Yellow Leaf Hammocks: #79
Summer may still be a few months away, but the longer days and steadily climbing temperatures have us dreaming of lazy days spent swimming and picnicking and nights spent dozing outdoors. There's something magical about sleeping under the stars, something deliciously child-like and infinitely relaxing. And we happen to believe that the sweet slow swing of a hammock makes this experience just that much better. Don't have a hammock? Get one from Yellow Leaf.
Why We Love It!
Yellow Leaf Hammocks aren't your ordinary nets: Larger than average, each colorful work of art was handmade by weavers in Thailand. They have a close-knit, free-flowing weave that contours perfectly to your body. Unlike some hammocks, which can dig into the skin, leaving ropy marks behind, Yellow Leaf Hammocks are both insanely strong—each hammock can support up to 550 lbs—and thanks to the triple-weave pattern, incredibly comfortable. They are also available in extra-large sizes, which makes it extra-easy for the whole family to relax.
From Thailand, With Love
Founder Joe Demin got the idea for Yellow Leaf Hammocks after taking a trip to Thailand in 2010. A self-described "lifelong hammock connoisseur," Joe came across one of these specially made hammocks hanging outside a shop door and instantly fell in love with product. Joe vowed to learn more, and came to find that these hammocks were the work of the Mlabri, a little-understood tribe of nomadic people who had found a way to fight back against marginalization through their unique craft. On his trip, Joe decided two things: 1. He needed to help the Mlabri and 2. Americans needed to know about these hammocks. Thus, Yellow Leaf was born.
The Yellow Leaf business is designed to promote the "four pillars of sustainability:" social equity, economic healthy, cultural vitality, and environmental stewardship. Every time you purchase a hammock from the folks at Yellow Leaf, you are helping contribute to the Mlabri's burgeoning micro-economy. These hammocks don't just create jobs for the Mlabri—they also keep unemployed members of the tribe from taking jobs in slash-and-burn agriculture, which helps save Thailand's glorious jungles. By providing an alternative source of revenue for the remote village, Yellow Leaf Hammocks help create sustainable change from within—which is more valuable than any one donation.
You Can Swing It
A king-sized Yellow Leaf Hammock is huge enough to share and costs $210. They also offer smaller versions for as little as $135. To see the multitude of colors and styles, visit the Yellow Leaf Hammock Online Shop.
Happy napping!
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