How to Choose the Right Suspension for Your Hammock (Compare Whoopie Slings, Cinch Buckles, Daisy Chains & Becket Hitches)

🪢 Not All Hammock Suspension Is Created Equal

If you’re getting into hammock camping, one of the first things you’ll notice is there are multiple ways to hang your hammock — and it’s not always obvious which suspension style is best.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for simplicity or an ultralight backpacker chasing every ounce, this guide breaks down the pros and cons of the four most popular hammock suspension systems:

✅ Whoopie Slings
✅ Cinch Buckles
✅ Daisy Chains
✅ Becket Hitches

🔗 What Do All Suspension Systems Have in Common?

At their core, they all serve the same purpose:
Safely connect your hammock to your tree straps and allow for adjustment.

Each option offers its own balance of:

• Weight

• Ease of use

• Adjustability

• Durability

• Cost

🧵 1. Whoopie Slings

How it works: Adjustable loop-on-loop system using bury constriction (like a Chinese finger trap). Typically made from Amsteel.

Pros:

• Super lightweight

• Minimal hardware

• Great adjustability

• Durable and long-lasting

Cons:

• Slight learning curve to understand how to tension

• Can slip slightly under no load if not “set” correctly

• Harder to adjust with gloves or in rain

Best for: Ultralight hikers, DIYers, those familiar with Amsteel

🔗 Shop Whoopie Slings – Lightweight & Adjustable

⚙️ 2. Cinch Buckles

How it works: Strap loops through a metal buckle that cinches and holds under tension — quick to adjust.

Pros:

• Beginner-friendly

• Fast adjustments — even with gloves

• No knots needed

• Great for wet, cold, or one-handed use

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than whoopies

• Adds a small amount of metal hardware to your setup

Best for: Beginners, all-weather users, cold-weather camping

🔗 Want an easy setup out of the bag? Our REM Hammock comes with cinch buckles pre-installed.

🔗 Cinch Buckle Suspension Kit — easy-to-use, reliable, and pairs great with our REM Hammock.

⛓️ 3. Daisy Chains

How it works: Webbing straps with sewn loops every few inches. Clip a carabiner or soft shackle to desired loop.

Pros:

• Incredibly easy to use

• Zero knots, zero learning curve

• Fastest adjustment

• Great for families and group setups

Cons:

• Least precise (spacing is limited to sewn loops)

• Heaviest option

• Sewn loops = minor strength loss over time

Best for: Beginners, kids, casual campers, group hang setups

🪢 4. Becket Hitches

How it works: Traditional knot-based suspension. The suspension strap is tied directly to the hammock’s end loop using a becket-style knot.

Pros:

• No hardware required

• Very lightweight

• Versatile and strong when tied correctly

• Minimalist favorite

Cons:

• Requires knot-tying skill and confidence

• Can be tricky to untie after heavy load

• Harder to adjust quickly

Best for: Purists, ultralighters, minimalist setups, bushcraft

🧭 So, Which Suspension Is Right for You?

🔗 Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — and that’s a good thing. The best hammock suspension is the one that fits your style of camping, comfort level, and preferred simplicity.

If you’re just getting started, cinch buckles offer the easiest, most reliable all-around experience. If you want to lighten your pack and don’t mind the learning curve, whoopie slings or a becket hitch setup might be your thing.

🔧 Ready to Dial in Your Hang?

Explore our suspension options here:
👉 Shop Hammock Suspension Accessories

Or try one of our pre-configured systems:
👉 REM Hammock with Tree Straps + Cinch Buckles