"You only get to be new at something ONCE...so enjoy the journey!" - Shug Profound words, my friend. Looking forward to the caffeine-addled Shug in coming videos. Stay well up there.
Haaa....bouncing off the walls and floors this week. More than likely no espresso vids from me but it is a life quest to pull that perfect shot. But still Medaglia D'oro instant on trail. That'll never change.
Have to take a minute and give you a heart felt thank you. Took the two kids for our 5th overnighter since May this past weekend. Great memories are being made, lots of learning and exploring. Never would have happened with out your youtube knowledge and encouragement. Really, you were the deciding factor to graduate from car camping trips twice a year to hammocks and backpacking the catskills and adirondacks. Thank you Shug, will never be able to repay what you have done for us
Anything worthwhile always has a learning curve. The more worthwhile the thing, the longer and steeper the curve. Count on it. But! A knowledgeable and thorough TEACHER can make that journey a lot less painful! Thanks Shug, for being that "Teacher of Hammocking" that made MY foray into Hammocking a whole lot easier and pleasurable!!
Boy, Shug, I sure enjoy your videos. My son and I have been "hangin" for a few years, now. You, your experiences, and videos have been a HUGE help. Thank you for that. You are so right about the learning curve. Heading out this weekend for a canoe trip and will be hangin a couple of nights. An inexperienced individual is coming along and wondered aloud if they should go and get a hammock to use instead of their tent. I quickly told him that if he wants a hammock, I will be happy to help him but there is a lot more to it than going out and buying a hammock and stringing it up between a couple of trees. Whooooo budddy!
I was fortunate enough to have all the wonderful advice and experience of people like Shug and Backpacking With Buckley to make my hammock purchase. I purchased a Superior Gear Hammock and tarp, the first hang I had with it was in the backyard. And I comfortably slept in the winter temperature of 21º F with my top quilt and warm clothing. I cannot wait to actually hike and camp with it on the Superior Hiking Trail this June 2023. Great motivational advice here in this video, and I encourage every camper/hiker to take a swing at hammock camping.
Hey Shug I went out for the first time in my hammock setup in CT. Got down to 20 degrees my ass was freezing! I brought up one of your under quilt videos and watched it and cranked my UQ up tight. It totally fixed the cold butt and I was in heaven. Thanks buddy! 👍🍾
How Shug explains things with these crazy intermezzo's in between the scenes it's actually the best way for me to learn things. I have the attention span of a doorknob so this is just perfect. Keep it hanging! Love from the Netherlands ❤️
Great stuff Shug! What I tell people is that they have a learning curve for everything (just like you said), even tent camping. What most don't realize is that the tent camping learning curve was done (usually) at a young age, over a good span of time and on multiple outings (just like you recommend for hammocking); but they were so young the just don't realize it. Hammocks are little more fiddly but that's a benefit; you can create your own specific system; a tent is a tent, but most hammock systems are unique to the user.
Righto...we pitch out tents on rocks, roots, on slopes, in rainwater gathering depressions, under dead limbs...etc. There is a curve to anything worthwhile.
I have been hanging for a little over six years now. From the moment I tried it, I was hooked. For me, it is the comfort. I know of no other sleep system that affords the comfort of a gathered end hammock. The old real water beds of the 70's have similar support, but I don't remember them being as comfortable...and you can't put one in your backpack or saddlebag. I sleep in a hammock every night. I have learned much from Shug and other online hammock guru's.....Still learning. Thanks for sharing.
I have 7 hammocks. I learned so much in the first year. Been doing it 5 years now. Only recently have I realized that I finally can mostly pick two trees and get everything set up nearly perfect with little adjustment or when I don't, I quickly know how to make the proper adjustments.
Gonna have to look into a print. Hammocking has brought me most of greatest joys over this past decade of living. Too many mornings listening to that birdsong to remember. Happy hanging sir
2:12 squirrel! Thanks for this, I've enjoyed napping in a hammock while camping but my first night trying to sleep in one didn't go well. I'll mostly keep to tent sleeping for now but I'm working on getting my hammock setup dialed in.
@@shugemery I appreciate you sharing your words, sir. I needed to hear them in many different levels / areas of my life that day. I'm getting back into hammock camping after being away for about a decade. (SO many more options / choices now!) Your words help me to realize I need to postpone my first trip I had planned for next week. I'm just not ready (too early in the learning curve for me) and was putting too much pressure on myself to get ready. I wasn't having fun. Thanks for helping me recognize that dynamic.
I did it Shug! I drove for hours up to Ely and beyond. I got to the Angleworm trailhead and spent 4 days and 3 chilly nights hiking and camping around that lake. I got some of the best sleep I’ve had in years and I loved every minute of it!
I'm a car camper, yet, LOVE me a good hammock sleep !!! My latest hang is from McLean Metal Works, here in the Seattle area. I have two options: hang from a mount that goes into my 2" receiver hitch; strap a stand to a tire and slide that same mount into the 2" receiver tube on the stand, and hang off the side of my rig. When it's raining a LOT, I have a 10x20 tarp which attaches to my overhead vehicle rack and use poles and guy lines. Now I have a dry place to sleep, to sit and read, to cook/eat, and basically, only my big tarp needs drying. An under quilt, top quilt, pillow... and, if needed, a poncho liner for added warmth. My hammock is an ENO double nest, so my sidearm goes in the pocket and I fold half the hammock over top of me for added heat retention/convection protection. I'm getting 10-11 hrs. of snooze per night EASILY with this set-up (Ok, one pee-run). Next outing, I'm going to use this rig mounted to my front tire and hang a tarp with doors for that, and my rear tire will have my tailgating table mounted to it and my main tarp giving protection for the table/chair/cooking area. I also keep a Teton single tent/cot rig in stand-by, but, really prefer sleeping in the hammock. I'm also making/using guy lines which are getting a little extra love by using heat-shrink tubing to dress the ends and knotless hardware. Due to the winds, my BIG tarp remains secure with the 12" spike tent pegs I snagged from Amazon. For smaller riggings, the 6" aluminum or titanium tent pegs get the nod. I'm also making toggle/shock chord pieces for guy-out corners to help preserve the grommets. This camping thing is it's own addiction/obsession. LOL
@@shugemery All my camping gear lives in the Tahoe, I only need to fill the cooler with groceries and ice and I'm camping at a moment's notice. The cooler also lives in the Tahoe. I have a back-up 12V battery system with a solar panel in there too. Hmm... m'be time to shop for a fridge? LOL
Was looking up Hammock videos, some are good and then I thought I need to look up Shug. Well I found this gem of a video. 12 years later, I have learned more from you over the years about Hammocking than anywhere else, so I'll say it again Thanks Shug!
I have failed miserable in a search for a better hammock. Of all I own my very first hammock (Simply light Designs 12 ft. double layer/wide) is my most comfy by far. So I have moved on to finding the perfect tarp. All thanks to Shug. Thanks Shug!
My kids and I go kayak camping a lot but we always camp in a tent. About two weeks ago I pulled out a cheep hammock that work gave me and went camping with it. The experience was great! I would never have thought about hammock camping if it were not for you and the wonderful videos you post, very interesting. I enjoy the way you teach, you are always thorough and sometimes funny to watch. When I’m not in the woods I like watching people that are and living through them and seeing where they go. I love in East Tennessee, so we have several lakes and a lot of trails to explore as you probably already know. Thank you so much for the inspiration and the laughs!
My first 3 years were a pain. 10 different hammocks. This season my hiking setup is great. Dealt with rain a couple times. "If it aint raining, you aint training". LOL. This weekend i am using a different hammock for a quick overnight car camp hang. Finally! two weeks ago on my hike i slept for 10hrs which is 3 hrs more than normal. Woke up in the middle of the night to a full moon. Giant smile!
"The hammock should be joyful." That was my favorite thing you said. I was introduced to hammock camping by my cousin who bought a kit (Kammok Mantis) where the hammock, suspension, tarp, and bug net all came in one little bag. It was pretty much foolproof and only needed insulation. I bought the same thing he had and thoroughly enjoyed it. Now that I know what I'm doing, I've changed to a more modular set up where each component came on its own and I can customize my components. I'm giving my Mantis system to my son to use in Scouts, and now I'm getting ready to teach a class on hammock camping to his troop. I love it!
Joy is a requisite for sure. Top comfort leads to good and restorative sleep...or naps. Your sone will love getting the Mantis. Good on ye' for teaching a class to the troop. So...what hammock are you using nowadays????
@@shugemeryI changed to a purple Dutchware Chameleon. My tarp and underquilt are from Hammock Gear. I’m still using my good ‘ol’ sleeping bag in place of a top quilt, though.
oh man, shug, you're just great. No matter how depressed five Minutes ago, I watch you telling your truth, your style, and I laugh out loud! More than once. I'd like to hug you … thanks a lot, Guido
Perfect timing Shug. Going on my first fall hang for this year, on Friday. Needed a refresher course. Will watch a few of your videos today. Woo Buddy! (Love my Maple King - thanks)
I found hammocks through your channel a few years ago. They have been a fun and frustrating journey but have done the same for me, added a shot in the arm to my camping adventures.
I don't often post, and you probably don't remember me, but I've followed your channel from near the beginning. You're the one who finally convinced me to go with a hammock some years back. I haven't looked back since. Thank you!
I have a hammock at work That I string up at lunch between a couple of trees. Sometimes I'll sit there and eat a sandwich. Other times I'll rack out and sleep for 40 minutes... I only bring it up because I've been doing it for a couple of months and yesterday, I found THE PERFECT HANG! It was the most comfortable I'd ever been in that particular hammock in that location. It's never been UNcomfortable, but it's never been THAT comfortable before! It takes some time and tweaks and learning your system. But it's so worth it!
Shug, you are the reasonI have been successful in my hammock! When I am out in the woods and having a struggle I always stop and mentally review your video teaching. I’m getting older and can’t do ground sleeping anymore and watching your videos gave me the courage to go to hammock. Hubby has now joined me after being a hard core tenter. This video is awesome. I have friends who have recently purchased hammocks and this will now be my go-to share link because of all the links to your other videos. It’s training all in one! I also have to take the opportunity to share that I once dreamed of attending clown college in Florida and becoming a clown. I cried when I heard about it’s closure. Your history as a clown just makes me love watching you even more! 💜
Anything worth doing takes time to learn and keep learning. I hated that clown college closed and that Ringling closed for good. So happy I had my time there. And met my wife Meg there. We think of it daily. Best time of my life in retrospect.
Good ol' Shug! You helped me get out on the SHT this year and I have completed 170 miles so far. So thanks for the info, humor, and inspiration to try something new; wouldn't have gone without ya!
Received my painting of Shug hanging on the Vermont Long trail and love it! Now proudly displayed in my home office, Sean Emery hangs comfortable over a fall forest floor while an eastern sun rise lifts behind him. Couldn’t be more happy with this art! Thanks Shug!
Man you are absolutely right the curve is much wider for some of us still have not quite figured it out. Some times my hangs work great other times just doesn't work seems easy enough right. Not even close thanks for the help.
Shug I have been hammock camping for 5 years. I watched your videos early on and thought I had it all down. I camped with a great group of people in Illinois and Wisconsin that I learned so much from. After moving back to Texas I have a group of two and we are camping more and more now that is getting cooler. I have struggled over the last couple of nights out with my comfort in the hammock. Thanks for sharing refresher videos and the past videos that I went back and watched. I found opportunities to change/adjust my DIY gathered end set up for a way better night sleep.
I love your videos. Lots of very good information and you helped make my mind up on the kit i finally bought. Xlc, wooki, superfly, katabatic quilt and dutch bing. Got the same for my son. It was a big risk as we were tent campers and nerver in a hammock before. After the first night we decided we never wanted to go back to the ground again. I spent the best part of 2 years on and off learning about hammock camping and the gear, and i took the 'buy once cry once' approach and it payed off. There's something special about setting up camp in the woods so a big thank you for all the information that I've absorbed from your videos. Every trip is a learning experience.
Learned about you and your channel listening to podcasts yesterday b/c trying to convert from tents to hammocks because comfort, flexibility- and want to re-start my backpacking. Hardest part for me is finding the right balance between weight function and cost as i gear up. Love what you’ve done here - this is an awesome breakdown of considerations with just the right amount of psychology. So - thank you.
You right Shug! Took a long second here without a ton of funds. However with your help and a good amount of time I got it and man is it sweet. Also love a challenge myself.
You're the best , I'm so glad i found your channel and the timing couln not have been better. I just recieved my first hammocks EVER and was completely clueless. You have seriously been a godsend, thank you so much !! I am super stoked to try all these things you share with us. I give your channel 5 stars. thanks again, cheers!!
I gotta say my first hammock trip was last weekend, 2 nights. A little rough. But just waking up without the stiffness of sleeping on the ground made it so worth the effort.
Good video for anyone to see. I, like yourself, enjoy the process of learning how to do something. You are always learning, even when you think you have a complete understanding of something. Case in point - I just got back from 5 day trip. I have been using a hammock for over 15 years and was lucky enough to never run into too many issues. However on this past trip - two out of 4 nights - perfect distance between trees, clear ground underneath - could not have been better setup. But both times after a few hours of sleep I woke up with a cold spot on the middle of my back (aka migrating CBS). All I can say is it reminded me of a tooth ache and there was no way I was going to fall back to sleep. This has never been a problem for me personally (once again because I am probably lucky), but there is a first time for everything. It took me a few times getting up and fiddling with the underquilt suspension to get rid of it. Although I hated gettting up, there was some satisfaction that I was able to figure out what was wrong. Always something to learn.
@@shugemery It is funny you mention that. I used to do it religiously every time I strung up a hammock, but the last few trips I started leaving the underquilt attached to the hammock. So I was probably not shaking it out good enough. This experiment has come to an end though, as I think your comment may well be the reason I all of sudden had that cold spot this past trip. I will go back to taking if off each time and packing separately. Thanks for the reply. BTW I watched the video to burn it in my brain for next time.
Thanks Shug! One so very useful tip I got from this video. I was strugling so much to get my hammock perfect in the middle between two trees with the foot end higher than the head end...Never occured to me that I could just move a bit closer to one tree in order to get the foot end higher... Have to get out very soon again to try this. Thanks!!!
I enjoyed your hammock curve video. I agree whole heartedly. I am still Learning also. I have been out on two overnight nights in the past month, I enjoyed the cool weather trip more than the warm one. The warm trip low was 63. The cool trip low was 40. Cool trip was almost perfect. Great camping weather in Tennessee last weekend.
OMG! That rapid-fire burst of questions was less than a minute! The joys of ADHD: you're giving life lessons and I'm having difficulty dragging my eyes away from the squirrels in the background. Between foul weather, COVID-19 lockdown, work and Real Life being a total _sod_ from time to time, I've had precisely _one_ opportunity to actually spend a night sleeping in my hammock - which was already enough to get me completely reworking and rethinking my setup. I've bought different gear, swapped out items that came with the hammock for lighter items, bought various things for the suspension and a hammock sleeve to make deploying and stowing the hammock easier, learned how to make my own continuous loops from Amsteel... and I still haven't got everything dialled in yet. Once I get a proper tarp, I'm sure that I'm going to have more rethinking, reworking and tweaking and when I get to try it overnight again, I'll have even more things to change. I love the fact that hammock camping is modular. For a start, you can pick the components that work for you. The hammock, suspension, tarp, accessories etc don't all have to be from the same company so if you like _their_ hammock but prefer someone else's tarp because it has better tie-off points or whatever, you can do that. For another thing, you can buy the bits piecemeal as you can afford them and you can often make do with something else in the meantime. First night I took the hammock out - with a cheap polytarp and the car parked literally within 10 metres of the trees I chose to hang between at the camping ground - I thoroughly enjoyed being able to sit back in my hammock like it was a sofa, look out from under the "porch" of my tarp, make my coffee while sitting comfortably... and all the surprised reactions from the tent campers nearby who had never considered hammock camping before. I learned things, gained new insights and worked out what worked well and what didn't.
The noises are what make it so tough for me. Not to mention needing a fan to sleep when I'm home. I'm hoping I can give it a real try now that I got a little fan. Also, I love the painting I got from you so much!
shug ... need to through out there a big thank you for all your knowledge on hammock and tarp setup . I had watched quite a few vids about the subject even before getting my first hammock , always the best way to do things , rig line for the hammock and the same for the tarp . I had suggested you to a friend for all there questions to be answered about the subject . thanks again
I’m a big fan of learning curves. I really enjoy the process of learning and attempting to perfect the thing I become passionate about. I’ve picked up some great tips about “the perfect hang” from you Shug. Thanks for sharing!
Origanly bought a wallmart hammock but a few months ago broke down and built a double layer jungle hammock complete with ucr ridgeline and woopie slings all spliced and put together myself. Used money I was saving for a welder to buy a decent sewing machine. Lol and material for hammock and tarp. My custom made hammock is much more comfortable than the wallmart for sure. Using a field and stream foam pad . Next part of the project is to make underquilt and top quilt it can get realy humid here so synthetic I think is the way to go . And a underquilt protector. I am addicted to making things my learning curve has become figure eights. Lol
I do believe this is the best hammock video You’ve ever made, and I’ve watched most of them. It was classic Shug, did a great job of summarizing the process, and kept it entertaining. This is my new go-to video to send anyone interested in hammock camping!
Ok so this was the most enjoyable video I have ever seen (someone in a women’s Facebook forum said “search shugemery” and so here I am). I am a tent camper and considering hammock life. I cannot wait to watch more of your vids. Thx so much!
I have only one hammock.. but I had to get an underquilt.. pads and even a wool blanket under me weren't getting the job done. I also sleep in tents and in tarp shelters. Thanks for the video
I made a couple of under quilts for COTS! In a great BIG tent. Never heard of one before. It works very well. Cozy and so comfortable. I'm using mine this weekend.
There is a learning curve. I recently got a Sparrow Dream Hammock. Very good one by the way. Then I learned I needed straps for susppension. Then there are knots or hardware for knots, not to mention what you will use for cordage. Then I picked up a winter tarp, because I want to hammock in all 4 seasons. Now I needed stakes and tiedowns and something to hold the doors closed plus snakeskins. I use hiking poles to spread the tarp out to give me more room. I wanted an underquilt, but they all have 8 to 9 week delays, because of Corvid. So I've been trying an old Thermorest insulated matt and a diy Costco quilt. I start out in the hammock and then my upper part of my body gets a little cold in the wee mornings. I like to be warm not hot and not cold. Some hang a wool blanket over the top and wear layered clothing to help keep the heat in. Then there is the lay. I'm still trying to figure that out. Everytime I try, I end up in bananna mode after a while. I have been trying to test it out in the backyard, even in the rain. I use earplugs for all the noise. I've not had, all successful full nights. I've learned I needed more storage inside and picked up a gear sling. I now have to learn how to seam seal for the tarp pullouts. I'm hoping to hike for a good week and I plan on using my hammock setup. I worry about getting cold at night, but I have a lot of good ideas now, thanks to you and UA-cam. Would you recommend the North Country Trail in Wisconsin or the Lake Superior Trail in late October early November? I live in the Milwaukee, WI area.
The squirrels 🐿 haha. Great video! I’ve been dying to get more into camping, back packing, and hammock camping. I have my list ready now! Thank you for all the grand information
Recently got the hammock gear wanderlust system. Hung a few times in the backyard to get the hang of it. Think I watched all your videos on how to hang and watched how to adjust an underquilt several times. Jumped on an airplane and went to the boundary waters for 7 days. Never slept better. Thank you Shug.
I started hammock camping this past year and it really is a learning curve. Lucky for me I have made and hung hammocks before but never camped in one. It's not as bad as it seems. Just stick with it and you will get the "hang" of it.
Very Good Shug! I started using a hammock in 2015 because of watching you and Sintax. I'll be taking someone out new to backpacking this weekend. He will be using one of my hammocks on this adventure.
Rewatched this because of your reply to a thread on hammock forums. Always good information. Thankfully for my wallet, I'm one of those you talk about at the 6 min mark that have had good experiences using cheap/inexpensive items. Slowly, I'm upgrading items mostly so I can get items that pack better while hiking. Ultralight is not a goal. Good experiences are as I've been known to hike with a 10" cast iron griddle because of what I wanted to eat. (Even then, when I solo hike I've found smaller & 'lighter' cast iron options)
The wonderful journey of retirement, learning about Expresso, and other odd bits/bodds. Will be joining the retirement gang soon. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Squirrel!!! Shug strikes again with REAL WISDOM, Thank You!! If I am not mistaking, the day we stop learning is the day we stop breathing . . . Keep trying, you might just get me into a hammock yet . . . ;>) Anyway we do it, hammock or tent, get your butt outside!!!
LOL... Fun hearing about this stuff. But alas we have no trees. The trees that we do have are usually way too big and far away from each other or too small and close to each other.
Hey Shug! Love your videos. As a fellow southerner who married a damn fine Minnesotan woman, I love your videos, and your performances. I went to school for theatre, and became a zookeeper. Should have gone to clown college. Thank you for being you, I hope to see you on the trail one day.
I started out with a cheap Amazon special hammock, daisy chain suspension, 10’x10’ tarp, sleeping pad and sleeping bag. I used this setup for a couple of years and just recently upgraded to a Warbonnet silpoly superfly tarp with Dutch Fleaz and Stingerz, and a Warbonnet BB XLC with Dutch cinch buckles and spider/poly straps. The difference in quality is absolutely amazing! Next on the list is to get an underquilt.
Shug mate, you're my favourite for entertainment to hammock guru info to camp vlogs to general goofing around. I've always likened you to the robin Williams of the hammock world, and that's a huge compliment :D
@@shugemery indeed! And as a guy of almost all solo outings in over ten years, I plan on going to my first bushcraft meet in private woods with a few activities (bushcraft north east, I think it is)-ive never been great with people and felt missed out with my distance from everywhere and lacking money/car, but this is big for me. Plus a good lot of us will be hammockers ;) you're the man, shug! All clear in sector 7-G, sir!
Spent last weekend on the Sioux Hustler, really breaking in my new Blackbird XLC, and underquilt which I'm new to. Holy cow how did I take so long to graduate from a pad to an underquilt? Colors were absolutely gorgeous and I was toasty warm the entire time even with rain and wind. Thanks for all the info you've given me on my journey over the years!
Had a Hennessy for about 4 years and finally got upgraded to the warbonnet. That foot box is everything I ever wanted. You always got tips i need to figure out my hang. Gave my Hennessy to a friend, her tent finally broke and she been sleeping out of her eno. Now i just need to convince the BF to get a hammock.
I started off with a grand trunk skeeter beeter pro hammock, outdoor vitals tarp, Big Agnes q core slx pad and a sleeping bag. Within a couple weeks I ordered my first Dream Hammock Sparrow and a UGQ hexhanger tarp. Now, 2 Sparrows, 2 UGQ tarps (one with doors) and a UGQ zeppelin underquilt later I'm pretty happy. All I need is a UGQ top quilt and I'll be complete. Until I want more...
Okay so now I've had a chance to finish the video. I bounce back and forth between tree dwelling and ground dwelling. But more often than not when I'm on the ground, I still carry a lightweight hammock. Sometimes it's my chair in camp, sometimes it's my couch, or my lounge if you will, I think Shug is spot on. If nothing else it's one more thing to experiment with. I often say that you need to take the advice that your parents gave you and throw it out the door when you're hiking. Play with your food, play with your tents, play with your hammock, play with your gear... That's half the fun for me! Just getting out there exploring, experimenting and experiencing all that nature and the hobby have to offer.
Love hammock camping. Hammock well hung well it is a "purdy" thing. One additional issue. You might find the perfect spot, trees spaced just right, accessible trunks, great view very very exciting. Got all set up, sat down to cook and i heard someone running up the trail very fast, it was dusk hard to see but man was this guy moving, suddenly a thunderous crash as a deer, buck went right through the entire setup hammock, bug net, quilts and tarp! Bug net unusable hammock scratched and torn a little, tarp removed from one tree. Found the bottom quilt the next morning, apparently the deer didnt require the extra warmth. Hammock camping is very exciting you just never know what youre going to get. Oh and no it was not strung across the trail.. am thinking of getting some of those LED lights for the edges.
I get cold so I made a segmented pad extender to hold my ground pad under me. Shug's tip to underinflate my ground pad worked brilliantly. Then I made an under quilt and found it worked much better at keeping me warm. Eventually, I decided that I don't get a really good nights sleep in a hammock and went back to ground. Still love watching these videos anyway. Maybe one day I will pick up another tip that will help me love the hammock.
Thanks for the video Shug. I have purchased a hammock setup and I’m in the learning curve. Slept out 3 times in backyard and it went ok. Using a Costco throw and doing some DIY improvements. I’m am in the process of determining which cold weather underquilt I am purchasing. Speaking of learning curve the tarp which I hung for the first time the other day is a challenge. Thanks for all of your videos.
@@davidson_oldbull_sectionhiker sounds great. I got the burrow and incubated 0 degree with 4 oz of over stuff. They are literally the reason I have been able to convert to hanging.
Holy goodness.did I ever think it would be easy...I've spent 350 dollars on cheap intro level equipment and I still cant get the angle of the dangle correct, now I have to upgrade and see if I have too cheap of equipment.... won't give up because I know oll shug will sink in and I will get this.
Hey Shug. I did say I was going to be hollering out your "All Clear in Sector Seven" from now on in my camping trips, I can confirm three mountains in Scotland thus far have been confirmed clear. Sector Seven is a very large area - but thankfully a clear one.
I love your videos Shug. You are just the right amount of crazy for me and that is a compliment. The world has too many serious boring people in it, that listening to Shug is nice change. I have watched a lot of your videos and you have me 90% convinced a should get myself a tarp and hammock and give it a go, but I want to give you some background first. I am not a hiker like you are but love camping and have done it all my life in Canada. So why am I watching videos from a guy who is a hiker you may be wondering. I ride and camp off of my adventure motorcycle and travel up north off the beaten path and camp. Since a motorcycle has limited space to carry things the type of gear hikers use, suits motorcycle adventurers more than those who just car camp. It may seem like a luxury to you , but I have around 75L of space to work with. I have always used a 2 man dome tent simply because it's all I know. You are changing that. What I like about a tent is it has some privacy when changing if I am in a more open public camping spot, it has enough space to bring some of my gear inside like my helmet and riding gear and can keep them dry and bug free. Now you have me convinced about a tarp and a hammock. If you were a salesman for work, I think you nailed salesman of the year, every year. Here are my concerns and maybe you can answer this here or in an ASK SHUG video one day. Have you ever ran into a situation that there is no where to hang a tarp and a hammock and what the heck do. you do? Where do you store your gear so critters aren't all in it (besides food in a bear bag)? If I take my car and my dog who weighs around 55 lbs (why lbs is an abbreviation for pounds is beyond me and metric is so much easier) is it possible to put a dog and yourself up in a hammock (I'm only 5'8") and they are ok with that. He sleeps in the tent fine? Finally, I think I may stick with my current tent which I was going to upgrade this year and spend the $ on a starter hammock and tarp setup and like everyone else I go on Amazon and hope there are enough reviews to get a feeling if it'll be ok. Here is where I am learning for a starters kit. I already have things like good down bags, Klymit pads and things like that so what do you think ? www.amazon.ca/dp/B01KGOVEI6/?coliid=I202X9BHE5VN7S&colid=23TH29YYP2CRR&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it Any help would be appreciated and keep up these excellent videos you make.
a lot of moto-campers use hammocks and tarps. Many on hammockforums.net. No trees? The Tensa4 stand is what a lot use... www.tensaoutdoor.com/product/tensa4-hammock-stand/ Video...ua-cam.com/video/6PlOp6NPOuA/v-deo.html Or the Tensa Solo....www.tensaoutdoor.com/product-category/tensasolo/ Lightweight solution. As to dog in hammocks. I hear it can be 50/50 depending on your dog. Gotta watch those nails on the hammock material.
You are the man Shug! I've been watching you for years and I am still learning. I think I figured something out my last overnighter. I have always struggled with having to get up and P all thru the night. This last trip we were car camping and I also had my tent and pad with me. After about the 4th time getting out of the hammock to P, I realized I had a little cold-butt going on. It was about 50 degrees, no wind, and I had a 30 degree UQ. After checking to make sure the UQ was rigged right, I said to heck with it, I'm putting my pad in the hammock! Under inflated it a bit and slept the rest of the night! Actually woke up with a little sweat on the back in the morning! Not the most comfortable lay with the pad - lots of hammock dancing - but I finally settled in to a good lay. Not a setup I want for long term... I am going to re-visit my UQ setup and maybe make a UQ protector to help cinch it up against me - more learning curve! Bottom line, I think my P problem has always been related to CBS. Also may look into a bridge hammock and consider using a pad with it - back to the Shug archive! Sorry for rambling, thought someone else may have the same issues!
Try to tighten up your main UQ suspension more than you think. It should lift the hammock without you in it. Also check that your end cinches (foot to foot/shoulder to shoulder) are not too tight. Can cause gaps.
The worst trips make the best stories. caveat- the worst trips make the best MEMORIES. me and my son, 9 years old, first primitive hike in hammock camp. one of the worst nights, and best memories of my life. +3 inches rain in 2 hours, two hour hike through texas thunderstorm to my truck. trying desperately to hold it together and not let my boy see that i was more scared than he was...now its one of our best stories.
Hey Shug. New to your videos as of 3 days ago and have loved everyone. I recently (this summer) transitioned to hammock camping with a Blackbird XLC and have no idea to go back. A few friends (4) and I hiked the SHT from Castle Danger to Caribou Falls and they were all shoved in a tent while I was comfortable in my set up and got the best sleep ever. I'm watching your review videos to find the best underquilt for my set up because that is my next investment. Thanks again for all the info and fun. Take care!
stick with Hammock Gear. I have one of their incubators and top quilts. can't say enough good about them. High quality and actually keeps me warm. I used 2 zero degree bags inside one another for tent camping. but these quilts do it all on their own.(well I did get the quilt protector to go with)
"You only get to be new at something ONCE...so enjoy the journey!" - Shug
Profound words, my friend. Looking forward to the caffeine-addled Shug in coming videos. Stay well up there.
Haaa....bouncing off the walls and floors this week.
More than likely no espresso vids from me but it is a life quest to pull that perfect shot.
But still Medaglia D'oro instant on trail. That'll never change.
I bust out laughing when the squirrels ran by! And then the one freezes, looks around and then goes the other way! 😂
I make them squirrels a might bit nervoust.
@@shugemery I reckon that lil' baby came out'cher left ear, Shug. It was a lil' ol' baby not no bigger than a squirrel.
@@njolsson71 I kindly'a sit in that old shed and stare at the wall.....
@@RickMunday a hasty retreat.
@@shugemery somebody forgot their nuts. 🤣🤣🤣
I learned everything I know about hammocks from this man!! Thanks Shug!! I also learned my backyard is noisy at night, ha ha.
Good to know what goes on at 3:30 am...
Have to take a minute and give you a heart felt thank you. Took the two kids for our 5th overnighter since May this past weekend. Great memories are being made, lots of learning and exploring. Never would have happened with out your youtube knowledge and encouragement. Really, you were the deciding factor to graduate from car camping trips twice a year to hammocks and backpacking the catskills and adirondacks.
Thank you Shug, will never be able to repay what you have done for us
That is awesome!...yes, I typed awesome. Just keep going and gives those kids some right good memories.
Anything worthwhile always has a learning curve. The more worthwhile the thing, the longer and steeper the curve. Count on it.
But! A knowledgeable and thorough TEACHER can make that journey a lot less painful!
Thanks Shug, for being that "Teacher of Hammocking" that made MY foray into Hammocking a whole lot easier and pleasurable!!
Whoooooo Buddy)))))
In these crazy times, these videos are a soothing balm for me...thanks Shug!
Glad to hear it!
Boy, Shug, I sure enjoy your videos. My son and I have been "hangin" for a few years, now. You, your experiences, and videos have been a HUGE help. Thank you for that. You are so right about the learning curve. Heading out this weekend for a canoe trip and will be hangin a couple of nights. An inexperienced individual is coming along and wondered aloud if they should go and get a hammock to use instead of their tent. I quickly told him that if he wants a hammock, I will be happy to help him but there is a lot more to it than going out and buying a hammock and stringing it up between a couple of trees. Whooooo budddy!
Tell 'em to bring a backup tent just in case! Whoooooo Buddy)))))
I was fortunate enough to have all the wonderful advice and experience of people like Shug and Backpacking With Buckley to make my hammock purchase. I purchased a Superior Gear Hammock and tarp, the first hang I had with it was in the backyard. And I comfortably slept in the winter temperature of 21º F with my top quilt and warm clothing. I cannot wait to actually hike and camp with it on the Superior Hiking Trail this June 2023. Great motivational advice here in this video, and I encourage every camper/hiker to take a swing at hammock camping.
Whoooooo Buddy))))
Hey Shug I went out for the first time in my hammock setup in CT. Got down to 20 degrees my ass was freezing! I brought up one of your under quilt videos and watched it and cranked my UQ up tight. It totally fixed the cold butt and I was in heaven. Thanks buddy! 👍🍾
Man....I love a good warm buttocks story. Glad it helped.
How Shug explains things with these crazy intermezzo's in between the scenes it's actually the best way for me to learn things. I have the attention span of a doorknob so this is just perfect. Keep it hanging! Love from the Netherlands ❤️
I've dona lot of teaching and you got to keep 'em on their ears!
Great stuff Shug! What I tell people is that they have a learning curve for everything (just like you said), even tent camping. What most don't realize is that the tent camping learning curve was done (usually) at a young age, over a good span of time and on multiple outings (just like you recommend for hammocking); but they were so young the just don't realize it. Hammocks are little more fiddly but that's a benefit; you can create your own specific system; a tent is a tent, but most hammock systems are unique to the user.
Righto...we pitch out tents on rocks, roots, on slopes, in rainwater gathering depressions, under dead limbs...etc. There is a curve to anything worthwhile.
Shug is hands down the Bob Ross of hammocks
...without the cool fro!
I have been hanging for a little over six years now. From the moment I tried it, I was hooked. For me, it is the comfort. I know of no other sleep system that affords the comfort of a gathered end hammock. The old real water beds of the 70's have similar support, but I don't remember them being as comfortable...and you can't put one in your backpack or saddlebag.
I sleep in a hammock every night. I have learned much from Shug and other online hammock guru's.....Still learning. Thanks for sharing.
Comfort trumps all~~~!!!!
I could listen to this guy all day.
Whoooooo Buddy)))))
Shug is the number one reason that I got into hiking, light to ultra-light hiking, and hammocks. The man knows his stuff. Thanks buddy !
Whoooooo Buddy)))))
I have 7 hammocks. I learned so much in the first year. Been doing it 5 years now. Only recently have I realized that I finally can mostly pick two trees and get everything set up nearly perfect with little adjustment or when I don't, I quickly know how to make the proper adjustments.
Thank you for reminding me of why I love hammocking - that journey is the best!
Well said....the journey~~
The squirrels behind you stole the show. Thank you for all the useful info and a lot of smiles.
I cast those squirrels to be in my video.
Auditioned 63 of them.
3 raccoons.
Red squirrels went on strike.
Gonna have to look into a print. Hammocking has brought me most of greatest joys over this past decade of living. Too many mornings listening to that birdsong to remember. Happy hanging sir
Whoooooo Buddy and thankee.
2:12 squirrel! Thanks for this, I've enjoyed napping in a hammock while camping but my first night trying to sleep in one didn't go well. I'll mostly keep to tent sleeping for now but I'm working on getting my hammock setup dialed in.
It does take a few tries for most folks.
I knew you were a hammock expert. Today I learned that you are a Zen master! Many thanks for your teachings.
I had a zen inspiration that day! Once in a while.
@@shugemery I appreciate you sharing your words, sir. I needed to hear them in many different levels / areas of my life that day. I'm getting back into hammock camping after being away for about a decade. (SO many more options / choices now!) Your words help me to realize I need to postpone my first trip I had planned for next week. I'm just not ready (too early in the learning curve for me) and was putting too much pressure on myself to get ready. I wasn't having fun. Thanks for helping me recognize that dynamic.
@@timwarneka5681 I has to be fun!!!
I did it Shug! I drove for hours up to Ely and beyond. I got to the Angleworm trailhead and spent 4 days and 3 chilly nights hiking and camping around that lake. I got some of the best sleep I’ve had in years and I loved every minute of it!
Ahh....the peace!
I'm a car camper, yet, LOVE me a good hammock sleep !!! My latest hang is from McLean Metal Works, here in the Seattle area. I have two options: hang from a mount that goes into my 2" receiver hitch; strap a stand to a tire and slide that same mount into the 2" receiver tube on the stand, and hang off the side of my rig. When it's raining a LOT, I have a 10x20 tarp which attaches to my overhead vehicle rack and use poles and guy lines. Now I have a dry place to sleep, to sit and read, to cook/eat, and basically, only my big tarp needs drying. An under quilt, top quilt, pillow... and, if needed, a poncho liner for added warmth. My hammock is an ENO double nest, so my sidearm goes in the pocket and I fold half the hammock over top of me for added heat retention/convection protection. I'm getting 10-11 hrs. of snooze per night EASILY with this set-up (Ok, one pee-run).
Next outing, I'm going to use this rig mounted to my front tire and hang a tarp with doors for that, and my rear tire will have my tailgating table mounted to it and my main tarp giving protection for the table/chair/cooking area.
I also keep a Teton single tent/cot rig in stand-by, but, really prefer sleeping in the hammock.
I'm also making/using guy lines which are getting a little extra love by using heat-shrink tubing to dress the ends and knotless hardware. Due to the winds, my BIG tarp remains secure with the 12" spike tent pegs I snagged from Amazon. For smaller riggings, the 6" aluminum or titanium tent pegs get the nod. I'm also making toggle/shock chord pieces for guy-out corners to help preserve the grommets. This camping thing is it's own addiction/obsession. LOL
A passion I say...a passion.
Way to rig a rig for a rig dangle.
@@shugemery All my camping gear lives in the Tahoe, I only need to fill the cooler with groceries and ice and I'm camping at a moment's notice. The cooler also lives in the Tahoe. I have a back-up 12V battery system with a solar panel in there too. Hmm... m'be time to shop for a fridge? LOL
Was looking up Hammock videos, some are good and then I thought I need to look up Shug. Well I found this gem of a video. 12 years later, I have learned more from you over the years about Hammocking than anywhere else, so I'll say it again Thanks Shug!
Glad to hear these are valid. Whoooo Buddy))))
I have failed miserable in a search for a better hammock. Of all I own my very first hammock (Simply light Designs 12 ft. double layer/wide) is my most comfy by far. So I have moved on to finding the perfect tarp. All thanks to Shug. Thanks Shug!
The hunt is fun.
This is my new favorite Shug video! Really appreciated this delivery.
I appreciate that.
I went with the DD hammock jungle super light. I believes the name I appreciate all your advice. You are my kind of people. Love your personality.
Hope the ol' DD gives you good slumber~~
My kids and I go kayak camping a lot but we always camp in a tent. About two weeks ago I pulled out a cheep hammock that work gave me and went camping with it. The experience was great! I would never have thought about hammock camping if it were not for you and the wonderful videos you post, very interesting. I enjoy the way you teach, you are always thorough and sometimes funny to watch. When I’m not in the woods I like watching people that are and living through them and seeing where they go. I love in East Tennessee, so we have several lakes and a lot of trails to explore as you probably already know. Thank you so much for the inspiration and the laughs!
Thankee and Whoooooo Buddy))))
My first 3 years were a pain. 10 different hammocks. This season my hiking setup is great. Dealt with rain a couple times. "If it aint raining, you aint training". LOL. This weekend i am using a different hammock for a quick overnight car camp hang. Finally! two weeks ago on my hike i slept for 10hrs which is 3 hrs more than normal. Woke up in the middle of the night to a full moon. Giant smile!
Snooze Nirvana~~!!~~
"The hammock should be joyful." That was my favorite thing you said. I was introduced to hammock camping by my cousin who bought a kit (Kammok Mantis) where the hammock, suspension, tarp, and bug net all came in one little bag. It was pretty much foolproof and only needed insulation. I bought the same thing he had and thoroughly enjoyed it. Now that I know what I'm doing, I've changed to a more modular set up where each component came on its own and I can customize my components. I'm giving my Mantis system to my son to use in Scouts, and now I'm getting ready to teach a class on hammock camping to his troop. I love it!
Joy is a requisite for sure. Top comfort leads to good and restorative sleep...or naps. Your sone will love getting the Mantis. Good on ye' for teaching a class to the troop. So...what hammock are you using nowadays????
@@shugemeryI changed to a purple Dutchware Chameleon. My tarp and underquilt are from Hammock Gear. I’m still using my good ‘ol’ sleeping bag in place of a top quilt, though.
oh man, shug, you're just great. No matter how depressed five Minutes ago, I watch you telling your truth, your style, and I laugh out loud! More than once. I'd like to hug you …
thanks a lot, Guido
Cyber Hug!!! Thank you for the kind words.
Perfect timing Shug. Going on my first fall hang for this year, on Friday. Needed a refresher course. Will watch a few of your videos today. Woo Buddy! (Love my Maple King - thanks)
Whooooooo Michelle)))))
I found hammocks through your channel a few years ago. They have been a fun and frustrating journey but have done the same for me, added a shot in the arm to my camping adventures.
Whooooo Buddy)))))
I don't often post, and you probably don't remember me, but I've followed your channel from near the beginning. You're the one who finally convinced me to go with a hammock some years back. I haven't looked back since. Thank you!
I sure do remember you. Whooooo Buddy))))
Tons of respect for you Shug! You are the most humble and respectful voice in the hammock world! We love your videos!!
I am bowing deeply here....Thanks for the good words.
I have a hammock at work That I string up at lunch between a couple of trees. Sometimes I'll sit there and eat a sandwich. Other times I'll rack out and sleep for 40 minutes... I only bring it up because I've been doing it for a couple of months and yesterday, I found THE PERFECT HANG! It was the most comfortable I'd ever been in that particular hammock in that location. It's never been UNcomfortable, but it's never been THAT comfortable before! It takes some time and tweaks and learning your system. But it's so worth it!
Whoooooo Buddy))))) Righto~~~~
Shug, you are the reasonI have been successful in my hammock! When I am out in the woods and having a struggle I always stop and mentally review your video teaching. I’m getting older and can’t do ground sleeping anymore and watching your videos gave me the courage to go to hammock. Hubby has now joined me after being a hard core tenter. This video is awesome. I have friends who have recently purchased hammocks and this will now be my go-to share link because of all the links to your other videos. It’s training all in one!
I also have to take the opportunity to share that I once dreamed of attending clown college in Florida and becoming a clown. I cried when I heard about it’s closure. Your history as a clown just makes me love watching you even more! 💜
Anything worth doing takes time to learn and keep learning.
I hated that clown college closed and that Ringling closed for good. So happy I had my time there. And met my wife Meg there. We think of it daily. Best time of my life in retrospect.
Good ol' Shug! You helped me get out on the SHT this year and I have completed 170 miles so far. So thanks for the info, humor, and inspiration to try something new; wouldn't have gone without ya!
Naw...you got you out there.
Great trail. Keep enjoying it.
My first hammock arrives this Friday, looking forward to the journey! Thank you for sharing your experience.
Remember ...foot end a bit higher than head end. Be patient and enjoy the journey.
Received my painting of Shug hanging on the Vermont Long trail and love it! Now proudly displayed in my home office, Sean Emery hangs comfortable over a fall forest floor while an eastern sun rise lifts behind him. Couldn’t be more happy with this art! Thanks Shug!
I love that...thank you for that. Whooooo Buddy)))))
Man you are absolutely right the curve is much wider for some of us still have not quite figured it out. Some times my hangs work great other times just doesn't work seems easy enough right. Not even close thanks for the help.
It is a complex and complicated path to nirvana.
Shug I have been hammock camping for 5 years. I watched your videos early on and thought I had it all down. I camped with a great group of people in Illinois and Wisconsin that I learned so much from. After moving back to Texas I have a group of two and we are camping more and more now that is getting cooler. I have struggled over the last couple of nights out with my comfort in the hammock. Thanks for sharing refresher videos and the past videos that I went back and watched. I found opportunities to change/adjust my DIY gathered end set up for a way better night sleep.
Keep enjoying that hanging body sack!
I love your videos. Lots of very good information and you helped make my mind up on the kit i finally bought. Xlc, wooki, superfly, katabatic quilt and dutch bing. Got the same for my son. It was a big risk as we were tent campers and nerver in a hammock before. After the first night we decided we never wanted to go back to the ground again. I spent the best part of 2 years on and off learning about hammock camping and the gear, and i took the 'buy once cry once' approach and it payed off. There's something special about setting up camp in the woods so a big thank you for all the information that I've absorbed from your videos. Every trip is a learning experience.
Whooooo Buddy))))) Well set and on ya' go.
Learned about you and your channel listening to podcasts yesterday b/c trying to convert from tents to hammocks because comfort, flexibility- and want to re-start my backpacking. Hardest part for me is finding the right balance between weight function and cost as i gear up. Love what you’ve done here - this is an awesome breakdown of considerations with just the right amount of psychology. So - thank you.
I am in it for comfort!!!
Thanks for all you do Shug. You are a ray of sunlight in what seems to be a world of darkness at times.
Thankee.
You right Shug! Took a long second here without a ton of funds. However with your help and a good amount of time I got it and man is it sweet. Also love a challenge myself.
Embrace it.....Whoooooo Buddy))))))
You're the best , I'm so glad i found your channel and the timing couln not have been better. I just recieved my first hammocks EVER and was completely clueless. You have seriously been a godsend, thank you so much !! I am super stoked to try all these things you share with us. I give your channel 5 stars. thanks again, cheers!!
Hey...I'm glad it is giving some hammock insight. Be patient and enjoy the quest.
Shug your videos are timeless. Thank you so much.
Whooooooo Buddy)))))
I gotta say my first hammock trip was last weekend, 2 nights. A little rough. But just waking up without the stiffness of sleeping on the ground made it so worth the effort.
Stay at it. It'll get even better.
Good video for anyone to see. I, like yourself, enjoy the process of learning how to do something. You are always learning, even when you think you have a complete understanding of something. Case in point - I just got back from 5 day trip. I have been using a hammock for over 15 years and was lucky enough to never run into too many issues. However on this past trip - two out of 4 nights - perfect distance between trees, clear ground underneath - could not have been better setup. But both times after a few hours of sleep I woke up with a cold spot on the middle of my back (aka migrating CBS). All I can say is it reminded me of a tooth ache and there was no way I was going to fall back to sleep. This has never been a problem for me personally (once again because I am probably lucky), but there is a first time for everything. It took me a few times getting up and fiddling with the underquilt suspension to get rid of it. Although I hated gettting up, there was some satisfaction that I was able to figure out what was wrong. Always something to learn.
Also make sure to migrate your down in the UQ.....ua-cam.com/video/07rYfwaOyDQ/v-deo.html
Whoooooo Buddy)))))
@@shugemery It is funny you mention that. I used to do it religiously every time I strung up a hammock, but the last few trips I started leaving the underquilt attached to the hammock. So I was probably not shaking it out good enough. This experiment has come to an end though, as I think your comment may well be the reason I all of sudden had that cold spot this past trip. I will go back to taking if off each time and packing separately. Thanks for the reply. BTW I watched the video to burn it in my brain for next time.
Thanks Shug! One so very useful tip I got from this video. I was strugling so much to get my hammock perfect in the middle between two trees with the foot end higher than the head end...Never occured to me that I could just move a bit closer to one tree in order to get the foot end higher... Have to get out very soon again to try this. Thanks!!!
Glad it helped.....Whoooooo Buddy)))))
I enjoyed your hammock curve video. I agree whole heartedly. I am still Learning also. I have been out on two overnight nights in the past month, I enjoyed the cool weather trip more than the warm one. The warm trip low was 63. The cool trip low was 40. Cool trip was almost perfect. Great camping weather in Tennessee last weekend.
Whooooo Buddy to the cool.
OMG! That rapid-fire burst of questions was less than a minute!
The joys of ADHD: you're giving life lessons and I'm having difficulty dragging my eyes away from the squirrels in the background.
Between foul weather, COVID-19 lockdown, work and Real Life being a total _sod_ from time to time, I've had precisely _one_ opportunity to actually spend a night sleeping in my hammock - which was already enough to get me completely reworking and rethinking my setup. I've bought different gear, swapped out items that came with the hammock for lighter items, bought various things for the suspension and a hammock sleeve to make deploying and stowing the hammock easier, learned how to make my own continuous loops from Amsteel... and I still haven't got everything dialled in yet. Once I get a proper tarp, I'm sure that I'm going to have more rethinking, reworking and tweaking and when I get to try it overnight again, I'll have even more things to change.
I love the fact that hammock camping is modular. For a start, you can pick the components that work for you. The hammock, suspension, tarp, accessories etc don't all have to be from the same company so if you like _their_ hammock but prefer someone else's tarp because it has better tie-off points or whatever, you can do that. For another thing, you can buy the bits piecemeal as you can afford them and you can often make do with something else in the meantime.
First night I took the hammock out - with a cheap polytarp and the car parked literally within 10 metres of the trees I chose to hang between at the camping ground - I thoroughly enjoyed being able to sit back in my hammock like it was a sofa, look out from under the "porch" of my tarp, make my coffee while sitting comfortably... and all the surprised reactions from the tent campers nearby who had never considered hammock camping before. I learned things, gained new insights and worked out what worked well and what didn't.
A never ending process of tweaking and looking for perfection that we shall never achieve! FUN~~~~ Whoooooo Buddy)))))
@@shugemery Wait. What?. *NEVER* ??!!
The noises are what make it so tough for me. Not to mention needing a fan to sleep when I'm home. I'm hoping I can give it a real try now that I got a little fan.
Also, I love the painting I got from you so much!
Thankee Anne. I'm so glad.
We need fan noise too.
shug ... need to through out there a big thank you for all your knowledge on hammock and tarp setup . I had watched quite a few vids about the subject even before getting my first hammock , always the best way to do things , rig line for the hammock and the same for the tarp . I had suggested you to a friend for all there questions to be answered about the subject . thanks again
Thankee and Whooooo Buddy)))))
I’m a big fan of learning curves. I really enjoy the process of learning and attempting to perfect the thing I become passionate about. I’ve picked up some great tips about “the perfect hang” from you Shug. Thanks for sharing!
Whoooooo Buddy)))))
Origanly bought a wallmart hammock but a few months ago broke down and built a double layer jungle hammock complete with ucr ridgeline and woopie slings all spliced and put together myself.
Used money I was saving for a welder to buy a decent sewing machine. Lol and material for hammock and tarp.
My custom made hammock is much more comfortable than the wallmart for sure. Using a field and stream foam pad .
Next part of the project is to make underquilt and top quilt it can get realy humid here so synthetic I think is the way to go . And a underquilt protector.
I am addicted to making things my learning curve has become figure eights. Lol
Nothing like camping in gear you made yourself!
I do believe this is the best hammock video You’ve ever made, and I’ve watched most of them. It was classic Shug, did a great job of summarizing the process, and kept it entertaining. This is my new go-to video to send anyone interested in hammock camping!
Thankee.
Ok so this was the most enjoyable video I have ever seen (someone in a women’s Facebook forum said “search shugemery” and so here I am). I am a tent camper and considering hammock life. I cannot wait to watch more of your vids. Thx so much!
Glad it gave some insight annmarie. If you go for a hammock stay patient and go step by step. Enjoy the hammock quest.
I have only one hammock.. but I had to get an underquilt.. pads and even a wool blanket under me weren't getting the job done.
I also sleep in tents and in tarp shelters.
Thanks for the video
You play both ends of the camping spectrum. Good range. Good range!
I made a couple of under quilts for COTS! In a great BIG tent. Never heard of one before. It works very well. Cozy and so comfortable. I'm using mine this weekend.
There are chair uqs too.
May you sleep the sleep of an over-worked mascot.
There is a learning curve. I recently got a Sparrow Dream Hammock. Very good one by the way. Then I learned I needed straps for susppension. Then there are knots or hardware for knots, not to mention what you will use for cordage. Then I picked up a winter tarp, because I want to hammock in all 4 seasons. Now I needed stakes and tiedowns and something to hold the doors closed plus snakeskins. I use hiking poles to spread the tarp out to give me more room. I wanted an underquilt, but they all have 8 to 9 week delays, because of Corvid. So I've been trying an old Thermorest insulated matt and a diy Costco quilt. I start out in the hammock and then my upper part of my body gets a little cold in the wee mornings. I like to be warm not hot and not cold. Some hang a wool blanket over the top and wear layered clothing to help keep the heat in. Then there is the lay. I'm still trying to figure that out. Everytime I try, I end up in bananna mode after a while. I have been trying to test it out in the backyard, even in the rain. I use earplugs for all the noise. I've not had, all successful full nights. I've learned I needed more storage inside and picked up a gear sling. I now have to learn how to seam seal for the tarp pullouts. I'm hoping to hike for a good week and I plan on using my hammock setup. I worry about getting cold at night, but I have a lot of good ideas now, thanks to you and UA-cam. Would you recommend the North Country Trail in Wisconsin or the Lake Superior Trail in late October early November? I live in the Milwaukee, WI area.
I think the NCT will be less crowded.
Stay at it.....
The squirrels 🐿 haha. Great video! I’ve been dying to get more into camping, back packing, and hammock camping. I have my list ready now! Thank you for all the grand information
The woods await you~~
Recently got the hammock gear wanderlust system. Hung a few times in the backyard to get the hang of it. Think I watched all your videos on how to hang and watched how to adjust an underquilt several times. Jumped on an airplane and went to the boundary waters for 7 days. Never slept better. Thank you Shug.
Good on ye'....Whoooooo Buddy)))))
I started hammock camping this past year and it really is a learning curve. Lucky for me I have made and hung hammocks before but never camped in one. It's not as bad as it seems. Just stick with it and you will get the "hang" of it.
Dang good attitude. Whoooooo Buddy))))
Shug, you are the father of hammocking! 🤗
Naw....just a weird Uncle.
hammocks - something you never stop fiddling with or adding things to
Truth.
Fiddlin' is fun for some.
Hey Shug, thank's for be you, that its true is not the arrival IT'S THE JOURNEY!!!! always learning.From Spain best regards Master.
Whoooooo Buddy))))) Gracias...
Very Good Shug! I started using a hammock in 2015 because of watching you and Sintax. I'll be taking someone out new to backpacking this weekend. He will be using one of my hammocks on this adventure.
Get him on the right track. I know ya' will.
one of my favourite things is the learning curve and the variability, been hanging for 6 years and still learning!
Whooooo Buddy)))))
Rewatched this because of your reply to a thread on hammock forums. Always good information. Thankfully for my wallet, I'm one of those you talk about at the 6 min mark that have had good experiences using cheap/inexpensive items. Slowly, I'm upgrading items mostly so I can get items that pack better while hiking. Ultralight is not a goal. Good experiences are as I've been known to hike with a 10" cast iron griddle because of what I wanted to eat. (Even then, when I solo hike I've found smaller & 'lighter' cast iron options)
It is a little at a time. Nothing like cooking in cast iron for sure!!!!
The wonderful journey of retirement, learning about Expresso, and other odd bits/bodds. Will be joining the retirement gang soon. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
It is interesting. The whole pandemic makes it even weirder as I had no gigs anyways.
Always interested in truth...thank you kind sir...I learned plenty here tonight...I took notes💖
Though I enjoy a tall tale the truth on the curve needs to me mouthed and spoken about.
shugemery Agree✨
Squirrel!!!
Shug strikes again with REAL WISDOM, Thank You!!
If I am not mistaking, the day we stop learning is the day we stop breathing . . .
Keep trying, you might just get me into a hammock yet . . . ;>)
Anyway we do it, hammock or tent, get your butt outside!!!
Truth.
LOL... Fun hearing about this stuff. But alas we have no trees. The trees that we do have are usually way too big and far away from each other or too small and close to each other.
Gotta be a hang in there somewhere!
Hey Shug! Love your videos. As a fellow southerner who married a damn fine Minnesotan woman, I love your videos, and your performances. I went to school for theatre, and became a zookeeper. Should have gone to clown college. Thank you for being you, I hope to see you on the trail one day.
Whoooo Buddy))))
I shoulda gone to zookeeper college!
I started out with a cheap Amazon special hammock, daisy chain suspension, 10’x10’ tarp, sleeping pad and sleeping bag. I used this setup for a couple of years and just recently upgraded to a Warbonnet silpoly superfly tarp with Dutch Fleaz and Stingerz, and a Warbonnet BB XLC with Dutch cinch buckles and spider/poly straps. The difference in quality is absolutely amazing! Next on the list is to get an underquilt.
It is good to learn on a cheapy and upgrade when ready and able...Whoooooo Buddy))))))
Shug mate, you're my favourite for entertainment to hammock guru info to camp vlogs to general goofing around. I've always likened you to the robin Williams of the hammock world, and that's a huge compliment :D
Thankee.......glad you are on the hammock quest.
@@shugemery indeed! And as a guy of almost all solo outings in over ten years, I plan on going to my first bushcraft meet in private woods with a few activities (bushcraft north east, I think it is)-ive never been great with people and felt missed out with my distance from everywhere and lacking money/car, but this is big for me. Plus a good lot of us will be hammockers ;) you're the man, shug! All clear in sector 7-G, sir!
Spent last weekend on the Sioux Hustler, really breaking in my new Blackbird XLC, and underquilt which I'm new to. Holy cow how did I take so long to graduate from a pad to an underquilt? Colors were absolutely gorgeous and I was toasty warm the entire time even with rain and wind. Thanks for all the info you've given me on my journey over the years!
Once you go UQ, you never look back. Bet it was a right goodie up there for sure.
I was on the Sioux Hustler last weekend also! We may have met! 🙂
@@StephenEscallier Oh yeah! Nice to see your video!
NoThanksUA-cam which one of the people I met were you!?
Had a Hennessy for about 4 years and finally got upgraded to the warbonnet. That foot box is everything I ever wanted. You always got tips i need to figure out my hang. Gave my Hennessy to a friend, her tent finally broke and she been sleeping out of her eno. Now i just need to convince the BF to get a hammock.
Hammock On and long!
I did the simple easy way to hammock camping on the cheap. Now I'm looking to fix some annoyances even though it will cost me more money.
Money well spent say I~~
Shug is the definitive youtube expert on hammocking. If he can't find a way to hang a hammock, it means its physically impossible.
Sometimes I bring a stand for sure!
I started off with a grand trunk skeeter beeter pro hammock, outdoor vitals tarp, Big Agnes q core slx pad and a sleeping bag. Within a couple weeks I ordered my first Dream Hammock Sparrow and a UGQ hexhanger tarp. Now, 2 Sparrows, 2 UGQ tarps (one with doors) and a UGQ zeppelin underquilt later I'm pretty happy. All I need is a UGQ top quilt and I'll be complete. Until I want more...
One must have a hammock harem!
Hope Halloween isn't cancelled in your neighborhood this year Shug. I always enjoy your awesome skits and costumes. Whoo buddy !
It is on the fence. Maybe I will or won't. Actually may not be home again this year.
Oh that's a shame, I REALLY would have loved to see the character you come up with this year
Photobomb by Mr Gray Squirrel. 😂
Times two~~!!~~
@@shugemery I saw those two scamper along the fence EARLY in the video. :D
Okay so now I've had a chance to finish the video. I bounce back and forth between tree dwelling and ground dwelling. But more often than not when I'm on the ground, I still carry a lightweight hammock. Sometimes it's my chair in camp, sometimes it's my couch, or my lounge if you will, I think Shug is spot on.
If nothing else it's one more thing to experiment with. I often say that you need to take the advice that your parents gave you and throw it out the door when you're hiking. Play with your food, play with your tents, play with your hammock, play with your gear... That's half the fun for me! Just getting out there exploring, experimenting and experiencing all that nature and the hobby have to offer.
It truly is playtime.
I feel like a 62 year old boy scout that can afford all the candy I want!!!
@@shugemery yessir 😁 55 here, and my candy jar is filling up!
Love hammock camping. Hammock well hung well it is a "purdy" thing. One additional issue. You might find the perfect spot, trees spaced just right, accessible trunks, great view very very exciting. Got all set up, sat down to cook and i heard someone running up the trail very fast, it was dusk hard to see but man was this guy moving, suddenly a thunderous crash as a deer, buck went right through the entire setup hammock, bug net, quilts and tarp! Bug net unusable hammock scratched and torn a little, tarp removed from one tree. Found the bottom quilt the next morning, apparently the deer didnt require the extra warmth. Hammock camping is very exciting you just never know what youre going to get. Oh and no it was not strung across the trail.. am thinking of getting some of those LED lights for the edges.
Yep...gotta watch out for those animal trails and runs!
I get cold so I made a segmented pad extender to hold my ground pad under me. Shug's tip to underinflate my ground pad worked brilliantly. Then I made an under quilt and found it worked much better at keeping me warm. Eventually, I decided that I don't get a really good nights sleep in a hammock and went back to ground. Still love watching these videos anyway. Maybe one day I will pick up another tip that will help me love the hammock.
Hey Jeep. It ain't for everyone. Nice to see you.
@@shugemery bigger is better she said.
That's it, I just bought another print: Swamp run! Haha thanks again, Shug, for that beautiful art
Merci!!!
Thanks for the video Shug. I have purchased a hammock setup and I’m in the learning curve. Slept out 3 times in backyard and it went ok. Using a Costco throw and doing some DIY improvements. I’m am in the process of determining which cold weather underquilt I am purchasing. Speaking of learning curve the tarp which I hung for the first time the other day is a challenge. Thanks for all of your videos.
Yessir...get to the woods for an overnight. Speeds the curve.
Hammock gear . com Everything you need. great quality and good pricing :)
Laura Thornton thanks Laura my top quilt is an EE Revelation 20* and I am planning on the HG Premium Incubator 20*. Again thanks for your input.
@@davidson_oldbull_sectionhiker sounds great. I got the burrow and incubated 0 degree with 4 oz of over stuff.
They are literally the reason I have been able to convert to hanging.
I learned to hammock camp from you. Used it to thru hike the AT. Thanks. ✌🏻❤️
Glad I was of use! Made my day.
Holy goodness.did I ever think it would be easy...I've spent 350 dollars on cheap intro level equipment and I still cant get the angle of the dangle correct, now I have to upgrade and see if I have too cheap of equipment.... won't give up because I know oll shug will sink in and I will get this.
Hey Shug. I did say I was going to be hollering out your "All Clear in Sector Seven" from now on in my camping trips, I can confirm three mountains in Scotland thus far have been confirmed clear. Sector Seven is a very large area - but thankfully a clear one.
Whooooo Buddy))))) All secure in Sector Seven!!!!
@@shugemery I've been saying "clear" and not "secure". What can I say, I'm just an apprentice not yet a master. ;-)
I love me some hammock camping and chillaxing
Whoooooo Buddy)))))
I love your videos Shug. You are just the right amount of crazy for me and that is a compliment. The world has too many serious boring people in it, that listening to Shug is nice change. I have watched a lot of your videos and you have me 90% convinced a should get myself a tarp and hammock and give it a go, but I want to give you some background first. I am not a hiker like you are but love camping and have done it all my life in Canada. So why am I watching videos from a guy who is a hiker you may be wondering. I ride and camp off of my adventure motorcycle and travel up north off the beaten path and camp. Since a motorcycle has limited space to carry things the type of gear hikers use, suits motorcycle adventurers more than those who just car camp. It may seem like a luxury to you , but I have around 75L of space to work with. I have always used a 2 man dome tent simply because it's all I know. You are changing that. What I like about a tent is it has some privacy when changing if I am in a more open public camping spot, it has enough space to bring some of my gear inside like my helmet and riding gear and can keep them dry and bug free. Now you have me convinced about a tarp and a hammock. If you were a salesman for work, I think you nailed salesman of the year, every year. Here are my concerns and maybe you can answer this here or in an ASK SHUG video one day. Have you ever ran into a situation that there is no where to hang a tarp and a hammock and what the heck do. you do? Where do you store your gear so critters aren't all in it (besides food in a bear bag)? If I take my car and my dog who weighs around 55 lbs (why lbs is an abbreviation for pounds is beyond me and metric is so much easier) is it possible to put a dog and yourself up in a hammock (I'm only 5'8") and they are ok with that. He sleeps in the tent fine? Finally, I think I may stick with my current tent which I was going to upgrade this year and spend the $ on a starter hammock and tarp setup and like everyone else I go on Amazon and hope there are enough reviews to get a feeling if it'll be ok. Here is where I am learning for a starters kit. I already have things like good down bags, Klymit pads and things like that so what do you think ? www.amazon.ca/dp/B01KGOVEI6/?coliid=I202X9BHE5VN7S&colid=23TH29YYP2CRR&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it Any help would be appreciated and keep up these excellent videos you make.
a lot of moto-campers use hammocks and tarps. Many on hammockforums.net.
No trees? The Tensa4 stand is what a lot use... www.tensaoutdoor.com/product/tensa4-hammock-stand/
Video...ua-cam.com/video/6PlOp6NPOuA/v-deo.html
Or the Tensa Solo....www.tensaoutdoor.com/product-category/tensasolo/
Lightweight solution.
As to dog in hammocks. I hear it can be 50/50 depending on your dog. Gotta watch those nails on the hammock material.
@@shugemery thanks so much for getting back to me Shug. Great advice.
Thanks for the continued help with this conundrum
Whoooooo Buddy)))))
You are the man Shug! I've been watching you for years and I am still learning.
I think I figured something out my last overnighter. I have always struggled with having to get up and P all thru the night. This last trip we were car camping and I also had my tent and pad with me. After about the 4th time getting out of the hammock to P, I realized I had a little cold-butt going on. It was about 50 degrees, no wind, and I had a 30 degree UQ. After checking to make sure the UQ was rigged right, I said to heck with it, I'm putting my pad in the hammock! Under inflated it a bit and slept the rest of the night! Actually woke up with a little sweat on the back in the morning! Not the most comfortable lay with the pad - lots of hammock dancing - but I finally settled in to a good lay. Not a setup I want for long term...
I am going to re-visit my UQ setup and maybe make a UQ protector to help cinch it up against me - more learning curve! Bottom line, I think my P problem has always been related to CBS. Also may look into a bridge hammock and consider using a pad with it - back to the Shug archive!
Sorry for rambling, thought someone else may have the same issues!
Try to tighten up your main UQ suspension more than you think. It should lift the hammock without you in it.
Also check that your end cinches (foot to foot/shoulder to shoulder) are not too tight. Can cause gaps.
@@shugemery Will do Sir! Thanks!
The worst trips make the best stories. caveat- the worst trips make the best MEMORIES. me and my son, 9 years old, first primitive hike in hammock camp. one of the worst nights, and best memories of my life. +3 inches rain in 2 hours, two hour hike through texas thunderstorm to my truck. trying desperately to hold it together and not let my boy see that i was more scared than he was...now its one of our best stories.
Yessir, true for sure. No one want to hear how great it is. They want to hear the calamities.
Ahhh the dreaded "what am I gonna use" question...Wise words from a hammocking veteran!🤠🤙Thanks for sharing brother
WhatamI, WhatamI, WhatamI, WhatamI ...
Hey Shug. New to your videos as of 3 days ago and have loved everyone. I recently (this summer) transitioned to hammock camping with a Blackbird XLC and have no idea to go back. A few friends (4) and I hiked the SHT from Castle Danger to Caribou Falls and they were all shoved in a tent while I was comfortable in my set up and got the best sleep ever. I'm watching your review videos to find the best underquilt for my set up because that is my next investment. Thanks again for all the info and fun. Take care!
Whooooo Buddy))))) Continue on with your XLC and enjoy....
stick with Hammock Gear. I have one of their incubators and top quilts. can't say enough good about them. High quality and actually keeps me warm. I used 2 zero degree bags inside one another for tent camping. but these quilts do it all on their own.(well I did get the quilt protector to go with)