Adventure in Northern Norway — Hennessy Hammock Gets Tested In Extreme Cold

At Hennessy Hammock, we’re always interested in hearing how people have put our camping hammock to the test. We’ve heard stories about taking them on jungle expeditions, dangerous treks through the desert, and even on a journey that took over two years to complete. Most of these adventures involved hot, humid conditions and torrential downpours — classic summer camping in many parts of the globe. Because our hammocks are built with bug-proof, yet breathable fabric, you might just assume that they’re only good for warm summer nights. On the contrary — our camping hammocks have been put to the test in some of the coldest conditions. Keep reading to learn more.

Designing the perfect hammock has been a lifelong quest for our founder, Tom Hennessy.  Over the years, our hammocks have evolved as we tried to make them better, lighter, more bug-proof, and more comfortable. Although much of the testing involved taking them on adventures in warm climates, we were happy to hear how one camper used our hammock during a trip to the frigid far-northern area of Harstad, Norway. 

Northern Norway: A Polar Bear’s Dream

If you’ve ever made a trip to Harstad, Norway, then you probably already know that it can get cold — bone-chillingly cold. It was there that Ben Reynolds of the Royal Marines’ Commandos decided to put our camping hammocks to the ultimate test. Would it provide enough shelter from the extreme temperature to sleep safely throughout the night?

During Ben’s test, he encountered everything from freezing rain and sleet to several inches of snow. To make matters worse, the temperature dropped to 0℉, which is plenty cold, but when you factor in the wind chill, it dropped the perceived temperature to -54℉. Fortunately, Ben has his Explorer Ultralite Asym including canopy with undercover and foam insulation to help weather the storm. 

We were pleased to hear that Ben’s experiment concluded that the Hennessy camping hammock and insulation system is capable of supporting a person in extreme weather environments where temperatures are well below freezing. Yet another reason why a Hennessy is the only camping hammock you’ll ever need.

Armed With Plenty of Cold-Weather Features

While investing in one of our insulation systems is a must if you’re going to be traveling to any cold-weather environments, our hammocks are designed with several other features to help keep you safe and dry in adverse conditions. 

Windproof Fabric

Sometimes you can get cold even when there’s a lack of precipitation — it’s called wind, and it can make you start shivering in a matter of minutes. Fortunately, our hammocks are designed with high-density fabrics that deflect wind to help you stay warm and cozy inside.

Waterproof Rainfly

The fastest way to get uncomfortably and dangerously cold is to get wet. Even if you’re in a location that typically doesn’t get that cold, if rain seeps into your sleep space, you’re likely to wake up with a chill. That’s why we’ve created a polyurethane-coated or silicone-impregnated waterproof rainflies to keep you, and your hammock, dry. 

We have several different rainflies available. Order an extra-large one to create enough dry space for multiple people. Rainflies can be tilted at any angle, rolled up, or even removed and used away from your hammock.

Double-Layer Bottom

Many of our hammocks come with the option to add an extra layer of fabric to the bottom. This is helpful for keeping out insects when you’re in a particularly bug-infested place, but it also provides an extra layer of insulation. However, the best way to take advantage of a double-layer bottom is to use it for holding your insulating pad. Sure, you don’t have to put it between the two fabric layers, but doing so helps to ensure your insulation stays right where it’s needed the whole night long. 

Not a Fan of Camping In The Cold? Take Your Hennessy With You

You don’t have to be camping in below-freezing temperatures to appreciate the comfort of a Hennessy hammock. Sometimes you just don’t know where the road will take you and that’s why it’s important to always be prepared. For less than the cost of many tents, you can upgrade to a camping hammock that’s been engineered to keep you safe and comfortable no matter where you end up. 

Interested in learning more about our hammocks? Visit our website for tips and tricks on how to do everything from setting up the rainfly to using your hammock as a chair. We also have specifications on all of our hammocks and a detailed comparison chart so you can determine the one that’s right for you. Ready to plan your next adventure? Don’t be limited by your gear — shop Hennessy Hammocks and order your camping hammock today.