Hammock Bliss Tandem
Product Description
The Hammock Bliss Tandem is an interesting concept tackling one of hammock’s biggest challenges: double occupancy. The Tandem’s approach is to link two single hammocks together along the parallel long edges, thus giving two people their own bed to lay in. This is a similar approach to the popular 2-person hammock from Clark Jungle Hammock, the Vertex. The Tandem is much simpler in design and has its own unique modularity built-in.
The single beds are actually well-proportioned for laying diagonally, and when both persons lay in sync, you avoid any collisions.
Overall Impressions and Updates
When Dov approached me to take a look at the Tandem I was, let’s say, skeptical. However, being always on the lookout for the new in hammocks, I agreed to review it.
The Hammock(s)
The hammocks themselves are basic, single-panel designs. I really prefer single panel over the typical three-panel construction because there are no annoying seams to dig into your back or loose, unused fabric flopping in your face. The build quality is on par with all parachute nylon hammocks on the market.
Sewing the two hammocks together is an interesting concept, and one that I think a lot of people may raise an eyebrow (I know I did). My solution to hanging with a partner is to just sling up two separate hammocks side-by-side. The Tandem just merges this concept and keeps the two hammocks conjoined.
The real challenge with the Tandem is to find the right trees. This has been my hang-up (pun intended) with every multi-person hammock I’ve tested. You can spend a lot extra time looking for trees in the right configuration so that the hammocks are close and not too far apart to reduce the strain on the seams, etc. One solution is to find one set of trees and use a spreader bar to keep the two hammocks apart. For practice, we used a tree limb, which worked well.
Another advantage of the Tandem is that it can convert into a double-layer hammock. By overlapping the two hammocks, you can make a single-occupancy hammock, with the benefit of using that double layer for holding a sleeping pad.
The Suspension
Hammock Bliss’s approach to suspension uses a long (100 in/254 cm) 6mm rope that is thread through the end channels and middled. The two loose ends can then be fed through the loops of some tree webbing and tied together like you are tying your shoes. This method works pretty well and is fairly easy to use, but it helps if you’ve seen the tutorials. I don’t find this method particularly intuitive, and the two loose ends of rope almost feel like they are unfinished.
My personal preference when using long rope suspension is to tie a Bowline near the hammock and then have one long, loose end. I then use the Becket Hitch to adjust the suspension and connect it to the webbing anchor point. I’ll freely admit that the Becket Hitch is not the most user-friendly method either (most new hangers I meet eschew knots), which is why I recommend end loops and daisy chain webbing instead for new hangers. Suspension is where hammock users really divide, and where I encourage diversity. If you find the Hammock Bliss system doesn’t work for you, I encourage you to pick up a copy of my book where I detail lots of different ways to connect hammock to anchor point.
Recommendations and Review
| Criteria | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Suspension and Anchor System | ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ | The rope suspension system is intended to pair with a webbing strap (sold separately). The bowtie method Hammock Bliss recommends is easy enough, but you waste a lot of suspension length (and weight) where other methods, such as the Becket Hitch, work just as well and require less rope. |
| Construction and Craftsmanship | ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ | Reinforced stress points, but otherwise the construction is basic and typical of parachute nylon hammocks on the market. |
| Modularity | ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ | Lots of different options available to convert this hammock and you can add on features. |
| Aesthetics | ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ | Not a lot of color options available at the time of this writing. |
| Price and Value | ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ | Due to its modular design, this hammock can convert into two different modes, or can be easily cut apart into two single hammocks at a deal. |
- Manufacturer: Hammock Bliss, made in Indonesia
- MSRP: US$79.95
Available Features/Specifications
Features
- 2, 1-person hammocks connected together
- High-strength parachute nylon (crinkle taffeta)
- Soft and breathable
- Quick drying and resists mildew
- The two hammocks can be combined into a single double-layer hammock
Specifications
- 6 mm climbing rope, 100 in (254 cm) per side for suspension
- 350 lbs (159 kg) rated weight capacity
Weight
- 29 oz (822 g)
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Disclosure of material connection: The author (Derek Hansen) was provided with a free sample from the manufacturer for testing and evaluation purposes. The comments in this post (written & spoken) are of my own opinion, which I formed after personally handling the gear. I was under no obligation to publish a review of this item.