Hey MM thanks for starting this thread! I have a bunch of questions for you as I really want to get into hammock camping but am not quite sure how. I am backpacker/backpack hunter so I have a lot of gear already, just trying to lighten up the load. First "general" question, do you have to sleep on your back? I've laid down/napped in hammocks and am fine on my back, but I'm a side sleeper generally and I'm just wondering if that is a possible position.

Now on to the specifics, I will be buying my first hammock at REI for the exact reason that you posted, so I am limited to their options. That being said, there is a huge price difference between the Hennessy and the ENO and Byer Hammocks. To your knowledge, is there a good reason why the Hennessy ones are so much more (my guess is name and the fact that they come w/ fly and bug net...but maybe you know more)?

Lastly, and maybe this is too much personal preference for you to be able to say, but of the Hennessys, I'm torn between the backpacker and the explorer. I'm 5'11," 165lb so the weight is no issue, but I'm wondering if I would really notice the difference in the added length of the explorer. Any help/insight you can offer will be greatly appreciated.

Oh yeah, I will be using this hammock backpacking in the summer time in the CO Rockies. In order of importance: comfort sleeping, bug protection (those kind of go together), weight saving, and of distant importance is site selection.

Thanks again for your help!