Adjustable Ridgeline · Utility Constrictor Rope ·Jan 28, 2022

Adjustable Ridgeline

What is an Adjustable Ridgeline?

An Adjustable Ridgeline or Utility Constrictor Rope(UCR for short) is a piece of equipment that is made from braided rope that helps ensure a consistent hang from hammocking site to the next. The Adjustable Ridgeline mounts at either end of your hammock and keeps the hammock hanging on the same angle.

Why an Adjustable Ridgeline?

Why get an Adjustable Ridgeline versus a Fixed Ridgeline? While a Fixed Ridgeline may be a few bucks cheaper, it doesn’t offer the flexibility of an Adjustable Ridgeline. When you are just starting out you are going to want to play with the length of the UCR to get the best hang for YOU. This is why a UCR is superior to a Fixed Ridgeline. Our UCR‘s can accommodate hammock lengths from 9 feet up to 13 feet! So if you upgrade your hammock to a longer one, you are able to move your UCR from one to another.

How does an Adjustable Ridgeline work?

There are several ways to make an Adjustable Ridgeline but I will be describing how ours works. This UCR is made from two pieces of Amsteel. One piece is short and has the bury that makes it adjustable and a locked brummel. The longer piece goes through the bury and has a whipped tail to prevent pull through. The other end has a locked brummel. Each locked brummel will be attached to the ends of your hammock via your preferred method. Ours is by using our soft shackles and attaching them to the continuous loops in our gathered end hammocks.

How to set your Ridgeline Length

Now when it comes to getting the perfect hang, there is no exact science. There are many variables and it will take some testing and tuning to get the most comfortable hang. A ridgeline takes some of the variables out, like the distance between the trees and the height that you hang.

When you go to first use your UCR, a good length to start at is 83% of your hammock length. See below:

9′ Hammock = ~90″ UCR

10′ Hammock = ~100″ UCR

11′ Hammock = ~110″ UCR

From here it is personal preference in what feels best for you. Try it and then adjust it from there. If your UCR is too short it will cause too much sag and in turn you will have to lay at more of an angle (perpendicular to the tree) to get a flat lie. If your UCR is too long then your hammock will begin to squeeze on your shoulders and feet.

Closing

Once you have found your sweet spot, that’s it. You will now be able to get the same hang every hang! It makes getting setup much quicker and consistent. We hope that you were able to find some value in this post and that is helps you get a better hang. Be sure to drop any questions or comments below. If you are interested in getting an Adjustable Ridgeline of your own, check out what we have HERE

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is it to set up the hammock if I’m new to hammock camping?

Our hammocks come with an intuitive suspension system and ridgeline, so setup is quick even for first-timers. Most customers are up and hanging in under 5 minutes.

Is this gear good for tall or big campers?

Yes! Our REM and Somnia Luxe hammocks are oversized, offering plenty of room to stretch out comfortably—even if you’re 6'3"+ or broad-shouldered.

What temperature is the underquilt rated for?

The EmberNest underquilt is designed for 3-season use and performs comfortably down to 40°F when paired with a proper sleeping bag or top quilt.

Will this keep me dry in heavy rain?

Absolutely. Our Hideaway Tarp offers full-coverage protection with doors and tie-outs to block wind and rain from all sides. Customers have weathered full storms and stayed bone dry.

Can I use this hammock setup for backpacking?

Yes! Our gear is designed to be lightweight and packable without sacrificing comfort or durability—perfect for backpackers who want to sleep well without extra bulk.

"I picked up the REM Hammock bundle and I’m absolutely blown away. Super comfortable, intuitive to set up, and the quality is top-tier. It’s clear that real thought went into designing this system."

— Chad Wansing

"Treavor is awesome! He helped me out with my hammock setup and went above and beyond. Everything from the hammock to the accessories is great quality and thoughtfully made. Highly recommend!"

— Maria Gonzalez

"I just used it for the first time on a camping trip and slept better than I ever have outdoors. Super roomy and comfortable. Setup was quick and easy. I’m officially hooked on hammock camping!"

— Eddie

"I was worried an extended thunderstorm would ruin my trip, but this tarp kept me dry and comfortable the whole time. Built tough, packs down small, and offers superior coverage."

— Jeff Sipper

"Thank you for two great nights of sleep in the woods. Lightweight, easy to hang, and super comfortable."

— Stephen