also bring you one step further to the DIY Bear Grylls camping adventure.

There are a few other things you can do to hammock camp more safely, other than tying the best hammock knots. Firstly you should think about the color of your hammock. If you’re going to be camping in the woods or forests or remote locations, it’s important to think about the potential safety risks. For example, in some situations, you should camouflage your tent so that it’s unseen by wildlife as you sleep. This is especially important if you’re going on a hunting trip – it’s better to maintain low visibility while you camp, to avoid scaring the wildlife off. If you’re going for a more low-key camping experience, or you’re staying in a large campsite or even using a camping hammock at a festival, it might be best to get a bright color so you can spot your hammock at a distance. Also, you should look into getting brightly colored ropes that are visible, so people don’t walk into them in the middle of the night.

The gathered end hammock is the most popular type, and it’s what we’d recommend for you to try first. Some of the other options of hammocks have bars or heavier components. The gathered end hammock is easy to store, and to set up, you’ll only have to use one set of knots rather than dealing with multiple ropes. Some of the other benefits of a gathered end hammock is that it’s easy to get in and out of, and you can easily lie at an angle on it, meaning you can sleep a little flatter and easier at night. They also don’t take up much space, so you won’t need to use a huge piece of tarp, which makes it eminently easier to transport.

Hammock camping is perfect for dense, wooded areas and by lakes.

Final Verdict:

So, we’ve run you through the benefits of hammock camping, where to set up your hammock, how to securely fasten your hammock to the anchors (the two trees, posts or points where your hammock hangs from), and how to tie the best hammock knots.

What works best for us is using the simple gathered end hammock, and the becket hitch knot. We’ve found that this approach to camping has opened up a whole new world of adventures. Instead of having to drive out to a campsite with a bunch of kit, it’s now so much easier to just throw your hammock in your backpack, set off and be impulsive. We can now camp anywhere we like, so when a beautiful moment like a sunset happens we don’t have to rush away to get back to camp: we can set it up right there and then. The Becket Hitch is also the best option for us as far as knots go for backpackers, it’s never done us wrong. It’s light, requires no extra hardware, is simple and easy to remember, it’s easily adjustable, doesn’t bind, has a quick release, and unties quickly. All you need from a knot to keep your hikes light, spontaneous, and hassle-free.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter