Mayan Hammocks - Outdoor Perfection

Thousands of years ago, Mother Nature bestowed her inspiration on the great Mayan communities of Central America. Out of need, the Mayan hammock is the original hammock, dating back over 3000 years. These same Mayans, who built the great Central American pyramids, also created the most versatile outdoor furniture accessory. Not only do their impressive architectural structures still stand, but their versatile Mayan hammock is still used today.

In its original form, the Mayan hammock elevated the sleeper off the ground protecting the sleeper from snakes and other forest floor crawlers. It also elevated the sleeper above water, dirt and other dirty conditions. An elevated sleeping area also exposed the sleeper to cooling breezes that are crucial for staying comfortable in the humid rain forests of Central America and Southern Mexico. These same hammocks also provided a place for people to sit and socialize as well as to hang goods and products off the ground and away from ground scavengers. Hammocks also provided a safe, secure way of protecting and soothing a baby while under the protective eye of its mother.

The ingenious design of Mayan hammocks is still used today by thousands of Mayan descendants. While Mayan hammocks are still produced all over Central America, Mayan hammocks from the Yucatan province of Mexico are considered the best of these types of hammocks. While the hammocks are also made using nylon, the cotton hammock is considered the most comfortable. Unlike nylon, cotton does not bite into the back and body like nylon string. The cotton weave is very flexible yet incredibly supportive and strong. It allows the hammock to shape and conform to any body size or shape, allowing the hammock to cradle or contour to your body for even greater comfort. Cotton hammocks also allow ventilation without any uncomfortable waffle side effects. The overall size and weight capacity of these string hammocks is unparalleled and can hold a surprising amount of weight - and people.

Because Mayan cotton hammocks have no spreader bar, they are very lightweight and compact so they are easy to transport, store and carry. They are most popular among backpackers and beach goers, as well as day trippers and campers. Mayan hammocks are especially convenient as an extra bed or great furniture inside or out. They can be easily attached and removed from hooks securely anchored in wall studs or ceiling beams when unexpected guests arrive.

When looking for a Mayan hammock you'll often hear various sizes being mentioned. People talk about single, double, matrimonial (which mean marriage) and king size. They will also say it's for one, two or three people. This is a simplified way to refer to size, and it doesn't really mean anything. Even though a Mayan hammock certainly is strong enough to hold more than one person, you will probably enjoy spending time alone in your hammock, or snuggling with someone special, because that's the most comfortable way!

Mayan hammocks are available in all sizes from single size hammocks to jumbo or super king size.

The Single Size hammocks are great for travelers, or solo usage. They pack up small and light yet give you all the comfort and support. Under adult supervision, the Single is great for children.

Queen Size hammocks are great for sharing. Get ready for an afternoon of just hanging out snuggling with someone special. A Queen, also known as a matrimonial size hammock in Mexico, would be a better choice for size than a double.

King Size hammocks have lots of room for Mom and Dad, and the kids too. This hammock can also be enjoyed sitting width-wise with support for all.

If you have a whole flock of friends, the Super King Size / Family size hammock is the best way to go. This one despite its size packs up small and light and easily fits into a small day pack for a backwoods adventure or a day picnic.

When it comes to choosing a hammock size, you only need to know one thing - size really does matter! A larger hammock will feel more comfortable whether used by one of the whole family.

The bigger the hammock, the more threads you have, and the tighter the weave will be. Many thin threads make a more comfortable hammock than fewer thick threads. When you stretch out in a single or a queen hammock, the weave will be pulled further apart and you will have fewer threads under you. While it will still be comfortable, it may feel a little tight around your body. Also the thread size can also enhance the comfort. With a smaller cotton thread versus thicker threads, the smaller threads create more of a fish netting which offers more strings and support than thicker thread hammocks.

With the different Mayan hammock sizes, it's strongly suggested to get at least a queen size Mayan hammock for a couple (also known as matrimonial size), or a super king size hammock for holding the whole family. Despite the size the larger hammocks when stretched out, even the largest ones pack up small and light. This makes it simple for you to carry your hammock, easily transforming it into a travel hammock or backpacking hammock, ready to go anywhere you are.

Hammocks are also great for the backyard and patio area by the pool. For those with limited space such as a balcony, you can hang one from a hammock stand while still giving you the full enjoyment of hanging out it style.

The colors of Mayan hammocks are vibrant and add decorative flair to any outdoor environment. For the garden or backyard, the colors add to the palate of your flowers. Just watch as a hammock gets fought over at any backyard BBQ or party. Hammocks can also be easily accessorized for an extra dash of style and comfort. You can add some comfortable pillows to your hammock style or even add a blanket for added warmth and style. Even more impressive, is to drape a fine mesh net or mosquito netting for that canopy feel and for long evenings of cuddling.

For those looking for the ultimate outdoor accessory to add some style and comfort, a Mayan hammock with its vibrant colors and superior comfort will undoubtedly become the favorite outdoor refuge for you and your friends.