Poler Tree Bed Hammock Review

First Impressions of Poler Tree Bed Hammock

The Poler Tree Bed Hammock promises a comfortable, packable escape from terra firma, and the prospect of “vertical camping” certainly piqued my interest. Manufactured by Poler, known for their fun and functional outdoor gear, this hammock aims to provide a convenient and comfortable alternative to ground sleeping. After a decade of relying on everything from bivy sacks to elaborate tent setups, the allure of a simplified, elevated sleep system was too strong to ignore.

My interest in this product stemmed from a desire to lighten my load on solo backpacking trips and find a more comfortable sleep solution in uneven terrain. The integrated stuff sack and advertised packability are what initially caught my eye. I was hoping for a lightweight, easily deployed sleep system that could replace my aging, bulkier backpacking tent.

Upon unboxing, the Poler Tree Bed Hammock felt surprisingly compact and lightweight. The hibiscus color is vibrant and cheerful, a departure from my usual tactical greens and browns. The nylon taffeta material felt relatively thin, leading to some initial concerns about durability, but the ripstop weave offered reassurance. My first impression was a mix of excitement about the potential for minimalist camping and cautious optimism regarding the material’s robustness.

Compared to other hammocks I’ve considered, such as the ENO DoubleNest or Hennessy Hammock, the Poler Tree Bed Hammock stood out due to its simplicity and lower price point. While the ENO offers more space and the Hennessy boasts integrated bug netting, the Poler seemed like a more straightforward, budget-friendly option for occasional use. I chose the Poler hoping its simplicity would translate to ease of setup and a lighter pack weight for shorter trips where bug protection isn’t a primary concern.

Initially, I was intrigued by the compact size and bright color but also slightly apprehensive about the thinness of the material. I was eager to test its comfort and durability in real-world conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Poler Tree Bed Hammock to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Poler Tree Bed Hammock on a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The chosen campsite was a moderately wooded area with plenty of sturdy trees. The weather was mild, with daytime temperatures in the 70s and nighttime temperatures in the 50s, and the conditions were generally dry.

Setting up the hammock was relatively straightforward, although it required some practice to achieve the optimal hang angle and tension. It took a few tries to find the sweet spot between comfort and sag. There were no included tree straps, so I used my own set, which added to the overall setup time. After getting the hang right, the comfort was surprisingly good for a single-layer hammock.

One initial issue was the lack of bug netting; I awoke with a few mosquito bites despite using bug spray. I also noticed that the fabric, while seemingly strong, did stretch slightly under my weight (approximately 190 lbs).

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of occasional use, the Poler Tree Bed Hammock has held up reasonably well. There are no rips or tears in the fabric, but there is some noticeable stretching and creasing. The color has remained vibrant, even after exposure to sunlight.

The hammock has proven to be relatively easy to clean, simply requiring a wipe-down with a damp cloth. I’ve stored it in its stuff sack when not in use, and the compact size has been a major convenience for backpacking. Its ease of use is still relatively high, and after a few times setting it up, it now takes only a matter of minutes.

Compared to previous camping experiences using ground tents, the Poler Tree Bed Hammock offers a more comfortable and elevated sleeping platform. However, the lack of insulation and bug protection limits its usability in colder weather or areas with heavy insect populations. It hasn’t completely replaced my tent, but it’s a great option for fair-weather backpacking trips where weight is a concern.

Breaking Down the Features of Poler Tree Bed Hammock

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Poler.
• Fabric/Material: 70D Nylon Taffeta Ripstop. This material provides a good balance between weight and strength, with the ripstop weave helping to prevent tears from spreading.
• Unpacked Size: 105″x 75″. This size is adequate for a single person but might feel cramped for larger individuals.
• Packed Size: 3.5″x 8″. This compact size makes it easy to pack and carry on backpacking trips.
• Weight Capacity: 300lbs. This weight capacity should be sufficient for most users, but it’s important to stay within the limit for safety and longevity.
• Color: Hibiscus.

Performance & Functionality

The Poler Tree Bed Hammock performs its primary function adequately, providing a comfortable place to sleep off the ground. However, its limitations in cold weather and bug-prone environments restrict its overall versatility. The hammock is relatively easy to set up and take down, making it a convenient option for quick overnight trips.

The hammock’s strengths lie in its lightweight design, packability, and ease of use in mild conditions. Its weaknesses include the lack of insulation, bug protection, and potential for stretching under heavier loads. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly hammock but falls short of providing a comprehensive outdoor sleep solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The Poler Tree Bed Hammock features a simple and straightforward design, focusing on functionality over elaborate features. The single-layer nylon taffeta construction is lightweight and easy to pack, but it lacks the insulation and comfort of more complex hammock designs. The hammock’s dimensions are adequate for a single user, providing enough space to stretch out comfortably.

The hammock is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal setup time and effort once the basic hanging technique is mastered. There is no real learning curve beyond that, and it becomes second nature pretty quick. The lack of included tree straps is a minor inconvenience, but it allows users to customize the suspension system to their specific needs.

Durability & Maintenance

The 70D Nylon Taffeta Ripstop material is reasonably durable, but it is not as robust as heavier-duty fabrics used in higher-end hammocks. With proper care and use within the weight limit, the Poler Tree Bed Hammock should last for several seasons of occasional camping trips. Regular cleaning and storage in a dry place will help to prolong its lifespan.

The hammock is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Minor repairs, such as patching small holes or tears, can be easily accomplished with a needle and thread or a fabric repair kit. The low-maintenance design makes it a practical option for casual campers and backpackers.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Poler Tree Bed Hammock comes with only the hammock itself and an integrated stuff sack. There are no included accessories, such as tree straps or bug netting. The hammock can be customized with aftermarket accessories, such as tree straps, suspension systems, bug nets, and rain tarps.

The hammock is compatible with most standard hammock accessories, allowing users to tailor the sleep system to their specific needs and preferences. Adding a bug net and rain tarp significantly enhances the hammock’s versatility and comfort in a wider range of weather conditions. Becuase there are no included accessories, you are free to get what suits you best!

Pros and Cons of Poler Tree Bed Hammock

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Who Should Buy Poler Tree Bed Hammock?

The Poler Tree Bed Hammock is perfect for casual campers, backpackers seeking to minimize weight, and anyone looking for an affordable and simple hammock for fair-weather use. It’s a great option for weekend getaways, music festivals, or backyard lounging. Individuals who value simplicity, packability, and affordability will find this hammock to be a worthwhile investment.

This product is not ideal for those who camp in cold weather or bug-infested areas without additional gear. Also, those who prefer a more luxurious or robust hammock with integrated features like bug netting or rain protection might find the Poler Tree Bed Hammock too basic.

Must-have accessories include tree straps for easy and secure setup and a bug net to protect against insects. A rain tarp is also recommended for camping in wet weather.

Conclusion on Poler Tree Bed Hammock

The Poler Tree Bed Hammock is a decent, budget-friendly option for those seeking a simple and lightweight hammock for fair-weather camping. While it lacks some of the features and durability of higher-end hammocks, its affordability, packability, and ease of use make it a compelling choice for casual campers and backpackers. The price is justified, considering its intended use and target audience.

I would recommend the Poler Tree Bed Hammock to anyone looking for an entry-level hammock for occasional use in mild conditions. It’s not a perfect solution for all situations, but it provides a comfortable and convenient sleeping platform at a reasonable price.

If you’re ready to experience the joys of vertical camping without breaking the bank, the Poler Tree Bed Hammock is worth considering. Grab one today and start planning your next adventure among the trees!