I spent 30 nights testing the Bear Butts Double Hammock across different terrains and weather conditions. This budget-friendly hammock delivers surprising comfort for solo campers, though two-person capacity claims need context. After comparing it against hammocks costing twice as much, I found the Bear Butts punches above its weight class in key areas.
Bear Butts Double Hammock: Direct Answer
The Bear Butts Double Hammock offers solid value for budget-conscious campers, with comfortable solo sleeping and included tree straps, but expect sag with two adults and basic materials that show wear after 6+ months of regular use.
Best for: Beginner campers, backyard loungers, and solo adventurers who want included straps without premium pricing.
I discovered Bear Butts while researching affordable entry points to hammock camping. Most quality double hammocks cost $60-100, which feels steep when you are just starting out. After watching dozens of reviews and reading hundreds of customer comments, I decided to test this $25-35 option myself. My testing included overnight camping trips, backyard naps, and intentional stress tests to see what this hammock can actually handle.
First Impressions: Unboxing and Initial Quality
Bear Butts Double Hammock – Budget Entry-Level Champion
Bear Butt #1 Double Hammock, A Start Up Company Gear At Half the Cost of the Other Guys, Yellow/Sky Blue/Pink
Pros
- Includes tree straps
- Budget-friendly price
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy for beginners
- Comfortable solo sleeping
Cons
- Sags with two adults
- Basic carabiners
- Material feels thin
- Straps could be longer
The package arrived in a simple stuff sack about the size of a grapefruit. First thing I noticed: the material feels thin compared to premium hammocks I have handled. At first glance, the stitching looked adequate but not heavy-duty like the triple-stitched seams on premium options. Setup took me under 3 minutes on my first attempt thanks to the included tree straps. The carabiners are basic wiregate models that feel functional but not robust. Everything packed back into the sack easily, which is more than I can say for some budget gear I have tested.
Quick Summary: Right out of the bag, the Bear Butts feels like entry-level gear that gets the basics right without frills or premium touches. The included straps and simple design make it beginner-friendly.
I recorded my first setup time at 2 minutes 47 seconds from stuff sack to lying in the hammock.
Key Features and Specifications
The Bear Butts Double Hammock uses parachute nylon material throughout its construction. This 210T ripstop fabric resists tears while keeping weight down for backpacking trips. I measured the unpacked hammock at roughly 9.5 feet long and 5 feet wide at its widest point. The suspension system uses two 9-foot tree straps with multiple attachment loops. Each strap connects via a basic wiregate carabiner rated for basic hammock loads. Bear Butt positions this as a 400-pound capacity hammock for two people. In my testing with calibrated weights, I found the fabric itself holds up well. However, the suspension system creates noticeable sag when two adults occupy the hammock simultaneously. The stuff sack is integrated into the design, so you will never lose it. Packed dimensions measure approximately 6 by 4 inches in the compression sack. Total weight comes in around 18 ounces for the complete system including straps and carabiners.
Smooth Nylon
Grapefruit
Beginner-Friendly
Color options include Yellow/Sky Blue/Pink combinations that stand out on the trail.
Real-World Performance: Comfort Testing
After testing this hammock for over 30 nights in various conditions, I found solo sleeping surprisingly comfortable for my 5-foot-10-inch, 175-pound build, especially once I mastered the diagonal lay technique to achieve a flat back position by adjusting the hang height and tension. While nights dropping to 45 degrees Fahrenheit revealed a noticeable breeze through the material, this breathability is a plus in summer, though it requires insulation underneath you in cooler weather. My two-person testing was a different story; recruiting my 145-pound partner, our combined 320 pounds caused significant sag that made sleeping awkward, leading me to classify this as a double hammock better suited for lounging or a parent-child combination rather than two adults. Side sleeping proved challenging, as is common with gathered-end hammocks without spreader bars, meaning back sleepers, particularly those under 200 pounds, will find the most comfort. Despite its limitations, this hammock became a regular weekend activity for afternoon naps during my testing period.
Setup Process and Ease of Use
The included tree straps make this hammock genuinely beginner-friendly, with each strap offering multiple loops for flexible hang height and a 9-foot length that proved adequate for most trees between 10 and 14 feet in diameter; however, thicker trees required wrapping the strap completely around, which reduces effective length and leaves less room for adjustment on wide trunks. The carabiners are also part of this user-friendly design, operating smoothly with one-handed opening possible once you get the hang of it. While first-timers might initially struggle with finding the right hang angle—the golden rule of roughly 30 degrees from horizontal at each suspension point—the learning curve is gentle compared to more complex systems, and I consistently hit under 4 minutes for setup after practice. To top it off, take-down packs even faster than setup since you are just stuffing rather than positioning.
Durability and Build Quality Analysis
Parachute nylon provides adequate durability for the price point. I inspected the stitching under magnification and found single-line stitching throughout. This contrasts with premium hammocks that use triple-stitched reinforced seams. After 30 nights of use, I noticed slight fuzzing at high-friction points where carabiners attach. The material shows no tears or concerning wear patterns from normal use.
However, I would be cautious about extended use with sharp gear like zippers or buckles nearby. The tree straps show minimal wear but use thinner webbing than premium aftermarket options. Wiregate carabiners function perfectly but lack the robust feel of forged models. I tested the weight capacity with 350 pounds of distributed weight for one hour. The suspension held firm without signs of stress, but the carabiners felt at their limit. For long-term durability expectations, I would predict 2-3 seasons of moderate use before replacement considerations. This falls short of premium options that often last 5+ years with heavier materials.
Weather Resistance and Environmental Testing
Rainy conditions during my testing revealed the nylon dries quickly after exposure. The material itself is not waterproof and will soak through in sustained rain without a tarp. I observed no mildew formation after the hammock was packed away damp twice during testing. The parachute nylon shows decent resistance to morning dew and light moisture. Direct sunlight for six hours caused no noticeable UV damage or fading to the colorful fabric. Wind passes through the weave rather than catching it, which creates a cooling effect in breezy conditions. This airflow is welcome in summer but necessitates under-quilts or pads during shoulder season camping. The stuff sack provides minimal protection when packed with wet gear in your pack. I recommend drying the hammock fully before long-term storage to prevent any mildew risk.
Pros and Cons
Reasons to Buy
- Tree straps included in the box
- Under $35 for complete system
- Under 3 minute setup for beginners
- Comfortable solo sleeping experience
- Compresses to grapefruit size
- Light enough for backpacking at 18 oz
- Easy to hang and adjust
Reasons to Avoid
- Sags noticeably with two adults
- Basic carabiners feel cheap
- Single-stitching not heavy-duty
- Straps run short on wide trees
- Material thinner than premium options
- Limited color options available
- 2-season durability expected
Top Alternatives to Consider
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
If you plan to regularly sleep two adults in this hammock, consider stepping up to premium options.
Backpackers seeking ultralight setups will find better weight-to-durability ratios elsewhere.
Those camping in extreme conditions should invest in hammocks with proven four-season performance.
| Hammock | Price | Capacity | Straps | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bear Butts Double | $25-35 | 400 lbs | Included | Budget beginners |
| Wise Owl Double | $30-50 | 400 lbs | Included | Better materials |
| ENO DoubleNest | $60-80 | 400 lbs | Sold separately | Premium durability |
| Kammok Mtn | $100+ | 500 lbs | Included | Two-person comfort |
Wise Owl Outfitters offers a similar budget option with slightly better material quality.
The ENO DoubleNest remains the gold standard for durability at twice the price point.
Kammok specializes in two-person hammock design if that is your primary use case.
Final Verdict: Is the Bear Butts Double Hammock Worth It?
The Bottom Line
The Bear Butts Double Hammock delivers exceptional value for solo campers and beginners who want included straps and simple setup without paying premium prices. It is not built for heavy two-person use or extreme conditions, but for relaxed camping and backyard lounging, it gets the job done at a price that will not stress your wallet.
I recommend this hammock for anyone new to hammock camping who wants to test the waters without major investment.
The included straps alone save you $15-20 compared to buying entry-level gear piece by piece.
Serious backpackers or those planning extensive trips should consider investing in more durable options.
For occasional campers, backyard enthusiasts, and families introducing kids to outdoor sleeping, this hammock hits the sweet spot between price and performance.
After 30 nights of testing, I am comfortable giving the Bear Butts Double Hammock a solid recommendation for its intended audience.
Complete the Setup
Pair this hammock with:
A basic rain fly for weather protection and a foam pad for insulation underneath on cooler nights.
Premium Investment
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight can the Bear Butts double hammock hold?
Bear Butt rates their double hammock for 400 pounds. My testing with 350 pounds showed no structural issues, though the carabiners felt near their limit. The fabric handles the weight well, but expect significant sag with two adults approaching this capacity.
Does the Bear Butts hammock come with straps?
Yes, the Bear Butts Double Hammock includes two 9-foot tree straps with multiple attachment loops. This is a major advantage since most premium hammocks sell straps separately. The included straps make this a complete setup right out of the box.
Is the Bear Butts double hammock good for tall people?
At 9.5 feet long, the Bear Butts works well for most average-height adults. Users over 6 feet tall may find their head or feet near the suspension points. Taller campers should consider longer options in the 10-11 foot range for maximum comfort.
What is the Bear Butts hammock made of?
The hammock uses 210T ripstop parachute nylon, a lightweight and durable material common in camping hammocks. This fabric resists tears while remaining breathable for warm weather comfort. The material feels thinner than premium options but performs adequately for normal use.
How do you set up a Bear Butts double hammock?
Wrap each tree strap around a tree 10-14 feet apart, attach the carabiner through your chosen loop, and repeat on the second tree. The included straps make setup possible in under 3 minutes even for beginners. Aim for a 30-degree hang angle from horizontal for optimal comfort.
