Choosing the lightest climbing tree stands is not that difficult!
There are two key factors you should consider, along with selecting a reliable brand to drop your money on. This article will give you some good advice on how to choose the right climbing tree stand for you and which are the best buy on the market. Keep reading!
Here are the lightest climbing tree stands (Nov 2024 Update):
- Best For Bow Hunting: Summit Viper SD Climbing Tree Stand
- Best For Lighter People: XOP Ambush Climbing Tree Stand
- Best For Bow Hunters: Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Tree Stand
- Sturdy: OL'MAN TREESTANDS Alumalite CTS Climbing Stand
- Easy To Climb: Summit Treestands Summit Viper Steel Climber
- Best For Bigger Hunters: Summit Treestands 180 Max SD SU81116
| 6 Lightest Climbing Tree Stands | ||
|---|---|---|
Best For Bow Hunting | Summit Viper SD Climbing Tree Stand | |
Best For Lighter People | XOP Ambush Climbing Tree Stand | |
Best For Bow Hunters | Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Tree Stand | |
Sturdy | OL'MAN TREESTANDS Alumalite CTS Climbing Stand | |
Easy To Climb | Summit Treestands Summit Viper Steel Climber | |
Best For Bigger Hunters | Summit Treestands 180 Max SD SU81116 | |
Best For Bow Hunting: Summit Viper SD Climbing Tree Stand
- Allow for easily standing and making bow draw – solid and stable platform & SummitLokt Technology
- Convenient – include storage bags and bow holder
- Quiet - DeadMetal Technology
- The bow holders cramp when packing the top into the bottom of the climber
- The instructions should have pictures
As you know that comfort is key for bow hunters because it reduces your movement.
Among the top contenders we tried, this climbing tree stand brought the best comfort that we could sit for a whole day waiting for deer without feeling fatigued or numb anywhere.
While you can sit and make a bow draw, it’s highly recommended to stand and shoot for the highest accuracy.
Don’t worry, all joints are precisely welded and the stand is built with SummitLokt Technology, so the platform is rock solid and stable!
One special thing about Summit’s lines is the capability of keeping the noise down. No matter how much you move around on this stand, it is really quiet, which is a big thank you to DeadMetal Technology.
What great thought and care went into the design of this product is also on its accessories, including storage bags and bow holders.
| Summit Viper SD Climbing Tree Stand Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tree Stand Weight | 18 lbs. |
Weight Capacity | 300 lbs. |
Platform Size | 20” W x 24.75” D |
Top Dimension | 18 ”W x 12” D |
Highlight Features | solid and stable platform & SummitLokt Technology include storage bags and bow holder DeadMetal Technology |
The Summit Viper SD Climbing Tree Stand has all the top features to meet our requirements when it comes to bowhunting.
Best For Lighter People: XOP Ambush Climbing Tree Stand
- Perfect for lightweight hunters – ultra-slim profile when folded & feature the lightest stands in this list
- Easy to pack - stabilizer straps & transport bungee
- The sit bar and front bar aren’t mounted solidly
- Loud material
The XOP Ambush Climbing Tree Stand weighs only 18 pounds and is also the lightest pick on this list.
One of the best features of this climber is how easy it is to transport and pack into the woods. It has tensioning knobs at the bottom section of the platform as well as the top that allows them each to fold down flat of only 4.5” profile.
When paired with the stabilizer straps, it really gives you a great ability to cinch everything down tight.
Also, the included transport bungee aids to lock those things down nice and secure you can get through the woods free of obstructions.
Compared to other counterparts, the stand features the same comfort-engineering but way easier and more comfortable for lighter people to transport it.
| XOP Ambush Climbing Tree Stand Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tree Stand Weight | 18lbs. |
Weight Capacity | 350 lbs. |
Platform Size | 30” x 19.5” |
Top Dimension | 17” W x 15” L & adjustable seat height |
Highlight Features | ultra-slim profile when folded & feature the lightest stands in this list stabilizer straps & transport bungee |
Whenever it comes to the best climbing tree stand for lighter people, our solid pick is always the XOP Ambush
Best For Bow Hunters: Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Tree Stand
- Perfect for bow hunters - extra-large foot space & easy-access room for crossbow
- Make no noise when you’re moving in the stand - Summit’s Dead Metal technology
- Match nicely to the wildlife surroundings - camouflage pattern
- No complaint
The lightweight yet solid design makes this tree stand a favorite choice of a lot of hardcore climbers/hunters.
But what truly sets it apart from the remaining is its extra-large foot space, allowing you to sit or stand up with ease. Besides, it gives easy-access room to place your crossbow.
Another notable feature is its Summit’s Dead Metal technology application, which allows you to move in the stand with no noise.
The camouflage pattern looks so real and matches perfectly with the wildlife background. A big bonus!
| Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Tree Stand Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tree Stand Weight | 20 pounds. |
Weight Capacity | 300 lbs. |
Platform Size | 20”x36” |
Highlight Features | extra-large 20”x36” foot space & easy-access room for crossbow Summit’s Dead Metal technology |
The Summit Treestands Viper SD Climbing Tree Stand boasts a larger footrest than many contenders we tested, aside from giving a good crossbow rest. That is the reason making it our top pick for bow hunters.
Sturdy: OL'MAN TREESTANDS Alumalite CTS Climbing Stand
- Sturdy & less likely to misshapen - oval-shape tubing construction
- Easy to entry and exit & offer great grips – new improved foot straps
- A bit tricky to move the seat to the sitting position when climbing
This patented climbing tree stand is one of the best lines by OL’MAN.
The oval-shaped tubing construction makes it a lot stronger than those lower-end models with traditional round tubing. When compared together, the OL'MAN TREESTANDS Alumalite CTS stands out for giving more strength, less risk of misshapen.
The foot straps are also improved a lot; they become very easy to enter and exit compared to older versions or other counterparts on the market.
It’s very quiet during use, which is a great bonus.
| OL'MAN TREESTANDS Alumalite CTS Climbing Stand Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tree Stand Weight | 21-pounds |
Weight Capacity | 300-pounds. |
Platform Size | 18-inches x 32-inches |
Top Dimension | 21” wide |
Highlight Features | oval-shape tubing construction new improved foot straps |
With the OL'MAN TREESTANDS Alumalite CTS, you can completely expect a climbing tree stand that’s not only light enough to be packed easily along with other gear in and out of the woods but also incredibly sturdy to stand the test of time.
Easy To Climb: Summit Treestands Summit Viper Steel Climber
- Easy to secure to trees and climb – the summit rapid climb stirrups and Quickdraw Cable Retention System
- Durable – ultra-thick fabric
- The safety harness needs more improvement
We have two of the Summit Viper’s series here and it’s easy to determine that this one is 9 pounds heavier than the SD.
While it might add some fatigue if you hike out a long way, the extra heft really benefits your climb. When getting up the tree stand, you’ll want it to lean back on the tree to add extra resistance and the weight of this model meets that need quite well.
Compared to other brands, the Summit Viper Steel is outstanding for the additional summit rapid climb stirrups and Quickdraw Cable Retention System, which makes it faster and easier to fasten to the tree and climb up.
As for quality, we actually see a negligible difference between the SD and the Steel.
But you probably have to be in charge of some comfort with the Viper Steel because its material is not as soft, consistent, and felt-like as the SD’s. In turn, it is thick and more durable.
| Summit Treestands Summit Viper Steel Climber Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tree Stand Weight | 29 pounds |
Weight Capacity | 300 pounds |
Platform Size | 20x36 inches |
Top Dimension | 19.75” width |
Highlight Features | the summit rapid climb stirrups and Quickdraw Cable Retention System ultra-thick fabric |
If you’re in search of a lightweight, easy-to-climb tree stand, consider the Summit Treestands Summit Viper Steel.
Best For Bigger Hunters: Summit Treestands 180 Max SD SU81116
- Ideal for heavyweight hunters - The 350-pound weight capacity & Extra-large Titan footrest
- Comfortable enough for tall hunters - extended top-frame & adjustable seat height
- Wish the back straps had more padding
The Summit Treestands SU81116 is our solid pick for hunters who want extra space or are heavyweight.
Aside from its 350-pound weight capacity - which is a big thank you to the quality material blend of Titan and aluminum, this tree stand highlights a wider platform area than similar counterparts.
And don't worry if you're a tall and heavy hunter, its extended top-frame will give you the best comfort.
You can also adjust its seat height or reverse it to your liking.
| Summit Treestands 180 Max SD SU81116 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Tree Stand Weight | 23 pounds |
Weight Capacity | 350 lbs. |
Platform Size | 21 inch W x 38 inch L |
Top Dimension | 21.75 x 32 inches |
Highlight Features | The 350-pound weight capacity & Extra-large Titan footrest extended top-frame & adjustable seat height |
The Summit Treestands 180 Max SD SU81116 manages to stand out for its extra-large and -sturdy platform, adjustable top-frame, and higher weight capacity. It is currently our favorite pick for bigger hunters.
How To Choose The Lightest Climbing Tree Stand?
It is super-easy to choose the lightest climbing tree stand literally; just compare their weight side-by-side and pick the smallest number.
But the thing is - do you really want that stand if it isn’t as strong, safe, or durable as the heavier ones?
We all want the lightest yet safest (and also the sturdiest, cheapest, or most comfortable climbing tree stand depending on each person's needs)!
Therefore, here are the key features that we value in a lightweight climbing tree stand.
Materials
Climbing tree stands are commonly made of either steel or aluminum. Compared between them, aluminum is obviously the lighter option.
It also increases in strength more in cold weather conditions than steel. Not saying that aluminum is anti-corrosive, making it a longer-lasting option for high-humidity environments.
However, it is prone to be bent or warped from heat, force, or weight, and besides, its cost is higher than steel of similar strength.
Some manufacturers make some parts of their tree stands (for example armrests) from carbon composite to cut down on extra poundage. But note that the prices of these products are very expensive and they're rare to find.
Size
Of the same material, the smaller the climbing tree stand's size, the lighter.
However, we don't recommend you choose a stand at too-small size with your body size and boots size because that leads to some certain inconvenience and risks.
At the height of 15' up on the tree with the significantly reduced space to move, do you think it is easy to make bow draw or gunshots? Do you think it is safe for you to stand there or will you rest assured to focus on your hunting game?
Not saying that, with too-small seating, will you feel comfortable?
To cut down the most weight but still remain in your comfort and safety, choose the right size of climbing tree stand for your body size, boots size, and other needs.
Noise-Dampening Liner
Noise is like a “fatal blow” of any hunting game. The noise caused by metal-on-metal contact of climbing tree stands most likely spook deer.
Therefore, it’s recommended to choose those models with noise-dampening liners.
Safety Features
Only choose the climbing tree stand that can hold all of your weight and gear. It’d be better if the stand also has a safety harness and straps, and a four-point fall arrest system.
Which Brands Make The Lightest Climbing Tree Stand?
Summit Stands
Speaking of who makes the lightest climbing tree stands, Summit Stands is truly the leader.
They have created numerous innovations and technologies to bring customers the best-engineered products, such as SummitLokt Technology, DeadMetal Technology, QuickDraw Cable Retention, etc.
All of their stands are TMA certified and backed by an industry-leading 5-year warranty.
Lone Wolf Hunting Products
All the Lone Wolf’s treestands are 100% made in the United States and of the best aluminum casting in the industry, which explains why their products are so lightweight yet hard-wearing.
This is one of our most favorite brands because of not only their reliable manufacturing process but also the instant and helpful customer service.
XOP OUTDOORS
In the low-tier climbing tree stand market, XOP Outdoors has no rival. Their products stand out for top-notch quality and lightness at a highly competitive price. Plus, the whole manufacturing process is in the US.
A fun fact is that XOP was established by Andre – the prior owner of Lone Wolf.
OL’MAN
We admire OL’MAN for their ceaseless efforts in improving and renovating their products, therefore, setting new quality standards in the industry.
They are one of the pioneering tree-stand manufacturers that apply oval tubing construction to their climbing tree stands, making them a lot stronger and less deformed by impact.
FAQs
Are climbing tree stands dangerous?
No, they aren’t.
Climbing tree stands, especially those TMA-certified models, are dedicatedly designed to bear a certain loading weight solidly. They also come with safety features and you can easily climb.
Are climbing tree stands worth it?
Yes, they are.
The climbing tree stand industry has been improving to be quieter, along with better mobility and perfect safety to hence enhance your hunting experience. Therefore, they are worth it!
Does climbing tree stand damage trees?
Yes, they do but the damage is commonly not significant.
The clamps of climbing tree stands will bite into the phloem, making it rough a little bit. In comparison, the damage on softwood is more than that on the hardwood.
Besides, different types of climbing tree stands cause different damage levels on a live tree. A good example is tree spikes which leave deep holes in trees, encouraging the growth of unwanted shoots.
Which type of tree is right for the climbing tree stand?
As a basis of thumb, those trees that are sturdy and have soft bark (such as maples and oaks) help the climbing tree stand to secure into place more firmly than those with smooth marks (like birch trees or aspen).
How to define a climbing tree stand briefly?
A climbing tree stand includes two separate sections: the platform (footrest) and the seat. Hunters will have to lock the seat into the tree and lift their legs to lift the footrest when they’re climbing.
What is the minimum tree diameter for a stand?
The minimum tree diameter for a stand is usually 8” or 9”.
How do you get down from a climbing tree stand?
To learn how to get down from a climbing tree stand, please watch this tutorial video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWoSYEEUR6s
How high should you go with a tree stand?
The benchmark is 20’ as this height is tall enough to keep you out of sight for most animals while remaining safe. You will not feel too tired or uncomfortable at that height.
Which side of the sun should you mount your tree stand?
The side of the sun doesn’t matter when mounting a tree stand. Instead, pay attention to the side of the tree that you intend to mount the stand into.
It should be installed on the backside of the tree along the trail so that you can easily track the deer trail or make a shot.
When to get a lightweight climbing tree stand model?
You should get a lightweight climbing tree stand model when the terrain to get to your hunting spot is rough and inclined that you can’t get a 4-wheeler or drive your truck there. Plus, you have to carry a lot of gear.
Conclusion
Selecting the lightest climbing tree stand saves much of your energy and therefore, you will focus more on the hunting game later. Something essential to think about is the material and size.
Whatever it is, there is a climbing tree stand here made just for you.
Hopefully, this post helped you in choosing the right model. Thanks a lot for reading!
