First Thoughts on the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium, crafted by Summit, aims to redefine safety and comfort for the serious hunter. It stands out with its military-inspired MOLLE attachment system, promising unprecedented accessory customization. For the experienced outdoorsman, this harness presents itself as more than just a safety device, but a customizable platform for enhanced in-stand functionality.
For years, I’ve struggled finding a safety harness that truly blends security with the practical needs of a hunter. Existing harnesses often lack the flexibility to accommodate essential gear, forcing compromises between safety and accessibility. The promise of the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium to address this through its MOLLE system is what initially piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium immediately impresses with its robust construction and thoughtful design. The materials feel durable, and the padded shoulder straps suggest a comfortable experience. The MOLLE webbing is neatly integrated, hinting at the customization possibilities.
Compared to my old Hunter Safety System harness and a basic Muddy Outdoors harness, the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium offers a clear advantage in terms of modularity. The Hunter Safety System was always secure but cumbersome, while the Muddy harness felt flimsy after a few seasons. I chose the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium for its promise of combining security with enhanced gear accessibility.
My first impression is excitement tempered with a bit of cautious optimism. The quality seems evident, but the real test will be in the field. Can the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium deliver on its promises of comfort, security, and customization?
Real-World Testing: Putting Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium to the test during a week-long whitetail deer hunt in the rugged hills of Pennsylvania. The terrain was steep and varied, with thick brush and rocky outcroppings. This provided an excellent proving ground for assessing the harness’s performance in diverse conditions.
The weather during the hunt ranged from crisp, dry mornings to damp, chilly afternoons. The harness performed admirably in both conditions. The padded shoulder straps remained comfortable, even when layered with a heavy hunting jacket.
The initial setup took a few minutes to adjust the straps for a secure fit. Once dialed in, the harness felt surprisingly comfortable. I spent several hours each day in my treestand, and the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium didn’t cause any significant discomfort or chafing.
One minor issue arose during the first day. The quick-lock buckles initially felt a bit stiff. However, they loosened up with repeated use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium continues to impress. It shows no significant signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to harsh conditions. The stitching remains intact, and the buckles are functioning smoothly.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I’ve also occasionally used a mild detergent to clean the harness after particularly muddy hunts.
Compared to my previous harness, the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium is significantly more comfortable and versatile. My old harness always felt restrictive and uncomfortable, especially during long sits. The Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium allows for greater freedom of movement while still providing a secure connection to the tree.
Breaking Down the Features of Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium
Specifications
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium is designed for hunters seeking a secure and customizable treestand safety solution. The harness features a military-inspired MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) attachment system. Ladder-style webbing enables complete accessory customization.
- The harness includes padded shoulder straps for enhanced comfort during extended use. A performance tether offers a secure connection to the tree. Quick-lock buckles ensure easy and rapid donning and doffing.
These specifications directly impact the harness’s performance and user experience. The MOLLE system allows hunters to carry essential gear conveniently, reducing the need for separate bags or pouches. Padded shoulder straps greatly enhance comfort, allowing for longer hunts without discomfort. Quick-lock buckles simplify the process of putting on and taking off the harness, especially in cold weather.
Performance & Functionality
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium performs its primary function of providing secure fall protection exceptionally well. The harness fits snugly and comfortably, offering a reassuring sense of security while in the treestand. The MOLLE system allows for convenient access to essential gear, such as rangefinders, knives, and calls.
The harness’s strengths lie in its comfort, modularity, and ease of use. The padded shoulder straps and adjustable straps ensure a comfortable and secure fit. The MOLLE system allows for complete customization, adapting to individual hunting needs. The only area for potential improvement is the initial stiffness of the quick-lock buckles.
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium meets and even exceeds my expectations. I no longer have to compromise between safety and convenience while hunting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium is well-designed and ergonomically sound. The materials used are high-quality and durable. The harness feels lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods.
The harness is relatively user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The adjustable straps and quick-lock buckles make it easy to achieve a secure and comfortable fit. The MOLLE system is intuitive and allows for easy attachment and removal of accessories.
Durability & Maintenance
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium appears to be built to last. The materials are durable, and the stitching is reinforced in critical areas. The harness should provide many years of reliable service with proper care.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The harness can also be hand-washed with a mild detergent if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium primarily focuses on customization via the MOLLE system, rather than proprietary accessories. This allows users to select pouches and accessories from a wide range of manufacturers, creating a personalized gear-carrying setup.
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium is compatible with a vast array of MOLLE-compatible accessories from various brands. This includes pouches, holsters, and attachment systems, allowing hunters to tailor the harness to their specific needs. The possibilities are endless, from attaching a small first-aid kit to carrying extra ammunition or a compact spotting scope.
Pros and Cons of Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium
Pros
- Enhanced Comfort: Padded shoulder straps and adjustable design provide exceptional comfort during long hunts.
- MOLLE Customization: The military-inspired MOLLE system allows for complete accessory customization, adapting to individual needs.
- Secure Fit: Quick-lock buckles and adjustable straps ensure a snug and secure fit, providing reliable fall protection.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials and reinforced stitching ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Use: Simple and intuitive design with a minimal learning curve.
Cons
- Quick-lock buckles can be initially stiff.
- The “Medium” size might run slightly small for larger individuals; consider sizing up.
Who Should Buy Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium?
- Perfect for: Hunters seeking a comfortable, customizable, and secure treestand safety harness. Those who prioritize gear accessibility and organization will especially appreciate the MOLLE system.
- Who should skip this product? Hunters who prefer a very basic and minimalist harness without any customization options might find the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium overkill.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? A good selection of MOLLE-compatible pouches and accessories to organize essential hunting gear.
Conclusion on Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed piece of safety equipment. It successfully blends comfort, security, and customization, making it an excellent choice for serious hunters. The MOLLE system is a game-changer, allowing for unprecedented gear accessibility and organization.
The price of $92.49 is justified given the harness’s quality, features, and performance. It offers excellent value for money compared to other harnesses on the market with similar capabilities.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium to any hunter looking to enhance their safety and comfort in the treestand. It’s a worthwhile investment that will provide years of reliable service and peace of mind. Upgrade your safety and hunting experience today! The Summit Pro Safety Harness Medium is ready for the challenge; are you?