This video is about Hammock Water Breaks and Drip Lines-what hardware devices work the best, or do they work at all? What should you do to prevent water from soaking your hammock?
It's refreshing to see such empiric approach regarding outdoor content. Most producers just spill their knowledge without ever showing an effort to actually test what they're saying. Great video, mate!
I agree, a bit of science for a change. I prefer non-hardware solutions anyway (slippy beckett or marline spike hitches) for other reasons so nice to see that they do a good job of stopping the water as well.
In the jungle in Thailand, we use three to five links of lightweight aluminum chain. No matter the angle, there is always at least one link which is vertical for the water to drop off.
That is the ticket. I'll use three and clip it on with a Dutch 'biner for four turns. Tie the day's socks just outside the chain and I defy any water to make it to my hammock.
I attached 3 links of chain from the hammock to the whoopy sling. The last time I was in the rain the excess whoopy line diverted the water from reaching the the chain links. I checked out the efficiency of the chain links under the faucet like you did and it worked great.
Great time and effort you put into this vid. Like Alex Gash says below, would be nice to have some sort of extra boot closures for this, since nothing else is bullet proof completly. Even the string method seemed to let water though in heave down pour, just my opinion. Again great research, and hope to see some kind of bullet proof cheap solution for this. Thanks.
Hi Derek~ I installed the Prusic knot right after my whoopie Sling slack some time ago. Yet I didn't have a chance to test it nor see how it perform in raining situation. Last night I went out to woods and started to rain around 6 AM this morning and it worked perfect~ I saw the rain drops off the Prusic knot...
Very informative. I'll be getting into hammock camping and very glad I stumbled on this video... had no idea I would need such a minor mod, but so incredibly simple and equally as important. Many thanks!
Great video! I have always used a drip strings as well as the hardware for water breaks, and so far have not suffered hammock soak. As you point out, no device is 100% effective - some rains are just too heavy. But tents suffer from less than 100% coverage as well.
Try hanging your dirty shocks or T shirts on the line as rain breaker, solve the washing and getting wet during the rain. It always work for me in the tropical rainforest of Borneo, where, when it rains, it pour. Don't forget to do the same to the tarp line, either wise you have a 'leaky roof'.
Very useful presentation, and thank you for taking the time and care to post this. It seems to me that getting two or three details (in combination) right is essential to avoid a soggy and miserable experience, and that it doesn't require a Doctorate in Hydraulics to do so. One property not mentioned or explored is capillary action. This is not as readily or graphically demonstrated as the teeming torrents in your piece, but differing cordage will more or less susceptible to this.
I used a zip tie on mine and just left it. It had been there for years and works, but still probably just put a prusik knot on the lines for my new hammock. I use a prusik knot for my ridge line also but have considered trying a whoopie sling.
great video Derek, thanks for the info. Just went hammock camping for the very first time, set up in the Ocala National Forest here in Florida. Glad it didn't rain otherwise I would've been beatin my skull against a tree trying to figure out how to solve the issue.. Lol... Again, thanks! Will know what to do the next time I set up. Be safe & take care! 👍
Great video! I've been preaching for years that a strip of cloth like from an old t-shirt, an old shoe lace, or a strip cut from a Shamwow type micro fiber towel is all one needs. Looks like your tests conclude the same.
Great information! I have always wondered about this problem and how best to deal with it. Thanks for all the time and effort that you put into this issue.
I use the extra strap end from my cinch buckles to tie a loop slip knot around my suspension. Has worked so far in heavy rain. Didn't think about my tarp ridgeline but have had no issues yet.
great video, loads of info there, the only thing i did not see that i will have a go of is a carabina with a string tail? but you have proved, you really dont need to spend money on extra gadgets. thanks
I'm not sure if this was covered as I didn't read through all of the comments, but what about using the string breaks on webbing, ie. the Eno straps? It looked like all applications in the video were utilized on paracord sized strings. Also, would the use of webbing work as a break too? Thanks for the video!
+Josh makowski +Jack Braine Thank you, yes. A few others have noticed the same thing and I really need to respond, without sounding like a politician :) The truth is, _every_ technique has a flaw of some kind, whether it is inherent or through application. I should really append this video with an apology to that effect because I do come across with such conviction that a string is the best solution. I regret that my response in the video is so black-and-white. What I discovered through testing was something I wasn't expecting: most hardware devices do not act as natural water breaks as I was hoping. Indeed, I went into this experiment with the theory that some hardware devices make great water breaks, because for years that's what I told people. This was due in part to some lingering folk stories among the hammock community-a sort of "group think" that sounds like common sense, but when tested, proved to be wrong. I was surprised at how wrong I was about hardware-very few had any redeeming qualities as water breaks, and this was compounded by any small changes in how the hardware twisted or turned or the flow of water. It is hard to adjust devices to get them in any "optimal" position to deflect running water in any consistent form. The string, as evidenced in my own video, also has limitations, but here is the difference I saw: In that quick segment that people have pointed out, the string appears to let water run past-this is all true and I don't deny it. What I really need to clarify is this: application makes all the difference. At the 5:33 mark, the string was casually loosened and slid out of the way as I tested another device. In this format, it failed. String will fail if it is not set correctly. It's an admission I should have made in the video because it is critical. The good news is that string, unlike hardware devices, can be set up to work correctly. Even if the suspension isn't set optimally due to a twist in the webbing or a strange configuration of the anchor, the string can be set and tightened so it will work every time. Another thing that works or helps to reduce water running down suspension is to _add_ a twist in the webbing tree strap before setting up the suspension. Some suspension systems are entirely made of webbing strap, so this can help even more. By adding a twist or two, water cannot course as easily down the "webbing highway" straight into the hammock. It provides more points where gravity can pull the water down. I hope this helps to clarify what happened at the 5:33 mark, and the importance of setting the string up correctly. If you are too casual with any system, it can lead to failure.
+Derek Hansen Ty for the quick reply and the tip about knotting strap I think the combo of the two will help me greatly there sure is a lot of tips and tricks to this hammocking game lol
Some sort of hardware horseshoe shape should work well, if it stays upright. The trade off is the weight and bulk. I was wondering if some sort of absorbent cloth like cotton might work well above the rain break. Something say 6"x4". Hem a small channel in the top to feed the suspension through. And I like the idea of the hydrophobic treatments too.
This test was so awsome! If you ever will do any extra testing I would have liked to see what happens if you have a triangular "ring" in the end of the tree-band meeting a cirkular ring welded into each other and then a hook on the string.
When I first started I had some trouble with water dripping from my ridge line. Then I setup a second, lower, line to hang stuff from like my bug netting and clothes, so that the ridge line stayed level with no sagging. Also I use two hammocks that hang from the same suspension. The lower one is for my gear. I use no hardware. Gathered end hammocks from sports authority. So there's already a pretty good size knot before the fabric. And I knot loops into my suspension line for adjustable length and the ridge line passes through the first or second of these loops (depending on the time of year) I've been pretty much hanging for a year and a half straight, down to 19° F temperatures until the first major snow.
Hey, I misspoke. I thought I was replying to a different video about the gardia hitch. For drip lines, you can use any line. I've used cotton string, nylon string, dyneema, etc. I hope this helps!
Handy hint.i use a tiny dog toy tennis ball cut in half with a slit cut for the strap to go through, and water don't pass it.i place it under my tarp,above my cinch buckle,and always use your drip line,but it's a 100% effective water break,no mater how hard it's raining out,"so far",just thought I'd share what works for me
Interesting. I tend to tie the woopie sling string back up further down the line. Haven´t been out in heavy rain to see how it functions as a drip line.
Have you ever tested twisting the tree hugger straps? If you twist them both clockwise when looking at each tree the hammock wouldn’t untwist them, especially with the weight of a couple sleeping items in the hammock. I wonder if each twist would drip at the low point before it twists back up? I’ve never tried it. Sidenote: Twisting ratchet straps will reduce the wind buffetting when driving down the highway with a kayak or something else strapped down! No more annoying vibrating sound from your straps :D
Yes! It definitely helps. Straps are otherwise a high-speed highway for waterflow, so adding a twist or two helps to drain the water before it can get to the hammock. The straps will still wet through, especially with rain soaking all exposed areas, so having a drip line or stopper of some kind will make all the difference ( and the wind tip is great too! )
Derek Hansen : Thanks! I started twisting mine figuring it should help. I use carabiners going from my continuous loops to my treehuggers. I still use a dripline on the continuous loops between my hammock and the ‘biners. I figure it works but it’s one of those tests that there are no results until there’s a failure. Thanks for doing these videos! They help me learn without having to rely on the cruel teacher - experience. I just recently started doing the single strap to the tree to hold my tarp and hammock. I just got a new hammock with a structural ridgeline so I still have a line to hang all my junk up on (sunglasses, headlamp, socks, etc.). The single suspension method seems to make sense to mitigate water intrusion...and I reduce some of the junk I have to carry. I traded some prussiks and a long line for two little ‘biners. I use some multi-loop treehuggers for the hammock and tarp.
Great video! Would it make sense to fray the strings completely to create more surface area to catch the water more effectively? Just bought a hammock and haven't set it up yet so, noob on my part.
Very interesting stuff. I noticed in one clip at 5:24 where you had the drip line string tilted and there was definite seepage. Its clear that keeping the biner or line at the correct orientation/angle is key.
Yes, I should have clarified that. In that clip and in others, I had a string attached, but it wasn't part of the test. Some were loosely connected so the performance was marginal. There are some good insights gained there: first, I misspoke :) drip lines are not 100% effective and suffer from limitations too. Proper alignment is key. Also, bigger strings work better or thinner strings that use a "bulky" knot such as a prusik or klemheist. You are correct: alignment is key. But that isn't 100% fool-proof if there are twists in the suspension, strap, or hammock. A weighted string would fix that. For example, clipping a mini carabiner to the end of a looped string.
Very new to hammocks, but from this and with my setup of a continuous loop coming off my hammock I would think it would be best to do a drip line on my UCR before my hardware. The drip line would kill the water's momentum and there would be little water trying to jump the hardware. Of course a drip line after would be great for some extra insurance.
I have a few questions! Did you try a prussik on the caribiner itself? With the gate facing up and the long edge facing down. A prussik just along the long edge maybe. How do you think that would work, especially if you doubled up a second prussik after that? I have an ENO hanging system so it's all just webbing and 'biners which is why I ask! Second question--does the prussik need to be special line/rope or diameter? I'm wondering if something like a shoelace or regular old yarn for crocheting would work? Just because I have it handy. Then it's just something small I could keep on my hammock always. Or maybe if you tied a bigger knot or had thicker diameter rope tied onto the main line instead of just the little prussik loops which are pretty flat? Does that make a difference? Fantastic video btw!!!! Thanks!
Derek, at 5:24 the video clearly shows the water crossing the whoopee hook, running down the line, reaching the drop string, and then going PAST it, and dripping off the line below that, so apparently the drip line is not 100 % there. I use two lines but still.... the video shows water getting past the drip line.
Mark, I know, I know. I've answered this a few times, but it still slips past. You're not wrong, but the set-up is problematic. The caveat I've shared is that I did _not_ set up the drip string in this case to work. It was loosely hanging. So, while in my tests the drip string "works" it does require more rigor than simply throwing it down. I freely admit that the string has flaws. My current recommendations include a thick string (even in this case I would get something a little bigger), and make sure it is secure / tight. My second recommendation that I think works even better is to use a piece of foam disc that you can slip over your suspension. The nice thing about a foam disc is that it provides 360 degree protection around and can work for straps and cordage. Illustrations and how-to in another video and in my book.
@@DerekHansen Thanks Derek! I double up my drip strings, paracord, having seen the test a few years ago but came across the newer video recently and just wondered if that was still your Go To. Love your books and vids! Mark
Would the size of the string make a difference in stopping seepage? As in compared to what its being tied to. For example would paracord be more effective than string on straps?
I think a horseshoe or V shaped water break that has high tensile strength and light would be a great water break...does any company make such a thing and also can it even be done? Or, just add a series of strings to the suspension rope. Thanks for the video. I just bought a hammock and this will be the first hack I perform on the hammock when I get it.
I'm guessing you're using a carabiner between your hammock and the Atlas Straps? If so, that will help. The Atlas Straps are unique--the sequence of loops will also play a part. I'll have to test them!
Plan on looping thru the atlas loop and hooking back to the amsteel loop. Don't think the amsteel will stress the webbing? May pick up a pair of Trek Light binders after this trip...if I like the atlas straps. Time for another book Derek.
Good point. I should have mentioned that simple drip lines have a weakness too. If they aren't installed well, they can fail. It is best to use a prusik or klemheist knot because those are not as affected by twisting. In the video sequence you are seeing, I put a simple Lark's Head to see how much water was seeping past the hardware. I didn't install it very tightly or aligned, so when I twisted the rope it did leak. When I used a klemheist, I didn't see that problem.
What I should have said in the video, is that the string-based drip lines are 99% effective :)
10 лет назад
Derek Hansen Make sense. I just notice the drip line being where the line is double. I guess getting it lower, where the line is single would also help :)
Cédric Anderson Yes, very true. For suspension systems that spread the loop apart, such as tri-glides, this is made more difficult, or you'd have to have two drip lines on either side :)
10 лет назад
Derek Hansen By the way, I bought your book this weekend on iTunes. Very interesting! :)
Doesn't matter. Once the water wicks through the material, to cohesion and water tension pulls the water through. Slings alone aren't enough to arrest the water and divert it.
Derek, great video experiment! I thought the simple string would work best. Which do you recommend for a drip line, dynaglide, paracord or bank line? Thanks again, Aaron.
Hi Derek, what about the tarp it self? Should we also attach purification knot under the tarp? When I set up my tarp, the ridge line is nice and tight yet it gets loose and the ridge line is no longer straight. The ridge line for the tarp becomes angled... Gave ever had an experienced the drips from your tarp ridge line? Thanks a Randy from NJ
+baseballman74 Sorry for the late reply. Is your ridgeline above or below the hammock? If you hang your tarp _over_ your ridgeline, there is a possibility of water seeping down that line and dripping on you. It has happened to me. For this reason, I rarely put my hammock over a ridgeline, I almost always put the hammock below the ridgeline. In this configuration, you won't need drip lines on the tarp.
+Derek Hansen thanks Derek~ so what you are saying is that the tarp ridge line is always above the hammock? How much is the gap between the hammock ridge line and the tarp ridge line? Thanks again...Randy
@@DerekHansen yeah I was wondering about those daisy chains and how they would act as a waterbreak. It seems like people online say to put a twist in the strap and that should be enough low points but I cant see it working but I will have to try it tonight in the snow and rain and see
Hello, I just bought my first hammock! SO, Question-Suggestion : Did you try to double the hardware or use a short length of chain so the position would never be so great as to defeat the break?
Like anything, you'd have to test it. I tested some of the most common connection methods. Adding more hardware or a chain segment is a little outside the common way and introduces a lot more weight that may not work for most people. Give it a try and let me know what you find.
Cant help but wonder, @ 6:36 if a string were tied to the bottom of that carabineer, it may have wicked the water away from the hammock line. That would probably work best on a carabineer that is perfectly round. (I would guess.)
Interesting! So the surface the water travels on shouldnt be smooth and a drip line re routes the path water takes due to gravity! Ill keep that in mind when its camping time! Thanks!
It's also about exposed surface area. Webbing straps offer a larger "water collection area" and can convey more water than a rope or whoopie sling, for example.
A good observation, but as I told other visitors, the drip line in this video was not set up to stop water. It was in the video, but it was a sorry distraction to what I was showing. The takeaway is that if you do use a drip line, it needs to be tight to your line, otherwise they aren't as effective.
Yes, and as I have replied to others who made the same observation: the string is not fully deployed; it is just loosely hanging temporarily. The observation, then, is not that the string doesn't work, only that it needs to be properly applied. This is different than the other methods that were shown to fail because regardless of how they are applied they are not that useful in breaking the water. So yes, the string does have a flaw. If you use a string, make sure you set it.
David Ripplinger I would use some thick string, something that will create a bead around the suspension. A Lark's Head knot, tightened around and then 2-3 inch tails hanging down. If I expect rain, I make sure the strings are properly in place and tightened, tails down.
I like those Dutchware Biners and Whoopie Hook. Where can I purchase those? If you could direct me to a Web Site or Company's name, I greatly appreciated. Thanks for the video. I learned a lot.
pinz2022 if you are an American you would call it a clothes pin, people still use em, clothes dryers destroy clothing in the long run, and the wind dries stuff for free, you could also say whats a hammock this is 2015 and we do have houses.
John Doe There were plenty of clotheslines in my childhood but now the only remaining backyard T-bars exist as mysterious archeological curiosities. I'm pretty sure hammocks were invented by natives of the tropics so as to keep their butts off the deck and away from ants, leeches, ticks, scorpions etc. They were adopted by sailors in the West because they could be folded up and stowed after use. Otherwise, they're best used in hot places.
we still use em here, you are right about the hammocks, but still they are still used as are clotheslines but then again i am from Europe and dont use half the electricity you guys do.
I use looped webbing with regular carabiners and in heavy rain the water flows down the straps that are hanging down not down to my hammock. I have camped in heavy rains before and not had a problem. Yes they are heavier but I am heavier and it works well. 😁
Great video with very useful tips, best system is going to be passing the paracord through your ears, any over run will just drip off your chin, must be hard to thread it though! (joking) thank's for sharing.
Sorry but at 5:37 the drip line is NOT 100% working as you can clearly see water dripping past the drip line. Nothing is 100%. I use double carabiners with a drip line and for the most part here in soggy ol Ireland, my hammock, under-blanket and all stay pretty much dry no matter how hard the rain fall ;o)
Drip lines work. didn't do a good job setting that up and articulating that point. To test all the hardware, i slid the string out of the way and didn't seat it properly, so what you are seeing is somewhat true but also misleading. String needs to be seated tight against the suspension to work. Large diameter works better than small.
