Hammock Tarp Options Guide
This guide explains hammock tarp fabrics, tie-out hardware, configuration choices, pole systems, and accessories to help you understand your options. Available selections vary by model.
For differences between the Simplicity Asym, Trail Haven, Trail Duster 2.0, Wind Haven, and Winter Haven, see the Hammock Tarp Comparison Guide.
Quick Section Links
Tarp Fabrics
Fabric selection affects tarp weight, stretch, moisture absorption, abrasion resistance, and overall coverage.
| Fabric | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Xenon Sil .9 | Ultralight silicone-coated polyester for minimizing tarp weight. Low stretch and moisture absorption. |
| Silnylon 1.1 | Lightweight silicone-coated nylon. More stretch and moisture absorption than polyester, so occasional retensioning may be necessary. Generally offers good abrasion resistance. |
| Xenon Sil 1.1 | Lightweight silicone-coated polyester with good UV resistance. Low stretch and moisture absorption help maintain a consistent pitch. Similar characteristics to Silpoly 1.1. |
| Silpoly 1.1 | Lightweight silicone-coated polyester with good UV resistance. Low stretch and moisture absorption help maintain a consistent pitch. Similar characteristics to Xenon Sil 1.1. |
| Silpoly 1.6 | Heavier polyester fabric with low stretch and moisture absorption. Provides a more substantial, durable material option. |
| Xenon Sil Wide | Wider version of Xenon Sil 1.1, allowing greater tarp coverage while retaining similar material characteristics. |
| Silpoly XL | Wider version of Silpoly 1.1, allowing greater coverage while retaining similar material characteristics. |
Available colors, finished widths, and fabric choices vary by tarp model. Estimated weights are displayed in the product configurator where available.
Tie-Out Hardware
Tie-out hardware connects guylines to the tarp. Options differ in weight, adjustment method, and compatible cord diameter.
| Hardware | Description |
|---|---|
| Loops Only | Simple, lightweight attachment points. Guylines are tied directly to the loops. |
| Line Loc 3 | Adjustable tensioner designed for approximately 2–2.5 mm cord. |
| Line Lock V | Lightweight V-groove tensioner capable of holding cord as small as approximately 1 mm. |
| Line Lock Lite 10 mm | Compact tensioner suited to approximately 1.5 mm cord. |
| Line Lock Lite 15 mm | Tensioner suited to approximately 2–3 mm cord. |
| D-Rings | Attachment points for tying or connecting guylines. Available sizes depend on the tarp model and attachment location. |
Guyline compatibility: The available 2 mm orange reflective guyline is not compatible with Line Lock V or Line Lock Lite 10 mm hardware. Performance with other cords may vary depending on diameter and construction.
Tarp Configuration
Edge Options
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Straight Edges | Preserve the full tarp perimeter and provide flexibility for different pitch configurations, including pitching edges closer to the ground. |
| Catenary-Cut Edges | Curved edges help create a taut pitch but reduce coverage near the edges when pitched low and can limit alternative pitch configurations. |
Some tarps combine straight edges with catenary curves in selected areas. Available edge configurations and curve placement vary by model.
Additional Attachment Points
| Option | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Extra Perimeter Tie-Outs | Provide additional points for securing or adjusting the tarp perimeter. |
| Side Panel Pull-Outs | Allow the tarp panels to be pulled outward to increase usable interior space. |
| Bridge Hammock Pull-Out Spacing | Allows side panel pull-outs to be positioned for better compatibility with certain bridge hammock configurations. |
Available quantities, locations, and spacing options are identified in the individual product configurations.
Simplicity Asym: Storm Mode
The Simplicity Asym offers optional Storm Mode tie-outs that shorten the effective ridgeline and lower the tarp sides slightly for additional weather protection.
Because the Simplicity Asym uses a diagonal fabric ridgeline without a ridgeline seam, its pitching behavior differs from conventional hammock tarps.
Detailed size recommendations, lay orientation, and pitching considerations remain on the Simplicity Asym product page.
Tarp Pole Systems
Optional tarp pole systems increase usable interior space by lifting the ridgeline area of compatible tarps.
| Configuration | Pole Placement |
|---|---|
| Single Pole | Centered along the ridgeline |
| Double Pole | Positioned approximately ¼ and ¾ of the tarp length |
| Triple Pole | Positioned approximately ¼, ½, and ¾ of the tarp length |
Each pole system includes sleeves sewn beneath the tarp for the pole ends, an internal ridgeline, three prusik loops with mini carabiners, and a stuff sack for the poles.
Important: Not every tarp offers all three configurations. Pole placement may also affect catenary-curve geometry and tie-out positioning. Available arrangements are detailed in the individual tarp options.
Trekking-Pole Porch Mode
Most hammock tarps can also be pitched in porch mode using trekking poles to raise an outer edge, creating a more open sheltered area.
This is different from the optional tarp pole system described above.
Ridgeline and Door Accessories
Ridgeline Suspension
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Ridgeline Cord | Optional 25’ length of 1.75 mm Zing-It for tarp suspension. |
| Dutch Flyz | Ridgeline tensioning hardware, available separately or pre-spliced to 12’ Zing-It lines. |
| Internal Ridgeline | Attachment points, a 2.0 mm cord ridgeline, and three prusik loops for organizing lightweight equipment beneath the tarp. |
The internal ridgeline accessory is distinct from the external cord used to suspend the tarp.
Door-Style Tarps
The Wind Haven and Winter Haven feature closable door panels at their ends. Closing the doors helps reduce exposure to wind, rain, and blowing snow.
Door tie-outs use the same hardware choices as the other edge and corner tie-outs. Optional Door Ends snaps are separate door-closure fittings; they do not replace the selected tie-out hardware.
Their door configurations and coverage differences are demonstrated in the Hammock Tarp Comparison Guide.
Accessories and Maintenance
Guylines and Stakes
Reflective Guyline: Available in 2 mm orange reflective cord and selectable lengths. Check the hardware compatibility information above.
| Stake | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Aluminum Y-Stakes | Three-sided design provides increased holding surface area, particularly in softer soil. Heavier than titanium hook stakes. |
| Ultralight Titanium Hook Stakes | Lightweight, compact stakes suited to firmer ground. Their narrower profile generally offers less holding power in loose or soft soil. |
Stake quantities vary by tarp model.
Patch Kit
The optional patch kit includes a small tube of silicone caulk, matching tarp fabric, a stir stick, and an application brush for repairs.
Matching fabric is normally approximately 12″ × 12″, although the available size may vary with specialty fabrics.
Seam Sealing
Seam sealing is included with the hammock tarps that require it.
The Simplicity Asym does not require seam sealing because its diagonal ridgeline has no sewn ridgeline seam.