How to Use the Atlas EXT Straps for a Better Hang

By ENO Hammocks & Outdoor Gear | Published: 2026-10-20

Category: How-to Guides

Learn step-by-step how to set up your ENO hammock with Atlas EXT Straps for a secure, tree-friendly hang every time.

Quick answer

Use the Atlas EXT Straps by wrapping them around a tree, threading the strap through the loop, and attaching your hammock carabiner to the daisy chain webbing. Adjust strap height and length to achieve a 30-degree hang angle.

Why strap width matters for tree safety

The Atlas EXT Straps feature extra-wide webbing that distributes the hammock's load over a larger surface area. This reduces pressure on tree bark and helps prevent damage, especially on thin-barked trees like birch or beech. Wide straps also give you more friction against the tree, which can reduce slipping in wet conditions.

Dealing with short or long tree spacing

Standard Atlas Straps work well for trees 10 to 15 feet apart. If your trees are closer than 10 feet, hang the straps higher on the tree to keep the hammock off the ground. For wider spacing (over 15 feet), you may need to lower the straps slightly or use a longer suspension line to maintain the correct hang angle.

Step-by-step setup process

Wrap the strap around the tree: Hold the strap by the loop end and wrap it around the tree at about shoulder height. Pass the rest of the strap through the loop and pull tight so the loop sits against the tree bark. Common mistake: wrapping the strap too low. Aim for shoulder height to give yourself room to adjust the hammock angle later.
Attach your hammock carabiner to the daisy chain: Clip one carabiner from your hammock suspension into a webbing loop on the strap. Choose a loop that keeps the hammock roughly 18 inches off the ground when you sit in it. Checkpoint: if the hammock sags too low, move the carabiner to a higher loop on the daisy chain.
Repeat on the second tree: Set up the second strap at the same height on the opposite tree. Attach the other hammock carabiner to a matching loop so the hammock hangs level. Common mistake: attaching to different loop positions on each side. This tilts the hammock and makes it uncomfortable.
Adjust the hang angle and tension: Sit gently in the hammock and check the angle of the suspension lines. They should form a 30-degree angle from the tree to the hammock. If the lines are too tight or too loose, change the carabiner loop position or move the strap height on one tree. Checkpoint: a 30-degree angle reduces stress on the straps and gives you a flatter, more comfortable lay.
Test and fine-tune the setup: Lie down fully in the hammock and see if your back feels flat and relaxed. If your feet are higher than your head, lower the strap on the foot-end tree slightly. If the hammock feels too tight, move the carabiner to a loop closer to the tree. Final checkpoint: you should be able to sit up without the hammock tipping. If it tips, the straps are too low or the angle is too steep.

Product spotlight

Atlas™ EXT Straps: The ENO Atlas EXT Straps minimize your ENO hammock's impact on nature with extra wide tree-friendly webbing and opens the door to new hanging locations. The wider webbing protects tree bark while giving you more grip, so you can hang confidently on trees of various diameters without worrying about damage or slipping.
Atlas™ EXT Straps