bawełniany hamak

Which hammock should I choose? Sizes L, XL, XXL and weave types

Rafal Dworak · Hammockia · 20 min read
Jaki hamak wybrać? Rozmiary L, XL, XXL i rodzaje splotu
In this article

    When someone sees our Mexican hammocks for the first time, a very similar question often comes up:

    “Are they really that big?”

    Yes. And that is exactly one of the secrets of their comfort.

    It is sometimes difficult to judge the actual scale of a hammock from a photo in an online store. Only when you hang it between trees, on a terrace, or in a garden does it turn out how much space a traditional hammock from Yucatan can offer.

    At Hamakija, you will find models labeled L, XL, and XXL. However, this does not mean a simple division into single, double, and triple hammocks.

    Quite the opposite.

    Our hammocks are very spacious even in size L and can easily accommodate two people.

    The difference between L, XL, and XXL lies primarily in:

    • the weaving surface area,

    • the amount of space around the body,

    • the freedom to change positions,

    • the ability to lie comfortably diagonally,

    • the comfort during shared relaxation.

    Therefore, a larger model does not simply mean a "hammock for more people."

    It primarily means:

    more space and even more freedom.

    The most comfortable position is lying slightly diagonally, but sometimes the best one is simply the one that lets you be close to the other person.

    A traditional Mexican hammock provides much more space than you can often judge from a product photo alone. The photo shows the Mexican Hammock Oceano XL cotton, braided nylon, thick cord and the Mexican Hammock Mar XL cotton, braided nylon, thick cord

    L, XL, or XXL - which hammock size should you choose?

    There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

    What matters most is:

    who will be using the hammock, how much space you have, and how you like to relax.

    Simply put, one can assume:

    • L - ideal primarily for one person, but two can easily fit,

    • XL - more space for one or two people,

    • XXL - maximum space for a couple, a family, or one person who just wants to have as much of it as possible.

    This is very important:

    Hamakija sizes should not be treated as a rigid division by the number of people.

    Our hammocks are inherently very spacious. Therefore, even the basic L size can be larger and more comfortable than many standard hammocks available on the market.

    Hammock L - primarily for one person, but easily for two

    The L size is a great choice for one person who wants a comfortable, full-size hammock for daily relaxation.

    But one thing is worth emphasizing:

    our L hammocks are not small single hammocks.

    Thanks to the large weaving surface and traditional Mexican construction, two people can also use them without any problems.

    We recommend the L size especially when:

    • it is mostly used by one person,

    • you want to relax together occasionally,

    • you have a bit less space,

    • you are looking for a large, comfortable hammock, but you don't yet need the XL or XXL surface area.

    For one person, L provides great comfort.

    For two people, it still provides enough room, especially if relaxing together is occasional.

    This is an important difference compared to many standard models available on the market.

    Even our smaller hammocks are really big.

    However, if you plan to use the hammock together very often or simply like to have more space around you, it is worth considering the XL.

    See Hamakija Mexican hammocks


    We recommend the L hammock primarily for one person, but its large surface also allows two people to rest comfortably. Photo shows the Arena L hammock made of thin cord

    Hammock XL - even more space

    If you are not sure which size to choose, XL is one of the most versatile solutions.

    It is a size that gives one person a lot of space, and allows two people to rest very comfortably together.

    XL is especially suitable for:

    • one person expecting even more comfort,

    • a couple,

    • a parent resting together with a child,

    • two people who often use the hammock together,

    • people who like to change positions freely,

    • those who want to buy a hammock "with room to spare."

    The larger surface makes it even easier to position yourself slightly diagonally, which is one of the most characteristic ways to use a traditional Mexican hammock.

    Therefore, the XL should not be treated solely as a "double hammock."

    For one person, it simply means:

    a lot of space, freedom, and options for positioning your body.

    See available hammocks


    The XL provides even more space – for one person as well as for a couple.

    Hammock XXL - maximum space and freedom

    XXL models are for those who do not want to compromise on space.

    In such a hammock, you can rest alone, as a pair, or together with children.

    And that is when the largest models show their true advantage.

    It is worth choosing the XXL hammock if:

    • you are resting together as a couple,

    • children will be using the hammock,

    • you enjoy reading together or lazy afternoons,

    • you want maximum freedom of movement,

    • you have enough space,

    • you simply like to have a lot of room.

    XXL is also very often chosen by people who intend to use the hammock mainly on their own.

    Why?

    Because the large surface allows you to change positions almost arbitrarily, spread out wide, and use the full flexibility of the Mexican weave.

    In a product photo, L, XL, and XXL can sometimes look similar.

    The difference only becomes truly visible after you hang them up.

    See Mexican hammocks

    XXL means maximum space - for a couple, a family, or one person who does not want to limit their comfort.

    And how do we use them?

    For us, it often looks completely different than in perfect catalog photos.

    In XL and XXL thick-weave hammocks, we can even lie down five people - two adults and three children.

    And that is what we like them for the most.

    It is not just a place for a quiet nap then. The hammock turns into a small family space for cuddling, fooling around, talking, and resting together.

    Children love to romp around in it, cuddle between us, or just lie there together.

    We, for that matter, like it just the same.

    It is in such moments that you truly appreciate the large surface of the XL and XXL and the durability of the thick weave.

    Because sometimes the best rest in a hammock does not mean silence and solitude at all.

    Sometimes it means five people in one hammock, a lot of laughter, and the question:

    "Dad, make more room!" 😄

    Of course, it is always worth remembering the maximum permissible load of a specific model and solid, correct assembly.


    For us, a large hammock very often becomes a place for the whole family - for cuddling, fooling around, and just being together.

    L, XL, or XXL - a quick comparison

    Size Who we recommend it for Character
    L primarily 1 person, but easily 2 as well already very large and comfortable
    XL 1-2 people even more space and freedom
    XXL a couple, family, or demanding single person maximum surface and comfort

    Remember:

    this is not a rigid division by the number of people.

    Even an L hammock can easily accommodate two people.

    The difference between the individual sizes is primarily the amount of space you get.

    Simply put:

    L - most often for one person, but two will fit comfortably.

    XL - more space for one or two people.

    XXL - maximum space for a couple, a family, or one person who wants to have a lot of it.

    And what if you don't have space for a full-sized hammock?

    Not everyone has a large garden, terrace, or the space required to hang a classic hammock.

    In such a situation, a great alternative might be:

    Hammock chair

    Hammock chairs are a good solution for people who like the characteristic softness and freedom of a hammock, but:

    • have less space,

    • prefer a more vertical or semi-reclined position,

    • have only one suspension point,

    • are looking for a solution for a balcony,

    • want to hang the chair in the living room, bedroom, or a child's room.

    A classic hammock requires two attachment points.

    A hammock chair usually only needs one suspension point, which makes it much easier to find space for.

    What size hammock chair to choose?

    In the case of chairs, a very similar principle applies as with classic hammocks:

    a larger model means more space and greater freedom of rest.

    A smaller chair will work well primarily for sitting, reading a book, or a short moment of relaxation.

    However, if you want to:

    • tuck your legs in comfortably,

    • settle deeper into the weave,

    • rest for a longer time,

    • have more space around your body,

    it is worth considering a larger model.

    A large hammock chair can be much more than just an ordinary hanging chair.

    Thanks to the spacious weaving surface, you can really hide in it with a book, coffee, or just find your own comfortable position.

    See all hammock chairs


    A larger hammock chair allows you not only to sit, but also to comfortably stretch or tuck in your legs and truly relax.

    Hammock or hammock chair - what to choose?

    Choose a classic hammock if:

    • you prefer a lying position above all else,

    • you have two suitable attachment points,

    • you have more space,

    • you want to rest with someone else or with children.

    Choose a hammock chair if:

    • you prefer a more sitting or semi-reclined position,

    • you have less space,

    • you have only one suspension point,

    • you are looking for a solution for a balcony, terrace, or interior.

    If you want to learn more about the differences between types of chairs, also read:

    Brazilian or Mexican chair - how do hanging chairs differ?

    And how do we use hammock chairs?

    For us, hammock chairs have long been more than just a place to sit quietly.

    We have them both at home and in our treehouse. At home, they are a place for reading, resting, and having a moment to ourselves. In the treehouse, their role is a bit different. 😊

    There, children also use them for swinging, playing, and their own little adventures.

    And that is probably what we like about them the most.

    A hammock chair can be a quiet place with a book, but a moment later, it can turn into a child's swing, a fort, or a place that you simply don't want to leave.

    In our treehouse, that is exactly how it looks – children can swing, laugh, play, and when emotions settle, just sit in it comfortably.

    The treehouse itself also has its own history. We built it as a family space for playing, resting, sleeping over, and having little adventures - and over time, it turned out that hammock chairs fit this place perfectly.

    If you are curious how it was built:

    How to build a treehouse? Slow life inspiration from Hamakija.pl

    For us, a hammock chair can be a place to rest, but in a treehouse, it just as often turns into the best swing for play.

    Size is not everything. What type of weave to choose?

    Once you know whether you are interested in L, XL, or XXL, a second very important question arises:

    what type of cord and weave will be best for me?

    At Hamakija, you will find three main solutions:

    • thin cotton weave,

    • thick cotton weave,

    • synthetic weave.

    Each of them has a slightly different character.

    There is no one solution that is best for everyone.

    However, there is the best solution for a specific way of use.

    Thin cotton weave - when comfort is what counts

    If comfort is the most important thing for you, the traditional thin cotton weave is our number one.

    A very large number of thin threads creates an extremely flexible surface that easily adapts to the shape of your body.

    It is this type of weave that gives the feeling characteristic of traditional Yucatan hammocks:

    lightness, softness, and coziness.

    We recommend it especially if:

    • the hammock is to be used primarily for relaxation,

    • you like long naps,

    • you often read in a hammock,

    • you care primarily about softness,

    • the hammock will be used at home, on a terrace, or in a more sheltered place.

    However, one must remember that a more delicate weave requires a bit more attention.

    Thin threads are more susceptible to snagging on, for example:

    • jewelry,

    • sharp buttons,

    • zippers,

    • buckles,

    • protruding clothing items.

    Therefore, it can be said most simply:

    thin weave = maximum comfort, but slightly more delicate.

    The traditional thin weave is very flexible and adapts perfectly to the body.

    Thick cotton weave - comfort and much greater durability

    If you care about combining comfort with greater durability, a thick cotton weave is a great choice.

    It remains pleasant and flexible, but it is more resistant to intensive use.

    That is why we recommend it especially for:

    • families with children,

    • people who use the hammock very often,

    • couples,

    • larger family models,

    • places where the hammock will be used more heavily,

    • people who like a more solid and "meaty" finish.

    It is also a very good choice for couples who know that the hammock will not always be used just for quiet book reading. 😉

    The thick weave definitely works better with more dynamic use - including various hammock frolics.

    And from our family experience, we can say one more thing:

    it is precisely the thick weave that works very well when the whole family gets into the hammock.

    With us, in large XL and XXL models, it often ends in shared cuddling, children's play, and romping around instead of a quiet nap.

    And it is precisely then that its sturdiness really comes in handy.

    Of course, you must always follow the maximum load for a specific model and the rules of proper installation.

    This can be summarized most simply:

    thick cotton weave = lots of comfort + high durability.

    For many families and couples, this is the most universal choice.

    The thick weave maintains the characteristic flexibility of the Mexican hammock but handles intensive family use better.

    Synthetic weave - a hammock for special tasks

    The third possibility is models made of synthetic fibers.

    Here, the priority is not primarily the naturalness of the material, but:

    resistance, practicality, and ease of use in more difficult conditions.

    This solution is especially worth considering if the hammock:

    • will be used outdoors frequently,

    • may come into contact with moisture,

    • is to serve very intensively,

    • will hang in a place harder to protect from weather conditions,

    • should simply be exceptionally resistant.

    That is why we like to refer to such models as:

    hammocks for special tasks.

    If you need a solution that you will not treat as delicately as natural, thin cotton, a synthetic weave can be a very good choice.

    A synthetic weave will work where resistance, practicality, and intensive use are particularly important.

    Thin, thick, or synthetic? A quick comparison

    Weave type Greatest advantage Character Recommended especially for
    Thin cotton maximum comfort softest and most flexible, but more delicate relaxation, naps, home, sheltered terrace
    Thick cotton comfort + durability solid and very universal families, couples, children, intensive use
    Synthetic resistance and practicality hammock for special tasks garden, moisture, frequent use

    Our simplest recommendation

    If you want the most comfortable hammock above all else:

    → choose a thin cotton weave.

    If you are looking for a combination of comfort and high durability:

    → choose a thick cotton weave.

    If you need something for special tasks and more demanding conditions:

    → choose a synthetic weave.

    Which size and which weave to choose?

    It is here that everything starts to come together.

    The size primarily determines:

    how much space you get.

    The weave type, on the other hand, tells you:

    what character your hammock will have.

    If you are still hesitant, use our quick guide:

    How do you intend to use the hammock? Recommended size Recommended weave Why
    Quiet relaxation for one person L or XL thin cotton lots of space and maximum comfort
    One person who likes lots of room XL or XXL thin cotton very large surface and great fit
    Two people occasionally L or XL thin or thick cotton even L can easily accommodate two people
    Couple using it together often XL or XXL thick cotton more freedom and greater resistance to intensive use
    Family with children XL or XXL thick cotton lots of space and high durability
    Lying together, cuddling, and family play XL or XXL thick cotton lots of space and a weave that handles dynamic use well
    Intensive use L, XL or XXL thick cotton a very good compromise between comfort and durability
    Garden / terrace / higher risk of moisture L, XL or XXL synthetic greater practicality and resistance
    For special tasks XL or XXL synthetic when durability and intensive use are the priority
    Maximum comfort XL or XXL thin cotton very large surface + most flexible weave

    If you only want to remember three things

    Maximum comfort:
    XL or XXL + thin cotton.

    Great family and couple choice:
    XL or XXL + thick cotton.

    Most resistant variant:
    larger model + synthetic weave.

    See all Mexican hammocks

    Why is the hammock width so important?

    When choosing a hammock, many people first check its length or maximum load.

    However, in the case of a traditional Mexican hammock, the width of the usable surface is very significant.

    Why?

    Because in such a hammock, you don't have to lie only along its axis.

    You can position yourself slightly diagonally, find your own position, and let the flexible weave adapt to your body.

    The larger the surface, the more possibilities.

    This is one of the biggest differences compared to many classic hammocks made of uniform canvas.

    If you want to learn more about the differences between the designs, read:

    Brazilian or Mexican hammock - how do they differ and which one to choose?


    The large width of a traditional Mexican hammock allows you to use the entire surface of the weave and find your own position for resting.

    Why does a larger hammock often turn out to be a better choice?

    There is one thing we have noticed over years of using hammocks.

    A hammock rarely remains a place for just one person.

    You buy it with the thought of a quiet coffee and a book.

    After a while, a child appears.

    Then a second one.

    A moment later, someone just wants to sit for "a second".

    And it is precisely then that extra space starts to matter.

    Reading together, talking, watching the stars, or just a lazy afternoon often turn out to be even more enjoyable when you don't have to fight for every centimeter of space.

    Therefore, if you have enough space to hang a hammock, it is worth considering a larger size than you originally planned.

    Not because you won't fit otherwise.

    Even our L models are very spacious.

    Simply put:

    a larger hammock gives even more freedom.

    And sometimes that extra space simply means the ability to gather the whole family in one place.


    A hammock bought for one person very often quickly becomes the favorite spot for the whole family.

    And what about the hammock length?

    Length, of course, also matters, but it is worth distinguishing between:

    the total length of the hammock and the actual surface intended for rest.

    In a traditional hammock, the end strings are part of its construction and help distribute the weave surface properly.

    Therefore, before purchasing, it is always worth checking the dimensions of the specific model in the description.

    Also, remember that a hammock should not be hung like a tight string.

    Proper hanging allows you to utilize its width and comfortably lie on a larger surface.

    If you don't know how to attach a hammock correctly yet, see:

    How to mount a hammock?

    Single or double hammock? Don't just look at the name

    Terms such as:

    "single", "double", or "family"

    are convenient, but in the case of Mexican hammocks, they can be a bit misleading.

    Why?

    Because even a model preferred for one person can have enough surface area for two to rest in it comfortably.

    Therefore, instead of asking only:

    "How many people will fit in this hammock?"

    it is better to ask:

    "How much space do I want to have while resting?"

    If you are looking for a large hammock primarily for yourself, but you want the possibility of resting in pairs:

    L may be completely sufficient.

    If the hammock will often be used by two people, or you simply like to have more room:

    choose XL.

    If you care about maximum space, or the hammock is meant to be a place for family rest:

    it is worth considering XXL.

    If you have less space or prefer a more seated position, check out the hammock chair.

    Which hammock to choose? Our simplest tip

    L

    Preferred primarily for one person, but two can also use it comfortably.

    XL

    Even more space for one or two people. A very universal choice.

    XXL

    Maximum space for a couple, a family, or one person who just wants to have huge freedom.

    Hammock chair

    When you have less space, one attachment point, or prefer a more seated position.

    Thin cotton

    When maximum comfort, softness, and flexibility are the most important things for you.

    Thick cotton

    When you are looking for comfort combined with greater durability - especially for the family, children, and more dynamic use.

    Synthetic weave

    When you need a hammock for special tasks and more demanding conditions.

    And what if you still don't know which model to choose?

    That is completely normal.

    In a photo, it is sometimes difficult to imagine the real difference between L, XL, and XXL, or to assess which type of weave will be best.

    Before purchasing, ask yourself a few simple questions:

    1. How many people will use the hammock most often?

    2. Will two people use it together occasionally or very often?

    3. Is the hammock meant to be only a place for rest, or also for family play?

    4. How much space do you have?

    5. Do you care more about maximum comfort or greater durability?

    6. Will the hammock be used mainly at home, on the terrace, or in the garden?

    7. Will it be used calmly or very intensively?

    If you are hesitating between two sizes and have enough space, a larger hammock usually gives more possibilities.

    But this does not mean you have to choose XXL right away.

    Even our L models are truly spacious and can comfortably serve two people as well.

    If, however, you don't know what weave to choose:

    thin - for maximum comfort,

    thick - for comfort and greater durability,

    synthetic - for special tasks.

    See Hamakija hammocks

    See hammock chairs

    Hammock size matters. And more than you think.

    In the case of a traditional Mexican hammock, size does not only mean the number of people who can fit into it.

    It means, above all:

    space, freedom, and the ability to find your own way to rest.

    L will be a great choice primarily for one person, but thanks to its large surface area, it will also easily allow for resting in pairs.

    XL will give even more freedom to one or two people.

    XXL will create a real rest zone - for a couple, a family, or one person who just wants to have as much space as possible.

    And if you choose a thick weave in addition to this, the hammock can become something more than a place for a quiet nap.

    It can be a place where the whole family lands in the evening.

    Where children play.

    Where someone is always trying to make a little more room for themselves.

    Where you can cuddle, romp around, and just be together.

    And it is probably those moments that we like most in hammocks.

    A hammock chair will allow you to feel a similar character of rest where there is less space.

    And by choosing between a thin, thick, and synthetic weave, you can additionally match the hammock to your own lifestyle.

    Because ultimately, it is not about buying the largest, thickest, or most durable model.

    It is about finding:

    a hammock that will be the best one just for you.

    And when you hang a truly large Mexican hammock in your garden for the first time, you might ask yourself a question that we know very well:

    "Why did I buy such small hammocks before?" 🌴

    Find your hammock


    The best hammock? One where you can truly find your own space to rest.

    Rafał and Wojtek Rafał and WojtekHamakija creators. 16 years of experience with hammocks from Mexico.
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