Hammock Camping Ridgelines - Tarp suspension

[@kmazinthewoods6634]

One of the best no nonsense ridge line videos! It’s so easy to get caught up in all the bling they sell to make it easier. I’m no different! But always circle back to... it’s a rope on a tree. Put it up and move on.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Kris!! Agree 100%

[@carcistan]

Appreciate someone whose done this hundreds of nights sharing it simply with those of us who haven’t even done it once. Time to get out there!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thank NIK! Yes sir! get on out there and enjoy it!!

[@dicktandy6785]

Bro, thank you for the info. I like your sense of humor!😆

[@RiverKingsKayak]

he he! Thanks a ton DT!

[@pixelfibre]

Been watching tarp and ridge line videos for weeks and this is exactly what I wanted to see! Thanks!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Rightvon pixelfibre!

[@kevinbstovall]

I've watched several tarp how-to videos in preparation of my first hang. To me, this looks to be the simplest of the may effective ways out there. Thank you for sharing.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Kevin!

[@biranit50]

lookup the "superior pusik". I like the way it stays better on the main line and the way it takes the fishermen knot away from the "service" loop.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

I like that...I have never had a prusik come off a main line, but I do like the way that looks...Thanks!

[@biranit50]

I preffer to make my prusiks with lines thinner than the main line. They grab better (and they are lighter). #36 bankline on a paracord works fine for me

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Me too! With that thinnest system I have, I just didnt want to go any smaller with the cordage as the Ridgeline was already really thin. If you get too thin, it is hard on the fingers in cold weather conditions. Hence, I just made a few extra prusik wraps.

[@nickhindle7289]

Great video, simplifying tieing ridge lines.
Ordered the canlock.
Cheers mate 🇬🇧

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks nick! right on!

[@brofessoroverlanding8456]

Awesome video. Can't tell you enough how informative this was for me in being able to set up the perfect ridgeline. Thank you for taking the time to do this!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Joey! It is nice to hear about videos that are helping out. Thanks for watching!

[@darcyjamison4047]

I’m now watching this for the third time. So informative! Thank you for making this!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

You bet, Darcy! Thanks!

[@schambers8301]

Thank you for making this simple for someone new getting into it

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks! Sometimes people make it all too complicated! Hope it helps!

[@ktownc936]

Bud, you just kicking ass at life.
You gotta do what you wanna do!
That ideology just pours out your soul!
Keep keeping on brother.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Ktown C!

[@justindesign]

Well done Sir. This is just the content i was looking for.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

thanks justindesign!

[@robertstringer1431]

Nice. I must say I have tested 7/64 Amsteel line with aluminum Nite Ize cam jams and under load the line fairly easily slips through the cam jam.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

I have never had any slipping whatsoever with mine! Of course, I am not hanging on them either...lol. but in 10 years of camping with it, zero slipping or other issues.

[@robertstringer1431]

@@RiverKingsKayak I think it is because the 7/64 Amsteel is "very" slippery. I previously used the cam jams with Spectra suspension and while it held fine one of my lines was damaged. My buddy who is about 80 pounds heavier used the exact same setup without issue.

[@gunterbecker8528]

Keep it simple is the way to go

[@RiverKingsKayak]

For sure Gunter!

[@vaderbean1]

I actually use the 550 cord and nite ize ridgeline and I manage to get it wrapped up and fit in my onetigris tarps stuff sack with pegs. Love that setup super fast and simple. I hate doing knots in the cold.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Right on Austin!

[@hendikaf3525]

great simple video with good details and info , keep it simple and to the point that what is missing in so many youtuber video.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Hendi!

[@torleifsen9290]

Thanks so much for the no mess no stress approach...love simple! great real time video, again brilliant from the UK.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanfs Tor!

[@NickedOff]

4:56 I'm glad I'm not the only one that spaces out mid-thought when I record these things :P. Great video, you taught me a lot!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Oh yeah! Thanks Nick!

[@theautumnalcyclist7629]

Hi from the UK, firstly fantastic video 👍 I two started out trying all the knots trying to be all backwoods! After a cold rainy arrival at camp I said bugger this and carabiners, cam-locks soon followed also I'm changing to zing-it as paracord is heavy and a pain to deal with when wet! Thanks again for the video

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks TAC!

[@TainoXtreme]

Very good instructional video. Good info. My choice of preference is zing it . It is not stretchy, it’s affordable, and it is really strong. Thank you so much for sharing your video. God bless you.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks TainoXtreme! Thanks for watching!

[@OurDee]

Tied a Trucker's Hitch and I learned it, BOOM! Thanks.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Right on OurDee!

[@hubby-tubadventures01]

Sub'd. You got my attention with the kayak camping quote. Into this in the UK so will take some pointers from you. Ta ever so.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Right on!! Welcome aboard!!

[@mattmeyer834]

"There's a tarp...on a string 👍" I love this channel. 🤣

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Right on! Thanks YA!🤣

[@canadafree2087]

I am not big on most extra hardware, but when using very thin line it is where they shine because it is harder to undo knots on thin line. Knots in 550 paracord are much more forgiving as long as you use slip knots.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

for sure C&F!

[@marianam8643]

Tarp on a string :). Like it

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Got to keep it real!

[@Billofthenorth1]

Much better than the method I was struggling to make work. Thanks for the video.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

You bet Bill!!!

[@nseight]

Fantastic teaching :-) making things fun & simple*really enjoyed this.Thanks for taking the time & effort to share

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thank you nseight!

[@NJHeart2Heart]

Useful and humorous :D Thanks for sharing and thanks to your camera guy!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks NJH2H!

[@escapewithjay]

im going to paddle the Mississippi River this summer and have been looking at hammock set ups. good info, thanks

[@RiverKingsKayak]

You bet MJ! Thanks for watching!

[@echo1er]

Awesome video and option choices. Thanks for taking the time

[@RiverKingsKayak]

You bet rhey! Thanks!

[@sjoyner2]

Thanks for the great info brother! Great rope, knot, and mechanical advantage knowledge by the way.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thank you Shane!

[@pierrele]

Figure 9 does work very well too

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Indeed

[@pastagala233]

Thanks, you've answered many of my questions

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Right on Mathias!!

[@fredcarter7003]

Made simple so good thank you

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Fred!

[@freethinker5225]

My thought process is: if I can't have my expensive tarp nice and tight to keep from flapping around and actually shed the wind off me then why is it so expensive....always buy the gear that is proven to last and do its job effectively. I love the kelty tarp video you did and although it's heavier I still think it's worth it in a hammock set up because it offers plenty of space to keep everything dry and wind free. Fairly heavy but you can cut weight on alot of other stuff that do their job effectively. Not many light weight tarps of that size and capacity. In fact none that I can find under $500

[@RiverKingsKayak]

exactly!

[@freethinker5225]

@RiverKingsKayak I switch all my cordage to dyneema and purchased a lighter backpack and sleeping bag. My cook system is next although I can just make a fire anywhere in my state I like the simplicity and speed of firing up my coffee in 2 minutes

[@ronnieo9571]

God bless you for this video !! This is exactly what I was looking for!!!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Right on Ronnie O! Thanks for watching!

[@j.sargent9172]

Pruh-sick not proo-sick 😜😜 cool video never thought about using a camlock like that, thanks!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

🤣 thanks! I'm using the German pronunciation...Prö-sick :)

[@bradwjensen]

Excellent vid!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Brad!

[@vsrorrer]

Thanks you for the very informative video!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Your Welcome! Thanks Vicky!

[@42mag]

Your buddy forgot to ask... "Is that how you're going to do that?"

[@RiverKingsKayak]

LOL!!

[@cantstartafire]

Outstanding!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks CSAF!

[@dutch3323]

Great vid, thanks.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Dutch!!

[@PracticalOutdoorist]

Very well explained !

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Roger!

[@yahusrevus]

Even 3 years later... It's still just a tarp on a string.
Thanks for the comparison.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Yahu!!
Despite all the bling, it's still just a tarp on a string...reminds me of a song.

[@SuperBlackheart99]

Dude...here's a little tip to help your prusics stay put on even the thinnest of lines. Always make your prusic loops with a thinner line than your ridgeline. It's a hack.....BOOM...your welcome. Seriously, try it. You'll never need more than 3 wraps & you'll never have a loose tarp again.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks rude Dogg. This is definitely something I have known for years and years. and years. and years. However, once you get down to 1.75 to 1.5 mm line, buying another hank of line in a smaller diameter to make prusik knots is not necessary and just plain silly. You would be in some sort of dental floss size cord. Just make a few extra wraps with the prusik. If you notice with all the other bigger ridge lines, the prusiks are smaller diameter cord. Good point though!

[@JasperJanssen]

I have a bunch of 1mm braided Dyneema, which will work, is strong enough, and is sold for very little, as fishing line.

[@endurancekennels]

He said it...

[@michaelfoster-brown463]

Do you find issues with your Hammock suspension interfering with the line at the foot end as by hooking straight around the tree you have no ‘V’?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

I have not had any issues whatsoever.

[@Arenpat]

Thanks for the advice! But which material is the best, if one tightens the rope with a knot, e.g. the truckers hitch you presented in another vid. I bought a naked 1.5 mm Dyneema cord and it holds no knots at all.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Just depends on what/how you want to use it. The dyneema does not wick water, but as you say can be harder to use with knots. The 550 can stretch a bit and wick a bit of water, but holds knots very well.

[@Arenpat]

@@RiverKingsKayak Thanks for the quick response! Is there a material in the middle of both? What about a polypropylene cord?

[@roddybrod]

Any opinion on if the tarp is supposed to be below or above the continuous ridgeline?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

There are arguments for both over and under. I have always enjoyed the advantages of having the tarp over the Ridgeline in my set ups.

[@KentuckyWoodsman]

Good info!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks KW!

[@strommboy62]

How do you tie those crucex with the sbiners

[@RiverKingsKayak]

great video idea...I may have it somewhere...

[@hunterhughes2]

Ok, how about a video for ground sleepers and running a ridge line between trecking poles instead of trees? I do some desert camping so trees are not an option.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Right on! Tgats a great idea

[@jadamiser8747]

I saw this video and straight up copied it. Best tarp and ridgeline tutorial on the interwebs

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Jade!!

[@biranit50]

and I prffer soft shackels over hard ones, or even a toggle..

[@RiverKingsKayak]

that is the fun thing about it all...so many ways to do things!

[@benjaminbowen3365]

Non-hammock related question, but what shirt is that?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

It is a lined fleece flannel from Costco...super comfy and warm

[@paperperfection3303]

What knot did you tie to make the loop that you used to tie the prusik knot onto the ridgeline.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Double fisherman's knot

[@paperperfection3303]

Also what knot did you use to tie the rope to the carabiner around the tree?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Bowline

[@YABOYROY7211]

What knot did you tie to make the loop that you turned into a prusik knot?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Double Fisherman's Knot

[@tjj4505]

Awesome video and thank you for sharing. Could you tell me the knot you used to tie off your prusik knot?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks TJJ, I use a fisherman's knot

[@tjj4505]

@@RiverKingsKayak Thank you very much for the info. I dig your videos man keep making them.

[@YaacoubKari]

nice video👍

[@lt2246]

It looked like you put your tarp over the ridgeline vs under the ridgeline - is there a reason why? I have heard putting the tarp over the ridgeline could cause wear on the tarp? Thanks

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Hey L T. I have done it both ways in the past. I settled on over the Ridgeline years back as it offered less stress on the tarp tie out points esp in heavy wind or any snow/ice load and even in heavy enough rain. I have not noticed any increased wear in any of my tarps after doing this. Specifically, I have one Kelty 16 with over 500 nights sitting on top of my Ridgeline with no sign of wear. There are definitely pros and cons for each set up. Hope this helps!

[@lt2246]

Some folks say it is better to put the tarp under the ridge line vs over the ridge line likes you show. Have you had any issues with the tarp showing more wear by putting it over the line? Thought? Sounds like you have a lot of experience with this.
Thanks

[@RiverKingsKayak]

I personally have not. Even if it did, the advantages for me are worth it.

[@davidsmith-by5nv]

Just a quick question, where do you get your s biners? I'm searching for some right now!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

They used to have them at home depot for like a $1.20

[@mcrum4421]

What size cord do you use for prusiks ?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

one size cordage smaller than the Ridgeline is best...if same as Ridgeline, extra loops in the prussic

[@mcrum4421]

@@RiverKingsKayak thank you.

[@318h7]

not an expert here, but I’ve heard that you need to use a smaller diameter rope than the one you use for the redgeline for the prusik knot so that it does not slip.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

That is definitely preferable. The work around for similar or same size cord is just more wraps on the prusik to generate the friction needed to hold in place.

[@hubby-tubadventures01]

just looking at changing my tarp guy lines from 550. what would you recommend.? Those cam jams are neat too. just ordered a couple

[@RiverKingsKayak]

The 2.5 mm dyneema line is ideal.

[@tommoore5293]

Great video! What sort and size of line are you using for your prussic knots on the 2.2 mm Dyneema line?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Tom! 1.5 mm

[@tommoore5293]

@@RiverKingsKayak Thanks!

[@AristocraftBoats]

What’s a good average length Ridge line to keep around?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

I keep mine right at 40 feet. most of the time it is overkill...but just sometimes, you are glad you have that much

[@AristocraftBoats]

@@RiverKingsKayak thanks for the reply. I was in Florida this past week, and my ridge line was about 5 feet too short, so I extended it, but made me realize I need to keep a longer ridge line around. Thanks for the reply I appreciate it.

[@tylersowell7460]

Okay so you mentioned the wasp and hook, where do you find them?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

dutchwaregear.com

[@Lapeerphoto]

I've never put my ridge-line under my tarp, I run it above (for fear of wicking I guess) and prusik my tie points, like you demonstrate. That may be material specific? Or old school? I've just done it that way for so many years since I was taught that way. Is wicking just one of those myths or material specific? I can see how there would be more support running the ridge-line inside. Now I'm rethinking...
Anyone's input welcome.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Wicking wood be the only reason I know of to keep the tarp under. I do a lot of winter camping and the ice and snow would really stress the tarp without the ridgeline support. I've never gotten wet from my ridgeline wicking. But!...million ways to skin the cat...great comment! Thanks!

[@GrumpyGrunt]

I usually suspend my tarp from below the line too, unless it is a heavy/cheap tarp and I want the extra support. I have always worried about the line abrading the tarp as it moves in the wind or elements. If the tarp has a coating on the underside; I always suspend it. My more expensive/lightweight tarps never touch the ridge line.

[@cephasmcpher67peteroutdoorspip]

LOL, good stuff, me personally I like to electrify my guylines that way if my buddy does go walking through then he will never do it again,, guaranteed.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

🤣 LOL! That's a great idea!

[@emmahammond5088]

Is the cam lock better than the figure 9? I wonder....

[@RiverKingsKayak]

I like the cam a lot better. Faster on and off...

[@emmahammond5088]

@@RiverKingsKayak looked that way.is the bulk worth the trade?and thanks for the responce

[@RiverKingsKayak]

For sure for me! If you are really trying to go ultra light, then no, there are other options...but none as easy to set up or as easy on your fingers on a frigid day!

[@joeray5394]

Getting ready to build a ridge line based on your video. Will the 550 cord wick enough water to cause drips inside the tarp during rain? Thanks

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Hey Joe! It will get damp, but I have never had it actually dripping on me. I think you will be fine! Thanks!

[@joeray5394]

@@RiverKingsKayak appreciate it

[@joeray5394]

@@RiverKingsKayak hey man i set up the 550 paracord ridgeline exactly as you've shown in the video minus the s biners. I just used some regular biners i had laying around. The nitize lock is SICK! I cant wait to use it in the field. Thanks again for the very informative and humor video,.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

@@joeray5394 right on brother!!

[@pauleuc2212]

Info, ridgeline over or under tarp?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

There are arguments for and against both as well as hanging techniques that require one or the other...personal preference.

[@dewayneearley7298]

Ok people will probably say this is a dumb question. Do you put your tarp over the ridgeline or below? Sorry for the simple question.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

That is a GREAT question Dewayne! There are split opinions on this. I prefer over as I believe it causes less stress on the tarp points esp in heavy wind and snow/ice. I can also get a more taught setup without really cranking on the tarp. Others prefer under for reduced friction/wear on the tarp (valid point though I have never experienced tarp issues from being over) as well as less opportunity for the Ridgeline to wick water in under the tarp. I recommend just playing with both setups to find what works for you! Thanks for the question! Hope that helps!

[@12STONESADVENTURES]

Which type of rope in your opinion is less likely to let water in under your tarp in a rainstorm? My go to thus far has always been 550 and drip lines tied between in case of rain... But I'm always looking for easier, more innovative ways to do stuff like this.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Dyneema. It doesn't wick the water in. You will still need a water stop just inside or prior to the tarp edge...

[@12STONESADVENTURES]

@@RiverKingsKayak ordered 25' of dyneema, dutch hook, and wasp today 👍 I'll tie my own snake knot/prusiks for tensioners! Moving on from 550 and the cam jam...

[@marB84]

How do those S-biners hold up in windy conditions? Their rated for 5 or 10 lb each..

[@RiverKingsKayak]

I have used them in very high wind conditions with absolutely no failure. Being that they are not rated for massive load, I think that in itself may be better than using something stronger than the tarp itself. Perhaps the S-biner will be the failure point if a massive load was applied. I like to think it would work that way though it has never been an issue in over a decade of 4 season camping in all conditions. Hope that helps!

[@marB84]

@@RiverKingsKayak better that the biner fails then the tarp.

[@waynec546]

What material is your s carabiner made of for holding your tarp?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

I believe it is aluminum but I'm not totally sure...it is not the plastic one

[@waynec546]

@@RiverKingsKayak Thank You. I hammock camp and after seeing the video I already set up the 550 line with the Niteize lock for my warbonnet superfly. Awesome video!

[@fives645]

Great video ! What length do you recommend for the whole length of the ridge line ?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks! I make mine at 40 feet

[@fives645]

@@RiverKingsKayak okay thank you. God bless

[@robertwright2137]

Hi what size camjams have you used? Thanks

[@richrappa7906]

Great video…how many feet of ridge line do take ?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Rich! 40 feet on all my ridgelines

[@richrappa7906]

@@RiverKingsKayak thanks brother 👍

[@TheDarkestOne]

How long you been an arborist for?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Actually not an arborist, but I do love their line!

[@TheDarkestOne]

@@RiverKingsKayak Im shocked lol Quick hitches and throwline but not an arborist.

[@thewonderingelectrician]

OMG you're doing it wrong!!!!.....ahh just messing with ya...I know that ridge line... I think I even used it once...then completely copied it on my own..and then again on Lukes...and again on my wifes...and so on..lol. Nice work!

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Kevin! Looking forward to your next video!

[@desmo5514]

"1.5 zinnger and 5.5 parachrord"....Im sure you meant to say "505 parachord"...just in case it confused anyone 🤔

[@RiverKingsKayak]

No, it is called 550 parachord (for 550 lbs of strength).

[@murkinit]

Is the black paracord “550” or “750”? You say 5mm, but 550 cord is only 4mm. Can you please clarify for me? Thanks!
You are very confident, and informative. You need your own show. Kudos man.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Thanks Jon! I was using the 550. I thought it was 5 mm but I could be wrong. But I'm definitely using the 550.

[@murkinit]

No worries. I appreciate it! As for your prusik knots on the 550 cord I can see that line is smaller, but what kind exactly? I am seeing 2mm 275 cord, or just some braided bank line?

[@RiverKingsKayak]

2mm indeed

[@flatlander6928]

Bowline on one end, big nuff for 550 cord to go thru, truckers hitch on other end, prussiks made from bank line, use toggle (stick layin around). Just a rope, no hardwear. Learn your knots.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Well, that's one way to do it. Though the stick is technically "hardware" that you hope to find when you need it. One should always know their knots for sure!

[@TomKirkman1]

Ridgeline is not so much about strength - it also has to do with how easy it is to tie and untie your attachment points/knots. Larger diameter lines are better for the main ridgeline.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Yes, in cold, those super small lines are painful to work with! In heavy wind or ice or snow though, it also becomes about strength...

[@Cozy_Camp_Fire]

If you know the truckers hitch, why mess with the cams.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

I like the cams so that I can get the maximum cordage between the trees without a knot. I do that as I like to have just enough space between the trees for my tarp without a lot of cordage to be exposed to rain. If I use a truckers hitch on that one side, I will lose at least a foot. Also, the cam is probably twice as fast to set up...

[@ernststravoblofeld]

What's wrong with just learning your knots? None of these gadgets look any faster.

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Absolutely nothing! In fact in other videos, I discuss this very thing. The cam jam is faster, but weightier. I am a knot guy myself and talk about this all the time. Thanks for watching!

[@JohnRambo-rk4qw]

Oh my...well I guess if thats what works for you..

[@RiverKingsKayak]

Lol.

[@charleseden5246]

What do u think about using the Dutchware 2.2mm for the ridgeline and then the 1.75mm zing it for the presik knots...and also use the zing it for the guylines...thanks for the idea for the s-beaners on the presik knots

[@RiverKingsKayak]

That should work fine! if you get some slippage in the prusiks, you can do a couple more laps than normal and it shud hold... Thanks!

[@charleseden5246]

@@RiverKingsKayak awesome, thanks! I will do that I've always done 3 loops on 550, so I'll do 5 like u said...thanks!