You'd love to hang your hammock in the garden, but you don't have the right trees spaced correctly? Then you'll need a hammock frame. And now you're faced with the next question: Should it be made of wood or metal? Both options have their fans and compelling arguments. Let's take a look at them together so you can decide what suits you and your garden best.
Wood: Natural, warm and pleasant
A wooden frame blends beautifully into any garden. It looks warm, natural, and somehow timeless – almost as if it had always been there. No wonder so many people choose a wooden outdoor hammock frame without hesitation.
The advantages at a glance:
- Optics: Wood harmonizes with nature and garden in a very special way.
- Haptics: Anyone who touches the frame can feel the difference: wood feels warm and pleasant.
- Weight: Wooden frames like our Terra are often lighter than metal frames and therefore easier to move.
What you should be aware of: Wood needs care. If you leave the frame outdoors permanently, you should treat it regularly with a suitable wood varnish. Moisture, UV radiation, and frost take their toll on the material over the years. A wooden frame left unprotected in the garden over the winter will very quickly show signs of wear. However, if you only set up your hammock seasonally and store everything in a dry, frost-free place over the winter, wood is a wonderful choice.
Metal: Robust, weatherproof and easy to clean
For those who want to leave their hammock frame in the garden all year round without giving it much thought, a metal one is a good choice. Stainless steel frames, in particular, are true all-rounders for outdoor use.
The advantages at a glance:
- Weatherproof: Metal frames withstand rain, wind and sun even without regular treatment.
- Stable: Metal is generally particularly strong and durable.
- Easy-care: Wiping is usually sufficient. You don't need to oil or varnish the frame, so there's no extra work involved.
What you should be aware of: Metal can rust, depending on its quality and coating. Therefore, when buying a hammock frame, look for high-quality workmanship and a good powder coating, or opt for a stainless steel frame. Another important point: metal feels cooler to the eye and touch than wood. Some people like this, others less so. If you prefer a natural garden style, a wooden stand might be a better fit.
What you should pay attention to when setting it up
Whether wood or metal: A few things apply equally to both versions:
- Underground: Always position the frame on a level, firm surface. The feet can sink into soft grass, which is not only uncomfortable but also a safety issue.
- Location: A shady spot under a tree or near a hedge protects against too much direct sunlight.
- Distance: Plan for enough space so that you can get in and out of the hammock without hindrance.
Wood or metal for my outdoor hammock stand: Which should I choose?
Our honest answer: There is no universally "better" or "worse". The decision depends on you, your garden, your style, and also on how much effort you want to put into cleaning and maintaining your hammock frame.
- You love natural materials, only set up your hammock in the summer, and store everything safely and securely in the winter? Then a wooden frame is just right for you.
- You want to leave your frame outside all year round and not have to worry about maintenance? Then a weatherproof metal frame is the better choice.
- Still unsure? Then take your time to look at both options. Feel free to visit us at our locations in Oepping or Vienna. Or stop by a retailer or a trade fair near you. Here you can see the frames in person and make the right choice for you.
CHICO hammock stands: Quality that delivers on its promises
At CHICO, you'll find weatherproof hammock frames for outdoor use, crafted with the same high standards we've applied to every hammock for over 40 years. Both options are designed to bring you lasting enjoyment, summer after summer, year after year. If you're still unsure which is right for you, we're happy to advise you. Because ultimately, one thing matters most: that you can start relaxing in your hammock as soon as possible, regardless of the frame's construction. 😊