The right hammock stand can make a hammock part of your dream come true this summer. Selecting a hammock stand is easy. But first you have to check the length and width of your hammock as well when choosing a stand. Make sure the hammock stand is made to handle a hammock of the length you desire so that it hangs on the hammock stand neither too low or too high.

Now that you know the size of stand that you need, let's look at stand types.Most hammock stands are made of two basic materials: metal or wood.

Steel hammock stands are usually made of stainless steel - which is strong and durable. Often these types of stands are powder coated with a rust-proof paint and come in a variety of colors to match your outside décor. Steel stands are the most affordable choices and often come in pieces, which means they are easier to store at the end of the summer season. Steel stands run from $US 89 to $US 200.

Wooden hammock stands are beautiful as well as functional, but often are not easy to store and so by default are mostly chosen by people who live in climates where you can use a hammock stand all year round. This year round use also justifies the additional expense. Most wooden hammock stands start at $US450 and come in a variety of woods and finishes. One of the most popular is the Hammaka Arc Hammock (retail $US600) which is constructed of durable birch wood, and comes with UV protection and is also waterproofed. A wooden stand of this type typically weighs over 100 lbs (an important consideration if the company does not offer free shipping) and has a weight capacity of 450 lbs. It is only compatible with spreader bar hammocks.