Our hunting experts researched more than 20 of the most comfortable ladder tree stands before choosing 8 to snuggle into. We spent months and years traveling and hunting in different spots, weather conditions, and terrain.
Our recommendations are unbiased and picked due to the most popular hunters’ needs while our buying guide is designed to help you determine the right one for your needs. Read on!
Here are the most comfortable ladder tree stands (Nov 2024 Update):
- Best For Heavy People (Single-Person): BIG GAME Hunter HD 1.5 Treestand
- Easy To Assemble (Single-Person): X-Stand Treestands The Duke
- Sturdy (Single-Person): Muddy Skybox Deluxe 20 Foot Tree Stand
- Durable (Two-Person): X-Stand Treestands The Jayhawk
- Stable & Secure (Two-Person): Rivers Edge RE650
- Compact & Lightweight (Two-Person): Muddy Partner 2-Man Ladderstand
| 6 Most Comfortable Ladder Tree Stands | ||
|---|---|---|
Best For Heavy People | BIG GAME Hunter HD 1.5 Treestand
| |
Easy To Assemble | X-Stand Treestands The Duke
| |
Sturdy | Muddy Skybox Deluxe 20 Foot Tree Stand
| |
Durable | X-Stand Treestands The Jayhawk
| |
Stable & Secure | Rivers Edge RE650
| |
Compact & Lightweight | Muddy Partner 2-Man Ladderstand
| |
Best For Heavy People: BIG GAME Hunter HD 1.5 Treestand
- Ideal for heavy people – the weight capacity of 350 pounds & roomy seat and platform area
- Convenient for transport or storage – the total weight of 61 pounds
- Comfortable for legs and back - Flex-Tek Seat
- The footrest is prone to rub against the frame
- The instructions could be better
Although there are numerous options when it comes to ladder tree stands with 350-pound weight capacity, our team particularly liked this one most and decided to pick it for heavy hunters.
The reason lies in its ultra-large seat and platform size.
A good example is the Muddy Skybox (also in this list) features a seat size of 22”x17” and a foot platform of 19”x25” while, with this one, they are respectively 23”x18” and 23.5”x29”.
You can flip up the seat and the shooting rail of this stand if you want a wider stance for important bow shootings.
As for comfort, we really love the Flex Tex seating design as it contours to your legs, keeping them from numbness or fatigue during hours of looking for prey.
The felt-like soft and comfortable material covered the armrests and the shooting rail is another big plus.
When not in use, it can fold down to a slim profile and lightweight enough to easily carry on your back, along with other hunting gears.
| BIG GAME Hunter HD 1.5 Treestand Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight Capacity | 350 lbs. |
Stand Weight | 61 Pounds |
Stand Height | 18.6' |
Seat Size | 23″ Wide x 18″ Deep |
Platform Size | 23.5″ Wide x 29″ |
Highlight Features | the weight capacity of 350 pounds ultra-big 23”x18” seat size ultra-big 23.5”x29” platform size the total weight of 61 pounds Flex-Tek Seat |
After testing out dozens of ladder tree stands, we chose the BIG GAME Hunter HD 1.5 as the best one for heavy people. It gives great strength and is in a great size to fit comfortably any big hunter.
Easy To Assemble: X-Stand Treestands The Duke
- Easily installed by one person and require no climbing - jaw safety system
- Make no noise - Stealth Silencers
- No complaint
This 20'-high ladder tree stand belongs to the X-Stand Treestands Single-Person series and is also the only version that has a jaw safety system.
What's great about this innovative feature is it doesn't require 2 or 3 people to have it installed as regular tree stand models would do. And, you don't have to climb to get it secured to the tree.
The whole installation process of this tree stand can be done easily on ground level and by one person.
Additionally, the 79-pound weight and the compact dimensions make it extremely easy to transport, set up, or store.
It is also a very comfortable ladder stand with many handy features but our team was impressed the most with the Stealth Silencers. This feature eliminates metal-on-metal contact to hence make no noise during use, which helps you hide from the prey a lot better.
| X-Stand Treestands The Duke Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight Capacity | 300 lbs. |
Stand Weight | 79 lbs. |
Stand Height | 20' |
Seat Size | 22" Wide x 16" Deep |
Platform Size | 18" Wide x 26" Deep |
Highlight Features | jaw safety system Stealth Silencers |
We find that the X-Stand Treestands The Duke is the best of any we tested for both comfort and easy assembly.
Sturdy: Muddy Skybox Deluxe 20 Foot Tree Stand
- Strong – the weight capacity of 350 pounds
- High-quality - muddy powder-coated steel material
- Sturdy - square-shape tubbing construction & thoroughly welded joints
- The foot platform is a bit narrow
- Heavy
The Muddy Skybox Deluxe is a heavy-duty ladder tree stand made completely of muddy powder-coated steel that can handle up to 350 pounds of person and gear.
But making it distinguished from other similar counterparts is the square-shaped tubing. This type of construction brings unparalleled strength with the least risk of misshapen compared to round tubing or oval tubing.
Although this model is a four-double-rail ladder section design, it doesn’t shake or feels flimsy once installed thanks to the thoroughly welded joints.
It also gives you a padded, adjustable shooting rail, a flip-back footrest, and a Flex-Tek seat with cushioned armrests for comfort. All in all, this is an incredibly sturdy and comfortable ladder tree stand.
| Muddy Skybox Deluxe 20 Foot Tree Stand Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight Capacity | 350 pounds |
Stand Weight | 82 pounds |
Stand Height | 20’ |
Seat Size | 22” wide X 17” deep |
Platform Size | 19” X 25” |
Highlight Features | the weight capacity of 350 pounds muddy powder-coated steel material square-shape tubbing construction thoroughly welded joints |
For those hunters who are concerned with the comfort and sturdiness of the ladder tree stands, the Muddy Skybox Deluxe should be your best bet.
Durable: X-Stand Treestands The Jayhawk
- Easy to install - jaw safety system
- Extra comfort & convenience – include deer hooks and water bottle holders
- Durable - durable steel material covered in weather-defender powder coating
- Difficult to set up
Similar to The Duke, this is the only model in X-Stand Treestands Two-Person series that features a strong jaw safety system for easy installment.
Its construction is incredibly durable, using a durable steel material covered in weather-defender powder coating that can resist all the elements.
All the joints are welded thoroughly, therefore, there's no squeaking during use.
It also has comfortable seating and plenty of room for two people. The seat and shooting rail is foldable if you want. Besides, there are some handy accessories, such as deer hooks and water bottle holders.
In general, for the price, this is the most durable pick you can have.
| X-Stand Treestands The Jayhawk Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight Capacity | 500 lbs. |
Stand Weight | 122 lbs. |
Stand Height | 20’ |
Seat Size | 39" Wide x 17" Deep |
Platform Size | 42" Wide x 34" Deep |
Highlight Features | jaw safety system include deer hooks and water bottle holders durable steel material covered in weather-defender powder coating |
Comfortable and durable, the X-Stand Treestands The Jayhawk is intended for hunters who want a two-person ladder tree stand that can last the test of time.
Stable & Secure: Rivers Edge RE650
- Highly secure & stable - Treestand Manufacturers Association certified design
- Comfortable – extra elbow room, large platform & extra-thick padding
- The shooting rest isn’t adjustable
Next up, we've got the Rivers Edge RE650.
Like our other picks, it is a sturdy and comfortable ladder tree stand with a large platform, extra-thick padding, breathable mesh seat, and heavy-duty metal material.
But making it outstanding from the rest is its upgraded design for ultra-high security and stability that meet all the standards of the Treestand Manufacturers Association.
It works reliably and is your best workhorse in the woods, allowing you to focus 100% on your hunting jobs.
| Rivers Edge RE650 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight Capacity | 500 lbs. |
Stand Weight | 124 lbs. |
Stand Height | 21’ |
Seat Size | 40" x 19" |
Platform Size | 42" x 28.5" |
Highlight Features | Treestand Manufacturers Association certified design extra elbow room, large platform & extra-thick padding |
The Rivers Edge RE650 is certified by the Treestand Manufacturer’s Association for its superior stability and security, making it your best assistant while in the woods.
Compact & Lightweight: Muddy Partner 2-Man Ladderstand
- The directions are hard to understand (in turn, the assembly is simple and easy)
Compared to other contenders at the same 20’ tall that we tested, such as the X-Stand Treestands The Jayhawk (which weighs 122 pounds, features a 39"x17" seat and a 42"x 34" footrest), this one is the most lightweight and compact.
It weighs 83 pounds, the seat is measured by 37" W x 18" D and the platform area is 40" W x 33" D, making it a breeze to transport or store when not in use.
However, this is a small-yet-mighty ladder tree stand that you can rely on when hunting from above. It comes in full accessories to ensure your safety and convenience, such as the full-body safety harnesses, stabilizer straps, ratchet straps, etc.
And, it keeps you the most comfortable thanks to the dual, sling-style, Flex-Tek, and the padded shooting rail.
| Muddy Partner 2-Man Ladderstand Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight Capacity | 500 pounds |
Stand Weight | 83 Pounds |
Stand Height | 20’ |
Seat Size | 37"W x 18"D |
Platform Size | 40"W x 33"D |
Highlight Features | feature a 37"W x 18"D seat, a 40"W x 33"D footrest, and the weight of 83 pounds full-body safety harnesses, stabilizer straps, ratchet straps |
The Muddy Partner 2-Man Ladderstand is our best pick for those hunters who want something compact and lightweight without compromising their comfort when they’re in the woods for hunting.
How To Choose The Most Comfortable Ladder Tree Stand?
But First, Safety!
Some safety features, such as the safety harness system (also called FAS or Fall Arrest System), might make you feel a bit uncomfortable but it’s a must-have part and your safety should be the top priority.
For your information, the safety harness system consists of a connector, anchorage, and body harness. What is included in FAS are commonly different between manufacturers or models. They could be a lifeline, deceleration device, lanyard, or a combination of these.
Only choose a ladder tree stand that surpasses all the safety standards of TMA – stands for Treestand Manufacturers Association.
And, make sure the stand’s weight capacity matches your weight and gear.
Structure And Positioning
A comfortable ladder tree stands firstly should lead to no issues like physical pain. Therefore, make sure to choose a model built with the right structure and correct positioning.
Seat
The backrest should be reasonably inclined and high enough to fit your height. The seat design should ergonomically contour to your back, butts, and legs.
Pay attention to the seat space (length and width) as well. It should be spacious enough for you to sit comfortably but not too deep to difficulty sit down/stand up.
Platform
If the footrest is roomy, it will be more comfortable for you, whether to rest, stand up, or move around in the stand. You can stay in it for a longer period. Extra platform areas will also give more storage space for your gear.
Padding
Adding some cushions to these three parts will bring a significant difference in your comfort during a hunting game.
Backrest: This is a reliable place where you can rest peacefully when getting tired of hunting animals. The padding should be soft, supportive, and breathable.
Seat: You’ll spend most of your time here – sitting on the tree stand to look for your prey, so it must give you the best comfort and support. Make sure the padding is thick yet well-ventilated and low-maintenance.
Armrests: Too-hard metal armrests can hurt or numb your arms if resting for too long on them. They’d be more comfortable if lined with thick and soft fabric. For extra convenience, choose adjustable, removable armrest lining.
Accessories
This is optional but will significantly enhance your comfort and convenience; some even help your hunting be easier and more fun.
- Shelves
- Hunting bow and gun holders
- Branch blanket or cover system
- A dedicated holder to secure your rangefinder or binoculars
Easy To Carry
Many times, you will have to carry your ladder tree a long way before arriving at your hunting spot. In such cases, the stand’s weight does matter!
While there’s an old saying “the heavier the ladder tree stands, the more safety”, it is not really correct now. There are many stands that give you the best of both worlds – safe yet lightweight, plus comfortable.
Which Brands Make The Most Comfortable Ladder Tree Stand?
BIG GAME
One of BIG GAME’s key competitive factors and also goals is to manufacture the most comfortable hunting accessories (including tree stands). To do that, they have strived for innovative advancement, exceeded limitations, and raised the bar on expectations.
BIG GAME is one of the first brands to apply Flex-Tek Seating technology to their products to level up the customer's comfort experience.
X-Stand
Aside from their famous innovation - Jaw Safety System, X-Stand ladder tree stands are well-loved for their decently comfortable design, mainly focusing on material quality and seat contouring.
They also add many practical belts and whistles to the stands to maximize your experience.
Muddy
Muddy’s ladder tree stands have always been known for unwavering quality and exceptionally high-end features. But thanks to the non-stop expansion, development, and revolution process, their products are now famous for giving top-notch comfort.
FAQs
Are ladder stands safe?
Yes, they are. Ladder stands are perfectly safe once they are fully secured onto a live tree.
Are ladder stands good for bow hunting?
As long as the ladder stands are high enough to keep you perfectly out of sight for your hunting game, noise-free enough to not spook them, and provide enough roomy space for you to make bow draw, then yes, they’re good for bow hunting.
Are ladder tree stands the most comfortable type?
As for hunting performance, ladder tree stands are considered the most comfortable type. But note that their heavyweight and clunky construction might be a nightmare for some hunters when installing them.
Does the ladder stand offer a footrest?
Yes, it does. All ladder stands come with at least three sections: a seat, a ladder, and a footrest.
How to camouflage a ladder tree stand?
To camouflage a ladder tree stand, you should use a camouflage burlap or a tree stand blind kit with loose-cut leaves. Wrap it around the footrest and seat of the tree stand to hide you and your gear while up in the tree.
How can I make my ladder stand more comfortable?
To make a ladder stand more comfortable, try these tips:
- Add missing accessories that you really need, such as cup holders, grip tape (to prevent slippage), detachable storage mesh bags, and pieces of foam rubber to cover the shooting rail and armrests.
- Dampen noise at the bolts
- Bring food
- Get down and scout around
- Cover all sharp edges or points (if available)
- Dress reasonably depending on the weather condition
- Add padding or cushions to the seat
Are deer scared of ladder stands?
In theory, ladder stands might spook deer because they make you more likely to be in the open compared to other types of tree stands.
But some tricks can help you hide from your prey better, such as using a camouflage burlap or a tree stand blind kit, choosing the right place to install the stand, or picking an ultra-tall tree stand.
Are 12 feet high enough for a tree stand?
No, it isn’t.
A 12-feet high is not enough for a tree stand. You should hang it 17’ to 25’ depending on specific situations. A basic rule of thumb is the more likely you’re in the open, the higher the tree stand should be hung (but not higher than 25’).
How long should you sit in a tree stand?
You should sit in a tree stand for a solid 3 hours or longer. Avoid getting down and moving around too often because it increases the risk that deer will detect you and run away.
What time should you sit in a tree stand?
You should leave your truck 2 hours before the sun rises to cool off from that long hike, prepare your hunting gear, and let the woods settle back down. That means you should sit in a tree stand at least 1 hour before shooting light.
Conclusion
Finding the most comfortable ladder tree stands can feel like an overwhelming challenge as there are many features to consider, on top of which, you have to determine your comfort needs and other requirements.
The abundant choices on the market, even from the same manufacturer, are also a big challenge.
Our team hopes that you find this post helpful in your quest. Thanks for reading!
