The Warbonnet Ridgerunner hammock delivers exceptional comfort and spacious storage, making it a top choice for extended camping trips. Reviewers praised its best-in-class comfort and moderate weight, with one reviewer calling it the 'ultimate hammock.' While it offers flexible customization with double-layered fabric options, some users noted limitations for heavier individuals and fewer underquilt choices. It's ideal for hammock enthusiasts prioritizing comfort over ultralight weight.
Full review
Comfort surpasses traditional hammocks
The Warbonnet Ridgerunner delivers an unprecedented level of comfort that transcends typical hammock camping experiences. Ian Graber-Stiehl from GearJunkie noted that the Ridgerunner's spreader bars create a 'floating cot' feel that accommodates multiple sleeping positions including back, side, and stomach sleeping. This comfort advantage stems from the hammock's design that eliminates common issues like the 'calf ridge' and 'head squeeze' found in traditional gathered-end hammocks. Elizabeth Paashaus of Outdoorgearlab confirmed that the Ridgerunner's flat lay allows for comfortable side sleeping and even stomach positioning, which she described as 'a luxurious and innovative hammock with spreader bars for a flat lay.' The double-layer configuration provides additional insulation benefits while maintaining the flat sleeping surface that makes this hammock stand out from competitors.
Weight and capacity considerations
Despite its comfort advantages, the Ridgerunner carries a notable weight burden that affects backpacking suitability. The single-layer version weighs 2 lbs, 4.6 oz with suspension, while the double-layer model adds 50 lbs of breaking strength but increases the total weight significantly. Taylor Passofaro from CleverHiker reported that the Ridgerunner's total weight including suspension is 27 ounces, with spreader bars adding 9.9 ounces. The maximum capacity for single-layer use is 200 lbs, increasing to 250 lbs with double-layer construction. However, the hammock's dimensions of 10.1 feet long and 3 feet wide make it suitable for users up to 6'6" in height. The weight distribution and capacity specifications make this hammock ideal for car camping and extended trips rather than ultralight backpacking adventures where every ounce matters.
Setup complexity and suspension system
Setup procedures for the Ridgerunner are more complex than traditional hammocks but offer significant advantages in comfort and stability. The hammock requires specific assembly of spreader bars, which include two longer poles, two shorter poles, and a connector tube. Black Scout Survival reviewer noted that the setup process takes less than a minute and involves an adjustable webbing suspension system that is 'super fast' and 'easier suspension system on the market.' However, the lack of a storage bag for the poles presents a challenge for hikers who must manage these components separately. The suspension system includes 12-foot webbing straps and cinch-style triangle buckles, with the manufacturer recommending a 30-degree angle for optimal hammock positioning to prevent bowing backward. The integrated bug net requires careful attachment using shock cord and plastic mitten hooks at both ends for proper coverage.
Storage and practical features
The Ridgerunner incorporates practical storage solutions that enhance its usability for extended camping trips. Each side features large storage pockets called 'saddlebags' that provide gear storage without compromising interior space. These pockets are accessible from inside the hammock and can accommodate items like fleece or other gear. The integrated zippered bug net can be zipped down and stowed in a pocket on the foot end, offering flexibility in insect protection. The head and foot ends include loose fabric that provides room for pillows or arm positioning, while the double-layer design creates a sleeping pad sleeve for additional insulation. Outdoorgearlab's reviewer emphasized that the hammock's 'large gear pockets' and 'optional integrated bug net' make it highly versatile for different camping scenarios. The design also includes tension points that provide slight neck support while allowing the head to lie flat, contributing to overall comfort.
Durability and material quality
The Ridgerunner's construction quality and materials demonstrate Warbonnet's commitment to producing durable outdoor gear. The hammock utilizes Dream-Tex fabric with a ripstop weave and diamond grid design that provides both strength and comfort. Elizabeth Paashaus from Outdoorgearlab noted that the new material uses 'a ripstop weave with a diamond grid that is designed to be both strong and comfortable, with almost a cotton-like feeling.' The aluminum spreader bars and metal hardware contribute to the overall durability, with no reported slippage issues during testing. Black Scout Survival reviewer mentioned that the hardware is of 'good quality' and locks into place securely. The breathable water-resistant fabric maintains its integrity under various weather conditions, though the reviewer noted that the hammock's fabric showed some loose strands during initial inspection. The Ultimate Hang described the stitching and build as 'straight and solid' and the hammock as otherwise having 'a very clean appearance.'
Versatility and seasonal adaptability
The Ridgerunner's versatility extends across multiple camping scenarios and seasons, making it a valuable addition to any camper's gear collection. The double-layer configuration allows for various insulation strategies, including the use of sleeping pads or underquilts for temperature regulation. The hammock's design accommodates different sleeping positions and body types, with the spreader bars providing stability that traditional hammocks lack. Ian Graber-Stiehl from GearJunkie emphasized that the Ridgerunner's 'best-in-class comfort' and 'flexible customization options' make it suitable for extended canoe trips or anyone who values comfort over all else. The integrated bug net and storage features enhance its adaptability for different environments, while the manufacturer offers specialized underquilts, undercovers, and tarps for year-round use. The hammock's ability to work with various tarp configurations, including rectangular or hex-style tarps, provides additional weather protection options. The Spindrift Sock option mentioned by Black Scout Survival further extends seasonal usability by encapsulating the entire hammock for protection.
Performance in real-world conditions
Field testing of the Ridgerunner reveals its effectiveness in various camping scenarios, though some limitations become apparent with extended use. Black Scout Survival reviewer, who is 6'1" and 200 lbs, found the hammock comfortable and spacious enough for his body type, with the head area simulating a pillow-like support. The reviewer noted that the hammock felt more like 'laying in a bed than a hammock,' allowing for easy position changes. However, the tippiness inherent in bridge hammocks was acknowledged, with the reviewer noting that the small connector bar can be removed to deepen the hammock bed and improve stability. The hammock's ability to accommodate different sleeping positions was consistently praised, with the flat lay eliminating common discomforts found in traditional hammocks. The setup process was generally described as quick and straightforward, with the adjustable webbing suspension system being particularly user-friendly.
Strengths
- +Incredible spacious storage capacity
- +Best-in-class comfort for hammock camping
- +Moderate weight at 2 lbs., 4.6 oz.
- +Flexible customization options with double-layered fabric options
Watch-outs
- −Fewer underquilt options available
How it compares
The Warbonnet Ridgerunner weighs 2 lbs 4.6 oz, above the 22.5 oz of the Wise Owl Outfitters Kit. Its weight capacity is 200 lb single-layered or 250 lb double, against 500 lb for the Wise Owl and the Kammok Roo Double and 400 lb for the ENO DoubleNest. It is the only hammock here with built-in bug netting, and it costs more than the other three.
Rating sources
Counts as 4.61/5 in our score — this publisher's 149 scores on the site average 3.69, so its scores are adjusted up to compare fairly with other publishers.
Counts as 4.10/5 in our score — this publisher's 60 scores on the site average 4.49, so its scores are adjusted down to compare fairly with other publishers.
Counts as 4.62/5 in our score — this publisher's 45 scores on the site average 4.03, so its scores are adjusted up to compare fairly with other publishers.
“With moderate weight, integrated storage, a less synthetic-feeling fabric than most of its peers, double-layer options that allow for more flexibility in insulation strategy, and the most comfortable lay I've had between two trees—Warbonnet's Ridgerunner compromises on little.”
“The Ridgerunner bridge hammock is sleek and refined and gives the impression of a high-performance sports car. The stitching and build are straight and solid.”
Our 4.4 score is the average of the 3 scored reviews above, each adjusted for how strictly its publisher scores; 2 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. More about methodology.
