Hammock Materials

When it comes to choosing a hammock it can be confusing at times with all the different materials on offer. So what is the difference and what might be most suitable for you?

In Brief

We currently have a range of material options available which include;

• Cotton - for when comfort is your highest priority. Soft and supportive, cotton will conform to your body shape resulting in a very comfortable hammock. Protection from the elements when not in use is recommended to enhance longevity. 
• Polyester - very thick, soft cord, extremely comfortable and supportive. Quicker drying than cotton and excellent weather resistance for all summer outdoor use. Available in black or white only.
• Nylon - firmer feel, slightly stronger, quicker drying and more durable than cotton (soon to be discontinued in favour of more weather resistant polyester material).

To see the material each hammock is made from, look for the 'material' tab within the main product description.

In Detail

Cotton

Cotton is the staple material of the hammock market. It has many great properties that make it one of the most popular materials for making hammocks. The main features of cotton as a hammock material are;

• Comfort: Cotton is soft, supportive and very comfortable. It has a nice amount of 'give' to it. Cotton is always our first recommendation when comfort is your main priority.
• Breathable: Cotton is a breathable fabric so allows for better airflow and reduces the likelihood of getting uncomfortably hot and sweaty in your hammock.
• Absorbs Moisture: Cotton is good for absorbing and wicking away moisture.
• Washable: Cotton can easily be washed should the need arise. Soaking in a large bucket of water and rinsing is the best method.

Being made from a natural material cotton hammocks should be sheltered from the elements where possible when not in use, such as not being left outdoors for long periods of time, especially in direct sunlight and rain.

Our cotton hammocks come in standard thin Mexican cord (double/queen/king sizes) and also 'thick cord' size options. Thick cord is made from cotton cord that is approx 4x thicker than the standard Mexican hammock cord providing greater durability and robustness - a great option for families with children.

View our cotton hammocks here.

Polyester

Polyester is a well-regarded weather resistant material making it a great option for Mexican hammocks. In thicker than standard cord it is the hammock material of choice for when you want to leave your hammock outdoors all summer. Polyester is quicker drying than comparable thick cord cotton and has greater mould and mildew resistance. The thick cords do still soak up water so if you are expecting a heavy downpour, popping inside until it clears will save waiting for your hammock to dry before its next use.

You may image polyester cord as waxy or harsh feeling, but that is not the case. Our polyester is very soft and comfortable and feels and looks a lot like cotton.

Come winter or for extended periods of non-use, or rain by bringing inside or placing undercover this will further increase the longevity of this hammock.

Currently only available in thicker corded hammocks being our chair, spreader bar and thick cord hammocks and in bright white or black colour. Polyester is initially very bright white but will dull down some with outdoor exposure.

View our polyester cord hammocks here.

Nylon

Nylon hammocks come somewhere in-between standard cotton and polyester in terms of weather resistance and durability. They are also very comfortable but have a slightly firmer feel with less 'give' than cotton does. They have a silky feeling and beautiful vibrant colours. They are better for more constant outdoor use and are quicker drying than cotton. They are still not recommended for full-time outdoor exposure and by protecting from the elements when not in use longevity will be greately increased..

View our nylon cord hammocks here.

Material Care 

Whatever the material you choose for your hammock, a well cared for hammock will last for many years. 

While hammocks are designed to be enjoyed outdoors, it is always the prolonged exposure to UV, wind and rain that cause the most wear on your hammock. As such it can be a good idea to protect your hammock from the elements when not in use. This could include using a hammock cover, hanging undercover or just popping inside until your next use. 

Further care information can be found through our hammock instructions, use and care guide.