Hennessy Hammock Review

Last Updated on September 2, 2019 by mountainswithmegan

This past spring, I ordered a Hennessy Hammock Hyperlite Asym Zip. My job as a ridge runner in Connecticut and Massachusetts has me camping on the trail more nights that not. I previously used an ENO hammock, but I wanted to upgrade to a better backpacking setup.

Update: I’ve now owned this hammock for four years, and I’ve updated this post to include more details.

Also, this post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click a link and buy something I get a commission. It doesn’t cost you anything extra, and I make a little money. Win, win!

I have been using my Hennessy Hammock for over four years now, and it has been fabulous.

Hennessy Hammock Review

Pros:

• I feel like I’m sleeping in a cocoon of comfort. I seriously don’t want to get out of my hammock in the morning. Sleeping in shelters or in a tent just isn’t the same after being a hammock-er. My hips usually ache when I have to sleep on the ground, but being suspended in the air alleviates that pain.
• I’ve owned this hammock for four years, and let me tell you: Hennessy Hammocks puts out some quality gear. I’ve taken good care of this hammock, and after all this time there is still not any noticeable wear and tear on it.
• I roll around a lot while I sleep. I usually go back and forth between sleeping on my sides and back. The Hennessy is stable enough that I can reposition myself over and over again without getting tangled or lopsided.
• I love the bug net zipper feature. The hammock is super easy to get in and out of because of the zipper. I also get a sense of satisfaction hearing the mosquitos buzzing around just outside and not being able to get in.
• The hammock is very minimalistic and light-weight. The Hyperlite Asym Zip that I own is a few ounces shy of two pounds, so it has significantly contributed to lowering my overall base weight. The hammock has no frills or excess parts to make it heavier than it needs to be.
• There’s a small pouch that hangs from the line where I can put any small items I might want at bedtime like my phone, headlamp, and Kindle.

Cons:

• In order to save weight, there are no carabiners to attach the straps to trees. Instead, you use a lashing technique to hang the hammock. It takes some practice to get used to it. After trying the lashing technique a few times, you should be able to set up the hammock in just a few minutes. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing; it’s just not as easy as other hammocks.

You do have to make some changes to your camping style and get used to some new things when switching from a tent to a hammock.

Hennessy Hammock Tips & FAQ

Where do you put your backpack when it rains?

Typically, on nights when it doesn’t rain, I just leave my pack lying under my hammock. When it does rain, I do one of two things. I put the pack cover on, then lay the pack under my tarp when the cover side down. Or I just put the pack in my hammock with me, under my knees. Either one works well. The hammock is actually roomier that you would think, so having the pack inside with you is not a big deal.

Isn’t it hard to set the hammock up? 

As I mentioned above, it is not very difficult once you get used to it. Just follow the instructions that are printed on the stuff sack, and you’re golden. In regards to tying the ropes to the trees, I use the lashing technique that they suggest on the website. It holds really well. I once tried to use knots instead, and after I laid in the hammock the knots became so tight it took me a very long time to undo them. I’ve also seen people use carabiners with their webbing straps, so that is an option.

Doesn’t it feel cramped? 

No, not really. I did have to get used to keeping most of my non-sleeping gear in my pack at night, as opposed to having a pack explosion inside of my tent. I’m OK with that though. It feels more minimalistic. Also, like I said above, there is a small pouch hanging inside of the hammock where I can store a few items while I sleep.

Does it get cold at night? 

The wind does blow underneath of you, thus taking away the insulation benefits of sleeping on the ground. In the warmer months, this is still totally manageable . I sleep with my foam Thermarest underneath of me, and that keeps me warm at night. Hennessy also offers their own hammock specific insulation options.

To be honest though, I wouldn’t bring the hammock winter camping. I would be too cold.

Hennesy Hammocks are a great option if you’re looking to upgrade your current system, find something more comfortable, or lighten your pack.