Overview
Amok has just released their newest hammock in their lineup, the Draumr XL. Built off the foundation of their award-winning Draumr, the XL is longer, roomer, and sports a few other features maximum comfort for big and tall folks. The hammock design is a unique hybrid, starting with the familiar Draumr 90-degree lay off the hang point. Made in Norway, the Draumr is one of the most engineered hammocks I’ve ever tested.
The XL has all the basic features of it’s smaller brother, with the flat lay, no shoulder squeeze, chair mode, removable bug netting, etc. It does boast large storage shelves at the apex of each end. The suspension is new, and is detachable. It’s a departure from the typical Amok design where everything is integrated, but I think it’s a good move. It eliminates the need for the carabiners on the straps, but the quick adjust and release still works like the older system. The foot box is all but eliminated, with more room around the foot area for netting. There’s also two pole pockets on the head end where a short pole or stick can be placed to prop open the head area, creating a roomy interior. No pole is included with the hammock. The hammock requires a large pad in order to create the structure. Amok now manufactures their own insulated pad that matches the requirements of the Draumr.
Specs
- Fabric: 70D ripstop nylon
- Weight:
XL – 53 oz (1495 g)
Tarp: 24.2 oz (685 g)
Pad: 35.8 oz (1016 g) - Bed Dimensions: 83 × 28 in (210 × 70 cm)
- Capacity: 400 lbs (180 kg)
- Max Height: 6 ft 10 in (210 cm)
- MSRP: US$217
Thoughts
I’m just tall enough that the regular Draumr fits me just fine. The XL, by comparison, feels really roomy, especially in the head and foot area. The design change to wrap the bug net over the ridgeline instead of clipping to it was a much better decision.The extra space above my head is a winning feature alone, as I’ve struggled with the Draumr 3.0 to keep the netting completely off my head. The XL solves all of those issues with it’s pole pockets on the head end, although it’s a shame Amok doesn’t include a mini pole with the hammock. In every other respect, it’s a beautifully-crafted hammock that is well-engineered.
Getting in is probably the trickiest part, but with a little practice it comes fairly easy. Sometimes it can feel a little imbalanced when you get in until you find your center point. When I tested the hammock this summer over a few weeks, my relatives (who are much taller than I) got a good taste for the roomier interior. Everyone was begging to use the hammock as it was really comfortable and unlike regular gathered-end hammocks. My relatives were over 6 ft tall and had room to spare.
I was a little shocked that the traditionally all-in-one suspension on previous models was abandoned for a separate system. The suspension is still included, but the system was simplified, removing the need for the carabiners and opting for a cinch / buckle / tri-glide system. It’s very similar to previous models, only you can disconnect the buckle from the hammock and pack the straps separately.
Probably the best compliment I received on the XL was from my cousin’s wife. She isn’t a huge fan of camping, and while her husband loves hammocks, she’s not yet converted. After getting the Draumr set up, she decided to try it out one night. The next morning when I came to see how she slept, I was greeted immediately with a big hug, thanking me for the opportunity to sleep in the hammock. She had the best night camping she’s ever had and absolutely loved the lay!
Ninety-degree hammocks aren’t perfect for everyone, but they do offer what a lot of people are looking for: a more Western-style bed experience with a flat lay that allows you to easily roll and side sleep, stomach sleep, or back sleep without any strain.
| Criteria | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Suspension and Anchor System | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Amok has done an amazing job keeping the suspension an integrated part of the design. The XL features separated suspension, which still adjusts as easily as earlier models. |
| Construction and Craftsmanship | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | One of the most well-engineered hammocks I’ve tested, with thoughtful design and impeccable quality. |
| Modularity | ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ | Switching from hammock to chair mode to lounger is easily modified by pulling on straps inside the hammock. |
| Aesthetics | ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ | Simple but attractive color schemes with well-thought-out features and design. |
| Price and Value | ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆ | For an imported hammock with all its features (and free US shipping), it’s not a bad deal for a complete jungle hammock kit, but it is more expensive than other all-in-one hammocks. Still, if you’re looking for a simple, flat lay hammock, the XL makes a compelling argument. |
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