Hammock Hang Calculator

Your details

The horizontal distance between your two anchor trees (or posts). Most hammock campers look for trees 12-17 ft (3.7-5 m) apart.
ft
The length of the hammock fabric from end loop to end loop (not including suspension). Most camping hammocks are 9-12 ft (2.7-3.7 m).
ft
How high off the ground you want the lowest point of the hammock. 15-25 in (38-64 cm) is the safe range recommended by most hammock makers.
in
Total weight that will be in the hammock, including the occupant and any gear. Always stay within your hammock manufacturer's rated capacity.
lb
The angle the suspension cord makes with horizontal. 30 degrees is the standard recommendation: it balances comfort, sag and strap load. Flatter angles feel better to some sleepers but dramatically increase tension.
Anchor heightModerate tension - normal range
5.5

Height above ground to attach suspension to tree or post

Suspension length (each side)20.8
Cord tension (each side)180
Shear force (each anchor)155.9
Anchor height unitft
Suspension length unitin
Force unitlb
Tension vs weight100
100 % of load
Very low tension<60Low-moderate60-100Moderate100-150High150-200Extreme200+

Each strap sees 180 lb of tension at a 30-degree hang angle.

  • Attach your suspension at about 5.5 ft above the ground on each anchor.
  • You need about 20.8 in of suspension (strap or cord) on each side from the hammock end loop to the anchor.
  • Each strap carries 180 lb of tension - that is 100% of the total load. Make sure your straps are rated above this.
  • 30 degrees is the ideal hang angle recommended by most experts and gear manufacturers. It balances a flat lay, comfortable sag and reasonable strap loads.

Next stepCheck your hammock straps' rated capacity. The shear force (horizontal pull on each tree) is 156 lb - healthy trees with no dead branches are the minimum requirement.

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