Which is more relaxing: soaking in a hot tub or swinging in a hammock in the countryside? It’s a hard choice, especially if you prefer to spend time in nature. But suppose you could combine these two experiences?
One day in 2015, the inventor Benjamin H. Frederick decided to make his dream a reality and began developing a project called The Hydro Hammock. His concept got a lot of attention from luxury lovers, but the road from idea to the product was not a straight one.
Hammock halt — for now
The idea of creating a Hydro Hammock seemed successful, but the developer did not have the opportunity for further production. The project was published on Kickstarter, which managed to raise some funding. A prototype was made for advertising purposes, and an engaged audience did appear. But it turned out that the inventor was mistaken in his estimates about the cost of the final product and the Hydro Hammock was not released. As a result, many frustrated customers were trying to get their money back.
The makers of The Hydro Hammock announced on their Facebook page that they plan to restart the company. However, in order to enter the market again, they need to find better financial support and start developing a more affordable product.
Worthy alternatives
Although this project was innovative, it is not particularly different from the inflatable hot tubs, which can be a good option if you like this kind of recreation. Bear in mind that this kind of model not only lets you stay in warm water in the open air, even at a low temperature but also offers several other bonuses — for example, a hydromassage.
Each inflatable hot tub comes with a range of features and accessories included in the price. In general, they include the following: a water heating system, an insulated earthing mat, an Air Jet system, a spa pump, a leatherette top cover, drinks tray, side grab handles, a spare filter cartridge, chemical floater, a repair kit, and an owner’s DVD. All of this means that your inflatable hot tub comes with everything you need so you can enjoy it right out of the box.
Comparative review of Inflatable Hot Tubs
Let’s look at several inflatable hot tubs you might like.
6 Person
(equivalent to Coleman SaluSpa)
The best choice at an affordable price for family use or for parties. Thanks to its square shape, it is more spacious than a round spa, and it is more comfortable to sit in (read research)
6 Person
It is the most spacious hot tub for 5-6 people in which the heating and the jets can work simultaneously. And a built-in water softener is a big bonus if you have hard water in your region (read research)
4 Person
Premium model with additional parts and options: – wireless control panel with a timer; – 2 headrests made of soft and non-slip material; – LED lights; – a built-in softening system for hard water (read research)
6 Person
A wonderfully relaxing way to end each day. Large family or party model. It has a ground fault circuit interrupter for safety. A spa cover and ground mat keep water temperatures warm (read research)
2 Person
It’s the best for couples, the original shape is not only designed well but also makes it very comfy to soak together. You can sit side by side or opposite without bending your legs (read research)
5 Person
An inflatable hot tub with real hydro jets, not air jets like those present in most inflatable hot tubs. It provides a quality strong massage, but at a much lower price than a stationary hot tub (read research)
As for price, inflatable models are usually two times cheaper than jacuzzis, and in addition, this type of hot tub is a mobile unit that you can take anywhere. It’s also very easy to install, which allows you to put it not only in your backyard or deck but also in the basement or on a terrace.
Is Hydro Hammock a hammock, is it a tub?
Although essentially a hammock, the Hydro Hammock is intended to also be used as a hanging pool, a hot tub, or а summer shower. You could even dig a hole in the ground to build a temporary hot tub right in the sand (or in the snow) by securing the hammock within the hole.
Source: aspentrailfinder
The Hydro Hammock is made of a sealed synthetic fabric with high tensile strength, which allows you to fill it with approximately fifty gallons of water. And it’s so roomy that two or three people can easily get into it.
Along with the hammock, the kit includes all the required installation tools and parts, such as mounting straps and carabiners. However, you will need to buy a portable water heater. This piece of equipment is quite heavy, so it’s not ideal for hiking. The heater does come in a case with two wheels and an extendable handle, though, which makes it easy to use at a campsite.
The water heating system runs on gas, and has a 12-volt pump to circulate the water. The system heats the pressurized water, which can be added using a garden hose. You can also fill the water from a stream or a lake, and enjoy the hot water in the hammock wherever you are. Alternatively, simply allow the heater to swirl the water in the hammock, heating it to a comfortable temperature.
Why you would love it
- Portability
One of the most attractive features of the Hydro Hammock is its mobility – it can easily be packed for any trip. Or, if you want, you can install the Hammock on the balcony or in the courtyard of your country house. - Other applications
Just as importantly, the water heating system can also be used as an outdoor shower, where you can enjoy the water treatments for about two hours while using less than three gallons of water. This is particularly useful in the hot season. - New experience
The Hydro Hammock is shaped like a canoe, except that it’s suspended and filled with water. Getting into it will be a new experience for you. Just use your imagination, especially if you want to enjoy it as a couple.
Some disadvantages
- Hammock is unstable to get in
You need to climb very carefully into the Hydro Hammock, doing so near the centre and easing into the hammock cradle. If you climb in too quickly or at the wrong angle, the hammock can roll over and you can injure yourself or others. - Needs special installation
You need to choose sturdy pillars or trees to attach the Hydro Hammock because, with water and people, the total weight will average around 700 pounds. You should also ensure that the Hammock hangs evenly, so water doesn’t collect at one end and spill over. - Heater inconvenience
The water heater should be carried separately and, since it weighs about 60 pounds, it may turn out to be an unnecessary load when packing things for a restful trip. - No jets
Because the Hydro Hammock set only has a hose with holes that circulates water, there’s no way to get a hydromassage effect, which is a basic relaxation feature of hot tubs.
How much does the Hydro Hammock cost?
The Hydro Hammock itself is relatively inexpensive. Considering the price set by the developer, it would cost you only $260. However, if you want to heat water in a hammock, you have to spend an extra $920 for a portable heating system.
An expert opinion
Source: Facebook
Hydro Hammock reviews from Kickstarter
Additional ways to power an inflatable hot tub
Each inflatable hot tub works from an ordinary electrical outlet but, if you plan to take it with you to the campsite, then you should think about a backup power source. Portable generators are great for this. There are many models on the market, which use different fuels and have varying capacities. They can also serve as the main source of energy if it’s not possible to connect to a centralized power grid. If you’re at the summer cottage, getting the necessary electricity won’t be an issue.
How to choose a generator
When choosing a generator, there are three main considerations: fuel consumption, power output, and cost. You’ll need to estimate how long you’ll be using the generator for each time you start it up, how much fuel it consumes per hour, and whether this is offset by buying a cheaper or more expensive model. You’ll also want to look at the generator’s safety features, such as overload prevention, automatic shut off, idle power, and so on.
Which generator is best?
Gas-powered generators are the most suitable for a short-term power supply or for small private cottages. Gasoline generators have some advantages compared to diesel or propane. They cost less, and have readily available models with a power of less than 4 kW. On the downside, these generators have a very short service interval (about 100 hours), a high fuel consumption, and the smallest motors (which limits the length of time you can use them).
Rainier R2200i Portable Power Station
Rainier R2200i Portable Power Station
Dual-fuel generators, on the other hand, are much more economical to use. This hybrid has the best motor and service interval, as compared to gasoline or diesel units. You might also find it more practical to buy a propane generator, due to the lower fuel price. Additionally, propane generators produce a lower toxic content in the exhaust gases.
Champion 3500 Portable Generator
Champion 3500 Portable Generator
| Model | Item Dimensions | Power Source | Wattage | Cost |
| Champion 3500 | 23.2 x 19.1 x 20 in | Gas, Propane | 3,500 watts | check |
| Rainier R2200i | 20 x 12.5 x 18 in | Gasoline | 2,200 watts | check |
To read more specific guides click here.
Summary
The idea of a hydro hammock is an interesting thing. But, even if Benjamin Frederick is able to restart production, the overall benefits remain doubtful. So, if you decide to treat yourself with a hydromassage in a hot tub, choose proven products that leave only a delightful experience.
FAQ
❓ What is a Hydro Hammock?
A Hydro Hammock is a portable hanging pool, hot tub, or summer shower. You can take it anywhere and install it quite easily. Although this sounds very promising, there are some disadvantages too that include instability and heater inconvenience. We considered both the pros and cons of a Hydro Hammock in our article.
🦾 How does a Hydro Hammock work?
A Hydro Hammock is portable, but you need to attach it to something sturdy like trees or pillars. It needs to have a hose with holes that helps to circulate the water. To heat the water, you would need a portable heating system.
💵 How much does a Hydro Hammock cost?
A Hydro Hammock isn’t expensive and you can purchase one for around $260. However, to ensure that you have a comfortable water temperature, you would need to spend approximately $920 on top of the heating system.
🤔 What is an alternative to a Hydro Hammock?
🤷♂️ Does a Hydro Hammock have jets?
The Hydro Hammock has a hose with holes that circulates the water. Unlike hot tubs, the Hydro Hammock isn’t equipped with jets.
🔥 How does a Hydro Hammock heat up?
You would need a portable heating system to maintain comfortable water temperature in the Hydro Hammock.
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