Can You Add a Spreader Bar To a Hammock? Best Spreader Bar & FAQs

Spreader bars are useful because they add more balance and spread to a hammock. Hammocks that have a built-in spreader bar are much easier to hang. They also have more room and comfort than normal hammocks.

Now, with the usefulness of a spreader bar, you may be wondering if you can add a spreader bar to your hammock, the types of hammocks that have spreader bars, and a lot more. All of these questions and more will be discussed below.

But Can You Add a Spreader Bar To a Hammock? 👇👇👇

Yes, you can always add a spreader bar to a hammock. However, you should know that not all hammocks can accommodate a spreader bar. For you to add a spreader bar to your hammock, your hammock must have a certain design that allows it.

If your hammock doesn’t have such a design, it will be impossible for you to add a spreader bar to your hammock. You can instead opt for a new hammock with the spreader bar feature. Once you get it, you can always add a spreader bar to your hammock. However, you should know that spreader bars are best for double-sized hammocks.

 

 

What Brands of Hammocks Have Spreader Bars?

Different types of brands and hammocks use spreader bars. We are going to be discussing some of the brands or hammocks below.

1. Tropilex Hammock Double American Gray

Tropilex Hammock Double American Gray

This is one of the most popular hammocks that use a spreader bar. Tropilex brand has built a name for itself as one of the leading hammock brands in the states. You can always buy this hammock if you are looking for hammocks that have spreader bars.

There are a lot of things you will get to enjoy with this hammock. Firstly, it is a two-person hammock that can accommodate up to 180kg. There is enough room for you and your partner on the hammock. You will also enjoy maximum comfort when you get into the hammock. Are you wondering how much weight your hammock can carry? I did test the weight of my hammock and took note of things, read this article to see what I discovered.

2. Hammock Single Rustic Spreader

Tropilex Hammock Double American Gray

This is another type of hammock you can always trust if you are looking for the best hammocks with spreader bars. You can always use a hammock single rustic spreader as it is much easier to set up. You will derive maximum pleasure when you get into this single hammock.

This hammock is made of polycotton and can hold a weight of as much as 120kg.  You will enjoy the comfort of the material on your skin. Carrying this hammock around will not be a problem as the hammock weighs less than 3kg.

Hammock with Spreader Bar vs Without

Are you still in conflict with yourself about the best hammock to choose? I wrote an ultimate guide and drew the line for you, as well as made the decision. Read this guide Hammock with Spreader Bar vs Without (First Hand Review)

 

 

What Type of Hammocks Have Spreader Bars?

There are a few types of hammocks that have spreader bars. Here is a list of hammocks that have spreader bars below.

1. Rope Hammocks

Rope Hammocks

This is one of the most common hammocks with spreader bars. While it isn’t all rope hammocks that have spreader bars, a vast majority of them do. It largely depends on the brand of the hammocks.

Most rope hammocks have a spreader bar that is used to maintain the balance of the hammock when you hang it. If there is no spreader bar on the ropes, you will find it completely discomforting to use it as a hammock bed. Spreader bars make lying in a rope hammock much easier.

2. Quilted Hammocks 

Quilted Hammocks

You can always use quilted hammocks if you do not like rope hammocks. Quilted hammocks are super cozy and very easy to set up. They have spreader bars that are curved in a way that gives you extra comfort when you get into them.

Quilted hammocks usually feature two layers of quilts sandwiched between each other. The spreader bar is to prevent them from flipping. With the two layers, you will enjoy more comfort and coziness when you get into your hammock. If you’ve issues with your hammock trying to flip. it is a problem that you should fix, read this guide on how to stop your hammock from flipping in the wind.

3. Fabric Hammocks

Fabric Hammocks

A fabric hammock is another set of hammocks that have spreader bars. However, it isn’t all fabric hammocks that have spreader bars. Some hammocks are just woven and sown without a spreader bar.

With a fabric hammock, you will enjoy a lot of decoration and design. It is the designs that distinguish it from other types of hammocks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Advantages and Disadvantages of Spreader Bars Hammock?

While the spreader bar hammock might have a lot of advantages, there are also a couple of disadvantages you should note. Below is a list of the advantages and disadvantages of a spread bar hammock.

Pros:

The spreader bar hammock has a lot of benefits. Here are some of them below.

  • Much More Inviting and Stylish

This is the first thing you must consider if you consider the benefits of a spreader bar hammock. These hammocks, like the rope and the fabric hammock, can be much more inviting, stylish, and unique. Based on the looks, you will choose a spreader bar hammock over hammocks without a spreader bar anytime and day.

  • Drys Faster

One thing people like about hammocks with spreader bars is the fact that they get dried fast. Because of the tight fittings, these hammocks dry within 2 hours of being hung out to dry. While other hammocks might take much longer, spreader bar hammocks take half the time to dry.

  • Comfortability

Hammocks with spreader bars are comfortable and perfect for side sleepers. One problem side sleepers have always had is a lack of comfort when they sleep in a regular hammock.

A spreader bar hammock solves this problem. As a side sleeper, you can comfortably sleep in your spreader bar hammock without worrying about anything.

  • The Ability to Get a Clear View of the Surrounding

This is another thing that makes spreader bar hammocks so acceptable. Unlike a normal hammock, where it feels like you are being wrapped in a cloth or fabric, the spreader bar hammock gives you all the view you need without wrapping you up. If you are claustrophobic, the spreader bar hammock is the best you should get for a nice experience.

Cons:

Everything that has an advantage must have a disadvantage. Here are the disadvantages of the spreader bar hammock

  • Difficult to Pack Up or Carry About

This is one major disadvantage of the spreader bar hammock. The spreader bar alone weighs around 2kg and is hardly bendable. This makes carrying it from one place to another very difficult. With the stiffness of the spreader bar, folding it becomes impossible. Packing your hammock can be hard sometimes, read this article that walks you through step by step guide to pack up your hammock easily.

  • You Can Easily be Flipped Over if You Lie on the Side

One thing that largely distinguishes a spreader bar hammock from a normal hammock is the absence of sag when it is set up. This is very important as you can easily flip over from the hammock if you lie on one side. You must always lie in the middle of the hammock to avoid being flipped over.

  • It can only be used for a While

This is another thing that is a demerit of a spreader bar hammock. Unlike a normal hammock, where you can spend the night, you cannot do the same for a spreader bar hammock. Spreader bar hammocks are only ideal for part-time relaxation.

If you spend too long inside the hammock, there is a pretty good chance you might have back pain when you finally get off the hammock.

How Do I Adjust or Replace the Spreader Bar on a Hammock?

It is easy to adjust or replace the spreader bar on your hammock. Here is a step-by-step guide on replacing the spreader bar on your hammock.

  • Step 1: Hang the Hammock on the Tree
Step 1: Hang the Hammock on the Tree

This is the first thing you must do if you are looking to remove or replace your spreader bar. You can always hang your hammock to the tree using straps or ropes. Once you have done this, repeat the same process for the other end of the hammock. Considering the best straps to use while hanging a hammock can be very difficult. here is the best strap to use Click here.

  • Step 2: Loosen the Spreader Bar Knot
Step 2: Loosen the Spreader Bar Knot

Once you hang your hammock to the tree, you can loosen the spreader bar knot on your hammock. Spreader bar knots are pretty easy to remove. Simply untie or draw the knot, and you should be able to remove your spreader bar.

There are different methods that you can use to hang your hammock on trees. Read this guide on the best method to hang your hammock on a tree.

  • Step 3: Place a New Spreader Bar between the Knots and Tighten Them
Step 3: Place a New Spreader Bar between the Knots and Tighten Them

You should place a new spreader bar between the knots since you would like to replace your spreader bar. Once you have successfully placed them in between the knots in your hammock, you can retie the knot.  Always leave a rope tail of 4cm for safety reasons.

If you’re still struggling with tying knots, here is a step-by-step guide to help you tie a knot easily.

Can More Than One Person Lie on Spread Bars Hammock at a Time?

More than one person can lie in a spreader bar hammock at a time. This is because while spreader bars are meant to support hammocks, you can use them for double or even triple-sized hammocks(if there are any). 

As long as your spreader bar is correctly set up inside your hammock, you have nothing to worry about regarding the number of people lying in the hammock. Just ensure you are using a double-sized hammock if it is going to be two people getting inside.

Think of using more than one person hammock, then you will love to check out my review on the best hammock for more than one person.

Can I Take a Spreader Bar Hammock Camping?

While spreader bar hammocks can be great for outdoor relaxation, I will advise you against a spreader bar hammock for camping. The reasons are relatively endless. You cannot find it easy to carry your spreader bar hammock from one place to another. It can be a pretty discomforting experience.

Apart from the weight, using things such as an underquilt or a sleeping bar is difficult when you use a spreader bar hammock to camp. It is not suited for camping purposes.  If you want to go camping, you should use other hammocks instead of a spreader bar hammock.

If you’re going camping then you need to carry the full list of things that you need. Read this article where I highlighted the full checklist of things that you need to hammock camping.

 

 

Conclusion

Although you can add a spreader bar to your hammock, you should know that it isn’t all hammocks you can add a spreader bar to. Some hammocks are not suited for a spreader bar.

You should also know that a spreader bar hammock has a lot of advantages and disadvantages. All of these thighs and more have been discussed in the article above.