The most comfortable tree stands are those you can spend the whole day in to wait for your quarry without experiencing muscle spasms or aches.
An uncomfortable tree stand will cause you to shift around, producing sounds or movements that may alert the deer to your presence.
The most comfortable tree stands – albeit climbing tree stands, ladder tree stands, or hang-on tree stands – are therefore not just there to make sure you are sitting softly but also to increase your chances of a successful hunt.
Here are the comfortable stands that we will be looking at in this article:
- Hang-On Stands:
- Millennium M150 Monster
- XOP Vanish Evolution
- Climbing Stands:
- Summit Viper SD
- Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe Climber
- Ladder Stands
- Hawk Big Denali 1.5
- River’s Edge Lockdown Wide
Let’s take a look at a few of these most comfortable tree stands, and determine which are the most enjoyable to use when you’re on a hunting trip.
Most Comfortable Hang-On Stand
Millennium M150 Monster
Specs
The M150’s aluminum frame weighs 19.5 lbs and can carry a weight up to 300 lbs.
The slings seat measures 20″ by 17″, while the platform is 24″ by 37″.
There is an optional front rail that can be added, and the Millennium M150 Monster retails for $289.99.
The Verdict
The M150 Monster Hang-On tree stand is all about comfort, function, and safety. The ComfortMAX seat is fully adjustable, and the wide platform allows silent movement.
You can adjust the seat to be between 16 – 20 inches off the platform, while the entire stand can be adjusted to provide a snug seat even on trees at a 15 degrees angle.
The side straps and backrest further enhance your comfort, while the optional front rail will give you a place to rest your gun.
In Summary
Millenium Stands have long been heralded as the most comfortable tree stands on the market, and the M150 Monster hang-on tree stand is no exception.
You can purchase the M150 Monster from Amazon, Scheels, or Cabela’s.
Alternative: XOP Vanish Evolution
Specs
The Vanish Evolution is ultralight at 10.5 lbs but can support up to 350 lbs. It has a cast aluminum frame and a dual action foam pad seat.
The seat measures 14″ by 12″ and the platform size is 27″ by 19″.
This stand has no front rail. You can purchase the XOP Vanish Evolution for the low price of $179.99.
The Verdict
The Vanish Evolution is the new and improved Vanish XT from EVO. This stand is not only comfortable but also incredibly lightweight.
The padded foam seat makes this a very comfortable option. Although there are no armrests or backrests, don’t be fooled – this run-and-gun tree stand is one of the most comfortable if you are on a budget.
Summary
If you are looking for a comfortable hang-on stand that is not too expensive and weighs next to nothing, then the XOP Vanish Evolution is perfect.
You can purchase the Vanish Evolution from Amazon, Walmart, or Scheels.
Most Comfortable Climbing Tree Stand
Summit Viper SD
Specs
The Summit Viper’s aluminum frame weighs 20 lbs and has a max weight capacity of 300 lbs.
It comes with a front rail to rest your gun or bow on, and the foam seat measures 22.5″ by 37.5″ while the platform measures 20″ by 36″.
The Viper SD retails for $299.98.
The Verdict
The Viper SD is the most popular of all the Summit stands.
This comfortable tree stand is incredibly lightweight. The sound-deadening technology used by Summit makes this climbing tree stand comfortable and quiet while setting up.
The padded armrests and high backrest mean that you can comfortably stay on the climbing stand for hours.
The Viper SD climbing tree stand is the way to go for ultimate comfort, safety, and hunting success.
Summary
The Summit Viper SD is an excellent option for those who want mobility while hunting. The lightweight stand can be carried for great distances and allows you to select the best location to set up your stand.
You can purchase the Viper SD online from Amazon, Cabela’s, Scheels, Dicks Sporting Goods, Sportsmans, or The Field And Stream Shop.
Alternative: Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe Climber
Specs
Guide Gear’s climber is heavy at 33 lbs since it has a steel frame. It can support up to 300 lbs.
The small seat measures 17″ by 10″ and is foam-padded. The platform measures 19″ by 26″.
This stand has a front rail and retails for an affordable $129.99.
The Verdict
The Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe Climber may be on the heavy side – especially for a climber stand – but it makes up for it by being affordable and comfortable.
The padded foam seat, armrests, and backrest will ensure you have an enjoyable seat for many hours.
Despite its heavy weight, it is still very portable as the seat folds flat for easy transport and storage.
Summary
If you plan on hunting near the road or edge of the forest, the Guide Gear Extreme Deluxe Climber is the perfect choice for comfort and safety.
You can purchase the Guide Gear climber from Sportsman’s Guide or Amazon.
Most Comfortable Ladder Stand
Hawk Big Denali 1.5
Specs
The Big Denali’s blended frame weighs a hefty 65 lbs and can support 300 lbs.
The MeshComfort seat measures 26″ by 15″ and the platform size measures 26″ by 14″.
This tree stand comes with a front rail and can be purchased for $429.99.
The Verdict
The Big Denali offers the largest seat of all the stands, and when it comes to the most comfortable tree stands, the Big Denali is right up there with the best of them.
It has a wide, stable base with a comfortable footrest to ensure you are snug during your hunt.
If you are looking for a quiet, comfortable, and secure stand, look no further than the Hawk Big Denali 1.5.
Summary
The Hawk Big Denali 1.5 is the ultimate comfortable ladder stand available – it is so comfortable that you can take a nap in it.
You can purchase the Big Denali from Amazon, Cabela’s, Sportsmans, and The Field and Stream Shop.
Alternative: River’s Edge Lockdown Wide
Specs
The River’s Edge stand’s steel frame weighs 96 lbs and can carry up to 300 lbs.
The TearTuff Mesh seat has a frame of 24″ by 16″, and the stand’s platform measures 25″ by 32.5″. The stand has a front rail.
You can purchase the Lockdown Wide for $399.99.
The Verdict
The River’s Edge Lockdown Wide stand uses patent-pending Ground-Level Ratcheting, which means that setting up the platform is a breeze.
The extended platform and fold-out footrest, combined with the TearTuff Mesh seat and backrest, make this ladder stand one of the most comfortable stands of its type.
This stand is great for bow and gun hunters who want an extended platform to stretch out.
Summary
The River’s Edge Lockdown Wide ladder stand is the heaviest stand on this list, but the technology used makes this an incredibly comfortable option.
You can purchase the Lockdown Wide from Amazon or Scheels.
How To Choose The Best Tree Stand
When choosing the best stand, you need to consider the different types of stands as well as individual safety features.
Make sure the stand is comfortable enough to stay in for many hours, but also comfortably within your budget.
Before making a purchase, read online reviews and consult the experts.
The Advantages and Disadvantages Of Using Tree Stands
Ladder Stands
Pros
Ladder stands make for easy climbing, and are the most comfortable tree stands. It works well on small trees and is great for young hunters.
Cons
These stands are not very portable and are more likely to be spotted by deer.
Hang On Stands
Pros
Hang on stands are easy to transport and set up. These stands come with an adjustable height function. They also work well in trees with branches.
Cons
Hang on stands have smaller platforms, which can be less comfortable and safe. These stands produce some noise when set up.
Climbing Stands
Pros
Climbing stands do not require any additional tools to set them up. These stands are lightweight and can be carried for long distances, making them very convenient. They are versatile and can be moved around if the wind shifts.
Cons
Climbing stands only works for straight trees. The also need to be repeatedly set up.
FAQs
What is the best height for a tree stand?
It is recommended that a tree stand is set up at 20 feet above the ground. That places you high enough so that prey cannot spot you, but it is not so high that you will feel unsafe.
Can deer spot you when you are in a deer stand?
If you sit still at the height of about 20 feet, it is unlikely that a deer will spot you. Chances are that a deer will smell or hear you first and only see you if you move or make a noise.
Final Thoughts
We believe the Hawk Big Denali 1.5 is the most comfortable tree stand on this list. This ladder stand is spacious, and the padded seat, armrests, and backrest ensure a comfy seat.
If you want something lighter, the Summit Viper SD is an excellent choice as it is one of the most comfortable climbing tree stands, and it is also incredibly quiet to use.
We give you the Shrewd Hunter Promise that you will not be disappointed – or uncomfortable – in any of the tree stands on this list.
Sources
Most Comfortable Tree Stands in 2022
How To Choose The Best Tree Stand Recommended By An Expert
Advantages of Climbing Tree Stands
Tree Stands: Types, Pros, and Cons!