The Mayan hammock is the original hammock, dating back over 3000 years. These same Mayans, who built the Central American pyramids in Tikal and Coban, also created the most accurate calendar and developed an advanced writing system. The Mayans were brilliant astronomers and mathematicians having developed the concept of zero. The Mayans also invented the Mayan hammock. The Mayan hammock elevated the sleeper off the ground protecting the sleeper from snakes and other forest floor crawlers. It also elevated the sleeper above water, dirt and other unsanitary conditions. An elevated sleeping area also exposed the sleeper to cooling breezes that are crucial for staying comfortable in the humid rainforests of Central America and Southern Mexico region of the Yucatan.
The ingenious design of Mayan hammocks is still used today by thousands of Mayan descendants. While Mayan hammocks are still produced all over Central America, Mayan hammocks from the Yucatan province of Mexico are considered the best of these types of hammocks. While the hammocks are also made using nylon, the cotton hammock weave that often consists of over a mile of string is the most comfortable. This weave is very flexible yet incredibly supportive. It allows the hammock to shape and conform to any body size or shape, allowing the hammock to cradle or contour to your body for even greater comfort. Cotton hammocks also allow ventilation without any uncomfortable waffle side effects. The overall size and weight capacity of these string hammocks is unparalleled and can hold a surprising amount of weight – and people.
Because Mayan cotton hammocks have no spreader bar, they are very lightweight and compact so they are easy to transport, store, and carry. They are most popular among backpackers and travelers, as well as day trippers and campers. Mayan hammocks are especially convenient as an extra bed or great furniture inside or out. They can be easily attached and removed from hooks securely anchored in wall studs or ceiling beams when unexpected guests arrive.
The main concern with cotton hammocks is that they can absorb moisture, but dry quickly so they are not as vulnerable to rotting as the other hammocks. It is important, however, not to store your Mayan hammock even if it is slightly damp.
Mayan Hammocks are also noted for their beautiful, vibrant colors. It is the vivacious color signature of Mayan hammocks that make them unique and appealing. In time, with exposure to the sun, they fade like your favorite jeans yet still retain their charm. They are available in all colors, from solid to dual colors to multicolor, complimenting your tastes and style.
When shopping for a Mexican hammock you will hear different sizes being thrown around. People talk about single, double, matrimonial (queen) and king size. They will also say it’s for one, two or three people. This is a simplified way to refer to size, and it doesn’t really mean anything. Even though a Mexican hammock certainly is strong enough to hold more than one person, you will probably enjoy spending time alone in your hammock, or snuggling with someone special, because that’s the comfortable way!
Mayan hammocks are available in all sizes from single size hammocks to jumbo or super king size. When it comes to choosing a hammock size, you only need to know one thing – size really does matter! The bigger the hammock, the more threads you have, and the tighter the weave will be. Many thin threads make a more comfortable hammock than fewer thick threads. When you stretch out in a single or a double hammock, the weave will be pulled further apart and you will have fewer threads under you. While it will still be comfortable, it may feel a little tight around your body.
With the different Mayan hammock sizes, it’s strongly suggested to get at least a queen size Mayan hammock for a couple (also known as matrimonial size), or a super king size hammock for holding the whole family. Despite the size the larger hammocks when stretched out, even the largest ones pack up small and light. This makes it simple for you to carry your hammock, easily transforming it into a travel hammock or backpacking hammock, ready to go anywhere you are.
Keith Raymond loves to spend his summers hanging out in his Mayan hammock he picked up in the Yucatan of Mexico. Every winter he spends time in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico visiting ancient Mayan ruins and villages. Through his website http://www.stylemexican.com, you can learn more about how Mayan hammocks are made, how the Mayan communities benefit from the hammock trade, and how to choose a Mayan hammock.
